After-School ACTIVITY GUIDE
Pages 18-23
screentime habit Breaking our
By Linda Ligon, Family & Kids
When you think about it, it is easy to spend more time than you realize each day scrolling on your phone. You may have only meant to check for texts or emails and put in a quick online order, but then you find yourself scrolling mindlessly through social media or online shopping sites. Social media use and screen time are not just addictive to kids and teens. Adults can fall into the trap also.
Falling into the screen time trap is easy
Using your phone releases a feel-good chemical in your brain called dopamine, which can cause you to become addicted to your phone. After experiencing the rush of dopamine from using your phone, you crave more dopamine. Many people find themselves unable to separate themselves from their phones, with the phone being the first thing they touch in the morning and looking at the phone is the last thing they do at night. Some people do not even realize how often they check their phone each day or how much time they actually spend on it.
once the time is gone, it is gone Forever
Take a moment to notice how much time is lost due to picking up your phone every time you get a notification or feel the need to relieve boredom. It is easy to impulsively pick up your phone without thinking about it. To get an estimate on how much time you spend on your phone each day, it may be helpful to use a parental control that tracks screen time or you could install an app that tracks it.
One way to give yourself enough resolve to put your phone down and get your time back is to envision the different ways that time could have been used instead. Have you recently set a fitness goal or a goal to learn a new language? Envision yourself reaching your goal due to spending time working on it instead of scrolling on your phone. If you have fallen into the habit of picking up your phone when you feel bored or just want to take a break, find an activity, such as a new craft, that you can use as an alternative to impulsively scrolling.
If you find yourself using your phone as a way to relax after the kids are asleep, think of other possible ways to wind down before bed, such as reading a book, writing in a journal, meditating or doing some bedtime yoga.
set boundaries on your phone to help
Breaking any type of habit takes time. Do not be discouraged if at first you find it difficult to separate from your phone. It will take some practice. Try taking breaks from your phone by putting it in a drawer or in another room, and gradually increase the amount of time you can focus on tasks without going to pick up your phone. It will take time and practice to get used to not worrying about what you might be missing on your social media apps. If you find separating difficult, it may be a good idea to identify the apps that are the top time wasters and delete them from your phone.
For the apps you do keep on your phone, silence all but the most important notifications. Hearing your phone ding all day long is a temptation to pick it up and start scrolling. Even if you do not pick it up, hearing the phone ding steals away your attention and reduces your focus, leading to lost time.
[Women between ages 16 and 24 spend the most time online, averaging 7 hours and 32 minutes, followed by men between ages 25 and 34 at 7 hours and 13 minutes.
"Houston, we have a ... facebook problem! "
The magazine's Facebook page at familyandkidsga was hacked! We are still waiting on Facebook to provide support to reinstate our admin access to control the page. Till then, let's stay friends and please disregard the spam posts, unless you like watching "Game of Thrones" videos! LOL.
HOO’s HUNGRY
SMOOTHIE Pumpkin Pie
With nutritious oatmeal and yogurt, this smoothie tastes exactly like pumpkin pie in a glass, bringing the flavors of autumn to your breakfast table. Best of all, it's like having dessert for breakfast!
INSTRUCTIONS
1. Place all ingredients in blender and blend on high until all ingredients are smooth (about a minute, depending on how strong your blender is).
1. Pour into a glass and serve immediately.
calories: 350k cal (18%)
carbohydrates: 69g (23%)
protein: 13g (26%)
fat: 4g (6%)
saturated fat: 2g (13%)
trans fat: 1g
cholesterol: 11mg (4%)
sodium: 88mg (4%)
potassium: 767mg (22%)
fiber: 7g (29%)
sugar: 41g (46%)
vitamin a: 14462IU (289%)
vitamin c: 10mg (12%)
calcium: 231mg (23%)
iron: 3mg (17%)
INGREDIENTS
• 1 cup 2% milk
• 1 medium banana
• 1 cup ice
• 3/4 cup pumpkin puree, unsweetened
• 1/2 cup instant oatmeal, certified gluten free
• 1/2 cup vanilla greek yogurt
• 3 tbsp maple syrup
• 1 1/2 tsp pumpkin pie spice
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg
How to
NOT get scammed!
by Kimberly Blaker, Family & Kids
Scams run the gamut from shop-at-home and catalog sales to sweepstakes and lotteries, business and job opportunities, travel and timeshares, counterfeit checks, and telemarketing scams, to name a few. Since it's impossible to know every scam out there, the most effective way to protect yourself from being victimized is to be aware of a scammer’s methods.
