By Linda Ligon, Family & Kids
baby
mythbusters
When you are parenting a new baby, it can be hard to fact-check all the advice you read or all that is offered by friends and family. Some advice may be incorrect or even harmful to your baby’s health. Here are some common myths and the facts behind why they are not true.
You can ‘spoil’ a newborn by holding her too much
Newborns need the bonding experience of skin-to-skin contact in the first few months of life. After all those months of feeling cozy and warm, the outside world feels like a strange place to your newborn, and being close to you is comforting. Newborns cry to communicate a need, not to manipulate parents to get what they want. Responding to your newborn and picking her up as soon as she cries helps her develop a sense of security and confidence that her needs will be met.
There occasionally are times when it is not safe to hold your baby, such as when you are cooking, and you may not be able to pick her up immediately when she begins to cry. However, if you have spent plenty of time holding your newborn and building a strong bond with her, an occasional slight delay in picking her up should not cause her to lose her trust in you.
Also, if your newborn cries even though you tried everything and you are exhausted, it is okay to have someone else hold her or place her in her bassinet or crib for 10 – 15 minutes and take a break while another caregiver watches her.
You should not give a breastfed baby a pacifier
In the past, there was concern that giving a breastfed newborn baby a pacifier would cause issues with establishing breastfeeding. However, a recent review of data has found
that pacifier use by full-term, healthy newborns does not cause issues with breastfeeding. As a result, health experts consider the decision of whether to introduce a newborn to a pacifier to be a personal choice. The following are some facts about pacifier use that should be considered:
g There is data to suggest pacifier use at nap time and bedtime could help prevent SIDS.
g Do not use the pacifier to try to delay a feeding. Trying to delay the feeding can keep your infant from getting the nutrition she needs and may interfere with establishing a breastfeeding routine.
g Use the correct size pacifier for your baby and keep it clean. Inspect it often to ensure it is still safe and has no defects. Do not put it on a string around your baby’s neck.
g Your baby could become dependent on the pacifier and cry when it falls out of her mouth.
MYTH
Babies need a bath every day
In the first year of your baby’s life, you really do not need to give your baby a soapy bath more than once or twice a week. Babies do not get dirty and sweaty in the same way adults do and thus do not require a soapy bath every day. Giving your baby a soapy bath too frequently can dry out her skin and make skin issues, such as eczema, worse.
When your baby becomes more mobile and starts solid food, you may find that she needs more frequent bathing. Also, as she grows, she may find a bath an enjoyable bedtime routine. However, even if she takes a bath every evening, put soap in her bath only two or three times a week to avoid drying her skin.
MYTH
MYTH
HOO’s PICKS
Highlight On
by Elizabeth Cottle, Director, Music Together Columbus
The first five years are vital for your child’s growth, and with so many enrichment options, it can be tough to choose the best one. At Music Together Columbus, we create a fun, supportive space where your little one can thrive through joyful music-making. My name is Elizabeth Cottle and I am the director at MTC. With over 16 years of experience teaching music, I decided to open the center in the fall of 2023. I am thrilled to offer this amazing program to our community! Curious if it's right for your child? Let’s explore how early exposure to music can support their overall development!
Boosting Brain Power Through Music
Imagine your little one clapping and tapping to an upbeat song—they’re having a blast and giving their brain a workout! In Music Together® classes, rhythm, melody, and movement boost cognitive skills like pattern recognition, memory, and spatial-temporal reasoning, which help with problem-solving, math, and school success. At the same time, music makes language learning fun as your child explores new words through singing, chanting, and playful games, building essential skills for reading and writing. By weaving music into their daily life, you’re setting the stage for lifelong learning and a love of language.
Growing Emotional and Social Skills
Music Together® is more than just music— it enhances emotional and social growth. Through musical expression and group activities, your child learns to share, take turns, and work together. These experiences build empathy and self-esteem, making it easier for them to form positive relationships and navigate social situations.
Getting Moving and Developing Motor Skills
If your child loves to move, they’ll thrive in Music Together®! Each week, we dance, clap, and play instruments, all of which are great for developing motor skills, and improving coordination, balance, and overall physical dexterity. And because our classes are so engaging, your child won’t even realize they’re working on important physical skills that help with tasks like writing and self-care.
