Family & Kids of the Chattahoochee Valley April 2014

APRIL 2014

Photo by Giggles & Grins Photography

CHATTAHOOCHEE VALLEY

Summer camp & r Sponsor Pg. 28 Cove

summer fun

Shopping Guide pages 26-32

Sign up for summer camp & other youth programs that ROCK!

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HOO’s tips Sleepwalking, also called somnambulism, is a sleep disorder more commonly experienced between 4 and 8. It occurs during the deep sleep portion of the sleep cycle. A child experiencing a sleepwalking episode may not only roam the house but also perform complex tasks like getting dressed. A sleepwalker may even do something inappropriate, like urinate in a closet, and if he is also having a night terror he may scream loudly. He will remember very little, if anything at all.

What should you do if your child wanders the house while asleep?

First, ensure that your child’s sleep environment is safe. The condition of sleepwalking is not in itself harmful, but your child may injure himself during an episode. Remove anything sharp or breakable from the area where he sleeps and never allow a sleepwalker to sleep in a bunk bed. Install safety gates to prevent falls down stairs and put child locks on doors so your child cannot wander out of the house during an episode. If your sleepwalker is

SLEEPWALKING driving age, hide the car keys. There is no need to wake your child when he is sleepwalking. Instead, calmly and gently help him back to his bed.

What causes sleepwalking?

It is sometimes triggered by sleep deprivation, stress, and fatigue. Establishing a calming and relaxing bedtime routine and ensuring that your child gets enough sleep may reduce the number of episodes. Before bedtime, have them visit the restroom and limit fluids. Keep a sleep diary and note when your child has a sleepwalking episode, it may help you spot any patterns and identify triggers.

When is it necessary to see the doctor?

If your child experiences so many sleepwalking episodes that he is sleepy all day, is at risk for injury despite your best efforts to provide a safe environment, or you notice symptoms of other sleep disorders like sleep apnea, it may be time to consult his pediatrician. The good news is that most sleepwalkers outgrow the condition by the time they are adults.

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Tammy Usie Publisher

TheValley.com

Tammy@HooKnows

253-212-7270 Cell

Dear Parents of the Chattahoochee Valley, Welcome to our handy, parenting resource guide. I hope you will find lots of helpful choices on products and services for you and your family, along with some informative articles, handy resources and fun features.

If you like our magazine, then you’ll love our website, www.

HooKnowsTheValley.com. There you can read our magazine online, find other resources and use our new SHOPPING GUIDE. This virtual buying guide provides our readers with a comprehensive list of local, family-friendly businesses. Plus with the ability for consumers to leave reviews on these businesses, it will help other parents make buying decisions. I invite you to go leave a few reviews to help us build this resource and share them with other parents like yourself.

Tammy Usie

AD DEADLINES

May Issue: April 4 / June Issue: May 5

HOO KNOWS SPECIAL SECTIONS HOO’s healthy.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 7

HOO’s Tips.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 3 & 19

HOO’s helpful.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 21

Book reviews.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 23

HOO’s hungry.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 5

movie Reviews.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 9

HOO’S Parenting.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 11

Product reviews.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 12

HOO KNOWS® Community Digest does not assume responsibility for products and services listed in this magazine. Ads may not be reproduced, in any way, without written consent. HOO KNOWS® is a trademark of Cinah Media Group LLC. For information on operating your own digest, contact us at 1-888-HOO-5609.

Where to Find HOO? Publix: Columbus & Phenix City Chick fil-A: Columbus & Phenix City Starbucks: Columbus Family & Kids of the Chattahoochee Valley

PLUS: Check your local kid-friendly doctors & dentists, attractions, restaurants & retail shops.

Children attending FT Benning daycares, preschools & elementary schools each receive a copy, as well as elementary students at most all private schools in Columbus & Phenix City...plus all kids attending major daycares and preschools.

www.HooKnowsTheValley.com

www.HooKnowsTheValley.com

MONDAY NIGHT IS

FREE Zax Kidz Meal with the purchase of an adult meal from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.

(Kids 12 and under only. Limit one Zax Kidz Meal per adult meal purchase. Dine-in only. Kids must be present when ordering.)

VALID AT THESE LOCATIONS ONLY: 4497 Hwy. 280 • Alexander City • 256.234.2181 1915 Auburn Ave. • Columbus • 706.507.9297 6190 Bradley Park Dr. • Columbus • 706.320.0046 7626 Schomburg Rd. • Columbus • 706.507.3235 Limited-time offer. Offer valid at this location only, on Mondays, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Adult meals include any Most Popular Menu Item, Meal Deal, Zalad or Sandwich Basket.

