Chatt Valley March 2019

MARCH 2019

Wise Choices for Moms & Families

CHATTAHOOCHEE VALLEY

ies ctivit A & s E Camp GUID -17 S 10

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Cover Sponsor Page 13

Camps, Tutoring, Enrichment, College Prep & More

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Wise Choices for You & Your Family

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New

MAKING AS AN

Friends

Adult

By Maria Phillips, Family & Kids

Dr. Cathy Cook

www.FamilyAndKidsGA.com

During my childhood years I struggled to make Heather A. and Heather B. “like me,” but I always had my ride-or-die crew. My best friends were decided in the 5th grade and we grew up together.

Choosing largely different paths in life, we still keep in touch, but with 900 miles between us, we can’t exactly meet for drinks or our beloved Monopoly nights. Finding new pals has required me to reach out of my comfort zone. It’s not like I can just stand on the curb with a sign that says “I need friends.”

Sometimes I think that method would be less nerve-racking than randomly approaching, ahem, “strangers.”

I’ve been testing these methods to acquire new friendships, and although trying, it’s been quite successful:

Use Your Kids: If you’re at a

playground and your child is playing well with another kiddo, arrange a play date. Even if you don’t have much in common with this parent, it’s nice to have the contact for your child and adult sidekick at the playground and other kid-involved events. If you’re not clicking with anyone on the playground, consider a mom group. For a list of local mom groups, visit our website FamilyandKidsGA.com and click “guides.”

Volunteer:

Besides volunteer work being gratifying, it also brings an opportunity to be around like-minded individuals. Even if you don’t “click” outside of volunteering, you’ll get some socialization and help the community. You may just make a friend to volunteer with, and that’s perfectly OK.

Join a club: I feel like as an adult, “clubs”

are totally under-rated. They exist! Whether it’s a meeting at Chattahoochee Valley Library for coloring and coffee, or a local group of knitters, there’s a club for you. Finding it, however, may

not be easy. Try Google or check the local library’s schedule of events. Many hobby shops or craft stores can also refer you in the right direction.

Pursue Similar Interests: I’ve

made a really good friend through a fan group I joined online. Turns out, we have similar interests besides fangirling. Going on a friend date and knowing you already have something in common is a great start. Plus, if the conversation lags, you can easily circle back to the common ground. If you see someone everyday at Starbucks, ask to join them for coffee. If you notice a co-worker has marathon stickers on their vehicle just like you, ask if they’d like to go running.

Utilize Social Media: You may

be surprised to find out you are not alone; a lot of parents are in need of new friends. Simply put a post out in a local Facebook group asking for a play date at a local playground or play place and see where it leads. A benefit of searching for friends online is the low-pressure environment of a message bubble. A great place to start is our “Parenting Network of the Chattahoochee Valley” on Facebook at: Facebook. com/groups/FamilyandKidsGA. Making new friends isn’t always easy. We all wish we could go back to 3rd grade when our matching Lisa Frank backpacks were enough reason to be BFFs forever and we skipped merrily off into the sunset. Having anxiety to approach someone new is completely normal. Remind yourself the benefits of having a new friend by your side. Plus, if it doesn’t work out, you’re not obligated to continue on.

Friendship dating is a real thing, you make yourself a little vulnerable, but nothing worth having comes easy in life.

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The Scoop!

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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

www.Familyandkidsga.com

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Wise Choices for You & Your Family

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www.FamilyAndKidsGA.com

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Hoo’s Tips

swing into spring Fresh styles for less.

Cash for clothes.

706.507.3737 | onceuponachildcolumbusga.com |

/onceuponachildcolumbusga

MILK CARTON

BIRD HOUSE The only limit is your imagination.

Courtesy of craftcreatecook.com

Use a utility knife to cut the sides out of a carton.

Place the carton on a protected surface and paint with acrylic paints. Let dry.

Poke a hole into the top on each side of the carton with a nail or screw driver. Thread a piece of yarn or string through the carton and knot at the top to hang.

Fill with bird seed and find the perfect location outside to birdwatch.

for

preschoolers

Your preschooler slept through the night after you ‘sleep trained’ her at 6 months, but now she is suddenly refusing to stay in her bed and gets out several times a night. If this sounds familiar, here are some tips that will help your older toddler or preschooler get the sleep she needs.

First, keep your preschooler’s bedtime routine as consistent and predictable as possible. The bedtime routine should last about 30 minutes and include tasks that help your child wind down for the day such as taking a bath and some quiet time with you. If the bedtime routine is consistent and your child still has trouble falling asleep on her own and staying asleep, consult her pediatrician to rule out any possible medical conditions, like sleep apnea or asthma, that may disrupt sleep.