Bonding as a Family
One of my favorite parts of Music Together® is the chance for families to bond. Parents and caregivers are encouraged to join in, creating shared musical moments
that strengthen your relationship. It’s a wonderful way to spend quality time together and make music a natural part of your lives. These connections create lasting memories and reinforce your bond.
Exploring Different Musical Styles
Music Together® introduces children to various musical styles and traditions, from folk and classical to jazz and world music. This early exposure helps them develop an appreciation for different musical genres and cultures. It’s a great way to broaden their horizons and spark an interest in exploring various musical expressions.
Building a Lifelong Love for Music
Our goal is to nurture a lifelong love for music. Our classes are designed to be engaging and enjoyable, so your child develops positive associations with making music. This enthusiasm can lead to a lasting interest in musical activities, encouraging creativity and exploration throughout their life.
RESOURCES: www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6659987/
Choosing What’s Best for Your Child
When selecting an early childhood program, it’s important to choose one that fits your child’s needs. At Music Together Columbus, our classes focus on family involvement, and developmentally-appropriate activities for children from birth to age 5. We meet weekly for 45 minutes, and semesters are offered year-round.
As you explore options for your child’s early years, consider how Music Together Columbus can be a wonderful part of their journey. A lifetime of music begins here!® For more information visit www.musictogethercolga.com
HOO’s NEWS
remodeled South ColumbuS library reopenS
By Brittany Harte, Children’s Librarian, South Columbus Public Library
We’re thrilled to welcome you back to the newly renovated South Columbus Public Library at 2034 South Lumpkin Road! This isn’t just a building update, it’s a transformation into a vibrant community hub where neighbors of all ages can connect, learn, and grow together.
After 22 months of renovations, the Library has more than doubled in size, now boasting 21,000 square feet of dynamic space (think: more than four basketball courts!). Designed with you in mind, the Library offers distinct areas for adults, teens, and children, each equipped with modern furnishings, digital tools, and, of course, plenty of books to explore.
Adults and teens will find their new home in the Library’s addition, where soaring ceilings and panoramic windows create a bright and inviting atmosphere. Teens have their own space to game, study, and hang out, complete with computers and collaborative seating.
For families, the Children’s Department is a must-see. With its colorful walls, circular lights, and a range of kid-friendly features, it’s a place where little ones can play, learn, and let their imaginations soar. Highlights include a padded crawl space, a storytime stage with tiered seating, and an outdoor garden for special events. Don’t miss The Everbright—a sensory experience with light and color that invites creativity from all who visit.
Though we reopened in mid-September, we’re inviting the entire community to celebrate with us at the official Ribbon Cutting and Grand Reopening Celebration on October 19 from 10:30 am to 2 pm. Join us for free food, library card sign-ups, a storyteller, and special appearances by Bluey and Bingo!
We can’t wait for you to explore the new South Columbus Public Library at 2034 S. Lumpkin Road. Come for the books, stay for the community!
For hours of operation and upcoming programs, visit cvlga.org.
HOO’s CRAFTY
Autumn Spice SOY CANDLE
Easily and inexpensively make your own Homemade Autumn Spice Soy Candles! These are great for gifts or to scent your own home during the fall and holiday season.
DIRECTIONS
Place your candlewick in a teacup. To hold the candlewick in place, wrap the top around a pencil or chopstick. Place the stick over the teacup and let the bottom of it drop to the bottom. A weighted candlewick does this nicely and settles on its own. Begin by heating the soy wax flakes on low heat right on your stove top. It is best to use a nonstick pot to help avoid burning and sticking. Continue to stir the soy candle flakes as they slowly melt. Be sure to keep the liquid moving so it does not stick or clump. Use a brown or tan crayon to color the soy wax. Peel the crayon so that no wrapper remains, and then break the crayons into small pieces. Drop the pieces into the soy candle mixture and stir until completely dissolved. Add the apple pie spice, nutmeg, cinnamon and half of the cloves; continue to stir well. The color of the wax may darken, but that is fine and expected. Remove the mixture from the stove and slowly (and carefully!) pour it into the teacup. Immediately re-center the candlewick if needed. Store your candle in a room that is cool to allow it time to harden. After hour one, you will notice the top beginning to look firmer. Drop the rest of the cloves in at this time so they rest on the top of the candle. Return your candle to the cool room to finish setting. It may take 4 hours until your candle is completely set. Once the mixture has hardened, you can snip the candlewick to shorten it, then light and enjoy!