Each restaurant independently owned and operated. © 2014 Zaxby’s Franchising, Inc. “Zaxby’s” and “Zax Kidz” are registered trademarks of Zaxby’s Franchising, Inc.

HOO’s HUNGRY

salsa

fruit

spring is the perfect time for a light, fresh and fit appetizer, plus the kids love it like a dessert.

DIRECTIONS In a large bowl, thoroughly mix kiwis, apples, raspberries, strawberries, white sugar, brown sugar and fruit preserves. Cover and chill in the refrigerator at least 15 minutes.

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).

Coat one side of each flour tortilla with butter flavored cooking spray. Cut into wedges and arrange in a single layer on a large baking sheet. Sprinkle wedges with desired amount of cinnamon sugar. Spray again with cooking spray.

Bake in the preheated oven 8 to 10 minutes. Repeat with any remaining tortilla wedges. Allow to cool approximately 15 minutes.

Serve with chilled fruit mixture.

Ingredients

• 2 kiwis, peeled and diced • 2 apples - peeled, cored and diced • 8 oz raspberries • 1 lbs strawberries • 1 tbs white sugar • 1/2 tbs brown sugar • 3 tbs fruit preserves (can be sugar free) • 10 (10 inch) flour tortillas • butter flavored cooking spray • 1 tbs cinnamon sugar

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SHOPPING guide ATTRACTIONS Activ8 Camps at CSU........................27 Chattahoochee Valley Libraries.... 19 Coca Cola Space Science Center...27 Columbus Aquatic Center...............28 Columbus Cottonmouths................. 10 CSU Dance Conservatory.................29 East West Karate & MMA................... 2 IFM Arts Academy.............................27 My Gym.................................................30 Performance Dance Centre.............30 Riverview Camp for Girls................ 31 Schwab School of Music..................26 The Columbus Museum................... 10 Treadsone Climbing..........................28

TELL THEM

childcare/ education SENT YOU!

Calvary Christian............................... 14 First Presbyterian Day..................... 15 Grace Christian School.................... 15 Kumon..................................................... 7 Lakewood Child Development ......28 Mathnasium.......................................... 2 Oasis Child Enrichment Center ...26 Smart Cookie Learning Center...... 15 St. Anne-Pacelli Catholic................29 St. Luke Early Learning Center...... 15 St. Luke Elementary.......................... 14 Sylvan Learning Center...................27 Westminster Christian..................... 15 Wynnbrook Christian.......................29

beauty/spa Fitness for Women............................20 Massage by Michele..........................20

food & Beverage Chick-fil-A............................................24 Chill Yogurt Cafe.................................. 7 PhoVy Vietnamese............................24 Stevi B’s Pizza Buffet........................24 Willy T’s Chicken Fingers...............24 Zaxby’s..................................................... 5

Healthcare Columbus Spine & Performance...20 James Lopez, DDS................................ 8 Pediatric Acute Care........................... 3 Pediatric After Hours........................ 18 Pediatric Dentistry of Columbus..... 8 Pediatrics at Brookstone Center... 10 Rivertown Pediatrics........................22 Serenity Counseling..........................20

home/handy Lawn Doctor.........................................20 Sparkles Cleaning Service..............20

religious First Baptist Church..........................24

shopping/retail Giggles and Grins Photography....30 Lil’ Rascals Resale Boutique...........22 Mickayla’s Place - Resale................ 21 Once Upon A Time - Resale.............. 7

www.HooKnowsTheValley.com

©2014 Kumon North America, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

FREE PLACEMENT TESTING

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

706.257.6963

kumon.com/columbus-north

HOO’s HEALTHY

innerEAR

INFECTIONS

Ear infections are a common health issue in very young children, since their eustachian tubes are shorter and narrower than those of adults and fluid may collect behind the eardrum. In some cases, an ear infection keeps coming back after the initial treatment is complete and becomes a chronic ear infection that lasts for weeks or even months. The symptoms of a chronic ear infection may be less severe than those of an acute ear infection and may come and go. These symptoms include a feeling of fullness in the ear, a fever (usually low grade), fluid or pus draining from the ear, and hearing loss. An infant with a chronic ear infection may be fussy.

