Chatt Valley June 2019

JUNE 2019

Wise Choices for Moms & Families

© Timeless Memories by Jessica

CHATTAHOOCHEE VALLEY

See Cover Sponsor Page 2

Baby Sharks need their teeth checked too!

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Wise Choices for You & Your Family

NOW OFFERING IMPLANTS!

Dr. Cathy Cook

Gentle Dentistry for the Entire Family!

ACCEPTING ALL MAJOR INSURANCES, CARE CREDIT AND OFFERING FINANCIAL OPTIONS

Valid at the following locations only:

3722 S. Railroad St. • Phenix City 3908 U.S. Hwy. 80 W. Phenix City

FREE

Zax Kidz Meal ®

with any adult meal purchase.

7626 Schomburg Rd. Columbus 1915 Auburn Ave. • Columbus 6190 Bradley Park Dr. Columbus 7033 Ruffie Way • Columbus

Participating locations only.

Mondays

5:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M.

Offer only valid Monday 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Kids 10 and under only. Limit one Zax Kidz Meal per adult meal purchase. Adult meals include any Zalad®, Sandwich Meal or Most Popular Meal. Dine-in only. Not valid at any other locations. © 2018 Zaxby’s Franchising LLC “Zaxby’s,” “Zax Kidz” and “Zalad” are registered trademarks of Zaxby’s Franchising LLC. Each Zaxby’s restaurant is independently owned and operated under a license agreement with Zaxby’s Franchising LLC.

HOO’s going

SUMMER

www.FamilyAndKidsGA.com

ROAD TRIP

Looking for an adventure? We’ve narrowed down some of our favorite road trip ideas to help make your child’s summer a memorable one!

HANDS-ON LEARNING Atlanta Children’s Museum, Atlanta GA: Ideal for children up to age 8, this museum offers a massive, educational play space. Some features include a large play kitchen and diner, a faux fishing pond, a construction area equipped with blocks and pipes, a building lab, science lab and an art studio.

Center of Puppetry Arts, Atlanta GA: Enjoy this rare insiders look at the history of puppeteering with big names like Elmo, Kermit the Frog, Big Bird and more. After watching a show, children are given the opportunity to create their own puppet show and complete a craft to take home.

U.S. Space & Rocket Center, Huntsville AL: Home to the legendary Space Camp, Aviation Challenge and NASA’s Official Visitor Information Center for Marshall Space Flight Center; The U.S. Space & Rocket Center is one of the most comprehensive U.S. manned space flight hardware museums in the world. Visit this museum to see rockets, artifacts from the U.S. space program, view a film in a real iMAX 70mm theater and more.

Montgomery Zoo, Montgomery AL: This well-shaded zoo is a great experience for kids, allowing them to ride a train, feed a giraffe, pet stingrays and more. Plus, the zoo boasts a large playground and a beautiful indoor dining area that overlooks grazing animals. The zoo is also home to Mann Wildlife Learning Museum, which houses an extensive collection of large taxidermy animals. Guests are able to touch and feel the furs and antlers of some of the animals on display.

HEART-POUNDING ADVENTURE Six Flags over Georgia, Austell GA: Six Flags is known for bringing a thrill, and their Atlanta location is no exception! This theme park is home to more than 40 rides including 11 roller coasters, three children’s areas, and thrill rides. Plus, the new Hurricane Harbor water park has water slides, a wave pool and an interactive water playground.

Fun Spot America, Fayetteville GA: Looking for a new spot for fun? Fun Spot offers over two dozen family attractions, thrill rides, 3 mini golf courses, fast-paced, go-kart tracks and fun for the whole family.

Andretti’s, Marietta GA: If you’re looking for an indoor adventure, this indoor carting and game center is the place to be. Experience laser tag, a ropes course, bowling, virtual reality and of course, go-cart racing experience inspired by famous racecar driver, Mario Andretti.

Medieval Times, Lawrenceville GA: Huzzah! Dine with the King and Queen and experience a two hour show with jousting, dancing horses, falconry and more! Will your knight be crowned victor?

KICKBACK AND RELAX

If you’re looking for the typical summer by the beach getaway, here are some of our favorite locations. Each of these beach towns offer dolphin tours, outdoor adventure rentals, snorkeling, fun parks, water parks and mini golf.

Panama City Beach: The people of Panama City Beach would like to remind you they’re open and awaiting your visit! Hurricane Michael can’t stop summer vacation. Besides the miles of beaches, check out Ripley’s Museum of oddities, Gulf World marine encounters and WonderWorks fun zone.

