Family & Kids of the Chattahoochee Valley February 2014

FEBRUARY 2014

Wise Choices for Moms & Families

CHATTAHOOCHEE VALLEY

ponsor Pg. 3 Cover S

The region’s only dual certified Pediatric Dentist & Orthodontist

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Wise Choices for You & Your Family

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HOO’s HEALTHY

EGG-CELLENT INFO ON

FOOD ALLERGIES

by Rhea Bentley

Expanded Food and Nutrition Agent, UGA CoOp Ext.

A food allergy is a potentially serious immune response to eating specific foods or food additives. The most common allergens, which account for 90% of reactions, are milk, eggs, peanuts, tree nuts, fish, shellfish, soy, and wheat. Reactions may include: hives, tingling in the mouth, swelling in the tongue and throat, difficulty breathing, abdominal cramps , vomiting or diarrhea, eczema or rash, coughing or wheezing, loss of consciousness, dizziness, anaphylactic shock, death Food allergies are more common in children than in adults. Recent estimates indicated that as many as 4 to 6% of children and 2% of adults suffer from food allergies. However, a recent report from the National Center for Health Statistics at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention indicates that the prevalence of food allergy may be increasing in the United States and in other countries as well.

Here are the key findings as reported: In May 2013, the CDC reported that food allergies in children increased 18 percent between 1997 and 2007, and have continued to rise in the years since. This equates to more than 300,000 outpatient hospital visits for children under the age of 18 due to food allergies.

Children with food allergy are two to four times

more likely to have other related conditions such as asthma and other allergies, compared with children without food allergies.

Boys and girls had similar rates of food allergies.

Hispanic children had lower rates of reported food allergy than non-Hispanic white or nonHispanic black children. Those living in poverty had a higher incidence of food allergies.

People who believe they are suffering from a food allergy should be tested. There is no cure, so avoidance of the allergen is the key to controlling a food allergy. Most children will outgrow food allergies as they get older. However, some food allergies can remain a lifelong problem.

Some mild food allergies can be treated with an antihistamine or bronchodilator. Severe, or anaphylactic reactions, require epinephrine. There is currently no cure for food allergies. The best way for an individual to manage their allergy is prevention. To prevent reactions from occurring, the individual must strictly avoid exposure to any food that causes them to have a reaction.

For more information on food allergies, go to: www.cdc.gov/HealthyYouth/foodallergies/ For the complete report from the National Center for Health Statistics, go to: www.cdc.gov/nchs/data/databriefs/db10.htm.

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Wise Choices for You & Your Family

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PUBLISHER’S NOTE Dear Parents of the Chattahoochee Valley,

Tammy Usie Publisher

TheValley.com

Tammy@HooKnows

253-212-7270 Cell

AD DEADLINES

I hope you all are enjoying the start of a near year and all the opportunities that it brings. The chance to start anew with your goals and priorities is always so promising. So what’s yours? Mine is to not procrastinate, to eat healthier, and make more time quiet time for my family just to engage in conversation about our days, our dreams and our concerns. Hopefully you have made some good promises to yourself and your loved ones, and my wish is that you will commit your full heart and effort to them in 2014.

So how are you enjoying our makeover for the new year? A new design for the magazine and a totally new website! You can check out the new site at www.HooKnowsTheValley.com, and start leaving your reviews for local businesses on our virtual shopping directory.

Other moms who will also use it shop and compare would love to know what you have to say.

Tammy Usie

March Issue: Feb 7 & April Issue: March 5

HOO KNOWS SPECIAL SECTIONS HOO’s fit.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 18

HOO knew?.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 24

HOO’s healthy.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 3 & 14

HOO’S learning.. . . . . . . . . . . . page 28 & 30

HOO’s helpful.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 22

HOO’S Parenting.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 5

HOO’s hungry.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 7

HOO’S tips.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 10

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.

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HOO’s PARENTING

WHEN A PET DIES

When your family pet dies, it may be tempting to avoid introducing your young children to the concept of death and dying by saying that their pet ran away or went to visit a relative for awhile. However being truthful will avoid hurt feelings later, and experiencing the grieving process for the first time will help your kids learn coping skills needed for future losses.

The first step is to be factual, using the maturity level of your kids to gage just how much detail they need to know about their pet’s death. If you have decided to euthanize a seriously ill pet, consider talking to your children about it beforehand.