INTERNET SCAMS
Generally, internet scams work by using email, pop-ups, or fake websites to elicit money or information, such as login credentials, from the victim. For example, an email or a link may appear to be from a legitimate source and ask you to respond with sensitive information or a pop-up ad tries to trick you into paying for fake antivirus software or connect you to a computer expert who requests sensitive information to stop the purported virus.
How to Protect Yourself
• When you receive an email requesting personal information, check the email address and research it to see if it’s legitimate.
• Don’t respond directly to an email with sensitive information, even if it appears to be from a legitimate source. If you are uncertain, open a new email, and input an email address you know is legitimate, such as from the company’s website.
• Don’t click links directly from an email or enter your login details or other information on the page that opens. If it’s from your bank or another familiar company, open a separate web page and go directly to the site yourself.
• Use pop-up blockers and legitimate antivirus software when you’re on the internet and don’t click on pop-ups.
TELEMARKETING SCAMS
A common telemarketing scam is when someone calls pretending to be from the IRS. The caller informs the victim they owe taxes and must pay immediately, or cites obscure taxes that don’t exist to alarm the victim. Some scammers even threaten there’s a warrant out for the victim’s arrest, and the only way to avoid it is to pay up, often by wire transfer or in the form of a gift card. Scammers also try to sell fake products or services over the phone. They use tactics like offering free trials
that require your credit card information or limited-time offers to pressure you into a quick decision.
How to Protect Yourself
• Know that most government agencies and legitimate businesses like banks won’t ask for sensitive information over the phone.
• To verify who’s calling, hang up and call back the phone number that called you. If it seems legitimate, take an extra precaution. Find the contact number for the company or group online, then call it to ask if it was a valid communication.
• Hang up or otherwise remove yourself from the situation, as con artists will use many tactics to keep you engaged.
• If you don’t recognize a phone number, let it go to voicemail. Scammers may not leave a voicemail. If they do, you can search the number online to see if others have reported it.
• Be aware that caller IDs and numbers displayed on your phone aren’t always accurate. Scammers can manipulate what shows up on your screen when you receive a call.
GENERAL TIPS ON DEALING WITH A POTENTIAL SCAM
• If it seems too good to be true, it probably is. If you didn’t enter a contest or haven’t heard of the opportunity you’ve allegedly lucked into, it’s likely a scam. Don’t give any money or information to someone requesting it to secure your prize.
• Be aware when someone is using emotional appeal or another type of urgency, giving you vague or ambiguous information or trying to get you to supply information is also a warning sign.
• Don’t be afraid to ask questions for confirmation, or to talk to a superior. Be skeptical, and if you’re not satisfied, don’t give out any information.
• Stay aware of popular schemes by following the news and resources such as the consumer.ftc.gov/scams.
If you believe you’ve been scammed, or have experienced an attempt, report it to the Federal Trade Commission at 877-FTCHELP or ftccomplaintassistant.gov/.
ERICA’S BARBERSHOP ERICA’S BARBERSHOP Kid-Friendly, Female, Master Barber & Stylist
Specializing in haircut services for sensitive/disabled children but available for the whole family!
Private salon in N. Columbus/ Midland
HOO’s HEALTHY
Cystic fibrosis (CF) is an inherited genetic disease caused by a genetic mutation. Normally, the cells that are affected by CF produce mucus, sweat and digestive juices that are thin and lubricating, but the genetic mutation involved in CF causes the secretions to be thick and sticky. The thick, sticky secretions block tubes and ducts in the body, especially in the lungs and pancreas. The mucus can make it hard to breathe and block ducts that provide digestive enzymes, leading to malnutrition. Damage to the lungs, digestive system and other organs in the body can result from the production of the thick mucus.
In 2009, the US standardized a CF screening test for all infants. This early detection and treatment of the disease is important. CF is a progressive disease, which means it gets worse over time. Healthcare providers urge parents not to delay following up on an abdominal infant screening test result. It is possible that the infant screening returns a false positive. However, for newborns that are accurately identified as having CF by the screening test, receiving prompt treatment can make a big difference in the baby’s health and survival.
What is:
CYSTIC
FIBROSIS
It is possible for the infant CF screening to return a false negative and not detect CF. Also, someone born before the CF screening test became a standard may not have been tested for it. Symptoms of CF include: frequent wheezing, lung infections, persistent cough, oily or loose stool, sinus infections and slow growth, failure to gain weight even when eating enough calories.