SUPPLIES
• 2 cups soy wax
• 1 candlewick
• teacup or glass jar
• 1 light brown or tan crayon
• ½ tsp apple pie spice
• ½ tsp nutmeg
• ½ tsp cinnamon
• 1 tsp dried cloves, divided
• large nonstick pot
• measuring cup
• measuring spoons
• wooden spoon
• chopsticks or stick or pencil
Courtesy of: annsentitledlife.com
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
friday
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.
and kids Sports Supplements
By Jackson Montrym, MD, FAAP, Columbus Pediatrics GA
There is currently no shortage of fitness influencers who swear that a certain type of pre-workout powder gets them the body of their dreams. For parents of adolescents, you might find your child pressured to try certain products to enhance their performance. It’s important to know that many of these products are not regulated by the FDA, so it’s easy for the manufacturers to add hidden ingredients that may be harmful.
While protein powders are popular for workout enhancement, they often contain additives. Some have added sugars which increase the calories, while others contain heavy metals and bisphenol A, which is a component of plastic. Excessive protein intake in the long run leads to the kidneys working harder. This is because protein makes the kidney’s blood vessels dilate and get more blood flow. Imagine increasing the pressure on a garden hose for years on end.
Creatine is a common supplement, but the American Academy of Sports Medicine does not recommend it in adolescents as their skeletal systems are still maturing, especially for boys who take longer to reach full maturity than
girls. Plus, there is little evidence that these supplements actually improve performance. Another supplement that you might see is colostrum, which is a product of breastmilk from when infants are first born. However, evidence has not shown that consumption improves physical performance.
Energy drinks should also be used with caution. It is not recommended that adolescents consume more than 500 ml of an energy drink per day. While caffeine is generally safe, too much of it can cause headaches, palpitations, nausea and sleep disturbances. It also has a diuretic effect (increasing urination). This can lead to dehydration, which is not good, especially in hot and humid weather. Electrolyte drinks can be beneficial, but be careful as they also can have a lot of sugar or artificial ingredients.
The safest ways for your teen to boost performance are natural sources of protein, such as lean meats, beans, lentils, dairy and eggs, as well as drinking plenty of fluids. If you have questions about the safety and efficacy of supplements for your child, consult your local pediatrician.
www.valleyhealthcolumbus.com
HOO’s HUNGRY
ENERGY BALLSPumpkin Pie
No-Bake Healthy Pumpkin Pie Energy Balls are a quick and easy paleo snack recipe that’s packed with protein powder, chia seeds, and so much pumpkin flavor.
INSTRUCTIONS
1. In a large bowl, combine flour, protein powder and pumpkin pie spice.
2. In a separate bowl, microwave cashew butter, syrup, and pumpkin puree for 30 seconds - 1 minute until it's easy to mix the ingredients together.
3. Pour the cashew butter mix into the dry ingredient mix and stir to combine. Freeze the dough for about 10 minutes so it hardens enough to handle.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Roll the dough into about 20 balls and arrange on the baking sheet. Refrigerate until fully chilled, then store in an air-tight container in the refrigerator.
