Family & Kids of the Chattahoochee Valley January 2015

JANUARY 2015

Wise Choices for Moms & Families

CHATTAHOOCHEE VALLEY

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The YMCA. For youth development, healthy living and social responsibility.

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Wise Choices for You & Your Family

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HOO’s HEALTHY

how to be

supplement savvy The world of dietary supplements can seem like a confusing mix of vitamins, minerals, and herbs.

Unlike drugs, dietary supplements are not regulated by the FDA, which means an extra amount of caution must be used when selecting them.

Start with the basics - Select a multivitamin appropriate for your age and gender.

A daily multivitamin is a supplement that is taken long term to help promote general health. It is not meant to serve as a replacement for a healthy diet. A multivitamin is only intended to fill in the gaps, where your diet may fall short of the recommended amounts of vitamins and minerals.

Some multivitamins are formulated for adults in a certain age groups, and you should select the one appropriate for your age and gender. For example, women below the age of 50 need a multivitamin that contains folic acid. About 400 mg of folic acid is recommended per day before and during pregnancy to help prevent birth defects.

Ask your doctor before starting to take additional supplements.

Before starting to take an extra supplement along with your multivitamin, be sure to take into account any foods you eat that are fortified with the vitamin or mineral, and check to see how much of the vitamin or mineral your multivitamin contains. More is not better when it comes to supplements, since some vitamins and minerals, like calcium, vitamin A and vitamin E, are stored in your body and can build up to a harmful level if you take too much.

If your multivitamin contains 100% of the Recommended Daily Allowance (RDA) of the essential vitamins and minerals, there is no need to take an additional supplement, unless it is recommended by your doctor. Also, use caution when adding herbal supplements to your routine. Herbal supplements can have side effects and may interfere with prescription medications. Check with your

doctor first to see if the herbal supplement is right for you and how much you should take.

Shop smart when selecting supplements Vitamin and mineral supplements are not regulated by the FDA, except in cases when a safety hazard is reported, so it is up to you to select supplements carefully. Manufacturers cannot claim that a supplement cures or treats a certain condition, since that would put the supplement in the same class a drug. However, they can make claims like ‘helps support heart health and bone health.’

These claims don’t have to be tested or proven scientifically. The supplement does have to be labeled with all the ingredients it contains, although, since supplements are not tested for quality by the FDA, the purity of supplements is a serious concern. Some supplements have been found not to contain the ingredients on the label or are contaminated with bacteria or pesticide.

Some manufacturers pay to have their supplements tested by a nonprofit, private organization called the USP (U.S. Pharmacopeial Convention), and if the products meet the quality standards of the USP, a seal of approval is put on the product label. If you look for USP seal when you shop and stick with well-known brands, there is a good chance you’ll get a high quality supplement.

Store supplements properly and watch the expiration date.

Store supplements in a cool, dry place with the caps closed tightly. Avoid storing them in warm, humid places like the bathroom or over the stove.

Supplements that have expired may have lost potency, so it is best to discard them if they are a month or two past the expiration date.

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Wise Choices for You & Your Family

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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 DIRECTORY. 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

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Feb. Issue: Jan 9 and March Issue: Feb. 6

HOO KNOWS SPECIAL SECTIONS Hoo’s crafty.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 8

HOO’S hungry.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 21

HOO’S Fun.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 14

hoo’s parenting.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 7

HOO’S Healthy.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 3 & 9

Hoo’s tips.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 20

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 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

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Wise Choices for You & Your Family

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SHOPPING guide activities Academy Dance Center....................22 Chattahoochee Valley Libraries...... 9 East West Karate & MMA................... 2 IFM Arts Academy.............................22 My Gym................................................... 5 Performance Dance Centre............... 8 Schwob School of Music.................. 15 Studio Elevare......................................11 The Columbus Museum...................22

Childcare/ education Calvary Christian...............................28 TELL THEM First Presbyterian Day.....................28 Grace Christian School....................26 Growing Room....................................29 Kumon...................................................28 SENT YOU! Lakewood Child Development ......30 Mathnasium........................................29 Polka Dots Childcare.........................28 Solid Rock Church Aftercare..........30 St. Luke..................................................27 Sylvan Learning Center...................26 The Major Group................................. 19 Westminster Christian.....................29