A sweat test that detects the amount of chloride in your baby’s sweat is the most conclusive test for CF. The amount of chloride levels in sweat is higher than normal in people with CF. A genetic test may also be used to look for the genetic mutation that causes CF.
The treatment for CF varies depending on the symptoms the patient is experiencing. There are a variety of medications used to treat breathing difficulties and digestive issues and different therapies are used to help loosen mucus in the chest so it can be coughed up.
married couples sign up for amazing marriage chase
OCT 19
Committed marriages. Loving families. Encouraging friendships. Supportive work relationships. These are the things that create fulfilled lives, stable families, and healthy communities.
Right from the Start (RFTS), a local non-profit that provides relationship education, was founded in 2009 by local leaders who wanted Columbus to be that kind of safe, thriving community. With a mission focused on strengthening marriages, decreasing out of-wedlock pregnancies, and encouraging the loving engagement of fathers, RFTS began to speak a counter-cultural message about the value of marriage and family.
Since its founding, the organization has provided relationship education to more than 45,000 people for free through public schools, churches and other organizations. Programs include REAL Essentials (Relationship Education and Leadership), All Pro Dad, Raising Highly Capable Kids, and MANHOOD Columbus. Beginning this fall, RFTS will begin additional work with couples using a program called ELEVATE.
One RFTS program graduate said, “I never had a positive relationship before. Now, I’m using everything you taught me.”
You may know Right from the Start through its signature event, The Amazing Marriage Chase. Held every October, the event gives couples a chance to celebrate their marriage during a fun morning of playful challenges and adventure.
The Amazing Marriage Chase has made a difference in the lives of many couples. One wife said, “Three years ago, I was moving out.” This event taught us how to communicate better and helped save our marriage!”
This year’s event will be October 19. Sign up to compete or volunteer at rightfromthestart.org/events.
In an 80-year-long, multi-generational study of adult development by Harvard University, results revealed that close relationships, more than money or fame, are what keep people happy. Right from the Start knows that relationships matter, and are investing in teaching young people, couples and families, skills that will help them get it “right from the start.”
You can support this work by volunteering as a mentor, scheduling a program, contributing financially, and sharing information about the importance of stable marriages and families. For more info, visit rightfromthestart.org or call 706-256-1019.
Parenting asensitive CHILD
In the past, describing a child as highly sensitive to their environment was often considered as a way to explain away a difficult child’s misbehavior. However, recent research has shown that some children actually are highly sensitive to their environment and that it is not necessarily always a negative trait.
Is my child a dandelion, tulip or orchid?
The dandelion, tulip and orchid metaphor was developed by researchers to help explain how children react to their environment. A child who is an orchid is very sensitive to the environment around him and does best under ideal conditions. A dandelion child is not very sensitive to the environment around him and can still function well under adverse conditions. The research identified a third level of sensitivity, the ‘tulip,’ which is between the orchid and the dandelion in sensitivity. A tulip can function under some, but not all adverse environmental conditions.
Being an orchid child, one highly sensitive to the environment, does not necessarily mean that your child is sensitive to every type of adverse situation. For example, your child may react strongly when you try to change his morning routine but is willing to try new foods without a battle. The combination of environmental inputs that your highly sensitive child reacts adversely to is unique to him.
While the orchid metaphor does help one understand how the environment can affect a sensitive child, the metaphor could be considered an oversimplification. To grow orchids, one only needs to research the ideal conditions for growing orchids and provide them. However, when you are parenting a highly sensitive child with a unique combination of conditions that he is sensitive to, you will have to do some work to adjust your parenting style to your child’s needs.
Find the right strategies
Once you identify your child’s sensitivities, you can find ways to support him and help him learn to cope with adverse environmental conditions. Some highly
sensitive children are sensitive to changes in mood, while others are highly sensitive to sensory input, such as sound and touch.
Identify their common triggers. Some highly sensitive children may react more strongly to the environmental influences at school than they are to the ones at home. Good communication with your child’s teacher can help identify sensitivities, such as those to loud noises and strong emotions of others, that are interfering with your child’s ability to learn.
Teach your child coping skills. If your child is very sensitive to changes in his mood, you can teach him how to identify his emotions and how to moderate his responses to emotions. If your child is highly sensitive to a stimulus such as loud noises, help him create a quiet place he can go to when things get too noisy. Work with your child’s teacher and school counselor to find ways to help your child cope with sensitivities to the school environment.
Consider therapy. If your child is highly sensitive to changes in his own mood, therapy may be helpful. Researchers found that young children who are sensitive to their own mood changes are more likely to experience depression later in life.