Once the bedtime routine is consistent and any medical issues have been addressed, select an age-appropriate sleep training method to teach your preschooler how to get the sleep she needs.

i

Keep sleep training positive by using a reward chart. Your child gets stickers for completing the bedtime routine, going to sleep

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in her bed, falling asleep without having you sit by her bed and staying in her bed all night.

Try the ‘fading’ method for preschoolers who have decided they want to stay up late and will not fall asleep at the time you have targeted. The first night, push bedtime to around the time your preschooler has been staying up until, and then each night make bedtime 15 minutes earlier until you reach your target bedtime. During the day, ensure your preschooler is not taking extra-long naps and is getting enough exercise.

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If your preschooler does not want to stay in her bed, try creating a ‘hall pass’ that allows her one free trip out of bed.

Once the pass is used, all other non-emergency requests to leave her bed are rejected. This method gives your preschooler some control over bedtime within clearly set boundaries, making her less likely to test the limits by repeatedly calling for you to seek permission to leave the bed.

ALL-

HOO’s CRAFTY

DIRECTIONS

Sleep Tips

SUPPLIES clean empty cartons acrylic paint paint brush water paper towel nail or screwdriver string or yarn scissors utility knife bird seed

Wise Choices for You & Your Family

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WOHSAETOLISA: R

Roseola is a common childhood infection that is caused by a strain of the human herpes virus. Most cases are in children under the age of two. However, adults sometimes get roseola, especially if they have a weakened immune system. The symptoms include a high fever that can last several days which is then, in many cases, followed by a rash. The rash looks like small pink spots, and some of the spots may have a white ring around them. Often, the rash first appears on the trunk and then spreads to the rest of the body. The rash is not itchy and may last for only a few hours or up to a few days. Someone with roseola may also experience a loss of appetite, swollen eyelids and diarrhea.

www.FamilyAndKidsGA.com

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HOO’s Healthy Like other viral illnesses, roseola is spread by person-toperson contact. Roseola is so common that most children have had it by the time they reach school age. It can take up to two weeks for someone who becomes infected with roseola to show symptoms. However, many kids have such a mild case that they do not even show noticeable symptoms. A roseola infection can still be spread by someone who has symptoms too mild to be easily visible. If you have a healthy immune system, once you have had roseola, you are immune to it.

FREE

FAMILY

FUN!

For children with a healthy immune system, there are not many complications caused by a roseola infection, except in the rare instances when the high fever triggers a seizure, and the infection resolves on its own. Do call your child’s doctor if the fever goes over 103 degrees F, the fever lasts more than a week or the rash from roseola lasts more than three days. If your child does experience a febrile seizure, seek immediate medical treatment. Roseola poses the most risk for anyone with a compromised immune system, since their immune system will be less able to fight the infection and it may lead to more serious complications, like pneumonia.

Sat, March 23 I 10-5 pm Sun, March 24 I 12:30-5pm ColumbusRiverBlast.com Live Entertainment, Family Activities, Food Trucks, Craft Vendors, Cannon Firings & Civil War Demonstrations!

Resources: aocd.org/page/RoseolaInfantum

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1002 VICTORY DRIVE • COLUMBUS, GA 31901 PORTCOLUMBUS.ORG

HOO’s PICKS

APPS to LOVE Pigment Relax with Pigment, the ultimate coloring app with the most pages to choose from.

You can choose to “tap and fill” or immerse yourself in a unique coloring experience that lets you color like you would on paper, with pencils, markers and brushes.

Mealime Mealime is a simple way for busy singles, couples, and families to plan their meals and eat healthier. Our meal plans & recipes are highly customizable so you can easily personalize a plan that works with your unique tastes and lifestyle.

fish school hd Watch colorful fish create letters; Recognize numbers and learn to count from 1 to 20; Follow the fish as they form shapes; Touch, tap and drag to make fish and other colorful sea life do funny things; Listen to classical variations of the ABC Song.

replyasap ReplyASAP makes messages unmissable between people that matter, since important messages shouldn’t be missed.

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Wise Choices for You & Your Family

ivities t c A s& CampGUIDE This Special Section Runs Through July Feature your summer camp, VBS, activity or attraction in our SUMMER GUIDE to over 15,000 moms per month who are turning to us to find them!

AD DEADLINE:

1st for Next Month’s Issue

Call 253-212-7270

Tammy@FamilyAndKidsGA.com

www.FamilyAndKidsGA.com

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HOO’s Fun

Wise Choices for You & Your Family

Many parents are concerned that over the summer, their kids will experience a setback in academic skills, often referred to as ‘summer learning loss.’ Finding a variety of summer camp programs that involve both recreation and academic learning opportunities disguised as fun can help prevent the ‘summer slide’ in math and reading skills. In addition, summer camp programs provide valuable, real-world experiences that your child is not likely to encounter in a classroom setting.