Fitness Art of Yoga.............................................. 8 YMCA......................................................11

Food & Beverage Chick-fil-A............................................ 12 Chill Yogurt Cafe.................................. 7 Crave Soda & Candy Bar..................... 8 PhoVy Vietnamese............................ 12 Stevi B’s Pizza Buffet........................ 12 Willy T’s Chicken Fingers............... 12 Zaxby’s................................................... 31

healthcare Columbus Spine & Performance... 19 James Lopez, DDS.............................. 15 Pediatric Acute Care........................... 2 Pediatric After Hours........................25 Pediatric Dentistry of Columbus...22 Pediatrics at Brookstone Center... 21 Rivertown Pediatrics........................25 ZÖe Pediatrics..................................... 15

Home/ Handy Lawn Doctor......................................... 19 Lawnscapes......................................... 19 Sparkles Cleaning Service.............. 19

Shopping/ Retail Giggles and Grins Photography.... 19 Matilda Jane Clothing......................22 Mickayla’s Place - Resale................20 Once Upon A Time - Resale............ 18

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HOO’s PARENTING Toddler Temper Tantrums

Toddlers often have a strong desire to explore and to exert their independence, but may not have the communication skills needed to effectively express their feelings. This can lead to them feeling so frustrated that he uses a meltdown to express his emotions. However, there are some techniques that you can use to help to ease angry feelings before they lead to a major display of negative emotions.

First, if possible, don’t push the limits when you toddler is getting tired or hungry. Trying to fit in just one more errand before nap or stopping for a snack is setting the stage for a meltdown. Also, tune in to your toddler’s emotions so you can sense when he is becoming upset.

Say things like ‘Oh, looks like you are feeling upset.

You want to stay and play more’. Not only does this acknowledge his feelings, but it also helps him learn to put his feelings into words. Avoid launching into a lecture on why he can’t have what he wants, since reasoning and logic are not something your toddler will understand.

After validating your toddler’s feelings, there are several different ways you can diffuse his anger and frustration. Try redirecting his attention to a new activity or break up the bad feelings by making silly faces and singing silly songs. Teaching your toddler to calm down by taking deeps breaths may also help steer him clear of a meltdown. If your toddler still seems to be on course for a spectacular meltdown, try putting him in time-out for a cool down period.

If your toddler does have a meltdown, the best thing you can do is ignore it.

Hide where he can’t see you but you can still see him, so you can make sure he is safe without giving him an audience. Trying to talk with him and giving him attention at this point will only make future meltdowns more likely.

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Wise Choices for You & Your Family

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HOO’s CRAFTY

Salt Dough

Keepsake

Do one every year with their name, year, footprint or handprints and it would create a memorable garden path or a great gift for loved ones.

Directions Dump all ingredients in a bowl and mix well. Should be similar consitency as play dough.Then create the shape of your preference. You can use a straw to punch a hole for hanging if applicable. Put dough directly on pan with parchment paper and make desired impressions. Bake at 200F for 3 hours and continue if still soft. Once cool, paint and then spray with craft sealer if putting outdoors.

supplies 1 cup salt 1 cup flour 1/2 cup water 1 can sealer

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HOO’s HEALTHY

Dairy During FlU

There are many myths out there concerning how to prevent and treat the cold and the flu.

One common myth is that if you should not drink or eat dairy products while you have a cold because consuming them will increase the amount of mucus your body produces, making congestion worse. Drinking milk may make the mucus somewhat thicker, but

HOO’s FIT

it won’t increate the production. Pudding, ice cream, or milk may help soothe your sore throat and provide calories you may not be getting while you have a cold and don’t feel much like eating. Unless you are allergic to dairy products, consider this old wives’ tale debunked and enjoy a bowl of ice cream the next time you have a cold or the flu.

TOO MUCH SALT

According to a study recently published by CDC researchers, about nine out of ten kids ages 6 to 18 consume more than the recommended 2300 mg of sodium a day.