Find the positive aspects
Recent research has found that highly sensitive children may be more sensitive to positive environment influences, such as parental praise. The research study suggests that children highly sensitive to parental praise may have fewer behavioral issues later in life. Parenting a highly sensitive child can be challenging, but be sure to include plenty of quality praise that is genuine and not over-exaggerated.
by Linda Ligon, Family & Kids
HOO’s
learning
connEcting Cooking to Literacy
By Jeannine Scott, North Columbus Public Library
Lasting memories are made when families cook together, and for children especially, the kitchen is also an excellent place to learn! Preparing and cooking food involves loads of math and science, but did you know it’s also a powerful opportunity to build literacy skills? Here are just a few essential skills that cooking can help support:
Expanding VocabuLary: Cooking introduces children to new words related to techniques, tools, and ingredients. Incorporate interesting-sounding words like sizzle, whisk, and chop!
print awarEnEss: Reading step-by-step recipe instructions and ingredient lists engages children with different types of texts and helps them understand how written English is read (left to right, top to bottom). Read recipes aloud slowly, pointing to each word as you go.
FoLLowing dirEctions: The structured format of a recipe helps children learn to follow sequential directions.
storytELLing and sEquEncing: Discussing the steps involved in a recipe helps children develop their speaking and listening skills. Enhance the experience by sharing stories about a recipe’s history or your own childhood-cooking memories.
Here are some fun ways to incorporate literacy into your family cooking traditions at home:
aLphabEt soup: Add alphabet pasta to your favorite soup and have your child spell out words or identify letters. This activity supports letter-recognition and vocabulary-building.
Mini pizza charactErs: Use English muffins or pita bread to make mini pizzas. Encourage your child to create silly faces using various toppings, then have them tell a story about the pizza character they created.
pancakE LEttErs: Create different letters and shapes on a griddle using pancake batter. Kids can practice forming letters and identifying shapes while enjoying a tasty breakfast.
hoMEMadE prEtzEL LEttErs: Have your child form a pretzel in the shape of the first letter of their name!
Boosting a child’s literacy skills through food is a piece of cake! Your library has oodles of kids’ cookbooks with plenty of fun and tasty recipes. So, tie on those aprons and get ready to transform your kitchen into a place where remarkable learning experiences happen! Visit cvlga.org to search the catalog for popular titles.
Copelynn, 2 years Columbus
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.
Kids &ATVsafety
By Linda Ligon, Family & Kids
All-terrain vehicle (ATV) riding is a favorite activity of many who enjoy the outdoors. However, data gathered between 1985 and 2015 found that ATV crashes killed more than 3,000 children and around one million more children were taken to the emergency room for injuries. Many injuries incurred were contusions, dislocations and fractures, and accidents such as rollovers, can cause severe injuries, especially if the rider is not wearing a helmet.
WHAT TO KNOW ABOUT ATVS BEFORE BUYING ONE
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), does not recommend allowing children under the age of 16 to drive ATVs for the following reasons:
• Newer ATVs are being designed to be faster and larger, increasing the risk of serious injury.
• Riding an ATV takes a level of quick thinking and good judgment that kids under the age of 16 do not yet have.
• Controlling an ATV takes an amount of strength and quick reflexes that children under the age of 16 have not yet developed
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CONSIDERATIONS & SAFETY TIPS
• Purchase an ATV that is the right size for the rider.
• Educate your teen on ATV safety. Take away riding privileges if your teen violates ATV safety rules.
• Wear all the appropriate safety equipment, such as a helmet, long sleeves, long pants, over-the-ankle boots and a face shield.
• Even though a young child may fit on the ATV with you, it is not safe to ride with a passenger.
They are meant for one person only.
• Don’t use a three-wheeled ATV. They were banned due to safety concerns.
• Stay off public roads, even if the law allows you to ride on them, as ATVs have stubby tires that may not get good traction on public roadways and do not have the same safety features as cars. Teach your teen that he must obey all traffic laws if he does have to ride on a public road for some reason.
• If your teen rides your ATV, check the speed limiter to ensure it is in operation.
HOO’s CRAFTY
taste-safe KINETIC SAND
Does your child have a tendency to put everything in his or her mouth? This taste-safe kinetic sand made using edible ingredients is perfect for babies and toddlers who can’t be trusted to play with regular kinetic sand! It is mold able like wet sand, but feels fluffy and slightly crumbly. Such a fun taste-safe sensory activity for kids!