Create a balanced summer camp schedule Summer camp is an opportunity for your child to learn about several areas of interest in depth.

Schedule your child for a variety of camps that match his interests, while at the same time challenge him to expand his knowledge and skills even further. For example, your child could focus on his improving his technique at soccer camp one week and then explore his new interest in robotics and computer programming the next week. A week-long camp that focuses on a particular area of interest provides an exploration of a topic to a degree that your child is unlikely to experience during the school year.

In addition, the topic of a camp your child attends and enjoys is likely to become one of his favorite reading subjects for the summer as well as a new hobby that keeps him engaged in learning while school is out.

Even if your child loves the outdoors and could live outside all summer hiking, swimming and fishing, consider signing him up for at least one camp that includes STEAM skills. In today’s world, STEAM skills have become crucial life skills. Your child will have so much fun with the handson activities like ‘mad science’ experiments or building a new gaming app, that he will not realize he is using math and science skills.

Some outdoor camps even include activities like geocaching or orienteering that use STEAM skills.

Summer Camps & Activities Guide www.FamilyAndKidsGA.com

Get Set for

ACTIVITiES!

Do encourage your child to leave his comfort zone Although you may get some opposition from your child, do not base his summer camp schedule on that of his best friend. As a compromise, perhaps schedule one camp that your child and his friend(s) can do together but base the rest of his schedule on targeted topics and environments that will expand his knowledge and explore his interests. Summer camp is an opportunity for your child to grow his social circle and build his independence and confidence. The confidence your child gains from learning a new skill and forming new relationships can even help improve his performance in the upcoming school year.

August 3rd

Visit the “Kids Camp & Summer Fun Fair” to start your search

Princess Camp

The 9th Annual “Kids Camp & Summer Fun Fair” is the perfect opportunity to search for a balanced camp itinerary for your child. Over 50 kids’ activity providers from around the Chattahoochee Valley will be at the National Infantry Museum in Columbus on March 17 from noon to 4pm to provide information on camps, activities, programs and attractions. Take your child with you. Your child can help identify which programs match his interests and he may even spot something new he would like to try. The event is free and will also feature special guests, games and giveaways. For more info, visit our website: familyandkidsga.com/kids-camp-fair.

Training With a OPEN HOUSE

All Ages June 10 - 27

Summer Ballet Intensive Ages 7 and Up June 3-7

Summer Ballet Classes All Ages June 10 - 27

ColumbusState.edu/Ballet 706-507-8070

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Wise Choices for You & Your Family

Summer Camps & Activities Guide www.FamilyAndKidsGA.com

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!

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

t u o b a l l a s ’ t I

www.FamilyAndKidsGA.com

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, an award-winning Don’t miss out on mp for your Christ-centered ca mmer! daughter this Su

• Riding - English, Western, and Jumping • Swimming • Heated Pool • Ropes Course • Climbing Tower • Outdoor Nature Skills • Sports • Soccer

Best of Parentin Parenting WINNE WINNER 9y

ear

s in a r o w !

On Top of Lookout Mountain in Historic Mentone, Alabama Susan & Larry Hooks, Owners & Directors Donna Bares, Assistant Director

800-882-0722 www.riverviewcamp.com

• Basketball • Beach Volleyball • Tennis • Canoeing • Golf • Archery • Gymnastics • Cheerleading • Dance • Chorus • Drama • Arts & Crafts • CIT Program

REGISTER ONLINE TODAY! Choose from 1- and 2-week Sessions and Mother-Daughter Weekends!

• Campfires every night • Optional trips & more!

“Mom & Dad, I am so there this summer!”

is what one of our campers told her parents when she received a recent card from Riverview Camp! We invite you to join us for all of the fun that we have planned! Columbus Area families have chosen Riverview for years!

JUST IMAGINE…WAKING UP EVERY MORNING TO ANOTHER DAY OF FRIENDS AND FUN…SURROUNDED

BY NATURE, SUNSHINE AND BY THOSE WHO REALLY ENJOY HAVING FUN WITH YOU!

That’s why each camper calls this magical place “my camp!” That’s why there are limited spaces!

THAT IS WHY NOW IS THE TIME TO SAVE YOUR PLACE! We’ll see you at Camp!