Explain that the veterinarian can do nothing further for the pet and will give the pet medicine that will make it fall asleep and will stop its heart from beating.

Telling your kids the pet was ‘put to sleep’ may be misunderstood, and your child may think the pet

can wake up or start thinking that going to sleep is scary. Just give an overview of what happened without getting too graphic. (Fluffy was old and his heart stopped).

When asked the difficult question about where pets (or people) go after they die, either draw upon your faith for answers or to simply state that since no one knows for sure, it is a mystery.

Next, be open with your kids about your feelings. Let them know you are sad too and are available to listen when they are ready to share their feelings. Also, give your kids an opportunity to express their emotions by holding a ‘memorial ceremony’ for your pet. You could help your kids make a scrapbook that contains their favorite memories of their pet to share at the ceremony.

When you feel the time is right, you may want to welcome a new pet into your family. Explain that the new pet is a new addition to the family and is not meant to replace the pet that died. Assure them that you will always remember how much you loved your old pet.

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Wise Choices for You & Your Family

SHOPPING guide ATTRACTIONS Chattahoochee Valley Libraries.... 19 Columbus Cottonmouths................... 8 East West Karate & MMA................... 2 Hollywood Connection....................... 7 My Gym................................................. 13 Performance Dance...........................20 Schwab School of Music...................11 The Columbus Museum...................24 Treadsone Climbing..........................23

childcare/ education Calvary Christian...............................26 TELL THEM First Presbyterian Day.....................29 Grace Christian School....................29 Kumon................................................... 31 YOU!......26 Lakewood ChildSENT Development Mathnasium.......................................... 2 Oasis Child Enrichment Center ...30 Smart Cookie Learning Center......27 St. Anne-Pacelli Catholic................27 St. Luke Early Learning Center......29 St. Luke Elementary..........................27 Sylvan Learning Center................... 31 Westminster Christian.....................29 Wynnbrook Christian.......................29

food & beverage Chicken Salad Chick......................... 15 Chick-fil-A............................................24 Chill Yogurt Cafe................................ 13 PhoVy Vietnamese............................22 Stevi B’s Pizza Buffet........................24 Willy T’s Chicken Fingers...............22

Healthcare James Lopez, DDS................................ 3 Pediatric After Hours........................23 Pediatric Dentistry of Columbus... 14 Pediatrics at Brookstone Center..... 8 Rivertown Pediatrics........................ 13 Serenity Counseling..........................22 St. Francis Women’s Hospital.........11

home/handy Lawn Doctor.........................................22 Sparkles Cleaning Service..............22

photography Giggles and Grins Photography....22

religious First Baptist Church.......................... 18

shopping/retail Lil’ Rascals Resale Boutique............11 Mickayla’s Place - Resale.................. 5 Once Upon A Time - Resale............20

spa/beauty Fitness for Women............................22 Massage by Michele..........................22

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HOO’s HUNGRY

Jello

Cookies Directions

Beat butter in large bowl with mixer until creamy.

Add sugar and beat until light and fluffy. Blend in egg and vanilla. Mix flour and baking powder in a separate bowl. Gradually beat in flour mixture.

Divide dough into 4 sections. Sprinkle 2 Tb of jello onto each section. Knead together with dough.

You can add food coloring to make the dough more vibrant. Shape dough into 1-inch balls. Roll in the extra jello from the packets. Place, 2 inches apart, on baking sheets. Flatten with bottom of bowl.

Bake 8 to 10 min at 350 on lined baking sheets.

Ingredients

SERVES: 4 PREP TIME: 30 MIN • 3.5 cups flour • 1 tsp baking powder • 1.5 cups salted butter softened • 1 cup sugar • 1 egg • 1 tsp vanilla • 4 (3 oz) pkg jello (use various)

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Wise Choices for You & Your Family

WIN TICKETS & WIN 4 Free VIP Tickets 4 Meet & Greet Passes 2 Autographed Balls

march 12 - 7Pm

Columbus Civic center Tickets through Ticketmaster

It could be you! Click the CONTEST TAB of our website to enter. Drawing March 1. www.HooKnowsTheValley.com