Savannah: Not only does Savannah have beautiful beaches, it’s also home to some of the best historical tours in the country, UGA aquarium, the Children’s museum and more. Visit Savannah for a trip your entire family will remember for a lifetime.

Gulf Shores: Did you know Alabama is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the country? The Gulf Shores is also home to swamp sanctuary Alligator Alley and the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo has a sloth encounter that can be enjoyed by the entire family.

What are your favorite road trip ideas? Email us and we may include them in a future issue! Tammy@FamilyandKidsGA.com.

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The Scoop!

Follow us @FamilyAndKidsGA

Win cool prizes, socialize & stay in the know!

Where to Find HOO? BULK LOCATIONS: Area Chick-fil-A Locations PLUS: Check your local kid-friendly doctors, dentists, attractions, retail shops & restaurants.

TO SUBMIT AD OR EVENT: Tammy Usie, Publisher tammy@familyandkidsga.com 253-212-7270 FamilyAndKidsGA

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Wise Choices for You & Your Family

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HOO’s CUTE

CONTEST VISIT OUR WEBSITE TO ENTER YOUR CUTIE: www.FamilyAndKidsGA.com

Elle, 2 years Columbus

Klobie, 13 years Smith Station

Colleyanna, 2 years Midland

www.FamilyAndKidsGA.com

HOO’s learning

ACTIVITY by TUTORING “Children need the freedom and time to play. Play is not a luxury. Play is a necessity.” -Kay Redfield Jamison. We hear these words repeatedly, yet schools are focusing more on structured learning and less on free play and recess. Studies have proven the shortage of play in a child’s life is actually putting a strain on their development and emotional health.

The instructors at BTG Learning, located in Columbus, offer academic learning through physical activity and sports. “It gets their whole body engaged in learning, which tends to keep their interest,” explains director Wandy Wozniak, “and if they’re interested in what they’re doing, they tend to retain information better.”

BTG Learning focuses on training in math, science, reading and writing for preschool through 5th grade. This academic learning program teaches children that each subject has a real world value and demonstrates using the skill in your child’s daily life. Instructors come to your home, and your backyard or driveway is the classroom. A session is an hour long, and instructors come at least once a week. Your child’s curriculum is designed based on his or her needs, and each subject contains a physical activity. For example, if your child is struggling

with learning the value of coins, the student will perform jumping jack drills for each coin value. For toddlers, instructors focus on pre-writing, prereading and pre-math skills, and each subject helps develop a toddler’s gross and fine motor skills.

Every subject has an advisor who trains instructors. The instructors are college students, majoring in education, and seasoned teachers who are in search of part-time work. Each instructor completes training in classroom mechanics, ways to keep a child engaged and your child’s curriculum. As an added bonus, BTG Learning has a speech language pathologist on their team who integrates language and communication into every session. Wozniak stresses this critical component, “all children in any content subject must understand how to communicate verbally and in writing to comprehend what their instructor is teaching them.”

If you’re interested in learning more about BTG Learning or enrolling your child, visit their website btglearning.com.

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Wise Choices for You & Your Family HOO’s PARENTING

Transitioning TO

TWEENS

The transition into the tween years can be challenging for both you and your child, as she undergoes the process of maturing both physically and mentally. Here are a few tips for parents who are guiding their child through this journey from childhood to young adulthood.

Even though your child may want more freedom, she still needs your guidance

As your child works her way into the tween and teen years, you will notice her cognitive abilities grow. Brain development continues during adolescence and is completed at about age 23. However, the area of the brain that guides decision-making and self-regulation, called the prefrontal cortex, develops more slowly than other parts of the brain during this time. Add to this the peer pressure experienced both at school and on social media, and the result can be some risky behavior. Engage in conversation with your tween about the decisions she is making, and when possible coach her through the decision-making process. Head off any dangerous risks or unacceptable behavior, but do allow her to take some healthy risks. Your tween needs you to slowly adjust her boundaries and give her some freedom to begin defining her identity and exploring new interests.

Your tween’s interests are likely to change as she encounters the new opportunities available at middle school, such as clubs and sports. As you increase your tween’s freedom to allow her to follow new interests and form new friendships, explain to her that with more freedom comes more responsibility. Specify the new boundaries you are setting, and hold her accountable for her decisions. It can be frustrating to watch your tween make mistakes, like spending all her allowance at once instead of budgeting. However, allowing her to take healthy risks and make mistakes, helps grow the decision-making skills she will need as an adult.

