Contents: PROFILE
06 Meet Dr. Carolina Febres
MY HEALTH
08 Common myths about immunizations 10 Today´s youth and the opportunity for fitness 12 The importance of wearing good shoes
MY FAMILY
16 Bad –tempered kids 18 How to Achieve Effective Discipline with Young Children 20 Activities for kids
GOURMET
Credits / Créditos Director: Jhakees Napolitano jnapolitano@imaginekm.com Managing Director / Directora de Montaje:
Marianellys Noble / mnoble@imaginekm.com Creative Director / Directora Creativa: María Lorena Salas msalas@imaginekm.com.com Editor-in-Chief / Editora en Jefe: Isabel González igonzalez@imaginekm.com Design Director / Directora de Diseño: Daniela Díaz / ddiaz@imaginekm.com Graphic Design / Diseñadora Gráfica: Patricia Ochoa Sales/ Ventas: Info@imaginekm.com On the Cover / Nuestra Portada: Rodrigo Herrera
23 Tropical summer time
Photography: David Hlusicka Producciones
MY PARTY
Translation / Traducciones: Sheila Segnalini / sheilasegnalini@yahoo.com
25 María Camila Bermudez 26 McKenna Madison Coveny
CONTENIDO ESPAÑOL: EN FAMILIA
28 La letra de mi hijo es un desastre 30 Mitos comunes sobre las inmunizaciones 35 Mi hijo tiene bajo rendimiento escolar
MI FIESTA
36 AMO Music 37 Elizabeth Egeli
Social Events / Eventos Sociales: Beatriz Rodriguez Distributed by / Distribuido por: Eduardo Pizzino / xpresslaed@gmail.com IMAGINE KIDS MAGAZINE: Phone: 1888-885-7712 E-mail: info@imaginekm.com NN Production LL 14526 Old Katy Rd, Suite 202 Houston TX 77079 All rights reserved to IMAGINE KIDS MAGAZINE TEXAS
CALL NOW : 1-888-885-7712
www.imaginekidsmagazine.com
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Profile
Meet Dr. Carolina Febres
Carolina Febres D.D.S. Diplomate, American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry
You will find that Dr. Febres’s office is geared to satisfy all your children’s needs. She understands the importance of establishing a good oral hygiene regimen early in a child’s life, and provides children with the necessary knowledge and treatment to maintain a healthy smile.
Dr Febres has lived in many different countries around the world and is fluent in Spanish, English and Portuguese. She has three young children and enjoys very much spending her free time with her family. She enjoys playing squash, running and swimming.
Her practice strives to make the new journey for your child a fun and rewarding experience. There is no doubt...your child’s path to optimum dental health starts here. So many touches add up to make the experience positive , a beautiful warmly decorated office.
Her office is conveniently located at 2000 S. Dairy Ashford, Suite 530, in Houston, Texas, between Briar Forest and Westheimer. Call to schedule your appointment now!! 281-597-0404
Dr. Carolina Febres acquired her Doctorate in Dental Science from Central University of Venezuela in 1990. She obtained her residency in Pediatric Dentistry from the University of Texas Dental Branch in Houston in 1995. Dr. Febres has been practicing pediatric dentistry in the Houston area for the last twelve years. She obtained her Board Certification in 2005 and she is a fellow from the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry. She is an active member of the Texas Dental Association, The American Dental Association, the AAPD, and the Greater Houston Dental Society. Malocclusion can now quickly and effectively be treated with advanced treatment options offered by Dr. Febres. 06 www.imaginekidsmagazine.com
www.febresdds.com
Warmly decorated office with a jungle theme and great games in the waiting room, designed with kids in mind!
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My Health
Common Myths about Immunizations Summer is almost over and as we are starting to buy new clothes and school materials for the next school year, all parents should also check for up to date immunizations for their children. Immunizations seem to still be a controversial topic for some. However, the American Academy of Pediatrics believes that immunizations are the safest and most cost effective way of preventing disease and death. Here are a few common false myths about immunizations that should be read by all before deciding not to immunize your child. 1) Vaccines are not needed in the US because those diseases don’t exist anymore. Many diseases don’t spread as much as before due to less crowded living conditions and also most importantly due to immunizations themselves. However as a result of the anti-vaccine movement, there have been outbreaks of measles and whooping cough recently which had not been seen in years. Also these diseases are more prevalent in the rest of the world and due to easy travel nowadays it is very easy for them to make it overseas, just like the flu did a few years ago. 2) I had chickenpox as a child and did not die from it Each year 9,000 people are hospitalized for chickenpox and about 100 die from it. It can be a harmless disease but you would not want your child to be one the 100. 08 www.imaginekidsmagazine.com
3) If some children have serious side effects from vaccines then they must not be safe. Reactions to vaccines can occur but are usually mild. Some significant side effects could be: High fever, generalized rash or large amount of swelling at injection site. If these occur please call your pediatrician for an evaluation. However, even the significant side effects are much less worrisome than a night at the hospital due to illness or even worse long term disabilities caused by these illnesses or even death. 4) Giving multiple vaccines at a time can be dangerous. Many studies and years of experience have shown that they can be safely given together and side effects are not any greater. 5) MMR causes Autism. That belief started when a British study was published many years ago suggesting the correlation. However, multiple studies since then have disproved him and recently last year that study was taken out of British literature and was called a fraud. I hope these common myths make you think a little before deciding not to immunize your child. Vaccines have been proven to protect children and after all that is what every parent wants to do. Kathrym España, MD
(Texas Children’s Pediatric Associates Fannin)
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My Health