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HOO’s FunWise Choices for You & Your Family

Hidden Leprechaun Search

www.FamilyAndKidsGA.com

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

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March Events PROVIDED IN PARTNERSHIP WITH:

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MOPS and MOMSnext meeting. 9:1511:30am. Wynnbrook Church, 500 River Knoll Way, Columbus; 706-323-4374

1 Kids’ Yoga Storytime. 11:30am. Columbus Library; 706-243-2679

5 Little Sprouts. 10:30am. $5/family. Colum- 12 Discovery Hub: Meteorologist. 10:30am. bus Botanical Garden; columbusbotanicalgarden.org

12 Trivia Night: Disney Trivia. 4:30pm. Co-

CSO presents Bartok & Prokofiev.

7:30pm. Ages 5+. $5-$39. RiverCenter; 706256-3640

lumbus Library; 706-243-2679

16 Astronomy Night. 8pm. Free. Coca-Cola

ily Theatre, 2100 Hamilton Rd; 706-366-7196

Scouts BSA - Troup 89 Info Meeting.

6pm. Girls ages 11-17. Edgewood Presbyterian Church, 3617 Macon Rd; 678-249-4984

17 Kids Camp & Summer Fun Fair. Free.

4:00pm. N. Columbus Library; 706-748-2855

Columbus Library; 706-748-2855

Library; lllofga.org/columbus.html

Springer Opera House; 706-327-3688

$10. Launch Trampoline; 706-221-8680

Ages 3-6. Oxbow Meadows; 706.507.8559

bus Library; 706-243-2679

MOPS and MOMSnext meeting. 9:1511:30am. Wynnbrook Church, 500 River Knoll Way, Columbus; (706) 323-4374

1 Dr. Seuss’ Birthday Party. 4pm. Columbus Library; 706-243-2679

5 STEAM Punks. 3:30pm. South Columbus Library; 706-683-8805

Columbus Library; 706-243-2679

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7 New Class: FairyTales First Day of School. Fam-

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1 Read Across America: Dr. Seuss Celebration. 7 I Saw the Sign: ASL Storytime. 4pm. North 13 La Leche League. 10:30am. Columbus 1-2 101 Dalmatians (G). 7pm. $8-$15. 7 VIP Time for special needs kids. 6-8pm. 13 Little Naturalists. 1:30pm. $5 per child.

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Just 4 Kidz Consignments Sale. 5377 Veterans Pkwy, Columbus; 706-587-1910

8 Sensory Friendly Storytime. 2pm. Colum- 15

2 Puppy Tales. 10:30am. North Columbus 8-9 101 Dalmatians (G). 7pm. $8-$15.

Library; 706-748-2855

Springer Opera House; 706-327-3688

15 Kids’ Yoga Storytime. 11:30am. Colum-

Columbus Library; 706-748-2855

Open Door Classic Walk, 5K & Kids Fun Run. 8:30am. $15-$25. Woodruff Park, 1000 Bay Avenue; 706-323-5518

15 Family Board Games. 4pm. North Co-

2 Discover the Globe: Japan. 2pm. North 9

2 St Anne-Pacelli Mardi Gras 5K & Fun Run. 5pm. Woodruff Park, 1000 Bay Avenue; ttrucks@sasphs.net

2 Home Depot Kids Workshop. 9am-Noon.

Free. Ages 5-12. Columbus; 706-322-9240.

Phenix City; 334-297-2045

9 Harris County Flea Market. 9am-4pm.

Harris Co High School, 8281 GA Hwy 116, Hamilton; hcfleamarket@gmail.com

bus Library; 706-243-2679

lumbus Library; 706-748-2855

15 RCCAD Father Daughter Dance. 5pm. $40 + $10/daughter. St Luke Ministry Center; 334-297-4962

9 Artful Babies - Color, Animals, Mini Mak- 16 Project Prom. 9am-1pm. Free. High ers. 10:30am. Ages 6-24mths. Columbus Museum; 706-748-2562, ex 2124

school ID required. Columbus Convention & Trade Ctr; jlcolumbus.com

243-2679

Columbus Museum; 706-748-2562

Botanical Garden; 706-327-8400

Springer Opera House; 706-327-3688

Spring Fling Craft Market. 11am-3pm.

Midland Community Farmers Market, 9110 Warm Springs Rd; 706) 507-0357

Springer Opera House; 706-327-3688

$5-$15. Northside Recreation Center, 2010 American Way, Columbus; 706-576-5475 or 706-653-4196

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Fore Kids Columbus: Junior Golf Tournament. 10am. $20 (includes hotdog lunch).