Taking in too much salt can raise blood pressure in kids, possibly setting the stage for high blood pressure and heart problems in adulthood.

Nutritionists recommend reading food labels to see how much sodium food contains before buying it and serving more fresh fruits and vegetables in an effort to reduce how much sodium your family takes in.

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Wise Choices for You & Your Family

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Ready for Launch!

Finding delight in both the launch (and the landing) of their toys, children are quick to pick up the physics of force and momentum as they propel their possessions up into the air. And while it’s no fun reclaiming kid-propelled items that occasionally make their way onto the roof of the house, fostering their enthusiasm for launching toys is worth the air time. There are hidden physics lessons as they learn about force, trajectory and mass along the way! The sky’s the limit!

Robotic UFO Helicopter

When Pigs Fly

Benefiting from lighter materials, easier controls and new technology the Robotic UFO Helicopter raises the bar for RC flight success. This vehicle launches smoothly and follows a trajectory and altitude directed from a simple-to-use remote control. The spherical frame protecting the propeller gives the moving parts a good measure of ‘bounce-back’ protection as rookie pilots drift into occasional obstacles while their RC skills evolve. Best enjoyed by kids eight and up.

A hilarious twist on an old expression, ‘When Pigs Fly’ brings home the bacon for energetic game play! Players have their own collection of pigs in their pen that they must get rid of to win. Using the game’s cannons, pigs (attired with their own stylish scarves) are propelled upward in hopes that their scarf will stick in the cloud cone. Players feverishly launch their porcine pieces on their mission to get rid of their pigs. It’s fast, fun and definitely hogs the action in the board game closet!

Ultra Stomp Rocket

Hot Wheels Mega Jump

(Happy Cow)

(D-L Company)

The Stomp Rocket Ultra takes the high ground with a smart, durable design that sends lightweight rockets soaring upward with ease.

Including 4 foamtipped rockets, the batteries-free set uses the force of a child’s stomp on an air pad to launch the rockets skyward.

The rockets’ foam design ensures that landings are harmless and damagefree to surroundings. Exposing young minds to trajectory, projection, force and motion – this intro to rocketry is one giant step toward stellar playtime!

(Poof Slinky)

(Mattel)

As kids seek reputable roadway for their cars to journey farther (and higher) the Mega Jump is an ideal addition to every Hot Wheels enthusiast’s tool kit! With clamps that mount on the child’s chosen obstacle, the challenge is to propel their auto with just enough force to launch and land after a huge jump. Best with additional Hot Wheels track to maximize the run up to launch, unleash your kid’s inner ‘Dukes of Hazard’ with the Hot Wheels Mega Jump track accessory!

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CLEMENT ARTS PRESENTS

Studio Elevare CLASSICAL BALLET, JAZZ, AND MORE FOR GIRLS AGES 3 + Discounts available for home school classes Located near the River Mill Event Center in Columbus For more information visit: www.clement-arts.org/studio-elevare or email elliegrace@clement-arts.org

REGISTRATION NOW OPEN!

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Wise Choices for You & Your Family

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

Like usSeeonFacebook Facebook page 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.

Returning in March

Camp & Activities Guide 20 1 5 advertising deadline

FEb. 2

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

Steak & Shake

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

Chick-fil-A, Wynnton Rd

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

Free kids meal with every $8 purchase

Chill Yogurt & Yocakes

sunday

Sweet Frog Yogurt

Free kids meal with every $8 purchase

Zaxby’s

Kids eat for .99 after 4pm

All mini cupcakes $1

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

Steak & Shake Stevi B’s Pizza

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

Texas Roadhouse

Tuesday

Willy T’s

Atlanta Bread Company

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

Denny’s

Sundays: Kids 12 & under get Jr. Kids Meal for $1.99 with adult entree (certain holidays are excluded) 11-5pm: 1 free kids meal per regular meal purchase

everyday

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

Golden Corral

TGIF Friday’s

Hartz Chicken Buffet

3-10pm: Kids 12 and under eat free with adult entree

Willy T’s

4-9pm: 1 free kids meal per regular meal purchase

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

thursday

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

IHOP

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

McAlisters Deli

99 cent kids meals all day

PhoVy

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

Ryan’s

Kids 2-3 eat for .99, kids 4-7 eat for 3.99, all day

Captain D’s

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

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 not listed here, contact Tammy@HooKnowsTheValley.com.