Today’s Youth and the Opportunity for Fitness by Jeff Biehl, Fitness Director of Memorial Athletic Club The lifestyle and health of today’s youth are much different than it was 20-30 years ago. The days of playing pickup baseball, soccer, basketball or even the simplest game of hide and seek have become almost extinct in most neighborhoods. A lot of this is due to a safety concern for our children. Allowing children to ride their bike or walk to a local park alone and play sports with other children just doesn’t happen any longer. Much of today’s youth pass their time playing video games, on computers, or in front of TVs. Those that do exercise, participate at a higher level than ever before. Their days go from school, to homework or computer games, to scrambling to highly competitive organized team events. Along with less activity, there is concern about poor nutrition habits; Parents are taking the quick fix feeding approach for their children, with fast foods and frozen dinners. The combination of poor nutrition and getting less activity has lead to a much more unhealthy, overweight youth population. This type of unhealthy lifestyle can lead to lower self confidence, lower academic success, and a decrease in social interaction. Childhood obesity has more than tripled in the past 30 years. The percentage of children aged 6-11 years in the United States who were obese increased from 7% in 1980 to nearly 20% in 2008. Similarly, the percentage of adolescents aged 12–19 years who were obese increased from 5% to 18% over the same period. The Memorial Athletic Club and Aquatic Center offers quality coaching and a variety of fitness related activities for today’s youth. For youth looking to become better athletically or to improve their fitness, the Parisi Speed School is a great choice. Coaches are trained extensively to be positive role models and have mastered 10 www.imaginekidsmagazine.com
proven athletic techniques, which have produced some of the fastest and best all around athletes. However, the main focus is not just producing the best athletes. Rather, it is combined with the development of self confidence. No matter what the sport is, improving the athlete’s physical and mental ability will most certainly improve their ability to play sports. Another quality youth program is housed in our Aquatic Center. For the past 24 years , our Learn to Swim and Youth Aqua Fit programs have improved swim techniques and taught lifelong wellness skills. The program starts as young as 6 months old with Mommy and Me classes. Its objective focuses on improving stroke mechanics and overall fitness level during the off season. MAC Kids is another fun program, which is designed to improve cardiovascular health and muscle tone. All children ages 3-13 can participate in 45 minutes of supervised, safe, easy-to-follow low impact, bench and light weight training exercises. MAC Kids classes also include Creative Movement Dance and Ballet, Jazz, Hip Hop, and even Tumbling. Fitness Instruction for Teens is an educational program, which teaches teens 1315 years old how to utilize a gym fitness area with basic exercise principles, weight lifting safety, proper weight room etiquette, benefits of physical activity, basic anatomy, heart rate monitoring, and healthier nutritional tips. If we educate today’s youth chances are they will make healthier choices on how to live a healthier life. More information about Memorial Athletic Club programs can be found on our extensive web site at www.fitmac.com or by calling 281.497.7570.
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My Health
The importance of wearing good shoes turers have extensive research on the development of feet and have developed technologies for each stage of the child’s growth.
Wearing good shoes from an early age is vital for the development of your child. When they start to walk, at approximately one year old, shoes are their best allies. To facilitate the learning of locomotor skills and allow for the proper development of your child’s feet, good shoes have to have these features: 1. Made of natural materials that are breathable, like leather, cork, cotton (canvas), etc. 2. Comfortable innersoles, preferably with arch support to help feet develop properly. 3. Good heel support that will help support the heel and provide good stability and posture. 4. Gripping but flexible soles since they play an important role in protecting the feet. Rubber soles are recommended. Nowadays many styles come with shock absorbing soles to prevent injuries and minimize direct impact to the feet. Rubber soles allow the feet to move and flex correctly when walking. It is important that the soles are ridged for good traction. 5. Choose well-known name brands that guarantee you are getting the best shoes for your child. Generally, these manufac-
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Now that you are aware of the features of good shoes, you can choose the best for your child. Following, there is a short list of shoe brands of excellent quality that you may already know and that many parents trust to protect their children’s feet. • DOGI. Comfortable, all leather shoes with arch support; nonskid, shock absorbing soles; excellent design. • GEOX. Shoes made with excellent quality materials and patented soles. The shoes have small holes to make them breathable and reduce feet perspiration, while being water-resistant. • SANDY. All leather shoes with arch support, all around support for safe steps, soles extend to the heel to avoid sprains, flexible and nonskid, light curvature in the front to facilitate the first steps. • BubbleGummers. High quality leather and fabric shoes with flexible soles, nonskid, shock-absorbing valves; strong support to hold the heel for safe walking. They are comfortable and long lasting with innovative designs and bubble gum scent. WALK ON SHOES, located in Memorial City Mall, carries all these brands and more. Their helpful and experienced staff can explain the features of each style that WALK ON SHOES offers.
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Back to school shopping made easy! Even though the sounds of kids splashing around swimming and the smells of summer barbeques are in the air, Back to School time is just around the corner. Whether you are cleaning out the closets, bagging your child’s outgrown clothes, or making room for new toys in the playroom, it’s time to make a profit off this seasonal chore.
of their back to school shopping under one roof in one day, with incredible prices, for their children aged newborn – 16. It is possible for no more running around town or in crowded malls and moms-to-be can also get great deals on maternity clothing and baby necessities too. Many shoppers have also been known to do their entire holiday toy shopping in one swoop too!