DIRECTIONS
1. Pour the dry ingredients into a medium mixing bowl and stir until well-combined.
2. In a small bowl, stir the food coloring into 3 tablespoons of water.
SUPPLIES
• 1 c baking soda
• ½ c cornstarch
• ½ c granulated sugar
3. Pour 2 tablespoons of colored water into the dry ingredients and stir until combined. Stir in the remaining tablespoon of colored water, mixing with your hands if needed in order to combine the ingredients more evenly.
4. Add small amounts of water (no more than 1 teaspoon at a time), stirring well between each addition, until the kinetic sand has the desired texture. It should be moldable like wet sand, but still feel fluffy and slightly crumbly. Start playing immediately and store in an airtight container when not in use.
• 1 tbsp cream of tartar
• 3-4 tbsp water
• 10 drops liquid food coloring or as needed
1
Labor Day Weekend Balloon Festival. All Day. Callaway Gardens; 800-CALLAWAY
2 Labor Day Fair. 10am-4pm. Old Russell County Courthouse; Seale; 706-575-4389
3 Little Sprouts. 10am. Ages 3-5. $5-7. Columbus Botanical Garden; 706-327-8400
3 Teen Takeover: Personalized Pencil Pouches. 4:30pm. Columbus Library; 706-243-2813
4
Knee-High Naturalists (3-6 years). 1011am. $5. Oxbow Meadows; 706-507-8550
5 LEGOS®. Families. 4pm. Columbus Library; 706-243-2813
6
1,000 Books Before Kindergarten Party. 11am. Columbus Library; 706-243-2813
6 Mobile Market Friday. 1-3pm. Three Arts Theatre parking lot, 2064 10th Ave, Columbus; facebook.com
7Red Rox Run 5K & 1 Mile Fun Run. 7am. $20$35. F.D. Roosevelt State Park; runsignup.com
7 Slow Down Saturday. 10am-2pm. Columbus Botanical Garden; 706-327-8400
7 Artful Babies. 6-24mo. 10:30am. Columbus Museum; 706-748-2562
7 Dog Splash and Luau at Liberty Bell Pool. 11am-2pm. $10/dog. $5 parking. F. D. Roosevelt State Park; 706-663-4858
7 Grandparent’s Day Tea Party. RSVP. 11am. North Columbus Library; 706-748-2855
9 Pony Bead Party. Ages 5-12. 4pm. Columbus Library; 706-243-2813
9-21
Just 4 Kidz Consignment Sale. 3201 Macon Road; just4kidzconsign.com
10
Artful Babies. 6-24mo. 10:30am. Columbus Museum; 706-748-2562
11
Enviro Explorers (6-12 years). 10-11am. $5. Oxbow Meadows; 706-507-8550
12
Family Fun Night: Grandparents Celebration. 4pm. Columbus Library; 706-2432813
13-14
Harris Co PRCA ProRodeo. 8pm. Harris County Agri-Center, Hamilton; hccaonline.com
13-14 Cotton Patch Gospel. 7:30pm. Family Theatre; 706-431-3752
14
Mini Makers. 2-4yr. 10:30am. Columbus Museum; 706-748-2562
14
MAMA B.E.A.R.S. Breastfeeding Support meeting (Part 2). 12:30-1:30pm. Columbus Pediatric Assoc; 706-221-4602
14
CSO Open Rehearsal. 12:30pm. Free. All ages. RiverCenter; 706-323-5059
14
CSO presents Rachmaninoff & Time for Three. 7:30pm. $10-$45. RiverCenter; 706323-5059
14
Astronomy Night. 8pm. Coca-Cola Space Science Center; 706-649-1477
14-15 Pumpkins. Callaway Gardens. 4-9pm. Robin Lake Beach; 800-CALLAWAY
16 Kids’ Art Studio. Ages 5-12. 4pm. Columbus Library; 706-243-2813
17 Mini Makers. 2-4yr. 10:30am. Columbus Museum; 706-748-2562
17
Teen Takeover: Movie & Scavenger Hunt. 4:30pm. Columbus Library; 706-243-2813
17
Dungeons & Dragons. Families. 6pm. Mildred L. Terry Library; 706-243-2782
18
Knee-High Naturalists (3-6 years). 1011am. $5. Oxbow Meadows; 706-507-8550
18
Lunch & Learn: TBA. Noon-1pm. Columbus Botanical Garden; 706-327-8400
19
Budding Naturalist. 10-11am. $7. Columbus Botanical Garden, 706-327-8400
19
Edible Engineering: Edible Slime. Ages 6-12. 3pm. N. Columbus Library; 706-748-2855