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HOO’s Fun

Wise Choices for You & Your Family

Hidden Pictures:

Winter on The Farm

Find the 15 items hidden in the picture from the legend below. Then color.

..

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ZOe Pediatrics Excellent Medical Care for Your Children

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959 17th Street, Columbus, GA Hours: M-F from 8am-6pm

Schwob Music Prep Private and group music lessons and classes Ages 5 to adult, beginner to advanced Register anytime now throughout the semester Spring semester: January 12 - May 4

706-641-5124

ColumbusState.edu/MusicPrep

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January pr o vi d e d in partne r ship with:

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Columbus Ice Rink opens for holiday public skating. 2-7pm. www. columbusicerink.org

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First Day Hike. 1-4:30pm. $5 parking. Ages 8+. FDR State Park.

Meet at campground Trading Post. 3.4 miles; easy to moderate; gastateparks.com/FDRoosevelt

2

Winter Break Camp. 9am-4pm.

Ages 8-10. Cost: $25-$25. Columbus Museum; www.columbusmuseum.com

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Professional Bull Riders. 7:30pm. $12.50-$45.50. Columbus Civic Center; columbusciviccenter.org

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Home Depot Kids Workshop. 9amNoon. Free. Ages 5-12. Columbus store; 706-322-9240. Phenix City store; 334-297-2045

6

MOPS meeting. 9am-Noon. First Presbyterian Church, 1100 First Avenue, Columbus; www.columbusfpc.org/mops

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Tiny Tales & Preschool Adventures 10am & 11am. North Columbus Library; cvlga.org/kids

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Family Film Fest. 10am Frozen; 12pm Hook. Free. National Infantry Museum; www.nationalinfantrymuseum.com Puppy Tales. 3pm. South Columbus Library; cvlga.org/kids

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LEGO Mania! 4pm. North Columbus Library; cvlga.org/kids

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Second Saturday: Family Fun Day. 10am. Free. Columbus Museum; edu@columbusmuseum.org

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Lowes Build & Grow Clinic. 1011am. Free. 1st-5th grades. 6750 Veterans Pkwy, Columbus; 706320-9292

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Cottonmouths vs. Fayetteville.

7:30pm. Tickets $9-$30. Columbus Civic Center; www.columbusciviccenter.com

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American Girl Book Club. 6:30pm.

Barnes & Noble, 5555 Whittlesey Blvd, Columbus; 706-653-7880

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MOPS meeting. 9am-Noon. First Presbyterian Church, 1100 First Avenue, Columbus; www.columbusfpc.org/mops

Where Moms Connect.

9-11:30am. Wynnbrook Baptist Church, 500 River Knoll Rd, Columbus; 706-323-4374 Teen Craft Night: Design Your Own Scarf. 6:30pm. North Columbus Library; cvlga.org/kids

15-18

CSU Riverside Theatre presents “The Tallest Tale Ever Told�. 2pm. $5-$10. 901 Front Avenue, Columbus; 706-507-8444

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Cottonmouths vs. Huntsville.

7:30pm. Tickets $9-$30. Columbus Civic Center; www.columbusciviccenter.com

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Free Weekday Admission begins at Callaway Gardens; www.callawaygardens.com

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Teen Movie: Maleficent. 3:30pm.

North Columbus Library; www. cvlsga.org/kids

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Cottonmouths vs. Pensacola.

4pm. Tickets $9-$30. Columbus Civic Center; www.columbusciviccenter.com

y Events 19-23

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Free Weekday Admission begins at Callaway Gardens; www.callawaygardens.com MOPS meeting. 9am-Noon. First Presbyterian Church, 1100 First Avenue, Columbus; www.columbusfpc.org/mops

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Happy UnBirthday, Lewis Carroll!