INGREDIENTS
• 2 tablespoons coconut or almond flour
• 1 tablespoon vanilla protein powder
• 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice
• 1 cup cashew butter
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup (or honey)
• 2 tablespoons pumpkin puree
1 Little Sprouts. 10am. $5-7. Ages 3-5. Columbus Botanical Garden; 706-327-8400
1 Deep Blue Sea. 11am-1pm. Ages 1-8. RSVP. Columbus Botanical Garden; 706-327-8400
1 Rhapsodic Recitations: Music Under the Dome. 5pm. $8. Coca-Cola Space Science Center; 706-649-1486
3 LEGOS®. Families. 4pm. Columbus Library; 706-243-2813
4 Mobile Market Friday. 1-3pm. Three ARts Theatre parking lot, 2064 10th Ave, Columbus; facebook.com
4 Columbus Walk to End Alzheimer's. 5:30pm. 1000 Broadway; act.alz.org
5 Artful Babies. 10:30am. Ages 6-24m. Columbus Museum; 706-748-2562
5 A Pinkalicious Parade. 11am. Mildred L. Terry Library; 706-243-2782
5-6 Under the Big Top. Sat 11am & Sun 2:30pm. $13-$18. Springer Opera House; 706327-3688
5-6 Dahlia Fest 2024. 11am-6pm. Advance online tickets only. Fields of Grace Flower Farm, Ashmore Rd, Shiloh; fieldsofgraceflowerfarm.com
7 Pony Bead Party. Ages 5-12. 4pm. Columbus Library; 706-243-2813
8 Artful Babies. 10:30am. Ages 6-24m. Columbus Museum; 706-748-2562
8 After School Art Break. 2:30-4:30pm. Columbus Museum; 706-748-2562
9 MomCo. First Baptist Church of Columbus; 706-322-4468
9 MAMA B.E.A.R.S. Breastfeeding Support meeting (Part 2). 12:30pm. Columbus Pediatric Assoc; 706-221-4602
10 Family Fun Movie Night: Halloweentown (G). 4pm. Columbus Library; 706-243-2813
10 Budding Naturalist. 10-11am. $7. Columbus Botanical Garden, 706-327-8400
12 “Hero” for a Day. 9am-Noon. $15-$25 in advance. Columbus Trade Center; eventbright.com
12 Slow Down Saturday. 10am-2pm. Columbus Botanical Garden; 706-327-8400
12 RushSouth Music Fest & Outdoor Games 2023. 5-11pm. Woodruff Park; rushsouth.com
12 Spookfest & Outdoor Movie Night. 6-11pm. Free. ColumbusCivicCenter.org
12 Astronomy Night. 7pm. Coca-Cola Space Science Center; 706-649-1477
12-13 Under the Big Top. Sat 11am & Sun 2:30pm. $13-$18. Springer Opera House; 706-327-3688
12-13 Harvest Hoedown Festival. 10am5pm. Historic Warm Springs; 706-655-3322
14 Kids’ Art Studio. Ages 5-12. 4pm. Columbus Library; 706-243-2813
15 Kids Explore! Ages 5-12. 3pm. South Columbus Library; 706-683-8805
15 Dungeons & Dragons. Families. 6pm. Mildred L. Terry Library; 706-243-2782
15 Mini Makers. 10:30am. Ages 2-4y. Columbus Museum; 706-748-2562
16 Knee High Naturalists. 10am. Ages 3-6y. $5-$8. Oxbow Meadows; 706-507-8550
16 MAMA B.E.A.R.S. Breastfeeding Support meeting (Part 1). 5:30-7pm. Columbus Pediatric Assoc; 706-221-4602
17 Simple Steps Storytime: Family. Ages 0-5. 10am. South Columbus Library; 706-683-8805
17 Edible Engineering: Marshmallow Catapults. Ages 6-12. 3pm. North Columbus Library; 706-748-2855
17 LEGOS®. Families. 4pm. Columbus Library; 706-243-2813
18 Mobile Market Friday. 1-3pm. Three ARts Theatre parking lot, 2064 10th Ave, Columbus; facebook.com
18 Paint the Town Pink 5K Fun Walk & Glow Run. 6-9pm. $25-$35. Woodruff Park; runsignup.com
18-19 The Wonderful Wizard of Oz. 7:30pm. Family Theatre; 706-431-3752
19 Amazing Marriage Chase. 8am-Noon. $40. RSVP. Uptown Columbus; rightfromthestart.com
19 Slow Down Saturday. 10am-2pm. Columbus Botanical Garden; 706-327-8400
19 Mini Makers. 10:30am. Ages 2-4y. Columbus Museum; 706-748-2562