Godwin Creek Golf Course; 706-324-0583

9 Puppy Tales. 2pm. Columbus Library; 706- 16 Mini Makers. 10:30-11:30am. Ages 2-4.

2 Little Sprouts. 10:30-11:30am. Columbus 9-10 101 Dalmatians (G). 2pm. $8-$15. 16 2-3 101 Dalmatians (G). 2pm. $8-$15. 10 Empty Bowl Charity Brunch. 11am-3pm.

5 Mini Makers: Number Crunchers.

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

16 CSO: Family Dress Rehearsal. 12:30pm.

RiverCenter; 706-256-3640 or csoga.org/ openrehearsals

Space Science Center; 706-649-1477

11am Museum opens, Noon Expo opens.

National Infantry Museum; facebook.com/ kcsff. See page 5 for event ad.

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Safe Kids Columbus Helmet Giveaway.

Midtown Medical West Campus; Pam.Fair@ Piedmont.org or (706) 321-6720

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Discovery Hub: Animal Caretaker.

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

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

26 Picture Book Club. 3:30pm. South Co- WEDNESDAY Family Story Time. 10:30am. Columbus Lilumbus Library; 706-683-8805

26 Family Fun Night. 6:30pm. Mildred L.

brary; 706-243-2679

Terry Library; 706-243-2782

ASL: Family Sign Language. 4pm. Mildred L. Terry Library; 706-243-2782

27 Sesame Street Live! 6-8pm. $20-$50.

Get Your Game ON! 3:30pm. South Columbus Library; 706-683-8805

27 Little Naturalists. 1:30pm. $5 per child. THURSDAY Ages 3-6. Oxbow Meadows; 706.507.8559 Columbus Civic Center; ticketmaster.com

SATURDAY

Columbus Library; 706-243-2679

28 Cardboard Box Challenge: Build a Wild Thing. 4pm. North Columbus Library; 706748-2855

South Columbus Library; 706-683-8805

bus Library; 706-243-2679

Planters. 4:30pm. Columbus Library; 706243-2679

bus. 8:30-11:30am. Free. Ages 8-17. Columbus Airport; 706-323-6565 or youngeagles. com/flightplan/flight.asp

See Y’all There Saturdays. 2pm. Columbus Public Library; 706-243-2782

dred L. Terry Public Library; 706-243-2782

Please call ahead to confirm event dates, times and age-appropriateness, in case changes were made after the info was obtained.

19 Mini Makers: Stained Glass. 10:30am.

Michael’s Kids Club Meeting. 10am-Noon.

Ages 3+. See store for details.

19 Happy Birthday, Dr. Seuss!. 3:30pm. 29 Kids’Yoga Storytime. 11:30am. Colum-

Toddler Time. 10am-Noon. Launch Trampoline Park; launchcolumbus.com

19 DIY Days for Tweens: Painted Tin Can 30 Young Eagles Day at Flightways Colum-

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

21 Bilingual Storytime. 11:15am. North Columbus Library; 706-748-2855

21 Brain Games. 4pm. North Columbus Library; 706-748-2855

22 Sensory Friendly Storytime. 2pm. Columbus Library; 706-243-2679

23 Puppy Tales. 2pm. Columbus Library;

706-243-2679

23 The Mic Drop: Kids’ Open Mic. 4:30pm.

Columbus Library; 706-243-2679 23-24

RiverBlast 2019. 10am.

National Civil War Naval Museum, 1002 Victory Drive; 706-327-9798

30 Board Book Club (BBC). 10:30am. Mil30 Storytime With Free Marco’s Pizza.

11am-1pm. Ages 2-8. Wall of Books, 45087 Armour Rd; 706-993-2400

30 Saturday“Drive In”Movie for Kids. 3pm.

North Columbus Library; 706-748-2855

Weekly Events MONDAY

Music ‘n Motion. 10:30am. Columbus Library; 706-243-2679.

Wise Choices for You & Your Family

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www.FamilyAndKidsGA.com

Odell Vining, Ph.D.

Child & Adolescent Psychologist

HOO’s Fun

Activities Your

Psychological testing and behavioral therapy for children/teens Ages 3-19 years

• • • • • •

ADHD Anxiety Depression Self-injury Autism Bipolar diso disorder

• Adjustment problems • Anger management • Oppositional defiant disorder • Learning disability

101 Enterprise Ct. I Columbus, GA I 706-225-0322 I thepsychologyclinic.net

St. Patrick’s Day Maze

for

Young Child

Studies have shown enrolling your child in extracurricular activities at a young age leads to improved academic, psychological and behavioral function. Plus, finding your child’s interests early on aids towards their optimal success and growth. Although there are benefits to enrolling your child at an early age, finding activities for your child under the age of 5 is not easy. Here are some local options to expand your younger child’s mind and increase social interaction:

soccer ball, plus games to build listening skills, such as ‘Red Light, Green Light.’ Nearing the end of the season, a couple games of scrimmage will be played. columbusyouthsoccer.com Swimming Lessons at YMCA Our local YMCA offers swimming lessons starting at 6 months old. Parents accompany their child in the pool for guided training. Enjoy watching your child make new discoveries about himself in the water. columbusymca.com