Tea Party. 4pm. North Columbus Library; cvlga.org/kids

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CSO’s S’MORES Concert. 12:303:30pm $3-$5. RiverCenter for the Performing Arts; 706-323-5059 or www.csoga.org

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Puppy Tales. 10:30am. North Columbus Library; cvlga.net/kids

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Cottonmouths vs. Knoxville.

7:30pm. Tickets $9-$30. Columbus Civic Center; www.columbusciviccenter.com

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Free Weekday Admission begins at Callaway Gardens; www.callawaygardens.com

Family Flicks: Maleficient. 4pm.

South Columbus Library; www. cvlga.org/kids Cottonmouths vs. Fayetteville.

7:30pm. Tickets $9-$30. Columbus Civic Center; www.columbusciviccenter.com

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Family Theatre presents Our Miss Brooks. 7:30pm. $8-$12. 2100 Hamilton Road, Columbus; www. familytheatre.org

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Cottonmouths vs. Louisiana.

7:30pm. Tickets $9-$30. Columbus Civic Center; www.columbusciviccenter.com

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

Ages 8-17. Columbus Airport; 706-323-6565 or youngeagles. com/flightplan/flight.asp

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 Rd.

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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.

T hursday Toddler Tales at Barnes & Noble.

10am. 5555 Whittlesey Blvd. 706653-7880 Friday Tree Top Canopy Trail at Oxbows Meadows. 10am & 1pm. $5. Registration required. 706-507-8550 or http://oxbow.columbusstate. edu/tree_top_trail.php 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.

Librar y activities Chattahoochee Valley www.CVLGA.org

Phenix City-Russell County www.phenixcitylibrary.com

Troup-Harris

www.thclibrary.net

There’s no better way to make it through the day than with some tunes, a couple laughs, and someone to listen and listen to. We hear you, we thank you for listening and voting us your READER’S CHOICE favorite radio personalities.

N O’BRIA BEAR WATER S BRIAN

REAL PEOPLE. REAL RADIO.

D WOO E AR DAV

VOT E D FAVO R I T E R A D I O P E R S O N A L I T I E S

WiseDJChoices You & 5:28 Your PMB-Who Knows The Valley AD:Layoutfor 1 8/4/14 PMFamily Page 1 18

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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

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Moms Marketplace

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PARENT’S ONLINE SHOPPING GUIDE www.Hoo.KnowsTheValley.com

CALL 253-212-7270

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Wise Choices for You & Your Family

Hoo’s Tips Taking some simple steps to conserve energy reduces the percentage of your monthly household budget spent on utility bills. Your family will also be helping protect the environment by conserving energy resources. Here are some suggestions on how to make your home more energy efficient.

• If you already own a gas furnace, consider installing a programmable thermostat.

Keeping the furnace or heat pump well maintained ensures that it runs efficiently. Change your filters every three months, or as soon as they look black and dirty. This keeps the air flowing well through your heating system and your furnace running efficiently.

• Check for possible leaks around windows, doors, and pipes.

Caulk gaps that are allowing the cold air to rush in around windows and pipes, and install new weather stripping if there are gaps around your exterior doors.

• It’s best to unplug appliances and electronics when you are not using them.

Electronics and computers are especially large consumers of energy when plugged in and in ‘stand by’ mode.

• If you have older appliances, consider replacing them with some new Energy Star Certified appliances.

This is especially important for high-usage appliances, for example; refrigerators, washers, and dryers. Maximize the energy savings by running your washer, dryer, and dishwasher only when you have a full load.

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HOO’s HUNGRY

Breakfast

Muffins by sugarapron.com

Who needs a greasy sausage, egg & cheese sandwich from a fast food joint when you could grab one or two of these tasty cups instead? They’re more filling and way less calories.

DIRECTIONS Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F. Lightly spray muffin pans with baking spray or use silicone muffin pan. Squeeze moisture out of hash browns and place in a large bowl. Combine with olive oil and salt and pepper, to taste. Divide mixture evenly into prepared muffin cups and then press mixture into the bottom and up the sides to form a well. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until edges start to turn golden brown.