19 Spooktacular 2024. 11am-1pm. Lakebottom Park; 706-225-4658
19 Fall Festival. 11am-5pm. Lane Southern Orchard, Fort Valley; 800-277-3224
19 3rd Annual Fall Festival. Noon-5pm. The Oaks Farm, LaFayette, AL; theoaksfarm.net
19 Pumpkin Floral Class for Kids. 1-3pm. $20$25. Ages 5+. Columbus Botanical Garden; 706-327-8400
19 Auburn’s Oktoberfest 2024. 4pm. AG Heritage Park; Facebook.com
19 Fall Migration: Nature at Night. 6-9pm. Oxbow Meadows; 706-507-8558
19 Mercer School of Medicine Teddy Bear Clinic. 10:30am. Mildred L. Terry Library; 706243-2782
19-20 Hummingbird Festival. All day. Hogansville; hummingbirdfestival.com
20 Stories in the Garden. 2-4pm. Hills & Dales Estate, LaGrange; 706-882-3242
21 Pony Bead Party. Ages 5-12. 4pm. Columbus Library; 706-243-2813
22 Kids Explore! Ages 5-12. 3pm. South Columbus Library; 706-683-8805
22 The Magic School Bus: Lost in the Solar System. 9:30 & 11:30am. $12. RiverCenter; 706256-3612
23 MomCo. First Baptist Church of Columbus; 706-322-4468
23 MAMA B.E.A.R.S. Breastfeeding Support meeting (Part 2). 12:30pm. Columbus Pediatric Assoc; 706-221-4602
24 Simple Steps Storytime: Play. Ages 0-5. 10am. South Columbus Library; 706-683-8805
Events
PROVIDED IN PARTNERSHIP WITH:
25-26 The Wonderful Wizard of Oz. 7:30pm. Family Theatre; 706-431-3752
26 2nd Annual Little Feathers Kids Festival. 10am-2pm. Fort Mitchell Historic Site; 334855-1406
26 Fall Festival: Seasons. 10am-3pm. Columbus Museum; 706-748-2562
26 Bluebelle's Nightmare Before Halloween Outdoor Market. 11am-4pm. Bluebelle Local Mercantile; 706-327-1181
26 Fall Food Truck Festival. 11am-6pm. $5. Woodruff Riverfront Park; 706-322-0522
26 Uno, Dos, Tres Craft! Ages 4-8. 3pm. Mildred L. Terry Library; 706-243-2782
27 Columbus Boo-tanical Garden’s NotSo-Scary-Halloween! 1-6pm. Tickets required; 706-327-8400
27 Columbus Witches Ride. 5pm. Clubview Neighborhood. Catch treats from the parade of witches flying by to raise funds for the Children’s Miracle Network. www.columbuswitchesride.com.
27 Fall Festival on the Square. 5:30-8pm. Courthouse Square, Opelika; 334-745-5715
28 Kids’ Art Studio. Ages 5-12. 4pm. Columbus Library; 706-243-2813
28 Trunk or Treat for Special Needs Families. 6-8pm. The Park at Cascade Hills; 334-640-5292
29 Creepy Crawly Creatures. 3pm. South Columbus Library; 706-683-8805
29 Neighborhood Fun Night: Book Character Edition. 6pm. Mildred L. Terry Library; 706-243-2782
30 Seedling Storytime. 10-11am. $7. Columbus Botanical Garden, 706-327-8400
30 Knee High Naturalists. 10am. Ages 3-6y. $5-$8. Oxbow Meadows; 706-507-8550
31 Trick or Treat at the Callaway Home. 5:30-7:30pm. Hills & Dales Estate, LaGrange; 706-882-3242
31 Simple Steps Storytime: Family. Ages 0-5. 10am. South Columbus Library; 706-683-8805
31 Edgar Allan Poe-Down: A Gothic-Inspired Halloween Dance & Trick-or-Treat Party. 4pm. Teens 4:30pm. Columbus Library; 706-243-2813
31 Trick-or-Treat Around the Library. 4pm. North Columbus Library; 706-748-2855
EventsWeekly
MONDAY
Simple Steps Storytime: Babies & Toddlers. Ages 0-36mo. 10am. Columbus Library; 706243-2813
TUESDAY
Creature Features. 3pm. Oxbow Meadows; 706507-8550
Simple Steps Storytime. Babies & Toddlers. Ages 0-24 mo. 10am; Preschoolers. Ages 3-5. 11am. North Columbus Library; 706-748-2855
Unplug…For Chess’ Sake! Families. 4:30pm. Mildred L. Terry Library; 706-243-2782
WEDNESDAY
Simple Steps Storytime. Preschoolers. Ages 3-5. 10am; Babies & Toddlers. Ages 0-36 mo. 11am. Mildred L. Terry Library; 706-243-2782
