Many parents expect that when their infant reaches toddlerhood and is on a sleep schedule, the bedtime battles and frequent nighttime wakings will be less common. However, there are some issues in toddlerhood that can interfere with sleep and make it hard for your toddler to get the recommended 11–14 hours of sleep per day. This amount of sleep does include naps. Here are some strategies to help your toddler, and you, get enough sleep at night.
Separation anxiety
Your toddler may do a good job following her bedtime routine, but in the middle of the night you wake up because she is climbing in bed with you. You may sense that your toddler feels anxious and wants to be close to you. Give her plenty of hugs and reassurance, and calmly walk her back to her bed. Each evening, spend time before bed giving your toddler your full attention, and set aside time during the day when you can focus on your toddler without distractions. This may help reduce attention-seeking behavior, such as climbing into your bed, and help your toddler sleep through the night.
your toddler iS hitting exciting mileStoneS
Your toddler may have just learned to walk, climb or start to talk. She feels excited and wants to practice her new skills. Winding down at bedtime may be difficult for her and she may resist bedtime due to her newfound feeling of independence. Keep your toddler safe by ensuring her room and the house are toddler-proof, in case she decides to get up at night and explore the house. During the day, provide plenty of opportunities for your child to use and explore her newfound skills. She will be tired and ready for bed.
sleep diSturbanceS
By Linda Ligon, Family & Kids
your toddler’S nap Schedule needS to be adjuSted
If your toddler takes a nap too late in the afternoon or the nap is too long, it can make her not feel sleepy at bedtime. Try pushing the nap a few minutes earlier each day, until you find the right nap schedule for your toddler. Most toddlers transition to a single nap in the afternoon by the time they are 18 months old. This nap should last about 1.5 to 2 hours. However, every child is different. If your toddler is fighting taking a nap or wakes up early from naps, she may be ready to transition away from an afternoon nap. Your toddler’s nap schedule will change as she grows, so watch for cues she needs adjustments to it.
nightmareS wake your toddler
Although it can be distressing to hear your child wake up crying, it is normal for toddlers to have nightmares. These dreams occur during REM sleep, which the brain uses to process information gathered during the day. Toddlers have vivid imaginations and the new experiences they gain during the day sometimes lead to fears and anxiety that trigger nightmares. Comfort and reassure your child when she has a nightmare but, if possible, do not allow her to get into your bed. Explain to your child that it was just a dream and encourage her to return to her bed and go back to sleep. To help prevent nightmares, establish a regular sleep routine and work during the day to reduce any anxiety she has about her dreams. If, despite your best efforts, your child is having nightmares that disturb her sleep or is having night terrors, consult her pediatrician. Night terrors are a sleep disorder that occurs during deep sleep and causes someone to scream or cry while still asleep.
by Linda Ligon, Family & Kids
You have probably heard of detoxing the body by avoiding processed food, and some people choose Lent as a time to give up unhealthy treats and ‘detox.’ This deeper spiritual time is as good as any time for another type of detox, a digital ‘fast,’ where you avoid screen time on your phone and other digital devices.
Digital detox helps you focus
Without realizing it, we lose time by constantly checking our phone. You may be concerned that you will miss out if you do not frequently check for texts and replies to your posts on social media. Also, if you have a work phone, it can be tempting to check your email even though you may have taken some time off. It is hard to stay focused and center your thoughts on prayer, meditation and spending time with your family when you are constantly engaging with your personal or work phone. Even if you think that you just need to check one place for a message or an email, without realizing it, you may spend another half hour browsing social media or the internet.
If you put your phone on airplane mode when you are not at work, you will release yourself from the tether that keeps on dragging you back into the distractions of the digital world and away from your family, other priorities or time towards building mental and physical resiliency.