Physical and mental changes of the tween years can fuel an emotional storm

Your tween may be happy and full of love one minute and then turn moody the next. Help temper mood swings by encouraging your tween to get enough sleep and eat a healthy diet. To reduce any anxiety about the body changes that come with puberty, explain these changes to your tween and provide tips on how to take care of her body.

Creating a structured routine for your tween also reduces stress by providing a framework she can use to manage her time. However, some free time to hang out with friends and relax should be built into this schedule. If your tween seems stressed due to an overly full schedule and never seems to have any down time, consider asking your tween to choose an activity to drop.

Friendships are important to tweens but difficulty with relationships can stir up quite a storm. Keep an eye on who your tween is friends with, and provide the guidance she needs to work through any ‘friend troubles’, including bullying. If she has a social media account, monitor it for any cyberbullying. Coach your tween on how to deal with bullies and step in if the situation requires it.

Spend time having fun

Keep your relationship with your tween strong by scheduling fun activities and showing interest in the new hobbies she is exploring. Schedule annual events, like a family vacation that your child can look forward to. Feeling loved and connected to her family builds your tween’s feeling of acceptance and self-esteem, which will help her weather the stormy tween and teen years.

www.FamilyAndKidsGA.com

Tammy Usie creative boutique & brokerage

MARKETING l DESIGN l SALES l EVENTS 253.212.7270 TammyUsie@gmail.com

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Wise Choices for You & Your Family

Camps & Activities

GUIDE

www.FamilyAndKidsGA.com

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Wise Choices for You & Your Family

www.FamilyAndKidsGA.com

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Summer Camps & Activities Guide Wise Choices for You & Your Family

Join the Fun! 2019 Camps for Children

AGES 3-14

June 10-21, 2019 Register now before your favorite camp is full!

www.stlukelions.com Presented by: St. Luke Church CORNER KIDZ

Children’s Ministry and St. Luke School

Summer Camps & Activities Guide www.FamilyAndKidsGA.com

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AGES 6wks-12yrs

Summer Camps Art | June 10-14 Dance | June 17-21 Drama | July 22-26

clement-arts.org

Benefits adoption and foster care

STRENGTH SPEED AGILITY POWER CONFIDENCE The Only After School Program for Athletes Ages 7- Adult Go to www.ImpactPerformanceRX.com and schedule a FREE class today!

Summer Camps & Activities Guide Wise Choices for You & Your Family

!

June +July 2019 Mon - Fri @ 1:00pm General Admission

for info call: 706-327-9798

1002 VICTORY DRIVE • COLUMBUS, GA 31901 WWW.PORTCOLUMBUS.ORG

FOLLOW US

@FAMILY AND KIDSGA BE THE ONE WHO EXPLORES WITH INSATIABLE CURIOSITY,

the one who plays, discovers, creates.

SUMMER

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BROOKSTONE SUMMER 2019 REGISTRATION NOW OPEN!

brookstoneschool.org/summer

Win cool prizes, socialize & stay in the know!

Instagram

Summer Camps & Activities Guide

D AN IVE YOUR CHIL

G GE ADVANTA ACADEMOICL AN D BEYOND! IN SCHO

Start giving your kids all the advantages of Kumon today!

©2018 Kumon North America, Inc. All rights reserved.

www.FamilyAndKidsGA.com

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EWMartialArts.com

DING BUIL

ent d i f con ers d a e l MARTIAL ARTS THROUGH

Kumon Math and Reading Center of COLUMBUS - NORTH 1290 Double Churches Rd, Suite K, Columbus, GA 31904

706.257.6963

kumon.com/columbus-north 706-326-0153 6440 W. Hamilton Park Dr. Ste 103B, Columbus

June E PROVIDED IN PARTNERSHIP WITH:

1 Home Depot Kids Workshop.

9am-Noon. Free. Ages 5-12. Columbus; 706-322-9240.

Phenix City; 334-297-2045 1 Puppy Tales. 10:30am. North Columbus Library; 706-748-2855

2 Wild About Gears. 10:30am.

Columbus Library; 706-243-2679

2 VIP Night for Kids with Special

7 Sensory Friendly Storytime.

2pm. Columbus Library; 706243-2679

18 Wild About Cooking (Ages 6-11). 3:30pm. South Columbus Library; 706-683-8805

7 LEGOS. 3pm. North Columbus

19 Juneteenth Celebration.

8 Daddy, Me, Donuts, and More.

10:30am. Mildred L. Terry Library; 706-243-2782

19-20 Finding Neverland.

