0316 hcf issuu final by Midwest Parenting Publications

HAMILTON COUNTY

SPRING ISSUE 2016

the go to resource for local families

FAMILY FRIENDLY 5Ks Walk, run or stroll your way through these area races!

OUT AND ABOUT WITH BABY Fun adventures for the two of you

SAVE THE DATE»

LEMONADE DAY is May 21st!

CONTENTS

INSIDE

// SPRING

departments AGES & STAGES 10

BABIES Out and About With Baby

TODDLERS & PRESCHOOLERS Detecting Early Signs of Autism

SCHOOL AGERS Kids and Test Anxiety

TEENS & TWEENS Handling Mean Girls

FAMILY 18

MOMS Secondary Infertility

DADS Set Up Camp this Spring!

PETS Is Your Family Ready for a Pet?

in every issue 06 08 31 35

columns + guides 22

04 HAMILTON COUNTY FAMILY // spring

LOCAL SPOTLIGHT Youth Mentoring Initiative

HIDDEN GEMS K1 Speed and Rosie's Place

Family Friendly 5Ks Your guide to local races

GREETINGS SNIPPETS RESOURCE GUIDE BEFORE WE GO...

RECI-PLEASE Asparagus Risotto

Lemonade Day is May 21st! Do you have a budding entrepreneur at your house? Watch them turn lemons into profits by opening their own lemonade stand. Lemonade Day, launched in 2007, has grown to involve a million children across North America. This fun and easy program encourages kids to open their own small business to teach them the basics of entrepreneurship and finance. By opening their own lemonade stand, children learn about customer service, supply management, marketing and how to calculate a profit. They can even receive “start-up capital” with the Lemonade Day Seed Fund. To get started, visit Lemonade Day at https:// indianapolis.lemonadeday.org/ to register. From there, kids can create their own website to get the word out about their stand and have its location appear on a map of available stands on May 21st. Children can also have fun playing an interactive game called “Lemonopolis.” On the big day, kids set up their stand and start selling! Money they earn is theirs to keep, although many children decide to donate a portion of their sales to worthy causes. So grab the little entrepreneur in your household and start planning! Lemonade Day will be here before you know it – have fun making and selling this refreshing treat and learn some valuable business skills in the process!

www.hamiltoncountyfamily.com

GREETINGS

WORDS BY // SUSAN BRYANT

meet the staff

Spring Fever

Publisher Mary Wynne Cox mary@hamiltoncountyfamily.com

(noun) 1. a feeling of restlessness and excitement felt at the beginning of spring

Associate Publisher & Advertising Sales Jennica Zalewski jennica@hamiltoncountyfamily.com

Editor Susan Bryant susan@hamiltoncountyfamily.com

Advertising Coordinator Karen Ring karen@hamiltoncountyfamily.com

Creative Director Katie Clark katie@hamiltoncountyfamily.com

Business Manager

That’s the truth, isn’t it? That first warm day, we can’t wait to shed our winter layers and head out the door in t-shirts and shorts. (Even though the same temperature meant the first jeans and sweaters last fall!) Maybe your neighborhood is like mine where kids suddenly appear everywhere to play outside…all having grown about three inches taller since I saw them last! At Hamilton County Family, we’re here to help you “spring into action” and make the most of the season. Take a look at Out and About with Baby for some great ideas on places to go and things to do with your little one in tow. Need something fun to get everyone moving? Check out our list of Family Friendly 5Ks where you can walk, stroll or run your way to fitness. And for those who want to connect with Mother Nature, try an early camping trip. Warm days and cool nights can make the ideal conditions for a weekend getaway – read Set Up Camp this Spring for some quick tips before you pack up. This April marks two important campaigns that impact many families: National Infertility Awareness week (April 24-30) and National Autism Awareness Month (April 1-30). If you’re currently struggling with secondary infertility, you know how worrisome this situation can be. For some information on common causes and options for treatment, see our article on the subject written by local OB/GYN Dr. Susan Benson. Autism is now diagnosed in 1 out every 45 children. If you are at all concerned about your child’s development, don’t hesitate to have him or her evaluated. Early identification of a problem can have an important impact on their future. As an intro to the topic, take a look at Detecting Early Signs of Autism for some red flags to be aware of. There’s so much more inside, but I’m running out of space to tell you about it! I hope you’ll flip through and find something that speaks to you. Enjoy all this spring has to offer! Maybe I’ll see you around town one sunny day – I’ll be the one happy to be shivering in my short sleeves.