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HOO’S at the Movies

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the lego movie PG for mild action and rude humor | Ok for kids 6+ This computer-generated comedy centers on a lowly Lego figure (voiced by Chris Pratt) who joins a group intent on battling an evil force after a case of mistaken identity. From the filmmakers behind “Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs” and “Robot Chicken,” Will Arnett co-stars as the voice of Batman, who along with Superman, make appearances in the Warner Bros. picture.

robocop PG-13 for intense action, language and sensuality | Ok for kids 14+ Remember how violent the first “Robocop” was? This remake is just as violent, if not moreso. No gun was spared in this reboot of the 1987 movie from director José Padilha. The story once again centers on a slain police officer who gets resurrected as a crime-fighting cyborg. Until memories of his previous life begin to make him doubt his corrupt corporate overlords. Gary Oldman co-stars as the doctor who suffers a crisis-of-conscience after bringing life back to the man in the form of a mechanical body and reprogrammed brain.

vampire academy PG-13 | Ok for kids 13+ Rose Hathaway is a dhampir, half-vampire half-human who’s training to be a guardian at St Vladimir’s Academy, along with others like her. In their world, there are good vampires and bad vampires. Rose and other dhampir guardians are trained to protect the good and kill the evil.

But Rose must run away from St Vladimir’s, in order to protect her best friend, Princess Vasilisa Dragomir (Lucy Fry), from those who wish to harm and use her for their own means.

one chance PG-13 for sensuality and language | Ok for kids 13+ We all love those singing competition videos that go viral, and this one was made into a movie.

It’s a feature film based on the remarkable and inspirational true story of Paul Potts, a shy, bullied shop assistant in Wales by day and an amateur opera singer by night. Paul became an instant YouTube phenomenon after being chosen by Simon Cowell for “Britain’s Got Talent.” He went on to win the competition, along with the hearts of millions.

NEW ON DVD | BLU-RAY: KHUMBA

Not Rated | Ok for kids 4+ Life is not all black and white for Khumba, a young zebra born with only half his stripes who’s rejected by his superstitious herd and blamed for a sudden drought affecting the land. Teaming up with a sassy wildebeest and a flamboyant ostrich, Khumba sets out on a daring mission across the Karoo desert to find the legendary waterhole where the first zebras got their stripes.

Wise Choices for You & Your Family

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HOO’s TIPS

A

correcting

baby

round the age of nine months, babies put before reacting. Some ‘exploring the world’ their newly perfected crawling skills to use behaviors like dropping food from the high and become avid explorers. No longer are chair may go away after the experiment the favorite toys on his play blanket enough loses its novelty. If it does not, it is time to to keep your baby in one place. When your set boundaries using a calm voice. Say ‘No, baby reaches this milestone, it is time to we don’t throw food’, and try redirecting the gently but firmly begin the process of set- behavior to something less messy, like dropting boundaries for your child. ping a foam ball from the high chair.

Children this age don’t have a very long If you do sense your baby is ‘testing the attention span and cannot understand waters’, don’t react too harshly. Reaffirm complex concepts of right and wrong. The that you love him, let him know that the concepts behind some discipline strategies behavior is not acceptable, and provide like time-outs are beyond your baby’s grasp him with an appropriate alternative. For and need to wait until he is older. However, example, ‘I love you but no pulling kitty’s at this stage you can lay the foundation for tail. Let’s pet him gently instead.’ a discipline strategy that will grow with Don’t forget to praise your baby for good your child. Here are some tips on how to behavior. Babies this age may not underdiscipline your newly mobile baby. stand everything you say, but your baby can If you find yourself saying ‘no’ constantly, tell when you are happy or not by your tone you need to re-check your baby proofing. of voice. If your baby receives positive reinEach baby has a unique personality, and forcement for good behavior, he is less likely some babies are driven to defeat baby to have to resort to unwanted behaviors to proofing measures and see what is so inter- get the attention he desires. He would rathesting about that off-limit area. Babies er make you happy, but understands that this age can start to take cues from words negative attention is better than nothing. like ‘No’ and from the tone of your voice. Your baby cannot yet remember a very long However, restricting access to safety haz- list of what is acceptable and what is not, so ards will allow you to reserve ‘No’ for the choose carefully what you will focus on. At most important situations, such as a hot this age, most of the boundaries you set will stove or protecting the cat from having its have to do with your baby’s safety and the tail pulled again. safety of those around him. Be consistent Remember that certain behaviors may be and enforce the boundaries you do choose your baby testing his boundaries while oth- to set. Your baby will feel secure, confident ers may be an innocent exploration of the and loved.