Library; 706-748-2855

8 Fore Kids Junior Golf Tourna-

1pm. Mildred L. Terry Library; 706-243-2782

7:30pm. Rivercenter for Performing Arts; Rivercenter.org

Needs. 6pm. Launch Trampoline Park; Launchcolumbus.com

ment. 10:30am $10-$20. Ages 8-15. Godwin Creek; 707-3240583

20 Frankentoys. Ages 8-12.

3 Wild About Building with The

11 Discovery Hub: South Ameri-

ca. 10:30am. Columbus Library; 706-243-2679

21 Sensory Friendly Storytime.

2pm. Columbus Library; 706243-2679

4 STEAM Punks. 3:30pm. South

15 Daddy and Donuts. 10:30am.

21 MOPS and MOMSnext meet-

4:30pm. Columbus Library; 706243-2782

15 Puppy Tales. 2pm. Columbus

22 Board Book Club (BBC).

4 Harry Potter Night. 6:30pm.

15 Ninja Warriors: Library Edi-

Home Depot. 10:30am. Mildred L. Terry Library; 706-243-2782

Columbus Library; 706-683-8805

4 Wild Out: Minute to Win It.

North Columbus Library; 706748-2855 Library; 706-243-2679

4pm. North Columbus Library; 706-748-2855

ing. 9:15-11:30am. Wynnbrook Baptist, Columbus; 706-323-4374 10:30am. Mildred L. Terry Library; 706-243-2782

tion. Ages 5-11. 3pm. Columbus Library; 706-243-2679

22 STEAM Playground. 3pm. Co-

6 Wild Science (Ages 5-12). 4pm.

17 Wild About Money for Kids.

10:30am. Mildred L. Terry Library; 706-243-2782

24 Wild About the Chattahooch-

7 MOPS and MOMSnext meeting.

18 Mini Makers: Carefree Coders.

10:30am. Columbus Library; 706243-2679

25 Young Eagles Day at Flight-

Mildred L. Terry Library; 706-2432782

North Columbus Library; 706748-2855

9:15-11:30am. Wynnbrook Baptist, 500 River Knoll Way, Columbus; 706-323-4374

lumbus Library; 706-243-2782

ee River. 1pm. Mildred L. Terry Library; 706-243-2782

ways Columbus. 8:30-11:30am.

Free. Ages 8-17. Columbus Airport; 706-323-6565

Events 25 Hero & Me Storytime. 11am.

North Columbus Library; 706748-2855

25 Picture Book Club. 3:30pm.

South Columbus Library; 706683-8805

25 Family Fun Night. 6:30pm.

Mildred L. Terry Library; 706-2432782

29 Celebrate America. The Rock

Ranch. A day of red, white, and blue family fun and fireworks.

2-6pm. $14.99 per person. After 6 pm, $25 per car load. Rockranch.com

29 Young Eagles Day at Flight-

ways Columbus. 8:30-11:30am.

Free. Ages 8-17. Columbus Airport; 706-323-6565

29 Puppy Tales. 2pm. Columbus

Library; 706-243-2679

29 Uno, Dos, Tres Craft. 3pm.

Mildred L. Terry Library; 706-2432782 29 Life Size Candyland. 3pm.

Columbus Library; 706-243-2782 29 Sensory Play Saturday. 4pm.

Up to 5. North Columbus Library; 706-748-2855

Weekly Events MONDAY

Family Storytime. 10:30am. S. Columbus Library; 706-683-8805

TUESDAY

Unplug from the Computer for Chess’ Sake. 4:30pm. Mildred L. Terry Library; 706-243-2782

WEDNESDAY

Preschool Story Hour, 10am.

Phenix City-Russell County Library; 334-297-1139 Family Storytime. 10:30am. Columbus Library; 706-243-2679 The Mic Drop: Showcase Edition.

Ages 8-11. 4:30pm. Columbus Library; 706-243-2679

THURSDAY

Get Your Game ON! 3:30pm.

South Columbus Library; 706683-8805 LEGOS. 5pm. Columbus Library.

706-243-2679 (Not 6/13)

FRIDAY

Music ‘n Motion. 10:30am.

Columbus Library; 706-2432679

Youth Reads Book Club.

Ages 8-11. 4pm. Columbus Library; 706-243-2679

SATURDAY

Michael’s Kids Club Meeting.

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

Saturday Storytime. 11am.