Digital detox helps mental health
Always feeling connected to work and the digital world can lead to stress and anxiety that interferes with your relationships, as well as your spiritual and physical well-being. Anxiety and worry can steal so much of your focus and energy that you feel that you have nothing left to put into yourself, much less others. It is much easier to stay grounded and relax if you are not constantly being burdened by a digital flood of information. Once you are free from digital distractions, you can find the time and peace to be in deeper prayer or performing other inner work to bring about more peace and wellness in your life.
Parent Previews
Parent Previews is not your average film review site. We give parents an idea of what they will encounter when they take their kids to the movies. With that in mind, we look at a film's violence, sexual content, profanities and substance use as well as both positive and negative themes included in the script.
Galaxy Watch for Kids
With Galaxy Watch for Kids and Google Family Link, kids can enjoy calls and texts with family and other approved contacts as well as Teacher-Approved apps and watch faces from popular brands all from their wrist, no phone needed.
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The Let Them Theory
If you've ever felt stuck, overwhelmed, or frustrated with where you are, the problem isn't you. The problem is the power you give to other people. Two simple words—Let Them—will set you free. Free from the opinions, drama, and judgments of others. Free from the exhausting cycle of trying to manage everything and everyone around you. The Let Them Theory puts the power to create a life you love back in your hands!
Working Moms Connection
This group is for moms currently working or soon to be, to share in the challenges of being a working mom, Members post challenges for one another, links to resources they love, and advice on all things working moms face.
HOO’s CRAFTY
homemade SIDEWALK CHALK
Save the money and have some fun with this 3 ingredient recipe for sidewalk chalk that your kids will love making and enjoy using even more.
DIRECTIONS
1. Into each plastic cup, pour 1/3 cup water at a temperature of 40-50 degrees.
2. Stir about 3-4 Tbsp. of a different color paint into each cup of water.
SUPPLIES
• 1 container Plaster of Paris
• Washable Tempera Paint
3. Mix 2/3 cup Plaster of Paris into each cup. The consistency will be similar to runny yogurt. (Always wear a mask and rubber gloves when working with Plaster of Paris so you don't inhale it.)
4. Pour these into the silicone mold and tap it gently on the counter to remove air bubbles. (If you don't have a silicone mold, empty toilet paper rolls can also be used. Put duct tape over the bottom of the tubes and line with parchment paper!)
5. Let set up for 24 hours. Setting them in the sun will lessen the time.
6. Pop the chalk out of the molds and make sure they feel dry all over.
7. Ready to start coloring your favorite pictures on the sidewalk.
• Plastic Spoons
• Plastic Cups
• Silicone Mold of Choice
New Tech Lab & STEAM workshops
Let’s Grow STEAMx unveils a state-of-the-art Technology Lab, a game-changing addition to the River City Race Program, thanks to a generous grant from Amdocs. This cutting-edge facility will empower future leaders to design, build, test, and document their gravity-powered racing journey like never before.
“This lab represents a leap forward in STEAM education,” said Robbie Branscomb, CEO of Let’s Grow STEAMx and River City Race Director. “Thanks to Amdocs, we’re giving future leaders the tools to dream big, innovate, and race toward a brighter future.”
Launching in February 2025, this 10-week immersive experience blends science, engineering, and digital storytelling, culminating in the 5th Annual River City Gravity Race on April 26, 2025, at 9am, at Lakebottom Park in Columbus.
More than just a competition, the River City Race Program is a transformative workforce development initiative designed to equip future leaders with critical 21st-century skills. This year, Pratt & Whitney is an official partner, providing mentorship from professional engineers who will guide participants through the
gravity car construction, testing, and analysis with an emphasis on the engineering design process—laying a strong foundation for careers in engineering, technology, and beyond.
Future leaders will not only compete but also document their progress through a multimedia storytelling project, enhancing their communication, digital literacy, and storytelling abilitiesessential skills for success in today and tomorrow’s workforce.