Allworld locations are Columbus noted. around him. Take unless a moment toSpecials dissubject to change without notice. Please verify cern which category the behavior belongs them with the restaruant in advance. Submitinyour deal: Office@HooKnowsTheValley.com

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Registration Now Open All instruments, ages, levels

Great Expectations!

Celebrating World-class Health Care for Women We are excited to announce the opening of the St. Francis Women’s Hospital.

The 47,000 square foot, state-of-the-art facility enhances women’s health care in our community. www.wecareforlife.com

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Get

Recommending the best toys Wise Choices for You & Your Family

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and products for kids.

By Gerry Paige Smith

this!

Wild About Baby Gifts

Finding the best gift for a baby can be harder than it seems when you enter the jungle of toys and gear designed for them. The best baby gifts are those that show the thought that went into the design and provide versatility for a child developing at the fastest pace in their life. The following wildlife-themed items roar to the front of the pack of gift recommendations for babies and little ones!

Musical Lion Walker

Gymini Move and Play

Before they take their first steps, the Musical Lion Walker will already be a familiar friend to the baby who’s ready to walk. With its ‘grow-with-me’ design, a sitting baby will find plenty of busy activities to help hone their fine motor skills and enhance their sensory responses.

Once tots start to pull-up from the knees, the walker transforms to a four-wheel base and sturdy handle. This rolling lion ready to prowl along with baby as he takes the first steps on a big jungle journey!

The Gymini Move and Play is outstanding for its versatility.

Featuring plenty of mat space it can also be snapped together to create a cozy enclosure to enhance baby’s sense of security. The activity arches are adjustable to best baby interaction. The colorful wildlife theme offers a monkey teether, peek-a-boo elephant ears and a host of other sensory stimulation for baby to explore. The Gymini mat is portable, washable, and the toys are detachable to accompany kids on every expedition!

Rain Forest Mobile (Fisher-Price)

Musical Stack & Play

With delightful rainforest creatures moving slowly through the canopy of leaves to engage little eyes, the Rain Forest Peeka-boo Musical Mobile adds a smart variety of movement and sound that is designed to soothe and relax baby.

With the touch of a button, play gentle music or mesmerizing sounds of the rainforest. The Rainforest Mobile can also transform into a music box and nightlight as baby grows into toddler territory down the road. Versatile, effective and sturdy, this mobile is a sweet jungle dream for crib comfort.

Irresistible at a glance, this playful pachyderm weighs in with everything he needs to be the most popular plaything among the peewee set. While the elephant is ideal as a soft, traditional ring stacker, it’s also a responsive game. When tots drop balls into the crown of the elephant’s head, the balls re-appear - with great fanfare (music and lights) - at a little door opening at the bottom. The outstanding combination of thoughtful design and engaging function in this Musical Stack & Play Elephant definitely puts it at the front of the best-baby-toy herd!

(Fisher-Price)

(Tiny Love)

(Tiny Love)

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Cardio Kids 7 to 13 Years

• Fun Cardio & Strength Training Stations • Includes Stretching, Calisthenics, Nutritional Tips, and more • Start your child’s “fitness” life off right with Fitness Made Fun for Kids!

My Gym Columbus (706) 507-2966 www.mygym.com Call Now to Schedule a FREE TRIAL CLASS!

Open to members and nonmembers

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Wise Choices for You & Your Family

HOO’s HEALTHY During cold and flu season, many parents keep antibacterial soap handy to help to keep germs from spreading among family members. However, the results of a recently published study suggest that washing with soaps containing antibacterial chemicals like triclosan or triclocarban do not do a better job in removing bacteria or preventing the spread of disease than regular soap.

Antibacterial chemicals cannot kill viruses, so an antibacterial soap is no better at preventing the spread of the flu or a cold than regular soap. There is even some evidence that the antibacterial chemicals may have adverse health effects and cause harm to the environment. Triclosan and triclocarban are not completely removed by wastewater treatment and can harm aquatic life in rivers and lakes. In addition, use of antibacterial chemicals may be encouraging the development of antibiotic resistant bacteria.