Barnes & Noble, 5555 Whittlesey Blvd; 706-653-7880 Preschool Story Hour, 11am.

Phenix City-Russell County Library; 334-297-1139 Please call ahead to confirm event dates, times and age-appropriateness, in case changes were made after the info was obtained.

Wise Choices for You & Your Family

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Richard Mansfield, D.O. FAAP Amy Cool, M.D. FAAP Veronica Manka, MD, FAAP Neha Potini, MD, FAAP Trina Williamson, FNP

PEDIATRICS at brookstone centre 706.571.9699

2001 Brookstone Centre Pky

pediatricsatbrookstonecentre.com

Hoo’s Tips

www.FamilyAndKidsGA.com

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• Put fresh batteries in your smoke detectors and test them. Inspect your fire extinguisher to ensure it still has the proper pressure and is not damaged. Clean out lint and dust from dryer vents. Clogged vents could cause a house fire.

• Pressure wash siding and inspect wood surfaces for peeling paint or bare spots where wood is showing. Remove any peeling paint. If you find any rotting wood, remove it and repair it with an epoxy wood filter. Sand, prime and repaint all the problem areas you found.

• Clean the gutters out and look for any holes or cracks to be repaired with caulk. Re-attach any gutter hardware that has become loose or replace it with new hardware. It is important that gutters and downspouts effectively carry water away from the roof and foundation.

Seasonal

TIPS

Maintenance

The longer and warmer days of spring make it the perfect time for essential home maintenance tasks.

These tasks give your home a fresh look for spring and protect the investment you have in your home.

• Change your HVAC filter and remove leaves & weeds around your outdoor HVAC unit. If your system has not had a yearly tune up, consider scheduling one. Inspect caulking & weather stripping around windows & doors and replace any that is worn or missing. Save money by keeping cooled air from escaping.

• Check for roof damage. Use binoculars to view the roof and check for loose or missing shingles, loose flashing around the chimney and vents, or leaves that need to be cleaned off. Any problems should be addressed by a roofing professional or you may end up with water damage.

• Inspect the structure of wood decks. Replace any nails that have popped up and look for any cracked, soft, or rotted wood that needs to be replaced. Handrails and steps should be secure, not wobbly. Once all repaired, pressure wash and remove any mildew with a wood cleaner.

When deck is fully dry, then remove any stain that is flaking and apply a new stain or sealer.

• Prep your lawn mower for the long season of grass cutting by cleaning the spark plug or, if needed, replacing it. Change the oil and air filter, and take the blade to the hardware store or lawn equipment repair shop to be sharpened.

• Apply weed control to the lawn and plant grass seed if needed. Give flower beds a fresh look by removing old mulch and apply a fresh layer.

Mulching shrubs and flowers properly helps control weeds and save on watering.

Wise Choices for You & Your Family

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TAKE IT OUTSIDE Sunny styles for less.

Cash for their outgrown items.

Located in The Landings at exit 8 off I-185 | 2521 Airport Thruway, Columbus, GA 31904 706.507.3737 | onceuponachildcolumbusga.com |

/onceuponachildcolumbusga

HOO’s HUNGRY

GRILLED CORN ON THE COB still trying to find that perfect corn-on the-cob recipe? look no further!

DIRECTIONS Carefully pull back husk to stem of corn and tie together with cooking twine.

Place in a cold water bath for 30 minutes.

Preheat grill to 400 degrees and spray with nonstick grilling spray. Season corn with garlic salt and pepper and place on grill.

Cook for 15-20 minutes, turning in 5 minute increments.

Once corn is done, remove from grill and spread evenly with mayonnaise, season with more garlic salt and pepper to taste and top with crumbled bacon, cilantro, and a dash of parmesan cheese. Serve warm.

INGREDIENTS • 5 ears of corn • 1/4 cup mayonnaise • 5 pieces of cooked bacon • 1/3 cup grated parmesan cheese • 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped • garlic salt and pepper to taste • Grilling nonstick grilling spray • Cooking twine courtesy of: thefoodcafe.com

www.FamilyAndKidsGA.com

HOO’s HEALTHY Two fertility treatments commonly used to assist couples who are having difficulty becoming pregnant are intrauterine insemination (IUI) and in vitro fertilization (IVF). Here is an overview and comparison of each.