Meanwhile, in a nonstick pan sprayed with cooking spray, saute onion for 5 to 7 minutes, or until softened. Add broccoli and cook until softened and warmed throughout. Set aside. In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, egg whites and shredded cheese. Once hashbrowns cups are cooked, remove from oven. Divide broccoli mixture evenly among cups and then slowly pour the egg mixture into each cup.

Return to oven and bake for 15 minutes, or until eggs are set. Let cool 15-20 minutes in pan and serve.

Ingredients

• 20 ounces Ore-Ida Shredded Hash Brown Potatoes, thawed

• 2 tablespoons olive oil • Salt and black pepper, to taste • 1 yellow onion, chopped • 1 cup broccoli florets, chopped • 6 eggs • 4 egg whites • 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese

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Wise Choices for You & Your Family

January 10

Drop by the art cart for another day of family fun! Children will create their own seascapes using liquid watercolors and salt.

Stick around for a scavenger hunt in the Museum galleries.

Story time: 11 am

IFM Arts Academy Piano - Violin - Cello - Art - Dance For children and adults to help them develop their talents and skills for the glory of God.

3400 University Ave. Columbus, GA www.ifmga.org (706) 653-0097

www.HooKnowsTheValley.com

A Page In A Book Recommending the Best Books

for Children and Teens By Paige Gardner Smith

Journey: There and Back Again

Every day is a journey for children. The travel to and from school, questing around the neighborhood, and journeys of the spirit and imagination are all opportunities for children to pursue adventure beyond the normal confines of home and hearth. The following titles all embody the spirit of adventurous journeys, while carrying along the fondness for home that’s never far away.

Following Papa’s Song

By Gianna Marino (Viking/Penguin)

In the seemingly endless ocean, Little Blue, a young blue whale, is preparing with his family for his first migration. But he’s worried about being separated from his father on the journey. Traveling thousands of miles through the deep sea, a blue whale’s home is vast and moveable. Home is where his family is. When Little Blue is distracted on the journey and becomes lost in the deep, he will need all his listening skill to hear the song of home. ‘Following Papa’s Song’ is a moving and beautiful reminder of the call of home that resonates through every journey.

Journey

By Aaron Becker (Candlewick)

Faced with a distracted family and a yearning for adventure, a young girl plucks up a red crayon and draws a door into another world. As she travels through the neutral and pastel colors of the alternate landscape, her vibrant red crayon creates the things she needs to venture forth. But when her red crayon draws her into trouble, her means to return home is lost. But a flash of rich purple emerges and may solve her problems both at home and abroad.

A brilliantly executed work of art and storytelling, “Journey” is a steampunk-styled flight of wordless fancy that children will revisit again and again.

Three Bears in a Boat

By David Soman (Dial/Penguin)

When three bears (playing where they shouldn’t) break their mother’s favorite blue seashell, they immediately run to the beach to hide. And as they huddle in the shadow of their boat, the brothers decide undertake a quest; to sail away to find a blue shell. They query other seafaring bears for clues as their journey carries them far afield, but their search yields no blue shell. As their odyssey lengthens, their tempers grow shorter and home seems farther away than ever. It takes the stirring of a great storm to reveal the welcome calms and turn their voyage homeward.

Complete with a cheeky nod to ‘Moby Dick’, this title is a reassuring

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HOO’S at the Movies strange mAGIC Rated PG | Ok for kids 7+

Inspired by “A Midsummer Night’s Dream,” this madcap musical fairy tale features popular songs from the past six decades to help tell the tale of a colorful cast of goblins, elves, fairies and imps, and their hilarious misadventures sparked by the battle over a powerful potion. Gorgeous visuals from Lucasfilm and Industrial Light & Magic (which created the CGI animation for 2011’s Oscar-winning film “Rango”) bring to life the colorful forest. Featuring a story by George Lucas and directed by Gary Rydstrom, this movie stars Alfred Molina, Kristin Chenoweth, Maya Rudolph, Peter Stormare, Evan Rachel Wood, Elijah Kelley and Alan

the woman in black 2: angel of death PG-13 for some disturbing and frightening images | Ok for kids 14+