The Nation’s Leading Children’s and Maternity Consignment Sales Event is getting ready for its twice yearly event in Central Houston. The 2012 Central Houston Just Between Friends (JBF) Fall sale event is scheduled from October 11th – October 13th at the Quillian Center at First Methodist Church Westchase.
During this slower time of the year, it is a good time to take a look around your home and go through toy boxes, drawers, closets and shelves. JBF sales offer moms to participate as Consignors, Shoppers, or the best of both worlds - both. JBF sales are unique in that everyone wins when more moms participate. Consignors have more moms purchasing their items, shoppers have more merchandise to pick from, and volunteers have more great reasons to help out and shop the sale before the doors open to the public.
JBF, the nation’s largest maternity and children’s consignment sales event franchise, offers Houston families the opportunity to sell their outgrown or unused children’s items and make money off of gently-used clothing, toys, furniture, baby equipment and books. With families getting ready to do a little Back to School preparation in the coming months, it is a perfect time to sell their items, while also getting great deals on the things they need for the upcoming year. A family can do all 14 www.imaginekidsmagazine.com
Presale shopping is also offered to FirstTime Parents, First-Time Grand Parents, and Teachers. Registration is open for anyone who wants to consign or shop the presale. For more information, please go to www.jbfsale.com/centralhouston.
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My Family
Bad-Tempered Kids We usually see children who smile more often than others, children who cry more often than others, and children whose body language is very unique and personal. Each child shows his or her temper from the time they are born and we can see the differences between them as well as the personal styles that will define them in the future. In several observational studies of hundreds of children from birth to the end of childhood, behavior researchers have identified nine inherent aspects of temper: • The level of physical and motor activity • Regularity of biological functions (sleep, eat, bowel movements) • Disposition to accept new people and situations • Adaptability to change • Sensibility to light, noise, and other sensory stimuli • Mood (happiness or displeasure) • Intensity of the responses • Attention level • Persistence
Based on these aspects of temper, three styles of early behavior were identified: • The easygoing child is rhythmical; usually follows a meal, sleep, and hygiene routine. She adapts well to changes and is generally happy and positive. She likes
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to get close to new objects or people. Approximately 40% of children belong to this group. • The difficult child is exactly the opposite. She is less predictable in her routines, is uncomfortable when the situation changes, cries frequently or has a negative mood; she rejects new experiences. Approximately 10% of children belong to this group. • The slow-reaction baby also has a hard time adapting to changing situations. She tends to reject unknown people or objects, but little by little feels more confident and interacts. She is generally less active at the beginning but then warms up to the situation. Approximately 15% of children belong to this group. Temper types will have an impact on the behavior we’ll later see in children. Usually a difficult child cries frequently and is irritable. This often increases the probability that her parents react anxiously and in ways less than appropriate in front of the child resulting in alterations in their relationship and behavioral problems in the child. As parents, it is important to know our children, their temper and how they react to cope better with their behavior and channel their energies to achieve a better parent-child relationship.
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My Family
How to achieve effective discipline with young children Oftentimes, parents say that young children don’t understand what they can or cannot do. While it’s true that there are some situations children don’t know how to handle, it’s important for adults to set limits and suggest the desired behavior. Here we list some methods and language to tackle this type of situations. ACHIEVING SELF-CONFIDENCE 1) It’s important to demonstrate that you understand and accept the reason why your child does what he does and that you believe it’s wrong: “You want to play with the toy truck, but…” In this way you are acknowledging your child’s desires and being supportive. Your child will know that your priorities are different from his. 2) It’s important to offer a solution: “Soon you will be able to play with the toy truck.” One-year-olds understand when you say, “wait a minute” and they will do it patiently for 60 seconds. 2 and 3 year-olds understand when you say, “I’ll tell you when it’s your turn”, if you don’t keep them waiting longer than a couple of minutes. This teaches children delayed gratification without impacting their understanding of short time. 3) It’s always helpful to say something that shows your trust in your child’s abilities and 18 www.imaginekidsmagazine.com
in her desire to learn: “when you grow up, I know you… (Say what you expect from him or her)” This reinforces your trust in the child and shows her that you are aware of her capacity to grow and mature. 4) In some situations, after firmly establishing what cannot be done, you can demonstrate the way adults act: “We don’t hit others. Touch my face gently” (touch her face). This sets firm limits and helps the child understand that you are friends and not enemies. 5) Children are not easily distracted, but we can usually change the situation to a more appropriate one. Hold her hand and tell her, “that’s the dog’s food, here is yours.” This reinforces the child’s right to choose while teaching her that others also have rights. 6) Avoid accusations. Talk to children, even babies, respectfully. This will help her maintain her self-esteem and motivate her to cooperate. 7) Every time you say “no,” offer two alternatives. “No! Rosa cannot bite Esther, she can bite either the cookie or the rubber duck.” This sets limits while helping her develop her independence and ability to make decisions.