Discovery Hub. Ages 3-5. 11am. Columbus Library; 706-243-2813
Kids’ Corner. 4pm. Columbus Library; 706-2432813
Corn Maze Days. Noon-6pm. Lane Southern Orchard, Fort Valley; 800-277-3224
THURSDAY
Pumpkins at Callaway. 4-10pm. Robin Lake Beach; 800-CALLAWAY
Simple Steps Storytime: Family. Ages 0-5. 10am. Columbus Library; 706-243-2813
Sight Word Support. K-3. 3-5pm. Mildred L. Terry Library; 706-243-2782
Corn Maze Days. Noon-6pm. Lane Southern Orchard, Fort Valley; 800-277-3224
FRIDAY
Pumpkins at Callaway. 4-11pm. Robin Lake Beach; 800-CALLAWAY
Keeper Chat. 2pm. Oxbow Meadows; 706-5078550
Simple Steps Storytime: Rhythm & Rhyme. Ages 0-5. 10am. Columbus Library; 706-2432813
Fun Fridays. Ages 5-12. 2pm. North Columbus Library. 706-748-2855
Corn Maze Days. Noon-6pm. Lane Southern Orchard, Fort Valley; 800-277-3224
SATURDAY
Market Days on Broadway. 9am-Noon. Uptown Columbus; 706-322-0522
Eye Spy Scavenger Hunt. 9am-4pm. $5 parking. F. D. Roosevelt State Park; 706-663-4858
Nature Play. 10am-Noon. Oxbow Meadows; 706-507-8550 (Not 10/19)
Pumpkins at Callaway Gardens. 2-11pm. Robin Lake Beach; 800-CALLAWAY
Corn Maze Days. 10am-6pm. Lane Southern Orchard, Fort Valley; 800-277-3224
SUNDAY
Pumpkins at Callaway Gardens. 1-10pm. Robin Lake Beach; 800-CALLAWAY
Corn Maze Days. 10am-6pm. Lane Southern Orchard, Fort Valley; 800-277-3224
Please call ahead to confirm dates, times and age appropriateness, in case changes were made after the info was obtained.
Fall Activity Guide
Fall Activity Guide
HOO’s PICKS
A Bushel of Fall Fun
A Bushel of Fall Fun
Lane Southern Orchards’ Corn Maze Days: Get lost in the 6-acre corn maze and enjoy hayrides, the pumpkin patch and games. Fee for corn maze and hayrides. Wed-Fri: 12-6pm, Sat-Sun: 10am6pm. Then enjoy their Fall Festival - October 19,11am-5pm, for arts and crafts vendors, food trucks, the corn maze and hayrides. Free admission. www.lanesouthernorchards.com
Pumpkins at Callaway Gardens: For a non-spooky, fall experience, visit Callaway Gardens in Pine Mountain, GA to enjoy daytime and nighttime attractions. Tickets at www.callawaygardens.com.
• Sunflower Corn Maze: Enjoy taking pictures with pumpkins and sunflowers as you navigate this sunflower-inspired maze with two levels of difficulty.
• Enchanted Pumpkin Forest: At night, enjoy lighted fall scenes and the Foggy Hollow pathway where kids can enjoy playing with Fobbles (bubbles filled with fog).
• Treat Trail: Oct 31, Nov 1 and Nov 2, from 4-9pm at certain sites at Robin’s Lake Plaza and Cason’s Garden. Family-friendly, non-offensive, non-violent costumes are welcome.
• Storytime with Spookley: A pumpkin named Spookley tells non-scary tales.
• Garden attractions can be enjoyed during the day, such as the Day Butterfly Center and the Birds of Prey program.
Oakhurst Farm Fall Daze - Sept 28-Nov 2: Visits include a corn maze, hayrides, a petting zoo, a pumpkin patch and other fun activities; Saturdays 10am – 7pm, Sundays 1pm – 7pm; Gate admission; www.oakhurstfarms.com.
Halloween Movies and Treats at the Library - October 19: Enjoy an afternoon of spooky movies and light snacks at the Colum-
bus Public Library at 1pm. Limited seating. Kids must be accompanied by an adult. www.cvlga.org.
The Oaks Farm 3rd Annual Fall Festival - October 19: Festival features a kids corner, touch a truck, local vendors, food trucks and football; 11am – 4pm; www.theoaksfarm.net.