Little Mozart at Schwob School of Music This class for preschool-aged kids (2-5) offers a fun environment that stimulates musical growth. Students explore rhythm, ear training, singing and expression through music with the use of movement exercises, circle games and playing on various percussion instruments. musicprep.columbusstate.edu

Gymnastics Unlimited Hot Tots classes are offered for ages 18 mos to 2 years, with parental guidance. At 2 yrs of age, they offer “Little Gym,” focusing on physical fitness, self-esteem, personal skills and social skills. gymunlimitedga.com

Columbus Youth Soccer Club Starting at age 3, CYSC offers a “tots” team. Once a week, your child will play games to gain familiarity with the sport and

Chattahoochee Valley Library CVL has regularly scheduled, free programs to help your child socialize, learn and grow. Weekly story times for little and big tots, finger painting, music n’ motion and more! CVLGA.org

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Wise Choices for You & Your Family

Hoo’s helpful www.FamilyAndKidsGA.com

g

n i s s u c s i d

The National Alliance on Mental Illness found that one in 5 Americans are affected by mental health conditions. When you understand some of the misconceptions and how to appropriately communicate with someone who may be down or anxious, they will be less likely to feel the shame and fear that can often come along with struggling in silence.

(Doors open at 9:00am)

c a s c a d e h i l l s .c o m / e a s t e r

Depression affects all ages. There are a variety of reasons a kid may be depressed. “A lot comes from stressors from school, expectations from parents or being bullied or cyberbullied,” said Lucy Tovar Murillo, LPC at Columbus Counseling Associates.

Depression has other negative ramifications. “It can lead to self-harm behaviors, hopelessness, low selfworth and low self-esteem,” said Murillo. Since your child’s stressors may not be the same as yours it can be hard to understand at times. “Show some empathy for your child and do not just dismiss them on what they are going through because it contributes to the depression more when they are not believed or even disappointing parents,” said Murillo.

Although you may do everything in your power to keep your child happy, he can still become depressed.

There is no surefire prevention. “Having an open line of communication is important and noticing changes like your kid isolating himself, not eating or overeating or not doing things they enjoy,” said Murillo. You may want to create a welcoming space in your home where you sit down with your child and talk. That way when hard things arise he will be more willing to share versus dealing with it in his own way.

Socializing matters, but the support of peers does not replace the necessary support of elders. “It is wonderful to have someone you can talk to and be as open and raw as you want but I would encourage kids to have one trusted adult they can

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go to because kids do not know what to do versus an adult that would have the means to get support,” said Murillo.

The other common issue kids face is anxiety. “They may have irrational fears of something that can be debilitating and make them sick,” said Murillo. A lot of times if a child is depressed, the anxiety will be co-occurring. When you minimize your child or tell him that what he is going through is okay, you are actually deterring him from opening up to you. “Some interventions include calming techniques like visualizing a calm, safe place or having something that will take attention off of the anxiety or fear or doing something productive with their hands,” said Murillo. Mindfulness and grounding techniques can be very helpful.

Professional help is always an option. Anxiety is usually more obvious than depression. You can get an assessment from a counselor to see if your child needs therapy if you have concerns. “I have a biofeedback program that helps train the client how to control breathing so if they are anxious they can control themselves on a biological level,” said Murillo. Calming of the mind even through yoga or meditation are great avenues to take as well. “For adults it is about knowing their limits of stress and pushing through it, being good to yourself and taking time out for yourself,” Murillo shared. Lifestyle choices like a healthy diet and less screen time can make you feel better. While there is no magic wand to cure depression, you can make purposeful choices and create a welcoming area to come together as a family and talk things out.

LOCAL RESOURCES

APT Counseling Services, drambroespass-turner.com Columbus Counseling Associates, ccacolumbus.com The Psychology Clinic, thepsychologyclinic.net

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Wise Choices for You & Your Family

www.FamilyAndKidsGA.com

+++

HOO’s HUNGRY

COTTON CANDY

MARBLED FUDGE

Kids love this fudge, adults love this fudge – it’s an excellent dessert to serve at special events!

Courtesy of bitzngiggles.com

DIRECTIONS

Line a 13×9 pan with foil and nonstick spray. Combine sugar, butter, heavy cream and butter in a saucepan, cook and stir over low heat. Once sugar is dissolved, bring to a boil and stir for 4 minutes.