Can a chronic ear infection cause permanant damage? In the following instances, the answer is yes. These instances are more likely to occur when a chronic ear infection is left untreated for an extended period of time, l The infection spreads to the mastoid bone (the bone behind the ear) and damage to the bone occurs.

l The ear drum has ruptured and there is a hole in the ear drum that has not healed on its own. Surgery may be needed to repair the hole in the ear drum. l The infection damages bones in the middle ear that help with hearing, causing hearing loss. l Parts of the inner ear and middle ear responsible for balance become damaged, leading to episodes of vertigo. l In rare cases, the infection continues deeper and spreads into the brain, causing a brain abscess or meningitis.

You can help prevent your child from developing a chronic ear infection by having her seen by a doctor promptly when she first develops symptoms. Also, be sure to keep that follow-up appointment when the treatment is complete so the doctor can make sure her ear is back to normal. This is true even if your child’s doctor prescribed the ‘wait and see’ approach instead of a course of anitbiotics.

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HOO’S at the Movies

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Heaven is for real PG | Ok for kids 11+ Based on the book by Todd Burpo , this movie tells the true story of a Nebraska pastor’s fouryear old son Colton (Connor Corum) who claims to have experienced heaven during emergency surgery. He talks of looking down to see the doctor operating and his dad praying in the waiting room, and meeting his miscarried sister (whom he never knew about) and his great-grandfather who died 30 years before Colton was born. Directed by Randall Wallace, this movie also stars Greg Kinnear, Kelly Reilly, Margo Martindale and Thomas Haden Church.

CAPTAIN AMERICA: THE WINTER SOLDIER PG-13 | Ok for kids 12+ Chris Evans returns as Steve Rogers in this sequel to 2011’s “Captain America: The First Avenger.”

He continues his journey as the super-powered American soldier who’s grasping to find his place in a modern world after being frozen in ice since WWII. Cobie Smulders, Sebastian Stan, Samuel L. Jackson, Emily VanCamp and Robert Redford also star, with “Community” director/producers Joe and Anthony Russo helming.

Bears PG | Ok for kids 7+ The latest installment in the DisneyNature series chronicles a year in the lives of two mother bears and their cubs in the Alaskan wilderness. Filmmakers Alastair Fothergill and Keith Scholey helm the story, which begins as the brown bears emerge from hibernation at the end of winter. As time passes, the two bear families must work together to find food and stay safe from other predators, especially wolves.

rio 2 PG | Ok for kids 4+ It’s a jungle out there for Blu, Jewel and their three kids in this sequel to 2011’s “Rio.” After they’re hurtled from that magical city to the wilds of the Amazon, Blu tries to fit in and goes beak-tobeak with the vengeful Nigel. But the most fearsome adversary of all? His father-in-law! Anne Hathaway, Jesse Eisenberg, Leslie Mann, Jamie Foxx, Jake T. Austin, Andy Garcia, John Leguizamo and Kristin Chenoweth lend their voices to this cute and colorful film directed by Carlos Saldanha.

NEW ON DVD | BLU-RAY: the dog who saved easter PG for rude humor | Ok for kids 5+ It’s Easter and everyone’s favorite K-9 is back! The Bannisters head out on a family cruise and send Zeus to doggie day care. Everything goes according to plan until the daycare’s rival hires a trio of crooks to sabotage the fledgling business. Zeus will make some new friends and new enemies as he uses all his tricks to save the daycare and Easter!

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HOO’s PARENTING

sibling rivalry Sibling rivalry is defined by child development experts as ‘jealously or competitiveness between brothers and sisters, and when it gets out of hand, it can make your home feel like a war zone. What can parents do to reduce the fighting and help siblings form close, friendly relationships? Here are a few suggestions to help you call a truce at your house.

Parents set a powerful example for their children when resolving conflicts with other adults. If your children seem to be having a great deal of trouble resolving conflicts in a peaceful manner, you may want to do a quick review of how you have been handling disagreements lately. If your kids see you become angry or yell when dealing with disagreements, it is likely that they will mirror this behavior.

Assess how much time you are spending with each child. A special needs child or a newborn baby may demand much of your time. However, don’t skip the one-on-one time with the other children. Get someone to help you watch your special needs child or hold your baby for a little while each day so you can spend time with your other children.

The one-on-one time with you will reassure your kids that they are loved and they will feel more secure. When kids feel loved and secure, they are less likely to engage in attention-seeking negative behavior, like fighting with a sibling.