Columbus Museum’s Fall Festival - October 26: Enjoy a free day of creativity at the Columbus Museum, 10am – 3pm, with art-making stations, scavenger hunt and live performances featuring ‘The Story Ship.’ Food trucks on-site. www.comuga.org.
BOO-tanical – October 27: Bring your kids 12 and under to the Columbus Botanical Garden’s not-so-scary Halloween celebration to enjoy free, fun and educational activities, games and crafts. Kids will receive candy after completing each activity. During the day, kids can enjoy storytime, magic shows, a live bat program and a carnivorous plant presentation;1-6pm; www.columbusbotanicalgarden.org.
Columbus Witches Ride – October 27: Starting at 5pm, families are invited to come catch treats from the parade of witches who will be riding or flying through the Clubview neighborhood to raise funds for the Children’s Miracle Network. www.columbuswitchesride.com
Cascade Hills Special Needs Trunk or Treat –October 28: A Halloween event for special needs children and their families at Cascade Hills Park; 6– 8pm; www.cascadehills.com.
Fall Activity Guide
HOO’s HEALTHY
Long COVID, also referred to as post-acute sequelae of SARSCoV 2 (PASC), is a term used to describe a chronic illness that lingers for months or even years after an acute COVID-19 infection. Patients can develop Long COVID even if they do not have COVID symptoms when they initially become infected with the COVID-19 virus. There are a wide variety of Long COVID symptoms, and the symptoms can start weeks or months after someone recovers from a COVID-19 infection. There is not a lab test for Long COVID, and many of the symptoms are similar to those of other illnesses, making it more difficult to diagnose.
Some of the most common Long COVID symptoms include fatigue, brain fog, fever, difficulty breathing, chest pain, coughing, heart palpitations and neurological symptoms such as dizziness, sleep problems, headaches, and changes in the senses of smell or taste. Pain and digestive symptoms, such as stomach pain, diarrhea and constipation, may also be experienced by someone with Long COVID. For some patients, the symptoms of Long COVID can be debilitating and make it difficult to perform everyday activities, such as walking short distances.
What is: LONG COVID
Long COVID is not infectious and cannot be spread from person to person. Experts are not yet certain why the COVID -19 virus triggers Long COVID symptoms. To diagnose Long COVID, doctors typically use a patient’s history as well as the timing of the appearance of symptoms. Doctors may order specific testing, such as an EKG, chest X-rays or a pulmonary function test, based on the symptoms reported by the patient.
People who have underlying conditions, such as diabetes or asthma, are at a higher risk of developing Long COVID. Those who had a severe acute COVID-19 infection and those who have multisystem inflammatory syndrome during or after a COVID-19 infection are also likely to develop Long COVID.
Due to the wide variety of symptoms that may be experienced by someone with Long COVID, there is not a single treatment for it. Instead, someone with Long COVID should work with their doctor to develop a treatment plan that will manage the symptoms of Long COVID and help optimize their quality of life.
HOO’s PARENTING
set safe dating boundaries
If your teen is sending you signals that she is interested in ‘solo’ dating, you may be tempted to dismiss the idea, thinking it is too soon for her to be ready for a serious relationship. However, it is important to remember that the pace at which children grow and mature can vary and your teen may feel she is ready for one-on-one ‘solo’ dating instead of hanging out with her boyfriend in a group of friends.
If your teen expresses an interest in solo dating, listen to her explain who she wants to date and why she wants to date. Even if you disagree, remember that you are unlikely to be able to change her mind about the person she wants to date. Trying to prevent your teen from continuing the relationship will likely lead to rebellious behavior, such as sneaking out to see him. Instead, the best approach is to talk to your teen about what a respectful, safe dating relationship should look like.
Teach your child to avoid abusive relationships by spotting red flags, such as problems managing strong emotions or controlling behavior. Explain
By Linda Ligon, Family & Kids
‘sexting’ and the possible legal consequences of participating in it. Let her know that she can come to you if someone is sending her messages that make her uncomfortable.
Even though it may be a difficult and awkward conversation, explain consent and how clear communication with her date can help prevent sexual assault and abuse. Create a code word that she can text you if she is in a situation that makes her feel unsafe and she needs you to come and get her.
Before your teen leaves to go out on a date, meet with the couple to explain the rules and boundaries. Set limits on where the couple can go, set curfews, and communicate what non-public situations require a chaperone, such as having him over to visit. Set an expectation that your teen will communicate changes in plans, so that you always know her location.