Beyond race day, the River City Race Program extends its impact to engage future leaders in hands-on engineering, design, and innovation activities through STEAM mini car camps and camps through Columbus State University's Activ8 summer programs.
Be part of this initiative by becoming a mentor to inspire and guide future innovators; sponsor a future leader by providing materials and resources; and spread the word by encouraging students, educators, and families to get involved.
Join the River City Gravity Race on April 26 and witness the power of STEAM education in action! For more, visit letsgrowsteam.org.
By Jasmine Moore Family Advocacy Program Site Coordinator, Fort Moore
Child abuse is a deeply troubling reality that can occur in any community. Whether it’s physical, emotional, sexual, or neglect, abuse can leave lasting scars on a child’s mental, emotional, and physical well-being. For parents, recognizing the signs and addressing the issue is critical to protecting their children and helping them heal. For more information on child abuse, Military Families may contact the Fort Moore Family Advocacy Program at 706-544-7233 or visit them at 7131 Richardson Circle, Building 36, Fort Moore, GA.
Recognizing the Signs of Child Abuse
Children may not always vocalize their experiences, making it essential for parents to be observant of subtle indicators.
Physical Indicators
• Unexplained injuries: Bruises, burns, or cuts that a child cannot explain, or that seem to have a pattern, could signal physical abuse.
• Frequent injuries: If a child has repeated injuries and the explanations don’t add up, it’s worth investigating further.
• Changes in appearance: Malnourishment, poor hygiene, or sudden weight loss may indicate neglect.
Emotional Signals
• Low self-esteem: Abuse can erode a child’s confidence, causing them to feel worthless or underserving of love.
• Excessive secrecy: A child who becomes overly secretive or reluctant to share details of their life may be hiding something troubling.
• Nightmares or sleep disturbances: Persistent sleep issues or nightmares may point to trauma.
Behavioral Changes
• Regression: Reverting to behaviors like bed-wetting or thumbsucking after they’ve been outgrown may signal emotional distress.
• Aggression or withdrawal: A child who becomes unusually aggressive or withdrawn may be experiencing trauma.
• Fear of specific individuals: Reluctance or fear around certain people or places can be a red flag.
• Declining school performance: A sudden drop in grades or disinterest in school could be linked to emotional or physical abuse.
Signs of Sexual Abuse
• Inappropriate sexual behavior or knowledge that exceeds their developmental age.
• Difficulty walking or sitting, or complaints of pain in private areas.
Addressing Child Abuse
Children may not always vocalize their experiences, making it essential for parents to be observant of subtle indicators.
Take Immediate Action:
• If you suspect abuse, report it to child protective services or law enforcement immediately. Call law enforcement at 911 and child protective services at 1-855-422-4453.
Create a Safe Space
• Encourage open communication by reassuring your child they can talk to you without fear of punishment or disbelief.
• Listen without interrupting and validate their feelings by letting them know you believe and support them.
Provide emotional support
• Connect your child with a licensed therapist or counselor who specializes in trauma to help them process their experiences.
• Reassure them that the abuse was not their fault and that they are safe now.
Educate and Empower
• Teach your child about healthy boundaries and encourage them to speak up if they feel unsafe. Use age-appropriate language to discuss body safety.
• Monitor your child’s interactions with adults and peers to ensure their environment remains safe.
HOO’s HEALTHY
Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) is a neurological condition that impacts how the brain processes sensory information. This includes information from the outside environment as well as information that is generated internally in the body. SPD causes a person to either overreact to certain types of sensory input or to underreact to it. While it is true that children can be particular about textures of food or other sensory input, most of the time these aversions do not interfere with everyday living. In contrast, those with SPD have abnormal reactions to sensory input that frequently interfere with everyday routines.
For example, some children with SPD react strongly to clothing textures, complaining it is too itchy, forcing parents to search for clothing with a certain feel. Other children may react strongly to loud noises or bright light. These abnormal aversions are often noticed early, in the toddler and preschool years. In addition to the five basic senses of sight, touch, hearing, smell and taste, there are three internal senses that may be impacted by SPD.