Consider the differences in personality between siblings and teach them to respect these differences. This respect and understanding of each other helps your children build close relationships and will hopefully reduce the fighting resulting from clashes between personality types. For example, teach an easygoing sibling to be thoughtful of a

sibling who is easily upset by asking first before touching his toys or going into his room.

Differences in developmental stages between siblings often lead to disagreements between them. Toddlers are notoriously possessive of both their toys and their time with their parents, in addition to having not yet developed the concept of empathy. Teach older kids that younger siblings may not understand sharing and ask them to help set a good example by not taking something from a younger sibling without asking.

If you have toddlers and preschool-age children, you may need to be the referee at first. Put an argued over toy in ‘time out’ briefly to let them calm down, then explain that the toy will go back to time out if they continue to fight over it. One way to teach sharing is to set a timer, so that each toddler gets equal time with the toy and has to wait patiently for her turn to play with it.

When your older children fight, don’t always try to resolve the issue for them. Indicate that you wish for them to try to work things out between themselves in a peaceful manner. By doing so, you will be equipping them with problem-solving skills that will carry over into their adult lives. Also, you will be avoiding the perception that you are always jumping in to ‘rescue’ one sibling from another.

Elementary school aged kids focus heavily on being treated fairly in comparison with others, and inadvertently playing favorites only fuels more fighting between siblings of this age.

It is time to seek professional help if, despite your best efforts to stop the fighting between siblings, one child is physically harming another or you cannot reduce the amount of fighting going on.

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In a child’s mind, their room is an important piece of real estate. Whether they have it all to themselves or share space with siblings, this distinctive place is where children can put their own style stamp on their haven within the home. From active play to restful recreation, the following ideas are great starting places for a kids room re-do!

(HearthSong)

Creating a floating island of tranquility in the middle of an open space, the Hugglepod offers a cozy chamber to retreat from the world for some private time. The 100% cotton canvas seat with tented sides hangs from a ceilingmounted swivel hook creating the effect of a floating cocoon. The ‘Pod makes a perfect hideaway for the child who likes to curl up with a good book, chill with some tunes or simply relax in a tranquil alcove.

(Wall Coaster)

Instead of staring at the same four walls, put those walls into play with the versatile and easy to assemble Wall Coaster Extreme Stunts! Kids can attach tracks, tubes and other specially designed components to the wall to create their own marble runs. As kids get on a roll, their coaster designs will quickly incorporate loop-deloops, zig zags, and other stunts along the marble’s path. It’s a cool décor element and a source of endless entertainment for budding coaster engineers!

(HearthSong)

The organic beauty of one of the ocean’s most beautiful creatures is the inspiration behind the AquaGlow Jellyfish Hideaway.

Creating a magical ocean-themed retreat for play, this ceilinghung tent is features sheer walls made of ocean blue netting. Translucent streamers and pearly beads hang from the “jellyfish” cap while lights blend into the fabric folds adding a bioluminescent effect to re-create the peaceful vibe of the deep blue sea!

(The Shrunks)

Crafted from nontoxic, Phthalatefree materials, the Shrunks Kid-Friendly Air Bed features a patented “Tuckaire” system which allows sheets to be tucked into the sides of the mattress without exposing bed linens to flooring. Gently elevated sides mimic toddler bed railing and help keep midnight fall-outs to a minimum. Perfect for in-house camp outs, sleep-over friends it’s an ideal sleep option for kids.

www.HooKnowsTheValley.com

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Traditional

Infants through 3 year olds

Montessori

1100 First Avenue, Columbus, GA 31901

3 year olds through Kindergarten

2, 3, or 5 Day Class Options Art, Music, Spanish, Chapel, Field Trips Classes 9am to 1pm with options for early drop off and after school care

706-322-4523 www.columbusfpc.org/day-school

826,000 handstands

20,000,000 games and rides

30

years of experience

Summer Camp Coming Soon!

Look for early registration discounts Millions of kids agree.

(706) 507-2966 2501 Old Whittlesey Road mygymcolumbus@knology.net

www.mygym.com

APRIL E

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pr o v i d e d in partner ship

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Kidz Flicks: Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs 2. 2pm. Free. Columbus Public Library. 3000 Macon Rd, Columbus; cvlga.org/kids

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LEGO Mania. 3pm. North Columbus Library. 5689 Armour Rd, Columbus; cvlga.org/kids

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Home Depot Kids Workshop.