Roxanne Burns roxanne@hamiltoncountyfamily.com

Public Relations and Events Wendy Cox wendy@hamiltoncountyfamily.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Trisha Shepherd, Melissa Glidden, Cynthia Bowman, Dr. Susan Benson, Stephanie Lowe-Sagebiel, Kate Burkhardt, Nicole Turner, Karen Ring

cover photo by Nikki Zimmerman 4 Men and a Lady Photography

Susan Bryant EDITOR susan@hamiltoncountyfamily.com

06 HAMILTON COUNTY FAMILY // spring

www.hamiltoncountyfamily.com

SNIPPETS

// SPRING

Bits of info you might not know! Do you know what a “fluffle” is? It’s what you call a group of bunnies! And here’s a couple more fun facts about spring babies: When a mother hen talks to her eggs, the chicks inside will sometimes peep back! Going to see the new lambs born this spring at Conner Prairie? Give them a pet on their jaw – it’s their favorite spot for a scratch!

{FUN Fact} How many steps does the average runner take in a 5k race?

2,800 steps 4,300 steps 6, 200 steps

round and round… and round again!

That’s a lot of meatballs ... 236 million to be exact.

Which is the number of meatballs IKEA expects to sell in the U.S. in the fiscal year that ends August 2016. Hamilton County residents will have to wait a little bit longer to get their share though with the fall 2017 opening of IKEA in Fishers. Source: www.marketwatch.com/story/ ikeas-not-so-secret-ingredient-swedish-meatballs-2015-06-12

Oran Sands of Carmel

If you guessed the last answer, you’re correct – that’s 3,100 steps per foot! Speaking of 5Ks, hoof it on over to page 22 for a list of family-friendly races in our area. Source: www.answers.com/Q/How_many_ steps_in_5k_race

set a world record for laps around a roundabout – driving for over three hours (about 500 laps) at the roundabout at 106th and Keystone! After taking a spin with him, Mayor Brainard made the accomplishment official by declaring it “Roundabout World Record Day.”

Pizzapalooza When it comes to pizza, there is no shortage of pies in Hamilton County. We have a whopping 111 pizza shops to choose from! Although, the real pizza lovers live in Marion County, Lake County and Allen County – who beat us out as the top three counties in the state for number of pizza shops! Source: www.pizzashops.info/Indiana/HamiltonCounty/

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5 to 10 years That’s how long the average pet goldfish lives - really! According to petgoldfish.net, the oldest goldfish on record was won at a fair in England by a seven year old boy in 1956. This fish was named Tish, and “having achieved fame late in life, died at the age of 43 peacefully in his bowl..” Wondering if you’re up for this kind of pet commitment? Take our quiz on page 24 to find out if your family is ready to bring home a new family member (of the furry kind, that is.) Source: www.petgoldfish.net/interestinggoldfish-facts.html

www.hamiltoncountyfamily.com

BABIES

WORDS BY // Trisha Shepherd

Out and About With Baby Local activities for you and your little one There’s no need to feel trapped at home with a baby when plenty of fun options are available in Hamilton County for the two of you to enjoy together. Here are a few of our favorites!

The Urban Chalkboard Play Cafe The Play Cafe at The Urban Chalkboard (452 East Carmel Drive) is a comfy spot where children and grown-ups can snack, socialize and play. A day pass costs $8 per child (8 months to 8 years of age) or you can purchase a 5-punch pass for $40. Check their website, www.theurbanchalkboard.com, to explore classes for little ones including “Babies Play Music” plus special free activities offered regularly.

Swim Classes You don’t have to wait for summertime to enjoy a dip in the pool with your baby! Introducing your child to swimming at an early age can help them become comfortable in the water. Infant swim classes are available all year round at many locations, including Goldfish Swim School, Carmel Clay Parks & Recreation's Monon Center, YMCA locations and Stony Creek Swim Center in Noblesville and Carmel. Many infant swim programs require parents to participate with their babies, so come prepared to suit up and jump in.

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My Gym Children’s Fitness Center Fitness isn’t just for adults! My Gym in Fishers (10290 E. 96th Street) offers a Tiny Tykes class for babies from 7-13 months of age. New activities are introduced as babies grown and gain mobility and hand, arm and trunk control. Parents participate with their babies in classes, which include stretches, exercises, infant songs and dances, baby-safe rides and adventures, balance and agility skills, and even introductory tumbling. Visit www.mygym.com/fishers for more info.