Here are some tips on how to keep germs at bay without using soaps with antibacterial chemicals.

ANTIBACTERIAL ANTIBACTERIAL SOAP

SOAP

1. Wash hands frequently using a regular (nonantibacterial) soap, especially before preparing food, eating, and after using the restroom. Rub your hand together for 20 seconds (about the time it takes to sing the ABC song) before rinsing. Regular soap lifts dirt and grease particles, viruses, and bacteria off your skin, allowing them to be easily washed away by water.

2. Dry your hands with a clean paper towel and turn the water off with your towel. If you use cloth towels at home, wash them in hot water and dry them in the dryer on high.

3. Use alcohol-based hand sanitizers when you can’t wash your hands with soap and water. Alcohol-based sanitizers kill both bacteria and viruses. It is sometimes difficult to keep track of how well your kids wash, so having them use an alcohol-based sanitizer before eating or after using the restroom may be a good idea, especially during flu season.

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HOO’s CUTE

CONTEST Visit our website to enter: www.hooknowsthevalley.com

Carter, age 3 Columbus

Kiya, age 7 Columbus

Walter, age 3 Phenix City

Tristan, age 2 Columbus

®

A Simple Concept, A Superb Experience!® www.ChickenSaladChick.com 2511 Airport Thruway, Space C I Columbus, GA 31904 Phone 706.507.1611

HOO’S PLUGGED IN WWW.HoOKNOWSTHEVALLEY.COM

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February pr o v i d e d in partner ship

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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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Mothers of Preschoolers (MOPS). 9:30-11:30am. Childcare provided. RSVP to Wynnbrook Baptist; 500 River Knoll Way, Columbus; 706-323-4374

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It an ART pARTy! 2-2:45pm.

Ages 4+. Columbus Public Library. 3000 Macon Rd, Columbus; cvlga.org/kids

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Storytime with Clifford the Big Red Dog. 11am. Barnes & Noble. 5555 Whittlesey Blvd, Columbus; 706-653-7880

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Family Theatre presents “The Miracle Worker.” 7:30pm. 2100 Hamilton Rd; familytheatre.org

American Girl Club. 6:30pm.

Barnes & Noble. 5555 Whittlesey Blvd, Columbus; 706-6537880

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10-14

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American Girl Club. 6:30pm.

Barnes & Noble. 5555 Whittlesey Blvd, Columbus; 706-6537880 Super Hero Night. 6:30pm. Fudruckers; muscogeemoms.com

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Columbus Kids Market Spring Sale. Wed-Fri 10am-5pm; Sat 8-1pm. Central Baptist Church; columbuskidsmarket.com

Librar y 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

Lowes Build & Grow Clinic. 1011am. Free. 1st-5th grades. 6750 Veterans Pkwy, Columbus; lowesbuildandgrow.com

Home School Week. Five days of education and fun. Over 14 attractions and 20 educational programs planned; visitcolumbusga.com

Breastfeeding Basics Class.

9:30am. $20. Columbus Regional Lactation Center & Boutique, Doctors Medical Park, B-30, 500 18th St; columbusregional.com

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Mothers of Preschoolers (MOPS) Meeting. 9:30-11:30am. First Presbyterian Church, Columbus; Mopsfpcga@gmail.com

Family Matinee: Dolphin Tale.

3pm. Free. Columbus Public Library. 3000 Macon Rd, Columbus; cvlga.org/kids

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Kidz Flicks: Planes. 2pm. Free.

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

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Bluebird Workshop. 10-11:30am. $6 plus $5 parking. F.D. Roosevelt State Park; 706-663-4858

Cottonmouths vs. Knoxville Ice Bears. 7:30pm. $14-$30. Columbus Civic Center; www.columbusciviccenter.org

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

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Fancy Nancy Tea Party. 10:30am12:30pm. Free. Mildred Terry Public Library; cvrl.org/kids

Family Theatre presents “The Miracle Worker.” 7:30pm. 2100 Hamilton Rd; familytheatre.org

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Guided tours of FDR’s Little White House. Warm Springs.

y e v e n ts

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with: 15

Cottonmouths vs. Louisana.