9am-Noon. Free. Ages 5-12. Columbus store; 706-322-9240. Phenix City store; 334-297-2045

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Easter Egg Hunt at the Wynn House. 4-5:30pm. $7. Toddlers to 9 years. 1240 Wynnton Rd, Columbus; thewynnhouse.com

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Bootcamp for New Dads. 10amNoon. $20. One Baby Education Place, Main Street Village, Building #10, 6298 Veterans Pkwy, Columbus; 706-660-6421

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Columbus Kids Market Sale. 8303 Whitesville Rd, Columbus. ColumbusKidsMarket.com

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Movie Under the Stars: Despicable Me 2 (PG). Free. Weatherby Field, Fort Benning; benningmwr. com

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Night Eggstravaganza at FDR State Park. 7:45pm. Ages 3-9 years. $3 per child. $5 parking.

2970 GA Hwy 190, Pine Mountain; 706-663-4858

American Girls Club. 6:30pm.

Barnes & Noble. 555 Whittlesey, Columbus; 706-653-7880

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Librar y

Second Saturday: Family Fun Day. 10am-Noon. The Columbus Museum; columbusmuseum.com

activities Chattahoochee Valley www.CVLGA.org 706-243-2669

Phenix City-Russell County

1501 17th Avenue, Phenix City www.phenixcitylibrary.com 334-297-1139

Troup-Harris

706-628-4685 www.thclibrary.net

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Mothers of Preschoolers (MOPS).

9:30-11:30am. Childcare provided with RSVP to First Presbyterian.

1100 1st Ave, Columbus; mopsfpcga@gmail.com

Family Theatre presents “Down the Dirt Path.” 7:30pm. 2100 Hamilton Rd; familytheatre.org

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Auburn Heights Annual Easter Egg Hunt & Lunch. 10am-1pm.

Free. Ages 12 and under. 4207 Auburn Rd, Phenix City; mitzie_ stone@yahoo.com

Safe Kids Day. 11am-2pm. Free helmets for kids ages 14 and under. Hollywood Connection. 1683 Whittlesey Rd, Columbus

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CSU Staff Council Garage Sale.

7:30am-1pm. 4225 University Avenue, Columbus; 706-568-2022

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Bootcamp for New Dads. 6:308:30pm. $20. One Baby Education Place, Main Street Village, Building #10, 6298 Veterans Pkwy, Columbus; 706-660-6421

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Family Theatre presents “Down the Dirt Path.” 7:30pm. 2100 Hamilton Rd; familytheatre.org

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Movie Under the Stars: Turbo (PG). Free. Weatherby Field, Fort Benning; benningmwr.com

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Mothers of Preschoolers (MOPS).

9:30-11:30am. Childcare provided. RSVP to Wynnbrook Baptist; 500 River Knoll Way, Columbus; 706-323-4374

EVENTS with:

18-19

Hands-on Craft Days. 10am-5pm. $8-$10. Historic Westville. 9294 Singer Pond Rd, Lumpkin; westville.org

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Georgia Strawberry Festival. All day. Reynolds, GA; ga-strawberry. org/index.php

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Puppy Tales. 2pm Free. Columbus Public Library, 3000 Macon Rd; cvlga.org/kids

Family Matinee: Finding Nemo.

2pm. Free. Columbus Public Library. 3000 Macon Rd. Columbus; cvlga.org/kids

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Color Vibe Run 5K. 7-11am. $50.

Columbus Civic Center; thecolorvibe.com/columbus.php

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Easter Egg Hunt. 2pm. Ages 0-12.

Free. Living Grace UMC. 3936 Edgewood Circle, Columbus; graceumc.org

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Healthy Kids Day. 5:30-7pm. Free.

John P. Thayer YMCA, 24 14th Street, Columbus; columbusymca. com

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Family Theatre presents “Down the Dirt Path.” 7:30pm. 2100 Hamilton Rd; familytheatre.org

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Movie Under the Stars: The Secret Life of Walter Mitty (PG). Free.

Weatherby Field, Fort Benning; benningmwr.com

Young Eagles Day at Flightways Columbus. 8:30-11:30am. Free.