Remove from heat and mix in the marshmallow cream and the chips, stirring until melted. Pour 3/4 of the mix into lined pan. Add the cotton candy mix to 1/4 leftovers then drizzle that over the pan.

Now, add 3 drops of the food coloring across top of the fudge in the pan, and use a knife to make the swirls.

Refrigerate to set, then cut into squares and serve.

HOO knew?

Are certain people really

Double-Jointed?

’

Talking!

Growing up, we all knew kids who could gross us out by bending their thumb back to their wrists or bending their legs behind their heads. We refer to these people as double-jointed.

In reality, no one is double-jointed. Contortionists actually are able to stretch the ligaments that surround certain joints, which would normally restrict movements. By doing stretching exercises, these people can further exaggerate their unique ability. For some reason, females are more often “double-jointed” than males.

Eat

Take a hand and bring the thumb and fingers together, making a bird beak shape. Then bring the tips of your fingers and touch it to your mouth to signal you want to eat.

INGREDIENTS

• 2 cups sugar • 3/4 cup butter • 12 ozs white chocolate chips • 7 ounce jar marshmallow creme • 3/4 cup heavy whipping cream • 1 packet Duncan Hines Cotton Candy Frosting Creations mix • Pink food coloring (I used McCormick NEON food color)

27

Wise Choices for You & Your Family EDUCATION/CARE GUIDE

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

BE THE ONE YOU WERE MEANT TO BE. IT ALL STARTS AT

BROOKSTONE.

Our all-in-one 3K–12 campus is home to a deep, loving community that builds our students into can-do, will-do leaders. In small classes, we give our kids one-on-one attention and one-in-a-million academic programs.

Come see for yourself. Visit: www.brookstoneschool.org

BE THE ONE

28

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Wise Choices for You & Your Family EDUCATION/CARE GUIDE

www.FamilyAndKidsGA.comGUIDE EDUCATION/CARE

GIVE YOUR CH

ILD AN

GE ADVANTA ACADEMOICL AN D BEYOND! IN SCHO

Start giving your kids all the advantages of Kumon today!

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

706.257.6963

kumon.com/columbus-north

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

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Wise Choices for You & Your Family

32

Hoo’s helpful

www.FamilyAndKidsGA.com

33

Grandparents

WHO CROSS THE LINE

Even before your child was born, you may have experienced the problem of grandparents who seem to consistently disrespect their boundaries. The situation can become even more difficult when it is your in-laws who are trespassing on your parental privileges. Here are some tips on how to gently, but firmly handle grandparents who have crossed the line into your parenting territory.

Have a discussion with your partner to define grandparents’ boundaries First, you need to have a discussion with your partner to ensure you are in agreement regarding the boundaries set for grandparents. This is a discussion to have in private, without the kids around, well before meeting with grandparents to communicate the boundaries you wish them to respect. It is hard to fault grandparents for crossing boundaries if the boundaries are not consistent.

HOO’s HUNGRY

Keep any discussions about grandparents’ boundaries respectful

GRAHAM CRACKER

CHICKEN Fry up this sweet chicken for an unforgettable dinner. Courtesy of dessertfortwo.com

DIRECTIONS In a saucepan, heat oil over medium heat. Crush the graham crackers in a food processor or plastic bag with a rolling pin. Add the smoked paprika, garlic powder and salt to the graham cracker crumbs, combine. Beat the egg in a shallow bowl, put aside. Bread the chicken: dip it in the egg, let the excess drip off, roll it in the crumb mix. Repeat for all tenders. Add only two or three tenders to the hot oil at a time, and fry until golden brown and 165-degrees internally. It should take about 3 minutes per side. Repeat with all tenders. Drizzle with honey and serve.

INGREDIENTS 2 cups of fry oil 5 graham cracker sheets 1 teaspoon smoked paprika 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder 1/2 teaspoon salt 1 egg 1 pound chicken tenders honey, for drizzling

When discussing parenting decisions, you expect the grandparents to respect and not overturn on a whim, do so in a calm, respectful manner without your kids present. Especially for new parents, it can feel like parents and in-laws are constantly bombarding you with unsolicited parenting advice, critical comments or requests that cross the boundaries you are trying to set for them. Keep in mind that for the most part, the grandparents are just excited about their new role and want to help in any way they can. Stand your ground and diplomatically explain that while you appreciate their input, your decision has been made.