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Activities for kids Disney presents THE LION KING Now Through Aug. 12 only! The Hobby Center for the Performing Arts www.thehobbycenter.org St. Luke’s Patients Medical Center hosts Safe Sitter Course August 15 9:00 am - 4:00 pm. The cost of each session is $35 and includes a manual, a backpack with materials for the class, a continental breakfast, lunch and a graduation party. Open to boys and girls ages 11 to 17. Students will learn how to properly handle situations that may happen on the job and gain confidence in their skills, most common injuries among children and how to prevent them, how to decide if a problem is serious, how to get help if needed. www.stlukeshouston.com KOOZA IN HOUSTON, Cirque du Soleil FROM JULY 26 TO AUGUST 19 (281) 807-8700 www.shrp.com Project IDEA Kids Conquers Summer Blues and Boredom at The IDEA Lab Jul 16 to Aug 24 Every weekday from 7:00 AM until 6:30 PM Project IDEA Kids introduces 20 fun-filled summer break camps. 5 through 12-years-old (known at the IDEA Lab as Mites and Sparks) can choose from a selection of age appropriate camps such as Candy Factory, iRock, Kitchen Chemistry and BOOM! SPLAT! KABOOM! Offered throughout the entire summer. 281-886-0317 Young Writers Workshop, Every Saturday Now through - August 25, 10:30 AM. Writers in the Schools, HPL Express and Discovery Green team up to offer Houston’s only free and open 20 www.imaginekidsmagazine.com
writing workshop for kids. Call us (832) 393-1375
www.discoverygreen.com
Cells: The Universe Inside Us August 10 to August 26 The human body is made up of millions of cells that are constantly working. Cells: The Universe Inside Us gives visitors a chance to see what happens inside their body every day. Walk through a giant cell, perform virtual experiments, and make protein shapes with your shadow and more! Admission to The Health Museum is $6 for children. www.thehealthmuseum.org Every Thursday at 10:00 AM. Story Time at Blue Willow, read stories, sing songs, and do an art activity. The themes change weekly. This story time is great for toddlers and preschoolers. www.bluewillowbookshop.com Lunch with an Astronaut, Every Saturday at 11.00 AM Space Center Houston is now proud to offer you and your family an extraordinary opportunity to spend time with a NASA astronaut. This casual event gives you the opportunity to hear first hand stories from a NASA astronaut while enjoying a cosmic lunch. Reservations Required. www. spacecenter.org Free First Sundays, 2 September -Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, 1PM -5PM Museum admission free all day .The monthly Target Free First Sundays program for families include hands-on art projects; cultural performances; story time tours; and free screenings of family films. The program continues with a different theme on the first Sunday of each month. 713.639.7300 / www.mfah.org.
Workshop BASF Kids’ Lab September 3 at 3 p.m-5 p.m. Experiment with fun! Dive in to the world of chemistry this summer at the Children’s Museum of Houston BASF sponsored Kids Lab program. Grab your white coats and goggles! Children’s Museum of Houston Wild Wheels Ages 0-3 Thursday September 6 9:15-10:15 am Members: $9 per child, adults are free NonMembers: $22 per child (includes 1 adult admission) $9 per additional child $13 per additional adult Enjoy a Mommy and Me adventure in the wild outdoors with your infant or toddler as we explore the Habitats of the World! We’ll meet outside the front entrance by the gift shop and “stroll” together through a particular part of the Zoo. Our trek will conclude with a touchable animal encounter and a hand or footprint craft to take home. Individuals and mom groups welcome! Our Main Entrance and parking lot is located at: 6200 Hermann Park Drive www.houstonzoo.org Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition 100th Anniversary of The Maiden Voyage at the Houston Museum of Natural Science August 10 to September 3 Daily The Houston Museum of Natural Science will host Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition during the 100th anniversary of the Ship’s sinking, featuring 250 artifacts recovered from the wreck site of Titanic that have never been seen in Houston.www.hmns.org Tadpole Troopers: Perfect for the Pond September 8 9:00 AM Tadpole Troopers is a nature class for 3, 4, and 5 year old and the adult of their choice. Classes offer hands-on investigations, crafts, and a guided nature walk for a parent and child. This fall we will explore animal homes. Houston Arboretum & Nature Center. Authors Lisa McMann and Margaret Peterson Haddix will discuss and sign their novels September 10 at 5.00 PM www. bluewillowbookshop.com
Houston Museum District FREE Day September 15 All 19 museums in the Houston Museum District will be free to the public, and many will be hosting special events in honor of the occasion. Visitors are encouraged to walk from one museum to another. www.houstonmuseumdistrict.org Houston Ballet ,Madame Butterfly 7:30 PM on September 6, 8, 14, 15, -2:00 PM on September 9, 16. In her cocoon, the butterfly is protected, sheltered in naiveté. It is only when she begins to emerge that she becomes vulnerable. Madame Butterfly, the story of a beautiful Japanese geisha who gives up her faith and her family to marry an American naval lieutenant, is at once compelling and heartbreaking. A stunning achievement in neoclassical ballet. Performance in the Brown Theater at Wortham Theater Center Erin Hunter will discuss and sign the newest Warriors series, The Survivors, Wednesday, September 19 at 5 PM www.bluewillowbookshop.com Obert Skye will discuss and sign his books September 24 at 5:00 PM www.bluewillowbookshop.com Page to Stage Book Club September 29, at 10.00 AM. Main Street Theater partners with Blue Willow. This month’s book is Duck for President. www.bluewillowbookshop.com Schlitterbahn Galveston Island Water ParkApril 21-September 23 The summer season offers over 33 amazing rides and attractions, including a large wave pool, uphill water coasters, thrilling speed slides, kid’s water playgrounds, whitewater rapids, relaxing hot tubs, family raft rides, the Boogie Bahn surf ride and the exclusive Transportainment® river system. Named one of the top ten best indoor water parks in the US!! www.schlitterbahn.com/gal/ SummerSeason