Ages 8-17. Columbsu Airport; www.youngeagles.org/flightplan/ flight.asp

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Easter Egg Hunt. 2pm. $3/child (ages 3+) Columbus Botanical Gardens. 3603 Weems Road, Columbus; www.columbusbotanicalgardens.org

Weekly Events Monday

Family Night at Chick-fil-A Wynnton Road/Midtown. 5-7:30pm.

Crafts and fun. Buy a combo at regular price and get a kid’s 4-pc meal free. 2421 Wynnton Road, Columbus Family Night at Chick-fil-A Phenix City. 5-7:30pm. Crafts and fun.

Buy a combo at regular price and get a kid’s 4-pc meal free. 3711 U.S Hwy 280, Phenix City

Tuesday

Family Night at Chick-fil-A Bradley Park. 5-7:30pm. Crafts and fun.

Buy a combo at regular price and get a kid’s 4-pc meal free. 1600 Bradley Park Drive, Columbus Toddler Tales at Barnes & Noble.

10am. 5555 Whittlesey Blvd. 706653-7880

Saturday

Storytime at Barnes & Noble.

11am. 5555 Whittlesey Blvd. 706653-7880 Michael’s Kids Club Meeting.

10am-Noon. Ages 3+. See store for details.

Please call ahead to confirm event dates, times and age appropriateness, in case changes were made after the info was obtained. For more, visit MuscogeeMoms.com.

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NEW Online Shopping Guide Leave Your Review HooKnowsTheValley.com

We have a new website that is mobile and tablet friendly and it features our digital edition, additional stories and resources plus our NEW online shopping directory. Use this interactive business directory to search by category to find local businesses and what others say about them. To make it a bigger resource, we invite you to leave your comments on these businesses so we can share them with other parents such as yourself.

www.HooKnowsTheValley.com

HOO’s tips

SEAL IT T0 SAVE

Everyone wants to save money these days, and homeowners are no exception. To reduce the cost of monthly energy bills, many are taking on small, budget friendly, do-it-yourself projects that provide big savings down the road.

3. Foam seal exterior wall penetrations. Check to see that

With a few simple tips, you can easily make a home comfortable regardless of the season, while also greatly reducing utility costs. In fact, according to the Environmental Protection Agency, homeowners can typically save up to 20 percent on heating and cooling costs, or up to 10 percent of total energy costs, just by properly air sealing their homes and adding insulation.

4. Seal attic penetrations. Gaps around house fans, attic access doors, exhaust fans and light fixtures send warm air right up into your cold attic, so make sure these areas are properly sealed.

Investing a little time and money on properly sealing your home now can mean a big return on your heating and cooling bills down the line.

1. Seal your ducts, both supply and return. In most homes, about 20 percent of the air moving through the duct system is lost because of poorly connected ducts, holes and leaks. Signs include rooms that are tough to cool or heat; ducts are located in an unfinished basement, garage or crawl area; or you have high-energy bills.

2. Inspect your roof. Check for loose shingles that can lead to water damage and rot. Also, be sure to seal any gaps around gables, flashing and chimneys.

all exterior wall penetrations, such as lights, doorbells, hose spigots and dryer vents, are properly sealed to ensure maximum energy efficiency.

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Moms Marketplace

www.HooKnowsTheValley.com

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HOO’s CUTE

CONTEST Visit our website to enter:

w w w. h o o k n o w s t h e v a l l e y. c o m Our Facebook Fans and Newsletter subscribers will be able to upload their child’s high quality photo by clicking on the contest tab of our website. We will select atleast 4 kids to be featured in our next issue.

Owen, 2 years Phenix City

Natalie, 6 years Columbus

Anxious Kids

Kayden, 6 years Columbus

Logan, 6 months Columbus

HOO’s HELPFUL

At some point in time almost every child will show signs of anxiety. Seeing a scary movie and being unable to sleep, getting ready for a big test, or even a fight with a friend can cause a child to feel anxious and overwhelmed. With comfort and reassurance from parents, these feelings are often temporary and harmless for most children. But for children with an anxiety disorder, the fear and nervousness becomes so overwhelming that they may become reclusive or even combative. There are many different anxiety disorders (panic disorder, separation anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder) and these are often accompanied by other issues such as ADHD, depression, or eating disorders. If left unchecked the issue may worsen as your child grows older, so it is important to seek help from your pediatrician or counselor right away. With proper treatment and support you and your child can learn to manage the symptoms and live a less-anxious life.

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Wise Choices for You & Your Family

Spring into savings!

We buy and sell gently used kids stuff!