7:30pm. $14-$30. Columbus Civic Center; www.columbusciviccenter.org

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Annual RCCAC Father-Daughter Dance. 6:30pm. $35 per couple, includes photo CD; www. rccac.org

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“Presidents Day Birthday Bash” Mini Camp. 9am-1pm. Ages 5-11. $10. National Infantry Museum. Register: 706.653.9234 ext 5849 or campdirector@nationalinfantrymuseum.com.

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Breastfeeding Basics Class.

6:30pm. $20. Columbus Regional Lactation Center & Boutique, Doctors Medical Park, B-30, 500 18th St; columbusregional.com

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iGlow for Hope 5K, Fun Run & Walk benefitting Hope Harbour.

7pm. Lakebottom Band Shelter, Cherokee Ave. active.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

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Cottonmouths vs. Fayetteville FireAntz. 7:30pm. $14-$30; www. columbusciviccenter.org

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Family Theatre presents “The Miracle Worker.” 7:30pm. 2100 Hamilton Rd; familytheatre.org

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Bark in the Park Dog Walk.

1-2:30pm. $5 parking. Dogs must be on a 6-foot leash. F.D. Roosevelt St. Park; 706-663-4858

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Cafe Chocolat Women’s Retreat. 9am-4pm. $20. Morningside Baptist Church, 6065 Morningside Drive. Register: 706.561.0343

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“Freedom’s Tide” Black History program. Noon. 1pm. 2pm.

3pm. $6-$7.50. Civil War Museum; portcolumbus.org

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

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

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Les Miserables. 7:30pm. Springer Opera House; springeroperahouse.org

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Cottonmouths vs. Mississippi Surge. 7:30pm. $14-$30. Columbus Civic Center; columbusciviccenter.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.

706-653-7880

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.

Wise Choices for You & Your Family

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HOO’s FIT

SPECIAL DIETS Parents are frequently given advice on special diets that will help their child quickly lose weight or will reduce instances of undesirable behavior. How much of this advice is fact and how much is fiction? We did some research on some commonly given advice to find out.

My child is overweight and at risk for developing Type II diabetes due to family history.

My friends tell me I need to put her on a strict very low-fat diet that restricts calorie intake.

FALSE! Kids need a certain amount of fat in their diet to remain healthy, particularly the omega-3 and omega-6 fats that come from nuts, avocados, cold water fish, and olive oil.

Restricting how much food your child eats can lead to eating disorders later in life. Also, unless your child’s pediatrician recommends it due to a medical reason, such as a food allergy, don’t let your child try a diet that excludes certain food groups. For their bodies to develop properly, kids need nutrients from all food groups: whole grains, fresh fruits and veggies, lean meats and other protein, and dairy. If the doctor feels your child is severely overweight and needs to be put on a special diet, your child will be referred to a dietician who will ensure the diet contains all the necessary nutrients.

Everyone tells me that artificial colors and artificial preservatives cause ADHD so I should eliminate them from my ADHD child’s diet.

SOMEWHAT TRUE! The link between ADHD and artificial food additives like colors and preservatives is still a hotly contested topic.

However, so far, some scientific studies do show a link between artificial colors and preservatives and hyperactive behavior in children. Though these artificial additives have not been proven to cause ADHD, eliminating them from your child’s diet may reduce hyperactive behavior.

My child has autism and my friend said I need to put him on a gluten-free, casein-free diet to improve his behavior.

PERHAPS SOMEWHAT TRUE! The jury is still out on this one. Gluten is a type of protein found in wheat, barley, and rye and casein is a protein found in dairy products. The is no scientific research that proves a gluten free casein free (GFCF) diet helps ease the symptoms of autism, though some parents of autistic children report improvements in speech and behavior when their child was put on a GFCF diet. Following a GFCF diet means you will have to replace the nutrients provided by whole grains and dairy with supplements, so consult your child’s doctor before starting.

www.HooKnowsTheValley.com

HOO’s CRAFTY Family & Kids of the Chattahoochee Valley

Via Shawna Benken

architectualartdesigns.com

mothersniche.com

Visit our Pinterest page for our board on Valentine’s Day crafts and much more.

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Wise Choices for You & Your Family

Clean out your kids’ closet and get $$$ on the spot for all their gently used kids stuff!

No appointment necessary.

We’ve got the lowest prices on everything you need for your kids.