In the IUI procedure, mobile sperm which have been collected and processed in a lab are inserted directly into the uterus at the time when the ovulation has occurred and an egg is in the fallopian tube. To prepare for this procedure, the patient is monitored for ovulation either using an ovulation test or by using imaging that allows the doctor to view the ovaries and egg growth. In some cases, a patient is given medication to stimulate the ovaries to produce several eggs at once. IUI is usually performed a day or two after ovulation is detected.

The IUI procedure can be performed in the doctor’s office and no pain relievers are needed. After the procedure, the patient goes about her daily routine for about two weeks before starting to test for pregnancy. If IUI is not successful the first time, it is possible to try again.

IVF consists of several stages and is more physically demanding than IUI. The IVF process involves collecting

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WIUHAT IS: I AND IV F

mature eggs from the ovaries (egg retrieval) and then fertilizing them with collected and processed sperm in a lab. Egg retrieval does involve mild anesthesia and carries a risk of damage to the bowel or bladder. About two to six days after egg retrieval, the embryos are implanted in the uterus. Embryos left over from the procedure can be frozen and stored for use in future cycles, but the couple will need to determine what to do with frozen embryos left over at the end of the treatment.

IVF does have higher success rates per cycle than IUI. However, IVF is much more expensive per cycle, so patients who are candidates for IUI often try it first. Couples considering IVF or IUI should consult their doctor for advice on which treatment may be right for them, based on medical history, age and other factors.

RESOURCE: https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/in-vitro-fertilization/ about/pac-20384716 https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/intrauterineinsemination/about/pac-20384722

Wise Choices for You & Your Family

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HOO’s CRAFTY

LIGHT-UP GLASS JAR

AQUARIUM This eye-catching craft is a great way to have all the charm of little sea creatures without the responsibility!

DIRECTIONS Start by adding the plant before the gravel. Push the plant to the side as you fill the jar with gravel. Do this in a circle, so that you cover all sides of the plant base.

We filled ours about 1 1/2 to 2 inches tall. If your plant is too tall for your jar, just snip it off. Next, it’s time to add your plastic sea creatures and seashells .Then, it’s time to slowly fill the jar with water. Tint your water with just a few drops of blue food coloring. I wanted to keep it light, so you can see all the fun things in the jars. Now, grab the lights and use permanent adhesive to attach to them to the inside of the lid. Add a dab of adhesive to the light and to the lid, then wait a couple minutes for both to get a little tacky. Then, stick them together. In just

a few minutes they’ll be stuck. When you want to turn the light off, just unscrew the lid and flick that little switch.

SUPPLIES Aquarium plants Plastic sea creatures Mason jars Water with blue food coloring submersible LED lights Permanent Adhesive Courtesy of: thetiptoefairy.com

HOO’s Fun

www.FamilyAndKidsGA.com

You could reach over 15,000 moms in this space for only $72.

Call 253-212-7270

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Wise Choices for You & Your Family EDUCATION/CARE GUIDE

For a list of private schools, preschools, tutors and home school resources, visit familyandkidsga.com/cat/education To feature your school option, call Tammy 253-212-7270.

WHAT CALVARY HAS TO OFFER:

Biblical Instruction l Challenging Academics l Dual Enrollment l Fine Arts l AP & Honor Classes Weekly Chapel l Summer Camp l Full Athletic Program l Extra-Curricular Activities Before & After School Care l Family Environment l AdvancedED & ACSI Certified Faculty with a love for Christ and teaching l Full-time Onsite Nurse l Servant Leadership

Open House Thursdays!

Anytime between 9A and 1P with guided tours at 9:30A and 11A, or email saraketcham@calvaryknights.com to schedule a tour

CALVARY CHRISTIAN SCHOOL l 7556 OLD MOON RD, COLUMBUS l CALVARYKNIGHTS.COM

www.FamilyAndKidsGA.com EDUCATION/CARE GUIDE

Learning Through physical activity & sports

Convenient Don’t leave home...

Our Tutors come to you!

Math Reading Science writing

Ages 3-4 & Grades K-5

academic Learning through Physical Activity and Sports Classes start in June - Register Early!