• Interoception: The ability to recognize information being sent by your body. Someone who has trouble processing
By Linda, Ligon, Family & Kids
What is:
SENSORY PROCESSING DISORDER
signals sent by his body does not recognize the cues that he is tired, hungry, or sick and may not recognize emotions. Someone who is oversensitive to internal cues is very aware of when they are receiving a signal that slightly deviates from the norm.
• Vestibular sensory system: Impacts balance, motion and movement. A child who overresponds to this input may avoid spinning or swinging. Kids that are under-responsive to input from this system may intensely jump, bounce or rock.
• Proprioception: Processing of information sent by the muscles and joints. A child who has difficulty processing information from this system may appear to be clumsy.
Many patients with SPD also have other neurodivergent conditions such as autism or ADHD. However, SPD is an independent disorder, and it is possible for someone to have SPD but not have autism or ADHD. Currently, SPD is not an official medical diagnosis, so there are no established criteria for diagnosing SPD. SPD is often treated with occupational, behavioral and physical therapy.
Highlight On
On any summer day at Columbus State University, you might spot groups of excited children experimenting with robots, creating art, or performing in a show. These young minds are part of Activ8, CSU's vibrant summer camp program that has been inspiring youth since 2008.
"Activ8 is more than just a summer camp," explains Samantha Gurski, program director who has been involved with CSU's youth programs since 2016. "It's where children ages 4-14 get their first taste of college life in a fun, engaging environment."
What makes Activ8 special is its deep connection to the university. Campers explore university facilities, while participating in over 100 different camps focused on brain training, creativity, technology, science, performing arts, and sports.
This university setting brings a unique level of expertise. Many instructors are certified teachers from local school districts who bring professional knowledge to their sessions. As one long-time teacher puts it, "Activ8 is my recess from school! The kids have experiences that can't—and shouldn't!—be compared to the traditional classroom."
Perhaps most inspiring is how Activ8 creates a full-circle journey for many participants. Kayla Ford first attended as a child, later chose CSU for her undergraduate studies, and is now pursuing her master's degree while working as a graduate assistant for Continuing & Professional Education.
"When I attended Activ8 as a kid, I explored my creativity through singing, dancing, and fashion!" Ford shares, "For many summers I chose to participate because of the variety of activities. Activ8 helped me feel comfortable on campus and contributed to my decision to study at CSU."
From June through August, CSU transforms into a playground of learning with no homework, tests, or quizzes—just pure exploration and growth. Through Activ8, children aren't just filling summer days; they're building connections to higher education that may shape their futures, just as it did for Kayla.
For more information about Activ8's 2025 program, visit columbusstate.edu/activ8, call 706-507-8070, or see their ad on page 24.
Looking for the perfect book to keep your child excited about reading? Whether they just finished their favorite series or you’re searching for something similar to keep them hooked, NoveList Plus is the tool you need—and it’s free with your Chattahoochee Valley Libraries card!
NoveList Plus is an easy-to-use online resource that helps you find book recommendations for kids, teens, and adults. But it really shines when you’re looking for “read-alike” suggestions—books that share the same vibe, theme, or reading level as the ones your child already loves.
For example, if your young reader can’t get enough of Dog Man or Magic Tree House, just type the title into NoveList Plus. You’ll instantly get a list of similar books, complete with descriptions, recommended age ranges, and even series information. You can also search by favorite authors, genres, or specific topics, like “friendship,” “mystery,” or “humor.”
What makes NoveList Plus especially helpful for families is its focus on adjacent reading—finding books that connect to your child’s current interests while gently expanding their reading horizons. If they love graphic novels, you can discover chapter books with a similar feel. If they’re into fantasy, you can find historical fiction that shares the same sense of adventure.