19
LEGOS®. Families. 4pm. Columbus Library; 706-243-2813
20
Mobile Market Friday. 1-3pm. Three Arts Theatre parking lot, 2064 10th Ave, Columbus; facebook.com
20-21
Cotton Patch Gospel. 7:30pm. Family Theatre; 706-431-3752
20-22
Pumpkins. Callaway Gardens. 4-9pm. Robin Lake Beach; 800-CALLAWAY
21
Smoke on the River: Hogs & History. 9am-4:30pm. $5. National Civil War Naval Museum; 706-327-9798
21
Bluebelle Fall Outdoor Market. 11am4pm. Bluebelle Local Mercantile; 706-3271181
PROVIDED IN PARTNERSHIP
September Events
21 Tri-city Latino Festival. Noon-9pm. Columbus Civic Center; 706-530-0393
21 MAMA B.E.A.R.S. Breastfeeding Support meeting. 5:30-7pm. Columbus Pediatric Assoc; 706-221-4602
21
Mercer School of Medicine Teddy Bear Clinic. 10:30am. N. Columbus Library. 706-748-2855
23 Pony Bead Party. Ages 5-12. 4pm. Columbus Library; 706-243-2813
25 Seedling Storytime. 10-11am. $7. Columbus Botanical Garden, 706-327-8400
26 The Very Hungry Caterpillar Show 9:30 & 11:30am. $12. RiverCenter; 706-256-3612
26 Constitution Connections. Ages 12 & under. 4pm. North Columbus Library; 706748-2855
27-28 Cotton Patch Gospel. 7:30pm. Family Theatre; 706-431-3752
27-29 Columbus Classic Women’s Hockey. TBA. Columbus Ice Rink; collegehockeysouth.com or 706-660-1996
27-29 Pumpkins. Callaway Gardens. 4-9pm. Robin Lake Beach; 800-CALLAWAY
28 Your State Parks Day: Outdoor Discovery Stations. 10am-1pm. $5 parking. F. D. Roosevelt State Park; 706-663-4858
28 MAMA B.E.A.R.S. Breastfeeding Support meeting (Part 2). 12:30-1:30pm. Columbus Pediatric Assoc; 706-221-4602
28 Hispanic Heritage Month Program. 2pm. Mildred L. Terry Library; 706-243-2782
28 Your State Parks Day - Salamander Meander. 3-4pm. $3 + $5 parking. F. D. Roosevelt State Park; 706-663-4858
28 WWE Supershow. 7:30pm. $20. Columbus Civic Center; ticketmaster.com
28 CCSSC presents Star Light, Star Bright. 8-10pm. $5 parking. F. D. Roosevelt State Park; 706-663-4858
30 Kids’ Art Studio. Ages 5-12. 4pm. Columbus Library; 706-243-2813
WeeklyEvents
MONDAY
Simple Steps Storytime: Babies & Toddlers. Ages 0-36mo. 10am. Columbus Library; 706243-2813
TUESDAY
Simple Steps Storytime. Babies & Toddlers. Ages 0-24 mo. 10am; Preschoolers. Ages 3-5. 11am. North Columbus Library; 706748-2855
Unplug…For Chess’ Sake! Families. 4:30pm. Mildred L. Terry Library; 706-243-2782
WEDNESDAY
Simple Steps Storytime. PreK 3-5. 10am; Babies & Toddlers 0-36 mo. 11:00am. 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
THURSDAY
Simple Steps Storytime: Rhythm & Rhyme. Ages 0-5. 10am. Columbus Library; 706-243-2813
Farmstand Friday. 9-Noon. The Food Mill, 3280 2nd Avenue; 706-507-9209
Fun Fridays. Ages 5-12. 2pm. North Columbus Library. 706-748-2855
Friday Night Concert Series. 7-10pm. Free. Uptown Columbus; 706-596-0111
FRIDAY
Salamander Meander. 10-11am. $3 + $5 parking. F. D. Roosevelt State Park; 706-6634858
SATURDAY
Market Days. 9am-Noon. Uptown Columbus; uptowncolumbusga.com
Eye Spy Scavenger Hunt. 9am-4pm. $5 parking. F. D. Roosevelt State Park; 706663-4858
Toddler Time. 10am-Noon. $10. Ages 5 & 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.
AFTER-SCHOOL ACTIVITIES
AFTER-SCHOOL ACTIVITIES GUIDE
Media for Kids NETFLIX
Parents, we can use our kids' love for today’s technology to engage their minds, to empower them to explore their curiosities and to allow them to discover the world around them. A great way to do that is by letting them watch these documentaries on Netflix.