We’ll pay $$$ on the spot for your gently used kids clothing, toys, shoes & equipment. Plus, we’ve got everything your kids need at prices that can’t be beat! Put a little spring in your step and visit us today! Check out our website or call for further details!

Located in The Landings at exit 8 off of I-185 • 2521 Airport Thruway • Columbus, GA 31904 706-507-3737 • www.OnceUponAChildColumbusGA.com

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A Page In A Book Recommending the Best Books

for Children and Teens By Paige Gardner Smith

Little Books

It’s a universal fact that all kids start out small. Of course they grow, some faster than others, some more than others. But while they are still little kids…it’s a big world they live in. Sometimes bigness can loom large, intimidating the small. The following titles feature relationships between big and little, with sweet perspectives that make kids’ time as a ‘little’, a plus on their journey to big.

Little Cub

By Oliver Dunrea (Penguin / Philomel)

A Little cub lives alone in the big forest. He doesn’t really like the dark nights. The little cub sees fish, but can’t catch them; smells honey in the tree, but can’t get to it. Mostly, little cub doesn’t like being alone. In the same forest is a big grizzled old bear. He catches fish and collects honey, but doesn’t like eating dinner for one. And old bears get lonely, too. When their paths cross, these two very different bears discover that each has something the other needs to solve their problems in this sweet story of how the biggest and the littlest often need each other to become whole.

The King of the Little Things

By Bill Lepp, Illustrated by David T. Wensel (Peachtree)

In this kingdom full of kings, all striving to be the biggest monarchs with the most money and the biggest armies, there was also a king of all the little things. While the biggest kings grew their power and wealth, the King of Little Things poured his love and attention into the smallest treasures of the realm, things like buttons, lamp wicks, ants and keys. As the great king seeks to dominate the small, he discovers to his dismay just how vital the little things are to making all the big things work.

Little Burro

By Jim Arnosky (Penguin / G.P. Putnam’s Sons)

Being the only little one in her band of burros can be trying for Little Burro. She loves their warm and cozy hillside home. It’s her favorite place, with sweet cactus and cool breezes in the day. So when her band begins to leave her home, she digs in her heels, brays loudly and refuses to go. But her mother’s gentle guidance compels her to join their treacherous and dry journey. Little Burro discovers that doing ‘big’ things isn’t so bad after all. A testament to little ones’ instinctual resistance to change, Little Burro celebrates the little steps that lead to the bigger world.

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Wise Choices for You & Your Family

5300 Sidney Simons Blvd #27 Columbus 706-507-2477

www.phovy-ga.com See website for hours

FREE KIDS MEAL! with purchase of entree when you mention“Family & Kids”

Can’t be combined with other discounts.

Valid for dine-in only, and only one per table.

TELL THEM

SENT YOU!

www.HooKnowsTheValley.com

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Dining Deals

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

MONDAY

saturday

Chick-fil-A, Phenix City

Denny’s

Chick-fil-A, Wynnton Rd

4-10pm: Up to two free kid’s entrees with adult entree. For kids 10 and under

5-8pm: Free kid’s meal with regular priced combo 5-8pm: Free kid’s meal with regular priced combo

Chill Yogurt & Yocakes All mini cupcakes $1

Steak & Shake Free kids meal with every $8 purchase

Sweet Frog Yogurt

6-8pm. Buy one yogurt mix, get one 50% off

sunday

Zaxby’s

Locos

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

Kids 12 and under get a free kids meal per adult entree

Tuesday

Steak & Shake

Atlanta Bread Company

Stevi B’s Pizza

5pm-close: Get a free kid’s meal with the purchase of an adult meal

Chick-fil-A, Bradley Park

Free kids meal with every $8 purchase Kids eat for .99 after 4pm

Texas Roadhouse

5-8pm: Free kid’s meal with regular priced combo

Sundays: Kids 12 & under get Jr. Kids Meal for $1.99 with adult entree (certain holidays are excluded)

Denny’s

Willy T’s

TGIF Friday’s

everyday

4-10pm: Up to two free kid’s entrees with adult entree. For kids 10 and under 3-10pm: Kids 12 and under eat free with adult entree