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My Family
My Child has Low Grades at School, How can I Help him? “Psychology and educational psychology allow us to see hope in the face of learning difficulties. It’s a breath of fresh air for parents and children in the difficult task of growing and learning.” One day they call you from school or send you your child’s report card and you learn that your child is performing poorly at school. Help! A psychologist or educational psychologist is the person trained to intervene in the majority of these cases to prevent and treat learning difficulties such as: * Low intellectual level * Learning difficulties (significant difficulties to acquire and use language, to read, write, analyze, or do math) * Attention deficit * Lack of study habits * Deficient or poorly learned content * Need to improve to the level of classmates and/or the academic program * Lack of motivation to study, either internal (personal) or external (environment, teachers, parents) * Need to have an adult who motivates and helps them * Any other emotional factor TIMING MAKES THE DIFFERENCE A psychologist is a professional with the skills and tools (like psychological tests) to determine the cause of poor academic performance. He or she is also qualified to treat 22 www.imaginekidsmagazine.com
the emotional problems that may or may not be related to academic performance. Meanwhile, an educational psychologist will customize the educational processes providing tools, techniques, and actions to achieve a teaching-learning process more adequate to the needs of the student. Parents are under the impression that taking their children to a tutor will solve their school problems, without first knowing the causes of the problem or without having been assessed by a psychologist or educational psychologist. WHAT DOES A LARGE GROUP OF TUTORING DO? The main objective is to do homework and create study habits under the assistance, motivation, and supervision of a tutor or professional in the field of education. To participate in large group tutoring, children need to have good or average school performance. They also need to have an average attention span, and not require personalized attention or much help with their school activities. In summary, these are usually students who do not have a responsible adult with them or an adult patient enough to do homework with them. By Tatiana Alvarado Educational Psychologist Psychologist – Mgs
Summer Healthy Snacks:
Tropical Summer-time Smoothies: Ingredients: • 1 1/2 cups of frozen strawberries • 1 cup frozen of pineapple chunks • 1/2 cup of milk • 1 1/2 cups of yogurt • 2 tablespoons of white sugar • 1 cup of crushed ice Directions: • In a blender, blend all the ingredients above until smooth and creamy. Enjoy!
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My Family
Choosing the Right Backpack When it’s time to choose a school backpack for our children we must take into consideration their safety and health, not fashion. The backpack has to be comfortable, safe, and functional. Since excess weight may cause muscle pains and even spine deviations, we have to consider the following recommendations to avoid these problems, which may affect their daily life and their school performance. - It has to have two wide, padded shoulder straps to avoid injury. Children have to be able to carry it on both shoulders, not over just one. - It has to have a waist belt to distribute the weight across the back. It’s important that the child gets used to it. - The size has to be adequate for the height of the child. The biggest is not always the best. When shopping for a backpack, bring some school supplies with you to make sure everything they need to carry fits well –you don’t want things to be too loose either. - Try the backpack on. It should rest approximately 5 centimeters above the waist. If it sags, adjust the straps. Find a different style if after adjusting the straps it still doesn’t fit properly. 24 www.imaginekidsmagazine.com
- It’s also advisable not to take all the books to school, but only those that will be needed. If the backpack is too heavy, reorganize it. Put heavier items in the center and use side compartments so the weight is evenly distributed. - The type of material is also important. Ideally, it should be water-resistant, sturdy and with reinforced seams. - The back of the backpack should be padded to prevent injuries. This will also prevent any sharp objects in the backpack from poking the child. - If you are looking for a rolling backpack, make sure you can adjust the height. This type is appropriate only if the child doesn’t need to go up and down stairs, otherwise, all the weight will have to be carried in one hand risking a wrist injury. Explain to your child that this is not a toy to play with, and has to be used only to carry school supplies. - To avoid back pain and possibly a scoliosis, explain to your child that to pick up the backpack they shouldn’t lean forward, but bend at the knees, then get straight up, making the effort from the legs. The weight of the backpack shouldn’t exceed 15% of the total weight of the child.
My Party
María Camila
thday 1st Bir r e ez h g atin ermud Celebr mila B
María
Ca
María Camila with her proud parents
Oscar Bermudez, Patricia Fanfani, Mayerlin Bermudez, María Camila Bermudez, Rafael Bermudez, Indira Pereira and Jose Pereira.