If I Were An Animal
Each 20 minute episode covers a variety of animals with voiceovers led by children.
A Plastic Ocean
Covering over 20 locations around the world, the documentary shows just how much plastic is polluting our oceans and the repercussions that go hand-in-hand.
The Other Kids
The documentary focuses on the true story of Mubiru Reagan, a young football player from Uganda, who finds joy among his adverse conditions.
Continents of The World
This 7-part -series teaches kids about the world’s cultures, history, geopolitics, and geography and engages kids to want to continue their learning.
Go Far: The Christopher Rush Story
This is the true story of a paraplegic whose doctors said he wouldn't live past 2, and lived until 30.
Brain Child
This 30 minute episode series features a game show and quizzes that pits kids against parents to make learning fun and entertaining.
Caring for a Bullied Child
Old-school bullying used to be a one-on-one interaction, but not so much today. Bullying often happens online where hundreds of kids witness the critical remarks hurled at innocent children. It happens all the time, and your child can easily become the target of someone’s anger and ridicule. So, it’s important for you to keep your finger on the pulse of your child’s emotional health and remain connected so that you can recognize any shift in their attitude, their mindset, or their demeanor. Be willing and ready to dive into helping your child through a difficult time. Here are six practical things parents can do to care for a child who has been hurt by others.
Acknowledge your child’s pain.
You can’t help fix what you won’t acknowledge. If your child tells you that he’s being mistreated, don’t assume it’s no big deal. Even small hurts can make a big impact in a child’s life. Ask questions and listen to find out what’s really going on. Acknowledge the hurt, show empathy, and express genuine concern for your child.
Affirm your child.
Kids today hear a lot of negativities in school, in sports, and online. Now is the time to affirm and encourage your hurting child. Let your words build him up at a time when he is hurting the most! Your child needs a safe place to relax and rest from the world. By giving him encouraging words, you are making yourself a safe place, and you will deepen your relationship.
Allow time for healing.
Parents don’t like to see their kids in pain. It’s easy to want to push your child to push past the pain, but deep wounds don’t heal overnight. Perhaps you still remem-
By Mark Gregston, Parenting
ber what it felt like to be mistreated at school, and that was a long time ago! So don’t expect your child to “just get over it.” Address the emotional pain and seek healing, no matter how long it takes.
See a counselor.
Sometimes hearing from another trusted adult is helpful for a child. If your child is having trouble opening up to you, maybe a counselor can help her put these tough feelings into words to better understand them, in order to move past them. If your child is showing signs of deeper wounds or even self-harm, you need to get them help immediately. Some children who are bullied feel the need to punish themselves for not being able to protect themselves.
Consider changes.
Sometimes a child need a change. For example, if the bullying happened at school, you may look at your options––switching up the schedule, changing classes, or even changing schools. If the bullying happened online, it may be time to unplug devices, at least for a while. Making changes doesn’t mean you are encouraging your child to run away from his problems. There are times when it makes sense to “tough it out,” but parents should be willing to consider making positive changes. If you’re not sure what needs to change, then ask your child.
Connect your child with a group.
It’s not healthy to go through problems alone. Talking to other kids who have experienced similar pain, can be helpful. I often encourage parents to find a local group where your child can share his experience and listen to others who have been hurt similarly. If you’re not sure where to start, this might be something your child’s counselor can set up to network with other parents.
Today’s Teens
MOUSE SCHOOL HIDDEN PICTURE
HOO’s learning
Dyscalculia Math Disorder:
By Linda Ligon, Family & Kids
dyscalculia is a type of learning disorder that affects the ability to understand number-based information and math. Some people with dyscalculia also have a learning disorder called dyslexia, which involves difficulties with reading, but they are separate conditions. Dyscalculia is often diagnosed in the early years of elementary school when a child struggles with basic math concepts.
The brains of people with dyscalculia do not work the same when it comes to math skills. There are different parts of the brain involved in math processes, performing even a simple process, such as the math equation ‘5+3’ normally involves these steps:
• First, once your eyes see the written equation, the visual information is processed.
• Next, your short-term memory retains the equation.
• The language areas of the brain take the math symbols, such as plus and minus signs, and retrieve the concepts behind them. The quantities represented by number symbols must also be translated by the brain.
• After the symbols are processed, your long-term memory retrieves the information on how to perform the math operation.
• Finally, the brain combines the results of all the steps and performs the calculation.
For someone with dyscalculia, this process breaks down in one or more areas of the brain, and the person has difficulty completing the calculation.