This type of discussion can become emotional but with some diplomacy, you can keep it from becoming hostile. If you are politely rejecting unsolicited, outdated parenting advice, bring the grandparents up to speed by sharing the new research that backs up your parenting decision. When breaking the news that you have rejected a request the grandparents

made because it crosses the boundaries you have set, firmly state that your decision is final but also find an alternative way the grandparents can contribute. For example, if it seems your mother-in-law is wanting to stop by daily and see the kids, set up a family tradition of meeting for dinner every weekend instead. Your goal is to gently remind the grandparents that you are making the parenting decisions for your child and it is not their right to try to overturn them.

Sometimes, diplomacy with in-laws fails and you may find yourself being a topic of discussions held behind your back. Ask your partner to address this issue by reminding the grandparents that this type of hostile behavior is a poor example for the grandkids.

Severing ties with disrespectful grandparents should only be a last resort Completely severing ties with disrespectful grandparents should only be done in cases where there is a danger to your child’s physical or emotional well-being. You do not want to send your child the message that it is OK to completely cut connections with family members without a serious reason.

Also, kids benefit from a healthy relationship with grandparents and you don’t want to destroy this relationship over a trivial disagreement. If you do have to sever the relationship with a grandparent, carefully plan how to explain to your child why you had to do so. You may even want to seek the advice of a family counselor on how to handle this delicate situation.

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Wise Choices for You & Your Family

www.FamilyAndKidsGA.com

Dining Deals

for Kids

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

Call 253-212-7270

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

Cafe La Rue

Captain D’s

5-9p: Free kid’s meal with adult entrée

Kids’ meals .99 cents all day

Chick-fil-A, Phenix City 5-7:30p: Free kid’s meal with regular priced combo

Chill Yogurt Cafe & Pizzeria

sunday

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.

Pita Pit

Zaxby’s

Texas Roadhouse

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

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

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

Tuesday

The Simple Greek

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

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

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

M

HOO’s INSPIRED

anners Matter

Every greeting and introduction is a chance to show your respect for others and to create a favorable impression of yourself. Be memorable (in a good way)! Basic ways to show respect when meeting someone: 1. Put down your phone/device (includes taking out your earbuds/headphones) 2. Stand 3. Make eye contact 4. Smile 5. Say “Hello”, “Hi” or “Nice to meet you” (and mean it) 6. Shake their hand by extending your right hand

By Jackie Dudley, Director Columbus Junior Cotillion NLJC Greater Columbus Chapter

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

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

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.

STORY

TIME 11-1p/Last Saturday/Ages 2-8

4508 Armour Rd, Columbus/706-993-2400

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Wise Choices for You & Your Family

36

www.FamilyAndKidsGA.com

37

HOO’s CUTE

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

Josephine, 11 months Columbus

Jiselle, 1 year Columbus

Aiden, 3 years Phenix City

COLUMBUS CIVIC CENTER

WWW.SESAMESTREETLIVE.COM

MARCH 27

g Takins ! t u o e Tim

HOO’s PARENTING Phillips,

by Maria & Kids Family

I remember my one and a half year old testing all the boundaries. He knew exactly what “no” meant, but would still try to climb that shelf or open the fridge. After correcting and redirecting time-aftertime with no results, I referenced one of my favorite reality shows, “Super Nanny,” for guidance and put him in a corner for timeout. He sat there! It was like this corner had some magical magnet attached to his bum. Per the nanny’s advice, I started timeout for one minute (a minute per year of age) and after that one minute, I came down to his level, explained why he was put in timeout, gave him a hug and sent him along. All was better. I was amazed! A few days later, tested the timeout “trick” in front of Dad. BAM, the kid went to timeout on his own, sat there for his minute and ended completely “reset.” Dad was in awe, and I was a super mom! My son is three, and this is one of my biggest parenting successes. Since we started timeout at such a young age, I’m convinced he’s programmed to respond. We’ve been in Target and he will be having a meltdown, I tell him to

go to timeout, he finds the closest corner, sits his butt down and completely resets.

Here are some tips to make timeout successful in your home: • Timeout is a reset. Don’t treat it as a punishment, it’s a time to modify behavior & take a break from an unwanted action.

• Timeout needs to be in solitude. To reset, your child needs a moment alone. Don’t talk to your child in timeout, keep other children away and reset in an area free of toys or distractions.

• After timeout, explain why. At a young age, your child may not understand the cause and effect, but explaining to your child why they were put in timeout will eventually create a clear expectation of consequences for unwanted actions.

• Every child is different. Timeout may be the most effective redirecting strategy for my child, but it may not work for yours. Consider your child’s personality and create a parenting strategy best suited for their needs.

38

Wise Choices for You & Your Family

www.FamilyAndKidsGA.com

39

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