Having fun with Mom and Dad
Location: The Bermudez´s Residence Theme: Ladybugs Very creative birthday decoration
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My Party
Presley Coveny
ay Birthd er 7th h g n ti a Celebr adison
na M
McKen
y
Coven
Grayson Coveny having a great time
Relaxing while getting a pedicure
Time for a manicure
Location: At home by Tealightful Parties The Coveny Family
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Mi Familia
La letra de mi hijo es un desastre Las quejas acerca de la escritura de los niños que más frecuentemente manifiestan padres y docentes en la consulta psicopedagógica están relacionadas con: la caligrafía (irregular o ilegible), incapacidad para concluir las actividades escritas en el tiempo estimado por el docente, cansancio al escribir y rechazo hacia la escritura. Incorrecta postura al escribir. Para escribir correctamente, con más rapidez, agilidad, menos esfuerzo y evitar el cansancio y la desmotivación es importante poner atención a: • La postura al escribir, la colocación del cuaderno u hoja de trabajo. • La manera de sostener el lápiz. • La distancia entre los ojos y la superficie del papel. Orientación inadecuada inclinación de las letras. 28 www.imaginekidsmagazine.com
en
la
Su principal causa es debido a la incorrecta colocación del cuaderno u hoja de trabajo al escribir, lo cual los hace cambiar constantemente de postura para abarcar el espacio gráfico. Distorsión. La caligrafía irregular o ilegible es en gran parte consecuencia de la alteración de la letra o palabra, de manera que no se entiende lo que escribe al copiar, tomar dictado o al redactar en la escritura espontánea. Es importante tomar en cuenta la etapa de desarrollo en la que se encuentra el niño, así como sus necesidades específicas. Se requieren ciertos requisitos básicos para facilitar el aprendizaje de la escritura en los niños, no sólo para formar los trazos de las letras, sino también para desarrollar habilidades indispensables para aprendizajes más complejos. En consecuencia, se recomienda a los padres y docentes tomar en cuenta los siguientes aspectos:
• Desarrollo de la motricidad fina, que entre otras cosas le permitirá sostener adecuadamente el elemento escritural (lápiz, bolígrafo u otro) y con ello la mejor calidad de letra. • La definición de la lateralidad y reconocimiento de derecha e izquierda para ubicarse en el espacio gráfico. • Desarrollo viso motriz para reproducir estímulos gráficos. • Las condiciones cognitivas del niño.
intelectuales
y
• El nivel de lenguaje y verbalización adecuado (aspectos fonéticos), se escribe y se lee de la manera en que se habla. • El estilo de aprendizaje, las prácticas y ejercitación de las letras. • Su nivel de salud. • Características dinámica familiar.
psicológicas
de
la
• Nivel de estabilidad emocional. • Contexto social y escolar. La caligrafía irregular o ilegible, la lentitud, el cansancio y rechazo hacia la escritura se pueden evitar enseñando al niño la postura adecuada para escribir: • Sentarse erguido, apoyando la espalda en el respaldo de la silla.
superior con la mano contraria a la que se escribe para evitar mover el papel continuamente y en consecuencia los renglones saldrán torcidos. • Colocar los dedos sobre el lápiz a una distancia aproximada de 2 a 3 cm de la punta. • Si el niño escribe con la mano derecha, debe inclinar ligeramente el papel hacia la izquierda. • Si el niño escribe con la mano izquierda, debe inclinar el papel ligeramente hacia la derecha. Jamás impida al niño utilizar su mano dominante. Los ejercicios de escritura son fundamentales porque desarrollan en los niños la motricidad y la coordinación de sus movimientos, especialmente los finos y precisos. Invite a los niños a escribir nuevamente sus textos con atención para corregirlos, de manera que con la práctica constante mejoren la calidad de su escritura. Otros errores específicos de la escritura que se pueden presentar son: las omisiones, sustituciones, inversiones, contaminaciones de letras, sílabas o palabras; rotaciones de grafemas y aglutinamiento (escribir varias palabras sin separación) o disgregación (separación de letras o sílabas que pertenecen a una misma palabra). Para corregirlas se requiere de la valoración e intervención psicopedagógica especializada.
• Colocar el respaldo de la silla paralelo a la mesa. • Acercar la silla a la mesa de forma que le permita sentarse manteniendo el cuerpo a 4 cm. de la mesa, aproximadamente. • La inclinación de la cabeza debe ser leve para evitar cansancio y lesiones en el cuello, manteniendo una distancia aproximada de 30cm. de la hoja. • Sujetar la hoja de trabajo en la parte www.imaginekidsmagazine.com 29
Mi Salud
Mitos comunes sobre las inmunizaciones El verano está llegando a su fin y ya comenzamos a comprar ropa nueva y útiles escolares para el próximo año escolar; los padres deberían también asegurarse de que las vacunas de sus hijos estén al día. Para algunas personas las inmunizaciones siguen siendo un tema controversial. Sin embargo, la Academia Americana de Pediatría ( American Academy of Pediatrics) considera que las inmunizaciones son la forma más efectiva y económica de prevenir enfermedades y muertes. Aquí listamos algunos de los mitos falsos más comunes sobre las inmunizaciones que todos deberían leer antes de decidir no inmunizar a su hijo (a). 1) Las vacunas no son necesarias en los EE.UU. porque esas enfermedades ya no existen. Muchas enfermedades no se transmiten tanto como antes debido a que hay menos hacinamiento en las viviendas y, aún más importante, debido a las mismas inmunizaciones. Sin embargo, gracias al movimiento contra inmunización, recientemente ha habido brotes de sarampión y tos ferina, lo que no se había visto en años. También, estas enfermedades no están tan erradicadas en el resto del mundo y debido a la facilidad para viajar que hay hoy en día es muy sencillo para estas enfermedades transmitirse de un país a otro tal y como sucedió con la influenza hace unos años. 2) Tuve varicela de niño y sobreviví Cada año unas 9.000 personas son hospitalizadas por varicela y unas 100 mueren por esta causa. Puede ser una enfermedad inocua, pero usted no querrá que su hijo sea uno de esos 100.