Some symptoms of dyscalculia in early childhood include difficulty counting upwards and trouble connecting a number with a physical number of objects and with using number lines.
Symptoms of dyscalculia in early elementary school students include counting small numbers on fingers, trouble doing simple equations from memory, trouble memorizing multiplication tables and understanding scale and decimal places.
Experts have not identified the exact cause of dyscalculia, but that it does run in families, but more study is needed. When dyscalculia is diagnosed in childhood, a treatment program can be developed to help the child adapt to the condition. In children, the brain is still developing, and it is possible to limit the impacts of dyscalculia, making a timely diagnosis of the condition important. Consult your child’s doctor if they struggle with math skills.
JOON can help motivate your child to do their daily routine. Parents assign tasks, called "quests." Once a task is complete, kids get rewards that let them care for a virtual pet. There are preloaded tasks or you can add your own. You can even set reminders for kids who tend to forget.
khan academy Kids is a nonprofit organization with a mission to provide accessible education to anyone, anywhere. The app is suitable for everyone. It offers lessons on an array of subjects for people of all ages or skill levels.
Cubbilyis a shared family calendar app designed for the whole family. It is a simple, customizable, and visually appealing digital calendar. One unique feature is that it asks daily family questions to promote communication and engagement among family members. For example, "What made you smile today?"
Go Henry Banking is designed for 6-18 year olds. It features bite-sized money lessons, flexible parental controls, and the ability to set and work toward goals. The automated allowance feature teaches kids about budgeting.
Fermented Foods
For thE
Good Gut Guys
By Linda Ligon, Family & Kids
Fermentation is a natural chemical process that involves bacteria or yeast turning sugar or starch into end products such as alcohol and acid. Beer and wine are created using this process but there are also some types of foods that are created through fermentation.
The alcohol or acids created by fermentation give the foods a distinctive tartness and the alcohol and acids function as natural preservatives. The fermentation process also encourages the growth of beneficial bacteria called probiotics.
Research studies have associated health benefits with the probiotics in fermented foods.
beneFits to the Immune system:
The probiotics in fermented foods help strengthen your immune system, making it less likely that you will get infections. The probiotics also may help your immune system fight infections when you do get sick, allowing you to recover faster.
Digestive health beneFits:
Research suggests the probiotics in fermented food can help restore the balance of good bacteria in your digestive system. Maintaining the right balance of good bacteria can help alleviate the symptoms of some types of digestive issues, such as Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). The process of fermentation also makes foods easier to digest by breaking down nutrients, such as lactose.
heart-health beneFits: There is some evidence that fermented foods may help with metabolic health and reduce inflammation, which may lower the risk of heart problems and diabetes.
here is a brieF overview oF DiFFerent FermenteD FooDs:
Kimchi is made from salted, fermented vegetables, such as cabbage, cucumbers, radishes and leeks. Kimchi has a tangy taste due to the lactic acid released during the fermentation process. Depending on spices added, kimchi may also be fiery hot. Consuming kimchi is good for your microbiome (the trillions of bacteria that live in your gut) due to the probiotics it contains but watch how much you eat if you are on a low-sodium diet.
miso is a paste made from soybean fermented with salt and a mold called koji and has a salty, tangy flavor. One of its most common uses is miso soup, a traditional Japanese dish. Miso also has a high sodium content.
KeFir is a fermented milk drink that has a tart and tangy flavor. To make it, bacteria and yeast cultures are added to milk to break down the natural sugar in milk. It may even seem slightly carbonated due to the gases released by the microbes during fermentation. When purchasing kefir, read the label to ensure the type you are buying does not have a lot of added sugar.
tempeh is fermented soybeans and is a plant-based meat substitute.
Kombucha is a mixture of green and black teas that are fermented using a symbiotic colony of bacteria and yeast (SCOBY).
yogurt is created when bacteria break down the sugar in milk, called lactose, into lactic acid. Greek yogurt is a good choice, since it does not have added sugar.
If you have a health condition or are pregnant, it is a good idea to check with your healthcare provider before consuming fermented foods.
Fermented foods contain live microorganisms that are generally safe to consume but could cause infections in someone with a compromised immune system. Also, if fermented foods are not prepared or stored properly, they can cause food poisoning.
Fermented foods contain histamine, which can cause an allergic reaction for someone with histamine intolerance.
Eating fermented foods can cause gas and bloating for some that have a sensitive digestive system or IBS. Therefore, before trying to rebalance your microbiome with more good bacteria, address the root cause first, such as killing off bad bacteria in your gut that feed off of fermented foods, giving off gas byproducts that create these symptoms.