This sequel to the 2012 movie starring Daniel Radcliffe picks up when a group of orphaned children are forced to move from their home in London, and caretakers Eve (Phoebe Fox) and Jean (Helen McCrory) bring everyone to the desolate and eerie British countryside. It’s been 40 years since Arthur Kipps (Radcliffe) left the now abandoned Eel Marsh House, and it isn’t long before Eve starts to sense that this house is not what it appears to be. As the children begin to disappear, Eve learns that it’s no coincidence that she came to reside here, and enlists the help of a handsome pilot (Jeremy Irvine) to help investigate.

spare parts Rated PG-13 for thematic elements and brief strong language | Ok for kids 13+

Based on Joshua Davis’ Wired magazine story, “Spare Parts” (a.k.a. “La Vida Robot”) is based on a true David & Goliath story about four Hispanic teenagers from Phoenix who form a robotics team under the leadership of their school’s newest teacher, Fredi (George Lopez). With no experience, 800 bucks, used car parts and a dream, this rag tag team goes up against the country’s reigning robotics champion, MIT. On their journey, they learn not only how to build a robot, but also a bond that will last a lifetime. Directed by Sean McNamara, this movie also stars Jamie Lee Curtis, Carlos Penavega and Marisa Tomei.

project almanac PG-13 for some language and sexual content | Ok for kids 14+

“Project Almanac” is yet another “found footage” film (hopefully without the shaky camera effects), and the plot centers on a group of friends who discover plans to build a time machine. So of course, they decide to build one themselves. Their initial goal is to use it to undo past mistakes, but we all know how that turns out. Changing the past has dire consequences about what happens in the future. Directed by Dean Israelite, this movie stars Allen

taken 3 PG-13 for intense sequences of violence and action, and brief language | Ok for kids 14+

Liam Neeson can’t catch a break. He returns as ex-covert operative Bryan Mills, whose reconciliation with his ex-wife is tragically cut short when she’s brutally murdered. Consumed with rage and framed for the crime, he goes on the run to evade the relentless pursuit of the CIA, FBI and the police. One last time, Mills must use his “particular set of skills,” to track down the real killers, exact his unique brand of justice, and protect the only thing that matters to him now – his daughter.

www.HooKnowsTheValley.com

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Wise Choices for You & Your Family

Preschool—12th Grade

Open House

Wednesday, January 28th 8:30—10:00 a.m.

Tour the campus, meet administrators & teachers, and learn how your family can be part of the Viking family! or informaon, contact Julie ais at 706-561-8232 ext. 271 or jdais@sasphs.net www.BeAViking.com

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SUMMERwww.HooKnowsTheValley.com CAMPS & SUMMER FUN

Building a strong foundation for life.

As a parent, you want what’s best for your child. It’s your heart’s desire. At St. Luke, it’s our commitment. With a mission to develop the mind, body and spirit through outstanding academics and activities in a faith-based environment, we are providing a strong foundation for success – at the next level of education and beyond. From Preschool to our Early Learning Center to St. Luke School, our calling is to prepare and inspire your child to excel, wherever life takes them.

Visit school.stlukeum.com to learn more.

318 11th Street | 706-256-1301 St.Luke SchooL

|

earLy LearninG center

Make Math Fun!

|

PreSchooL

HOO’s learning

Is this a familiar scene? You’re sitting at table, helping your child with homework, and struggling to help him memorize math facts and formulas. Learning feels like a chore.

While 80 percent of traditional mathematics teachings rely on drilling and memorization, parents can help make math fun and approachable by linking it to real-world examples.

Encourage your child to learn the value of math by using fun games and activities to help them apply what they’ve learned.

• Play popular board games that require basic math skills. Chutes and Ladders® and RackO® develop number sense. Yahtzee® helps computation speed and accuracy. Problem solving skills are developed through games like Connect Four®.

• A deck of cards can be a valuable math tool. Card games begin to teach the lesson of probability. Using a deck of cards is also a great way to reinforce addition and subtraction for children learning basic math.

• Relate math to your child’s favorite sport. Ask her to calculate the number of points needed for her favorite team to win.