3) Si algunos niños sufren serios efectos secundarios debido a las vacunas, entonces no deben ser seguras. Las reacciones a las vacunas pueden ocurrir, pero son generalmente moderadas. Algunos efectos secundarios severos podrían ser: Fiebre alta, erupción generalizada o mucha hinchazón en el lugar donde se administró la inyección. Si esto ocurre, por favor contacte a su pediatra para una evaluación. Sin embargo, aún los efectos secundarios severos son mucho menos preocupantes que una noche en el hospital debido a una enfermedad o peor aún una discapacidad a largo plazo ocasionada por estas enfermedades, o hasta la muerte. 4) Suministrar múltiples vacunas a la vez puede ser peligroso. Muchos estudios y años de experiencia han demostrado que pueden suministrarse juntas sin peligro y sin aumentar los efectos secundarios. 6) La vacuna triple vírica causa autismo. Esa creencia comenzó hace muchos años cuando se publicó un estudio británico que sugería esta relación. Sin embargo, desde entonces múltiples estudios lo han refutado y recién el año pasado ese estudio fue retirado de la literatura inglesa y considerado un fraude. Espero que estos mitos comunes le hagan reconsiderar un poco antes de decidir no inmunizar a su hijo (a). Se ha comprobado que las vacunas protegen a los niños y, después de todo, esto es lo que todos los padres quieren. Kathrym España, MD
(Texas Children’s Pediatric Associates Fannin)
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Mi Familia
Consejos para superar la pereza de regresar a clases
Para lograr que tu hijo tenga ganas de empezar la escuela, proponemos un plan que incluye interesantes consejos prácticos que además, te ayudarán a crear una estrecha y sincera relación con tu hijo. Dos semanas antes • Permítele a tu hijo que hable de sus expectativas acerca de la escuela. Pregúntale si se siente entusiasmado, ansioso y habla con él sobre las preocupaciones que tiene. • Explícale en detalle su nueva rutina. Muéstrale el cronograma, incluyendo a qué hora deberá levantarse, desayunar y estar listo para salir. Intenta hacer un simulacro un par de veces antes. • Haz la transición del verano a la temporada escolar empezando por hacer que tu hijo comience a irse a la cama quince minutos antes cada noche y que jamás vuelva a quedarse levantado hasta las 10 u 11 de la noche. • Con la ayuda de tu hijo, elabora un listado con sus almuerzos y meriendas favoritos. Esto te ayudará a que puedas ir comprando todo lo que necesitarás para prepararlos. Una semana antes • Asegúrate de que tu hijo se sienta tranquilo con la forma en que irá a la escuela. Para ello, recorre con tu hijo la ruta que hará el autobús, acompáñalo caminando la primera semana o encuentra a un antiguo compañero para que vayan juntos. No olvides repasar las medidas de precaución referentes a hablar con extraños o prestar atención al tráfico. • Realiza los días previos un “tour de compras” y adquiere todo los elementos que necesitará para la escuela y también para el almuerzo y la merienda. • Asegúrate de que tu hijo pueda ir al baño de la escuela por sí mismo. Elige ropa fácil 32 www.imaginekidsmagazine.com
de poner y quitar. Opta por aquellas que tienen elástica en la cintura, en lugar de cierres o broches a presión. La noche anterior • Organiza una cena familiar especial el día antes o después del primer día y conversen de lo mejor de las vacaciones. También, establezcan un reto para ese año en la escuela. • Inaugura el año escolar organizando algo para celebrar. Un gran desayuno, decorar la cocina, servir un plato favorito u obsequiarle una nueva lonchera o morral, pueden ser algunas ideas. • Hornéale a tu hijo sus galletas preferidas para cuando llegue a casa luego del estrés del primer día. • Pon en el bolso de tu hijo algo familiar que lo haga sentir más cómodo, y algo nuevo, que lo haga sentir especial. (Tal vez puedas prestarle por unos días la pluma que él siempre te pide y comprarle la cartuchera de los Power Rangers, que tanto desea). • Establece un ritual de despedida. No lo engañes, ni aunque te tiente la idea de evitar la gran escena de lágrimas. Dale un abrazo y un beso, y luego dile “Adiós”, en un tono cálido pero firme. Si tu hijo llora, no pidas permiso para llevártelo, tampoco intentes sobornarlo para que te deje ir. Simplemente despídete, con la tranquilidad de saber que queda en buenas manos. Estimular a nuestro hijo a hablar sobre sus ansiedades puede ayudar a reducir el miedo. También, contarle nuestros recuerdos de infancia de cuando empezamos un nuevo colegio o alguna anécdota graciosa, servirá para relajarse y darse cuenta de que no está solo. Su padre, su madre, su familia estarán ahí para cuando los necesite.