Baby Boot Camp Grab that stroller and get moving! Baby Boot Camp is a stroller fitness program designed to let moms get in shape while spending time with their children. Programs are offered by nationally certified fitness professionals, and offer a variety of options for you and baby. The first class is free, so find them on the web or visit their Facebook page at www.facebook.com/ babybootcampcarmel/.

PlayFULL Hours Fishers Parks & Recreation offers unstructured play time that follows a specific theme for little ones ages 1-5, for a cost of just $2/class for Fishers residents and $3 for non-residents. Many of the indoor classes take place in the Billericay Park building, with some outdoor offerings as well. Parents should come prepared to participate alongside their children. Topics this spring include Seasons and Holidays, and Music and Movement. Visit www.Fishers. in.us for details.

Conner Prairie Step back in time with your baby and enjoy a dose of Indiana history at Conner Prairie (13400 Allisonville Rd., Fishers). The newly renovated indoor exhibits are open year-round. This space is the perfect place for tiny guests to create, climb, play and pretend. Be sure to look for the special area for infants within the forest-themed play area. For more details, check out www. connerprairie.org.

Potter’s Bridge Park As you soak in the sight of Hamilton County’s only remaining covered bridge at Potter’s Bridge Park (19401 North Allisonville Rd., Noblesville) you and your baby can stroll through 66 acres of nature. The paved, stroller friendly path along the scenic river bridge might be just as appealing to parents of babies as the iconic Potter’s Bridge itself, which is listed in the National Register of Historic Places.

Strawtown Koteewi Park

West Park

Strap on a baby carrier and hike in the footsteps of Indiana's first inhabitants at Strawtown Koteewi Park. (12308 E. Strawtown Ave., Noblesville) This 750-acre park also includes a canoe launch on the White River for boating and fishing, nature trails and wetlands and prairies that you and your little one can explore as you take in the park's natural beauty.

Appreciate Mother Nature as you traverse through the five acres of wetland space in West Park (2700 W. 116th Street, Carmel). The stroller-friendly boardwalks will keep you and baby high and dry while you take in the scenery. West Park also includes sixteen acres of wide open green spaces for visitors to run around in, a picnic area, a prairie garden and a playground.

There’s no shortage of both indoor and outdoor fun in Hamilton County! Pack up your tot and take advantage of all our area has to offer you and your little one.

www.hamiltoncountyfamily.com

TODDLERS& PRESCHOOLERS

WORDS BY // Cynthia Bowman

Detecting Early Signs of Autism Identifying potential areas of concern According to the latest report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 1 in 45 children are identified with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Unfortunately many of these children are not evaluated before the age of three. The importance of detecting the early indicators of autism cannot be overstated as the CDC states: “Early intervention (before school age) can have a significant impact on a child’s ability to learn new skills as well as reduce the need for costly interventions over time.” As autism awareness grows, parents and healthcare providers are learning to identify signs of ASD as early as infanthood. A 2012 study of roughly 14,500 women found that parents of children later diagnosed with ASD noticed a developmental problem before their child's first birthday. Indiana is one of a few states benefiting from a grant established by the CDC focused on earlier diagnosis and treatment for children with ASD as young as 18 months old.

What are the early indicators of autism? Dr. Thomas Lock, developmental pediatrician at Riley Hospital for Children at IU Health in Carmel and Indianapolis, says that there are no absolute signs of autism since children can be so inherently different. “The most reliable signs to look for are not what children are doing, but what they are not doing,” he says. Dr. Lock suggests that parents observe if their child does not: – Make eye contact – Interact or engage with others – Make progress speaking (or loses existing speech)

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The American Academy of Pediatrics gives these guidelines to help parents compare the characteristics of a typically developing child versus a child with autism:

– A child with ASD might bring her a bottle of bubbles to open, but he does not look at his mom's face when she does or share in the pleasure of playing together.

At 12 months

*Source: The American Academy of Pediatrics, HealthyChildren.org website, www.healthychildren.org/English/health-issues/conditions/Autism/Pages/Early-Signs-of-Autism-SpectrumDisorders.aspx

– A child with typical development will turn his head when he hears his name. – A child with ASD might not turn to look, even after his name is repeated several times, but will respond to other sounds.