Set house rules about how late your teen can chat online and the consequences for falling behind on chores or schoolwork.
AFTER-SCHOOL ACTIVITIES GUIDE
By Linda Ligon, Family & Kids
WHOO’s Healthy
The Science of
stress
hen you meet a stressful situation, the body goes on ‘high alert’ and activates the ‘fight or flight’ response. This response can be beneficial in a short-term stressful situation, such as physical danger. However, when your body goes into ‘high alert’ during much of the day due to everyday situations, such as a frustratingly slow car rider line, this response to stress can negatively affect your long-term health.
Physiology of the stress response
When you experience a stressful situation, the amygdala, an area of the brain responsible for processing emotions, sends a distress signal to the hypothalamus, which is the ‘command center’ of the brain. The hypothalamus sends information through the autonomic nervous system to the rest of the body to prepare you to ‘fight or flee.’ The adrenal glands, in response to the message, release the hormone epinephrine into the bloodstream. Epinephrine, also known as adrenaline, quickly causes several involuntary, physiological changes.
4Increased heart rate and increased blood pressure push blood to muscles and vital organs.
4Increased respiratory rate and the opening up of small airways in the lungs increase the amount of oxygen taken in.
4Stored glucose is released, supplying energy to the body. If your brain perceives a continued threat, the stress response continues with the adrenal glands releasing cortisol, which keeps the body on ‘high alert.’
What harm does the stress response cause?
For many people, the day is filled with a cascade of stressful situations, and they stay on ‘high alert’ much of the time. Repeated release of epinephrine can damage blood vessels and raise blood pressure, increasing the risks of heart disease and strokes. Also, increased levels of cortisol can lead to weight gain and a buildup of fatty tissue.
How to reduce stress
Your goal is to help your mind and body relax to break free from being constantly on ‘high alert.’
4Exercise, such as walking and yoga, can help deepen breathing and ease muscle tension.
4Meditation can be calming and soothing.
4Limiting negative thoughts from stimlating the stress response.
4Support from friends and family can ease tension and worries.
Hoo’s helpful
The ABC s of SaFe Sleep
Having an infant can be an incredibly exciting time, but it can also feel overwhelming. To keep babies safe while sleeping to reduce the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), suffocation and strangulation, it’s crucial to ensure a safe sleep environment.
In 2019, there were 1,243 unintentional suffocation deaths among children ages 0 to 5 years - of those deaths, the majority (80 percent) were due to suffocation and strangulation in bed. Suffocation/strangulation in bed occurs when a baby’s breathing is limited or constricted by bedding or other objects in their environment, or when a baby gets trapped between two objects, such as a mattress and wall.
Follow the ABCs of sleeping to ensure your baby is as safe as possible:
A – Alone: Infants sharing a bed with parents or siblings are at an increased the risk of SIDS, suffocation, and other infant-related deaths. Babies should always sleep ALONE in their sleep area, with their sleep area being close to their caregiver’s bed.
B – Back: Always place babies on their backs to sleep. It’s recommended to position infants on their backs during every sleep prior until they are one year old. Sleeping on their stomachs or sides increases the risk of SIDS, especially as babies can easily roll onto their stomachs.
C – Crib: A baby should sleep in a crib, bassinet or pack 'n play with only a fitted sheet. There should be no toys or soft bedding such as blankets, bumper pads or pillows in the baby’s sleep area.
Safe Kids Columbus is offering a free, online, hourlong, Safe Sleep Class for expectant parents at 5-9 months, who will receive a free play yard upon completion. Visit safekidscolumbusga.org to apply.
For further info on safe sleep practices, DOD cardholders can reach out to the New Parent Support Program for education, prenatal health, infant care, breastfeeding, safe sleep environments, and more, at 706-545-6316, or 6980 Ralph Puckett Hwy, Building 2652, Fort Moore, Georgia.
From Azalea Pediatrics
Early Detection Saves Lives.
The CDC refers to mammograms as: “The best tests physicians have to find breast cancer early, sometimes up to three years before it can be felt.” Lower your risk of getting breast cancer by living a healthy lifestyle and, if you’re 40 years or older, regularly getting a mammogram at the St. Francis Center for Breast Health. We offer 3D mammography, which produces better images than ever before.