Sign up online www.btglearning.com (762) 208-5048 Bridging The Gap for Learning and Opportunity

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Wise Choices for You & Your Family

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Dining Deals

for Kids

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

MONDAY

thursday

Barberitos

MOE’s Southwest Grill

Free kid’s meal with adult entrée after 4pm

5-9pm: Free kid’s meal per $5 minimum adult entrée

Chick-fil-A, Phenix City

Captain D’s

5-7:30p: Free kid’s meal with regular priced combo

Kids’ meals .99 cents all day

Chill Yogurt Cafe & Pizzeria

Kids 12 & under eat free (1 topping 8” pizza & drink) with adult entrée (11” pizza and a drink). Limit 1 per adult. Dine in only.

sunday

Zaxby’s

Free kid’s pita, cookie & juice box with a purchase of regular size pita combo

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

Pita Pit Texas Roadhouse

Tuesday

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

Denny’s

The Simple Greek

4-10pm: Up to two free kids’ entrées with adult entrée. For kids 10 and under

Kids 12 & under get free kids bowl with purchase of regular bowl or pita

Ruby Tuesday 5-10pm: 2 kids under 13 eat free with adult entrée

TGI Friday’s 3-10pm: Kids under 13 eat free with adult entrée

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

Monday-Friday Steak & Shake Happy Hour, 1/2 price shakes or drinks from 2-5pm

every day Golden Corral Kids 3 & under eat free with adult meal purchase

Your Pie Kid’s meal $1.99 (pizza, drink & gelato) w/ adult meal

Red Robin Kid’s meal $1.99 w/ adult meal for kids 11 and under

All locations are Columbus, GA unless noted.

Specials are subject to change without notice, so please verify them directly before dining. If you know of a kid’s deal not listed here, email: Tammy@FamilyAndKidsGA.com.

www.FamilyAndKidsGA.com

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HOO’s PICKS

APPS to LOVE flower checker Simply take a picture of an unknown plant and get it identified by an international team of experts. The identification process is not computer-based, it requires human involvement. Each user gets three identification credits, free.

oh Ranger! Park Finder

peek-a-zoo An award-winning interactive experience that asks children to identify different animals who dance, eat, wag their tails, wear sunglasses, sleep and more. Children will learn about animals, emotions, actions and sounds. AGES 2-5.

grill time GrillTime is a timer and grilling guide that makes barbecuing easier. Select your meat, thickness, and level of doneness. GrillTime automatically recommends the perfect grilling time and temperature. No need to hang around the grill, GrillTime notifies you when it’s time to flip and when it’s finished.

HOO’s FUN Jokin’ Around about SUMMER

Find the parks nearest you with the activities you want to do. Their team has spent years compiling, refining and curating a comprehensive database of every national park, state park, local park and federal public land in America.

’

Talking!

What do sheep do on nice summer days? Go to a baa-baa-cue.

What treat do dads like on hot summer days? POPsicles.

What did the pig say while laying out at the beach? I’m bacon.

Which letter is the coolest during the summer? Iced T. What’s the best day of the week to go to the beach? SUNday.

Milk

The milk sign is a lot like milking a cow, without the vertical motion, you are just squeezing the udder. Take both hands, make them into a fist, relax, and repeat.

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Wise Choices for You & Your Family

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HOO’s INSPIRED

DAD BON

DIN

G

When it comes to preparing to parent a newborn, there is often a great focus on tips for new moms on how to bond with baby right after birth. However, new parents should not forget that parenting is a partnership between mom and dad. Dads form a unique type of relationship with their children, and it is equally important for new dads to form a strong, loving bond with their babies and to stay connected with their children as they grow.

DAD BONDING STARTS BEFORE YOUR BABY IS BORN

Studies show infants with involved dads benefit developmentally and that new dads who bond with their newborns are less likely to suffer from postpartum depression. (Yes, a study published in 2017 shows that men can experience postpartum depression also). Moms often feel bonded to baby months before baby’s birth, and it is not surprising there is a tendency for mom to ‘take charge’ right after baby’s arrival, causing dad to feel a bit sidelined and disconnected. If you are an expectant dad, get a start on the bonding process by attending as many OB appointments as possible and start discussing with your wife or partner ways you can participate in baby’s daily routine. The pressure to be “perfect parents” may scare some dads away from certain tasks, but with the support of Mom, you should be able to find a part of baby’s care routine you are interested in helping with. Together, create a “Dad’s bonding plan” to help you start bonding with your infant in the first few weeks.

HOW TO BOND

Assist with diaper duty. This is a perfect time to talk or sing to your baby, or to try to make him laugh by playing peek-a-boo.

Wear baby in a sling while taking a walk. This is especially helpful when baby is in the mood to be held but Mom needs a break.

Taking on bath duty is a good way to spend time in the evening with your baby.

Read your baby a story every evening. If your baby takes a bottle, offer to take over an evening feeding. For breastfed babies, try spending time holding baby after he has finished the evening feeding but is not yet asleep.