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

WORD SEARCH

candy cards family friend

heart hug kiss love

party pink red Valentine

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A Page In A Book Recommending the Best Books

for Children and Teens By Paige Gardner Smith

Finding Beauty in the Night

Most children struggle at some point with fear or discomfort in the dark. But, like the dreams that take flight when our eyes close tight, the night has its own lovely secrets to share with the child who is ready to explore them. The following books shine a light on the wonders of the night and celebrate the beautiful things that can happen when the sun goes down for the evening.

Please Bring Balloons

By Lindsay Ward (Penguin / Dial)

Young Emma spies a mysterious note tucked under the saddle her favorite carousel animal, the great white polar bear. It’s a request for balloons. As darkness falls, Emma comes with many, many balloons to tie to the carousel bear’s saddle. And gently, the Bear – and Emma – are lifted into the night sky. Their airborne adventure takes them up into the darkness, where they revel against starry skies, among gentle snows and upon quiet icebergs. This story puts sleepy minds on a dreamy path to the magical possibilities of the night.

Steam Train, Dream Train

By Sherri Duskey Rinker, Illustrated by Tom Lichtenheld (Chronicle)

When the night reaches full dark, a powerful train steams into Night Falls station and a menagerie of animals loads it with prize cargo. The train’s cars are all taking on special cargo as the animal crew preps for the evening journey. For every child who loves trains and for every reader who’s ever heard a train’s whistle in the dark, this title is a rich, rhythmic reminder that wonderful things are still happening in the world long after the sun has set.

The Insomniacs

By Karina Wolf, Illustrated by The Brothers Hilts (Penguin / G. P Putnam’s Sons)

When the Insomniac family moves half-way around the world and across twelve time zones, they all quickly discover that their nights and days are all mixed up. When all insomnia remedies fail, the family strikes off into the night to seek advice from anyone they find. What they discover is a whole world of life that thrives in the dark! The newly nocturnal family takes up work and hobbies that are best pursued in the dark as they find a way to take back the night and make use of the mysterious and marvelous dark!

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Wise Choices for You & Your Family

Moms Marketplace

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.

www.HooKnowsTheValley.com

DRYER TIP

HOO’s HELPFUL

Simply removing the lint from the filter in your dryer may not be enough to help your dryer run efficiently. Using dryer sheets can cause a waxy buildup on the mesh of the lint filter screen. This waxy buildup blocks the flow of moist air out of the dryer, causing it to work longer. Scrub the filer with warm soapy water to remove the buildup. If your dryer has a moisture sensor, keep it working properly by wiping it off with a cotton ball and rubbing alcohol. This will prevent your dryer from running longer than it needs to.

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Wise Choices for You & Your Family

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HOO KNEW? Square M E A L

In the 18th Century, a British sailor’s limited diet of breakfast and lunch was not more than moldy bread and water. If lucky, the third meal included meat and was served on a square tin platter. They came to call it their ‘square’ meal, and it was the only substantial meal of the day. Three squares now means three good meals a day.

www.HooKnowsTheValley.com

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Dining Deals

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

MONDAY

saturday

Cafe LaRue

Denny’s

Get a free kid’s meal with every adult entree

Chick-fil-A, Phenix City

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

Steak & Shake

Chick-fil-A, Wynnton Rd

Free kids meal with every $8 purchase

Chill Yogurt & Yocakes

sunday

Sweet Frog Yogurt

Locos

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

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

Tuesday

Steak & Shake

Atlanta Bread Company

Stevi B’s Pizza

5-8pm: Free kid’s meal with regular priced combo All mini cupcakes $1

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

www.HooKnowsTheValley.com

PK—12th Grade College Preparatory School •

• • •

Foreign Language, Music, Art, eigion, an sica ucaon Offere Nurturing, Fami nvironment eore  Aer coo are uion Assistance Avaiae

Open House January 29 8:30 a.m.—10:30 a.m. or call for a personal tour 2020 Kay Circle Columbus, GA 31907 706-561-8232 www.BeAViking.com

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Wise Choices for You & Your Family

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Helping To Develop Their

HOO’s learning

STUDY SKILLS

Try to remember. When you were a student, did you ever ask, “How will grammar (or geometry or social studies) benefit me later in life?” Be honest.

Now, return to today. When was the last time you took notes at a meeting? Or prioritized your “to-do” list? Or organized a project from start to finish? The skills you use to do these tasks at work and at home are the same skills you learned and honed in English class (and geometry and social studies).