• Use driving time as a math game time. Invite children to figure out how long it will take to get to your destination or estimate how gasoline costs.

• Dominoes are a great game for children of all ages.

Smaller children can use them to organize similar quantities, while older children can explore the concepts of probability.

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Wise Choices for You & Your Family

To feature your school, preschool or daycare, call Tammy at 253-212-7270 ©2014 Kumon North America

POLKA DOTS

CHILD CARE CENTER 3 MEALS & 2 SNACKS DAILY LOW STUDENT/TEACHER RATIO AFFORDABLE QUALITY CARE

706-321-0096 HOURS: 5:30A-8P

Math. Reading.

Traditional

Infants through 3 year olds

Confidence.

Montessori

Now’s the time for Kumon.

Schedule a FREE Placement Test today!

COLUMBUS - NORTH 1290 Double Churches Rd., Suite K Columbus, GA 31904

706.257.6963 kumon.com/columbus-north

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

TELL THEM

SENT YOU!

SUMMERwww.HooKnowsTheValley.com CAMPS & SUMMER FUN

Celebrating 25 years!

L iv in g. L o v in g. L e a r n i n g.

Caring for your children and laying a foundation for their growth and success has been our calling for the past 25 years. Our unique, caring approach is rooted in an understanding that each child is a gift and a responsibility. These precious little ones deserve our attention, security and love. Just like home. Today, our commitment to your children continues with caring and experienced teachers, a stimulating and secure environment and an atmosphere of living, loving and learning you’ll only find at Growing Room.

Enroll now for the new school year! www.growingroomusa.com

Math Help

Math Enrichment

Test Prep

Homework Help

We make math make sense.

Enroll now and build your math skills like never before!

FREE FREE TRIAL TRIAL Exp. 2/15/2015 EXP . 2/15/15

Mathnasium of [Location]

000- 000- 0000(0000)

mathnasium.com/location Address Line One Address Line Two

6501 Whitesville Rd, Suite 100, Columbus ColumbusBradleyPark@Mathnasium.com Mathnasium.com/columbusbradleypark

855-331-MATH

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Wise Choices for You & Your Family

www.HooKnowsTheValley.com

MONDAY NIGHTS ARE

S

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

(Limit one Zax Kidz Mealsper adult meal purchase. Dine-In only) VALID AT THESE LOCATIONS ONLY: 7626 Schomburg Rd. • Columbus • 706.507.3235 1915 Auburn Ave. • Columbus •706.507.9297 6190 Bradley Park Dr. • Columbus • 706.320.0046 7033 Ruffie Way • Midland • 706.289.1258

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.

Kids must be present when ordering. Each restaurant independently owned and operated. © 2014 Zaxby’s Franchising, Inc. “Zaxby’s” and “Zax Kidz” are registered trademarks of Zaxby’s Franchising, Inc.

EDUCATION

APPS FOR

KIDS LANGUAGE 50 Languages

Learn 50 languages, free using your native language!

Hooked on Phonics

Games, lessons, and stories to get kids hooked on phonics!

Dictionary.com Flashcards

Create your own or choose from over 70,000 flashcard decks, customize by grade level, standardized test, or subject.

Practice English Grammar – 1

With over 500 questions in 16 topics, this app helps practice the basic usage of English grammar in elementary level.

MATH Pizza Fractions - Beginning With Simple Fractions

Pizza Fractions offers a simple, visually-based introduction to fractions for elementary school kids.

Rocket Math

Play one of the many fun math missions which range in difficulty from even/odd numbers all the way to square roots.

Edukitty Preschool

Parents can customize the choices kids have by eliminating the games that might be too challenging or hard.

King of Math Junior

Includes counting, subtraction, and addition quests that earn you points as you become a true math King or Queen! Kids 6 and older.

SCIENCE 3D Brain

Zoom around the interactive brain structures and discover its functions, disorders, brain damage, case studies, and links to modern research.

NASA

Stunning images, videos, mission information, news, and TV.

Animal Fun

Children learn about animals by seeing and hearing the sounds it makes with easy interface and fun sound effects.

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