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Mi Familia
Cada niño… un temperamento… Con frecuencia solemos ver que existen niños más sonrientes que otros, niños que suelen llorar con facilidad y niños cuya forma de expresión es particular y propia. Cada niño muestra su temperamento desde el momento de su nacimiento y podemos ver las diferencias entre ellos y los estilos característicos e individuales que los definirán en el futuro. De diversos estudios de observación a cientos de niños desde el nacimiento hasta concluida la infancia, los investigadores de la conducta han identificado nueve aspectos innatos del temperamento: • El nivel de actividad física y motora • La regularidad en el funcionamiento biológico (dormir, comer, evacuar) • La disposición para aceptar personas y la adaptabilidad al cambio • La sensibilidad a la luz, ruido y otros estímulos sensoriales • El humor (alegría o disgusto) • La intensidad en las respuestas • El grado de atención • La persistencia. Basándose en estos aspectos del temperamento se lograron identificar tres estilos de conducta temprana: • El niño fácil es rítmico, tiene habitualmente pautas regulares de alimentación, sueño e higiene. Se adapta bien a los cambios de situación y generalmente tiene un humor alegre y positivo, les gusta acercarse a objetos o personas nuevas. 34 www.imaginekidsmagazine.com
• El niño difícil es exactamente lo opuesto. Es menos predecible en sus horarios, se siente incómodo cuando cambia la situación, y con frecuencia llora o presenta un humor negativo. Rechaza nuevas experiencias. Aproximadamente se presenta este tipo en el 10% de los niños. • El bebé de reacción lenta también se adapta con dificultad a las situaciones cambiantes y tiende a rechazar a las personas y objetos desconocidos, pero luego paulatinamente va tomando confianza y se integra. Es generalmente menos activo de comienzo hasta entrar en calor. Representa un 15% aproximadamente de los niños. Los tipos de temperamentos tienen repercusión en las conductas que veremos posteriormente en los niños. Vemos comunmente que el caso del niño difícil deriba de un temperamento del bebé con llanto frecuente e irritabilidad, que generalmente aumentan la probabilidad de que los padres reaccionen ante el niño de forma poco adecuada y ansiosa, creándose alteraciones en la relación y, finalmente problemas de conducta en el niño. Como padres es importante conocer a nuestros hijos, su temperamento y formas de reaccionar, para así aprender a manejarnos mejor ante sus comportamientos y canalizar sus energías, en pro de lograr las mejores relaciones padre-hijo.
Mi Familia
Mi hijo tiene bajo rendimiento escolar… ¿Quién podrá ayudarme? “La psicología y psicopedagogía nos permiten descubrir la esperanza ante las dificultades del aprendizaje. Es el aliento fresco para los padres e hijos en la difícil tarea de crecer y aprender” ¡Alarma! Llaman del colegio o entregan las evaluaciones escolares y nos informan que nuestros hijos tienen bajo rendimiento. Un psicólogo o un psicopedagogo son los indicados en la mayoría de estos casos para prevenir y corregir las dificultades que se presentan durante el proceso de aprendizaje, como: * Bajo nivel intelectual. * Dificultades de aprendizaje (dificultades importantes en la adquisición y utilización del lenguaje, lectura, escritura, razonamiento o habilidades matemáticas). * Dificultades en la atención. * Falta de hábitos de estudio. * Contenidos deficientes o mal aprendidos. * Necesidad de nivelación con relación a sus compañeros de aula y/o al programa académico. * Desmotivación al estudio, tanto intrínseca (que viene de él mismo) o extrínseca (del ambiente, padres o maestros). * Requiere la presencia de un adulto que los motive y ayude. * Algún otro factor emocional. ACUDIR A TIEMPO HACE LA DIFERENCIA El psicólogo es el profesional que tiene la capacidad y las herramientas necesarias y suficientes (pruebas psicológicas) para determinar la causa del bajo rendimiento académico, además de tratar los
problemas emocionales que pueden o no estar relacionados con su rendimiento escolar, mientras que el psicopedagogo se encargará de personalizar los procesos educativos proporcionando métodos, técnicas y procedimientos para lograr un proceso de enseñanza-aprendizaje más adecuado a las necesidades del educando. Existe la idea de que enviar a los niños o adolescentes a las tareas dirigidas resolverá sus problemas en el colegio, sin saber antes cuál es la causa de dicha dificultad, ni haber acudido a la evaluación del Psicólogo o el Psicopedagogo. ¿QUÉ SON LAS TAREAS DIRIGIDAS? El objetivo primordial de esta actividad es la realización de las tareas o actividades asignadas para el hogar, además de crear hábitos de estudio bajo la ayuda, motivación y supervisión de una maestra o un profesional relacionado con el área de la educación. Los niños(as) que pueden asistir a las tareas dirigidas deben tener rendimiento académico bueno o regular, es decir, estar en proceso de aprendizaje o haber consolidado la mayoría de los contenidos, además de tener períodos de atención promedio, no necesitar atención personalizada, ni mayor ayuda con las actividades escolares, es decir, alumnos que simplemente no tengan un adulto responsable o con suficiente paciencia para hacer las tareas con ellos. Tatiana Alvarado Psicopedagoga - Psicóloga – Mgs
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Mi Evento
AMO Music presents: Mrs Aracely Lopez Students’ Piano Recital
Samuel y Moises Fonseca
Emma Martinez y Daniel Moreira
Isabel FernandĂŠz
Los hermanos Donaldo y Ronaldo Fernando
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Camila interpreto “ Somewhere Over The Rainbow”
Natalie Noble
David Chacín
Isabella y Mario Urdaneta
Fabian Penso nos deleito con Copy Cat
Josselyne Anaya
Rebecca Leiva toco una pieza de Monti Czardas
Gabriel Garibaldi
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Mi Fiesta
El hermanito José Ramón
años Cumple . o v 8 u ando s eli Celebr eth Eg
Elizab
Elizabeth y su amiguita
Entre sonrisas y mucha diversión transcurrió la tarde
Todo listo para que comience la diversión
Elizabeth disfrutando feliz
Lugar : Westwood Dande Academy Motivo: The Olimpics Lista para soplar las velitas
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www.imaginekidsmagazine.com 39