Now, your children are developing those skills that will enable them to read analytically, write and speak expressively and think strategically.

And when they ask, “What good is this going to do me?” - you know that it all starts with taking notes in history class, studying for that bio exam and juggling time to accommodate school, sports and social calendars!

Organization, time management, note taking, test taking and strategic reading are all essential study skills that are first introduced to young people in the classroom, but ultimately transfer far beyond school. To help your child develop these skills in a way that is meaningful to them, mainly applying them to their “job” which is school, we have a few tips for you below.

Studies show that the more involved parents are with their children’s education, the better the children do in school. What the studies don’t say is that this involvement is not just in the children’s school, but in the children’s lives. Because life is a balance of basic core skills (reading and math) and personal skills, such as communication and responsibility skills (organization and time management), parents need to nourish all of these skills, not just the ones that yield a grade.

ORGANIZATION & TIME MANAGEMENT

TEST TAKING

• Have students use a planning calendar to track daily, weekly and monthly assignments and responsibilities.

• Encourage children to break down large, complex tasks into manageable pieces.

• Have children prioritize homework and other tasks when they get home from school, then complete the tasks in that order.

• Urge a student to study over a period of days or weeks instead of cramming.

• Be sure students go into the test with the right equipment, i.e. calculator, class notes, textbooks or simply a pencil.

• Encourage them to answer test questions they know first and then go on to the more challenging questions.

READING

NOTE TAKING

• Encourage them to use all the clues available to them while reading, such as headlines, pictures, captions, charts, tables and graphs.

• Urge them to read different types of writing, such as books (fiction and nonfiction), newspaper, magazines, letters and web sites.

• Talk with kids after they read a book or article. Have them tell you what the story was about, why it did or didn’t interest them and how it related to their life.

• Don’t panic if a child’s notes look sloppy and disorganized. It’s often just a sign of a student with an active mind who is organizing things in ways that work best for him or her.

• Encourage students to review their notes and even rewrite them, if necessary, to be sure they make sense.

• As they review their notes, have children identify the most important points and highlight them.

www.HooKnowsTheValley.com

Open

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Houses Calvary Christian - K3 to 12th Every Thursday 9-1pm Grace Christian School K3 to 12th March 18/ 6-8pm St. Anne-Pacelli Catholic PK to 12th/ March 26 8:30-10:30am Wynnbrook Christian School K to 8th/ March 20/ 6-8pm For schools not listed, you can call and set up a private tour.

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

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Wise Choices for You & Your Family

HOO’s learning

Environmental print PRINT ENVIRONMENTAL

By Charmette Kendrick

Children’s LibrariaN Chattahoochee Valley Libraries Did you ever read the back of the cereal box during breakfast? Or read the advertisements on the side of a bus? If you did, you were engaging in Environmental Print. Environmental Print is the letters, numbers, colors and words that appear in logos, on packages and on signs all around us.

Why is Environmental Print important in early literacy? Because Environmental Print is the first print a child learns to “read.” When a child recognizes a stop sign or the golden arches of MacDonald’s they begin to make the connection that print has meaning.

How can you use Environmental Print to excite your preschooler about reading? As you go through your day have a continuous dialog with your preschooler about the print that you see.

While driving, point out billboards and road signs. In the grocery store, discuss the signage that directs shoppers to “soup” and “cereal.”

While snacking, point out the name of a candy bar on a wrapper or the words on a box of cookies. Pretty soon your preschooler will start pointing out words to you. Then you will know your child is on the road to reading.

References: “Environmental Print.” Pre-K Pages. http://www.pre-kpages.com/environmental_print/

www.HooKnowsTheValley.com

Learning can take you everywhere!

FREE !

PreK

Our children experience a stimulating environment, are treated with dignity and respect, enjoy clean and safe surroundings and participate in daily educational experiences to form a life long foundation for success!

Growing Room - 706-596-1234 1200 Manchester Expressway M-F 5:30am - 6:30 pm Growing Room Too - 706-653-0088 6110 Bradley Park Drive M-F 6:30am - 6:30pm GR Christian Academy - 706-221-3248 7572 Kayne Blvd.

M-F 6:30am - 6:30pm

www.growingroomusa.com

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