11-5pm: Up to 2 free kids meals per dine-in parent

Hartz Chicken Buffet

4-9pm: Up to 2 free kids meals per dine-in parent

Children 3 & under eat free with purchase of an adult entree. Kids ages 5-7 get discounted prices

wednesday

4-10pm: Kids 12 and under get a free kids meal with the purchase of adult combo

Willy T’s

Applebee’s

IHOP

Jason’s Deli

Kids meals are half off with the purchase of an adult entree. Limit: 4 kids per adult

Thirteen kids meals to choose from under $3.59 with drink

thursday

.99 cent kids meals all day

Captain D’s

Free kids meal when you show their “Family & Kids” ad in this issue

Get 2 free kid’s meals with purchase of an adult entree. Dine in only

MOE’s Southwest Grill

5-9pm: Free kids meal per $5 minimum adult entree Ryan’s Family Steakhouse Thursday Nights: Kids 11 and under eat for $.99

McAlisters Deli PhoVy

All locations are Columbus, GA unless noted.

Specials are subject to change without notice. Please verify them directly before dining.

If you know of a kids special, contact Tammy@ HooKnowsTheValley.com.

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Wise Choices for You & Your Family

Summer camp &

summer fun

Shopping Guide Schwob Music Prep Music 26 lessons ages 5-adult Beginners to professionals

!

Let's play

Now accepting summer registration Summer semester begins may 12 ColumbusState.edu/MusicPrep ♪ 706-641-5124

SUMMERwww.HooKnowsTheValley.com CAMPS & SUMMER FUN

Columbus State University

10 Weeks of Activ8 Summer Camp Fun! May 27-Aug 1

Voted Best Summer Camp 2010-2013

by Muscogee Moms

Half Day and Full Day Options Before and After Care

Choose a New Camp Every Week!

Discounts Available!

Activ8er.com 706.507.8070

IFM Arts Academy Piano - Violin - Cello - Art - Dance

REG IS TOD TER AY! WW W

Age s5 -18 .CC

SSC

.OR

G

Art & Dance Camp!

June 2-6 | 9:30-2:30 $75.00/student ages 5-18

International Friendship Ministries

“Developing talents for the Glory of God”

706.649.1477

www.ccssc.org

info@ccssc.org

www.ifmga.org (706) 653-0097

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Wise CAMPS Choices for You Your Family SUMMER && SUMMER FUN

Summer Camp

Rappelling Roped Climbing Knots Bouldering Indoor Ropes Course Speed Climbing Map and Compass

706-507-ROCK(7625) 4209 Milgen Road Suite 7 Columbus Georgia, 31907

$180/Week(1st child)

$170/Week(Each Additional Sibling)

The Weeks of June 2, 9, 16 and 23

And

July 7, 14, 21 and 28 Weekdays (9am-12pm)

SUMMERwww.HooKnowsTheValley.com CAMPS & SUMMER FUN

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• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

CSU Dance Conservatory Official school of the Columbus Ballet Company

• • •

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • DANCE CLASSES: 2 summer sessions (Ages 4-Adult) June 9–July 26 & July 7–Aug 24 PRINCES AND PRINCESSES DANCE CAMP (Ages 4-6) June 2-5; 9-11:30am Show off new skills with an end of camp performance.

706.507.8070 • ColumbusState.edu/Ballet . -              



For more summer camps & activities:         www. cpkg.wbly.c

visit our website at Hooknowsthevalley.com click on directory and select activities

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Wise CAMPS Choices for You Your Family SUMMER && SUMMER FUN

www.HooKnowsTheValley.com

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FO L L O W M E TO

SUMMER

CAMP

Benning starting

JUNE 2014 AGES 6 - 15

Summer Camp Benning is filled with great activities designed to promote teamwork and teach the Army Values. There are sessions for ages 6-15. For 2014 we are offering the following:

June 30 - July 3 (ages 6-8) NEW! Boots On The Ground 8:30am - 1:00pm $150 June 16 - 20 and July 21 - 25 (ages 9 - 15) Objective: The Last 100 Yards 8:15am - 4:30pm $200 June 23 - 27 (ages 10 - 15) An Adventure Through Time 8:15am - 4:30pm $200 July 7 - 11 (ages 11 - 15) Follow Me! 8:15am - 4:30pm $200 July 14 - 18 (7th grade students and up) Leadership Camp 8:15am - 4:30pm $200 June 2 - 6 (8th and 9th grades only) CIT Course: Counselor-In-Training 9:00am - 4:00pm $125 (Early-bird registration and military discounts are available)

nationalinfantrymuseum.org/summercampbenning 706.653.9234 ext 5849