And if your child’s school uses AR (Accelerated Reader) levels or Lexile ranges, NoveList Plus can help with that too! You can filter your search to find books that match their reading level, making it easier than ever to find something that’s both fun and appropriate for school goals.
Ready to get started? Visit cvlga.org, log in with your library card, and click on NoveList Plus under our online resources. With just a few clicks, you’ll have fresh, personalized recommendations that keep your child reading all year long. Still need help? Stop by your local Library, and our staff will be happy to guide you through NoveList Plus!
TRAIL MIX Bunny Bait
This is a great, versatile recipe that you can easily swap out different kinds of M&Ms and sprinkles to fit any holiday or party theme.
INSTRUCTIONS
In a bowl, combine cereal, pretzel sticks, and peanuts. Melt the vanilla almond bark in the microwave in increments of 15 seconds, stirring after each interval, until melted completely. Pour the melted almond bark over the cereal mixture and toss together until thoroughly combined. Gently fold in the Easter M&Ms and butterscotch chips. Transfer Bunny Bait to the prepared sheet pan and spread it out. Allow Bunny Bait to set for about 45 minutes. Once the almond bark has hardened, break into pieces and transfer to a serving dish.
TIPS: If you break the Bunny Bait into fairly small pieces, it’s easier for little hands to hold and for small mouths to chew. Instead of parchment paper, you can use wax paper, aluminum foil, or just spray the sheet pan really well with cooking spray. Once the chocolate coating has melted, be prepared to work quickly. Store this snack mix, covered in an airtight container, for up to a week, or freeze for up to three months.
SUPPLIES
• Chex cereal of choice
• Honey Nut Cheerios
• Pretzel sticks
• Nuts of choice
• Vanilla almond bark, white chocolate chips or white baking chocolate are options for this as well.
• Pastel M&Ms or colors of choice
• Butterscotch chips
Courtesy of princesspinkygirl.com
1
Music Under the Dome. 5-6:30pm. $8. Coca-Cola Space Science Center; 706-649-1486
1 Throwback Spring Break Cinema: The Cheetah Girls (G). Families. 2pm. Columbus Library; 706-243-2813
Please call ahead to confirm event dates, times and age-appropriateness, in case changes were made after the info was obtained.
We invite her to reconnect nature, while enjoying a sup team atmosphere that nur leadership, encouragement friendships that will last a li
• Riding - English, Western, & Jumping
• Swimming • Heated Pool • Ropes Course
• Climbing Tower • Nature Exploration
• Sports • Soccer • Basketball
• Gymnastics • Beach Volleyball • Tennis
• Canoeing • Archery • Knitting
• Voice & Music • Cheerleading
• Dance • Chorus • Drama
• Arts & Crafts • CIT Program
• Campfires every night
• Riverview Refinement & More!
Dining Deals for Kids
MONDAY
Sapo’s
5pm until close: free kid's meal with adult entree, dine in only
Tuesday
Chicken Salad Chick
Free Little Chick Meal with purchase of adult meal
Denny’s
4-10pm: Up to two free kids entrées with adult entrée for kids 10 and under
Ruby Tuesday
5-10pm: Kids 12 and under eat free with adult entrée
wednesDAY
Your Pie
Kid's meals half off with adult entree
Red Robin
Kid’s meal half off with adult meal, for kids 11 and under
thursDAY
Tuesday's Street Tacos & Burritos
Free kids meal with adult purchase; dine-in only
friday
Denny’s
4-10pm: Up to two free kids entrées with adult entrée for kids 10 and under
Saturday
The Food Mill
Free kid's meal with any regular priced brunch item from 9am-2pm
multiple days
Bruster’s Ice Cream
Kids under 40” get free baby cone
McAlister’s
Kid’s meals are $2.79 with dine-in order
All locations are Columbus, GA unless noted. Specials are subject to change without notice, so please verify them directly before dining. Send kids deals to Tammy@FamilyAndKidsGA.