STAYING AN INVOLVED DAD IS A LIFELONG PROCESS

As your child grows and his routine changes, look for new opportunities to stay connected. Studies show that children who have involved fathers do better academically and socially when they reach the school age years.

Physical play is a favorite way for dad to spend time bonding with kids. Give your child a horsey back ride or get down on the floor and play with him for a few minutes each evening, letting your child take the lead on deciding what to play.

Spend time each evening with your child at bedtime reading him a story or having him read to you. Ask your child about his day and be ready to listen to anything he wants to share.

Schedule a fun afternoon away each month alone with your child to do something he enjoys or is interested in learning.

The time you spend bonding with your child is an investment in his future. The skills and experiences that you share with him and the examples you set as a role model helps shape who he will become.

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Wise Choices for You & Your Family

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HOO knew?

FIREFLIES LIGHT UP?

Why do

Fireflies or lightning bugs are beetles that can produce light chemically.

This phenomenon is called bioluminescence. They are usually seen flashing their “taillights” during the summer months in the early evening. Most US species are found East of the Rockies. Their light can be in shades of yellow, green, or red, depending on the species.

Flashing is a form of sexual communication between males and females seeking mates.

The male’s light is twice as bright as the female’s. Unlike a lightbulb that is hot and loses most of its energy as heat loss, the firefly’s light is cool and is about 98% energy-efficient. The males flash while they are moving upward through the air to strut their stuff, while the females are hiding in the grass or bushes, giving off dimmer flashes to attract the flying males. Different species flash at different rates to ensure that a mate of the same species answers.

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Hoo’s Tips

Wise Choices for You & Your Family

FLYING

WITH

KIDS

We’ve all seen it, viral news stories of miserable children on flights. Comments flood the news thread about bad parenting and rude passengers. Then we see parents who went above and beyond, handing out apology bags filled with snacks, ear plugs and pleas for compassion. With seeing these stories, the sheer thought of taking a flight with your young child might seem terrifying. The worry and expectation far exceed the actual stress of the flight. Use these tips for a stress-free flight:

AT SECURITY

PRE-BOARDING

Follow TSA’s guidelines carefully for a fast security clearance. Wear metal-free clothes, easy slip-on shoes and buy drinks at the gate. Keep an eye out for family security lines and plan for a longer clearance time if you are carrying breast milk, juices or formula.

Airports offer pre-boarding as a benefit to families with young children, but pre-boarding also causes your children to wait even longer in a stuffy plane before takeoff.

Consider the value of pre-boarding and if you really need that extra time to get settled on the plane. If not, board at regular time.

SEATING LOGIC When choosing a seat for your child, give them the window. Not only does the window seat provide a better view, it also gives a buffer from the aisle and other passengers. Additionally, although you may think a car seat on the plane is cumbersome, consider bringing it. The car seat provides a safer flying experience and a familiar comfort for your child.

PACK SURPRISES Usually we try to avoid bribery in everyday parenting scenarios, but on a flight, let the bribing begin. Pack exciting “gifts” that will keep your child entertained such as small toys, handheld games, activity books, new movies, etc.

EAR PRESSURE RELIEF If your child has never flown before, the change of air pressure may be startling. This drastic change will cause ears to pop, an uncomfortable experience for young children.

For infants, give them a bottle during ascension and descension. For older children, offer snacks, gum or anything to keep the jaw moving.

DRESS IN COMFORT To help your child relax, dress for comfort, even if that means pajamas. Also, remember to pack a small blanket and pillow. With all these comfort items, your child is more likely to have a restful trip.

CHOOSING FLIGHTS

Flying early to travel with sleepy children, plus the airports and planes are less crowded. When you’re flying short distances, avoid layovers that extend travel time. If you’re making a long flight, consider a long layover to give your child a chance to get off the plane and explore.

APPS & MOVIES Charge your electronics and load on material to keep your child busy.

Remember to use apps that can run without data, unless you plan to pay for in-flight WiFi. Netflix, for example, offers downloads on many popular movies so your child can watch without a connection.

PACK SNACKS It’s unlikely your flight will serve kid-friendly meals. Pack high protein snacks to quench any hunger your child might have during the trip.

BE PREPARED Being on your “A-game” parenting during this flight will make all the difference for other passengers. Discuss flight expectations and flying etiquette with your children in great lengths before making the trip. Make it a point to know where everything is in your bags for fast retrieval. Do your best to extinguish any meltdowns at a fast pace and plan with your spouse for fast bathroom trips.

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