At 18 months – A child with delayed speech skills will point, gesture or use facial expressions to make up for her lack of talking. – A child with ASD might make no attempt to compensate for delayed speech or might limit speech to parroting what is heard on TV or what she just heard.

At 24 months – A child with typical development brings a picture to show his mother and shares his joy from it with her.

Is autism always noticeable in very young children? Although early detection is preferable, it is not always possible. Cathy Pratt, Director of the Indiana Resource Center for Autism, finds that parents and healthcare practitioners are getting better at seeing the warning signs sooner – in some children. “There are children who may manifest the characteristics from the very beginning while others will manifest the characteristics later,” she says. “It does not mean that they did not have the predisposition for ASD, it’s just that the signs were not significant or apparent enough.”

What should a parent do if they suspect their child is showing signs of autism? It’s important to act early if you think your son or daughter may have ASD. “Don’t wait – time is of the essence and the earlier you can get the child in therapy, the better for the child,” says Mary Rosswurm, Executive Director of Little Star Center, Inc. Rosswurm recommends that parents start with their child’s pediatrician. “Ask for an autism screening, which most pediatricians can do, and then based on those results parents can decide if a more in depth assessment is needed.” Rosswurm also advises parents to go into the assessment with a good handle on where their child falls on their developmental milestones. Video footage of behaviors they are concerned about will also help facilitate the discussion. A more extensive assessment should be done by professionals familiar with the treatment of ASD. The Indiana Resource Center for Autism provides a list of professionals who can diagnose and assess children on their site at www.iidc.indiana.edu/ index.php?pageId=269. The Indiana Resource Center for Autism highly recommends that while you are waiting for an assessment or diagnosis, begin looking into other services. For children under age three, contact First Steps by calling (800) 545-7763 or visit www.infirststeps.com. For children older than three, contact your local school district who can talk with you about appropriate preschool options and help you access the services and professionals that can assist your family.

Most importantly, if you suspect your child may have any issues with their development, pursue that gut feeling. There are a wealth of autism resources, services and professionals in our area to tap into. Don’t hesitate to take advantage of the support systems that are available to both you and your child if you need them.

www.hamiltoncountyfamily.com

SCHOOL AGERS

WORDS BY // Melissa Glidden

Kids and Test Anxiety Helping students get over their jitters preventative tactics, it’s possible to nip test anxiety in the bud before it begins affecting a child’s performance in school, self-esteem and academic future.

Signs of test anxiety Elizabeth Cramer, a licensed school counselor and owner of Superheroes Counseling in Fishers, says that symptoms of test anxiety in younger students “can be sneaky,” manifesting themselves as unexpected low test scores, issues sleeping, attempts to avoid school or frequent requests for reassurance. Amanda Williams, an elementary school counselor in Fishers, also notes that many students struggling with test anxiety will complain of external symptoms, like stomachaches and headaches, especially before exams.

How to help Thankfully, there are several things parents and caregivers can do to support their test-anxious child, both on the day of exam and in the long term.

1. Check yourself, and model confidence.

It’s the morning of your 10 year-old daughter’s big spelling test, and she’s hardly touched her breakfast. She’s complaining of a stomachache and you know her next question will be if she can stay home today.

14 HAMILTON COUNTY FAMILY // spring

While that stomachache could be the result of having had one too many scoops of ice cream for dessert last night, it might also be a sign that she is struggling with test anxiety. According to the American Test Anxiety Association (ATAA), high levels of test anxiety – defined as severe emotional distress prior to taking an exam¬ – affects about 20% of students. Recognizing test anxiety in younger children can be a challenge, but by tuning in to their emotional cues and employing some

According to Williams, “Sometimes parents are feeling a lot of pressure for their child to perform well, and they project that anxiety onto their child.” Stay calm, and show your son or daughter how you manage stress in your own life. For example, let him or her watch you practice the night before a big presentation at work, and share how you plan to cope with any pre-presentation jitters.

2. Don’t minimize your child’s feelings. Cramer recommends that parents be attentive and receptive to their child’s concerns, but also set appropriate boundaries, such as still requiring that their child go to school despite their anxiety. “[Test anxiety] is not just a ‘stage’ at this age. It is a pattern of thinking that needs to be changed, or it will just get worse.” Making statements that validate how your son or daughter feels, such as “This sounds very difficult for you,” will help your child feel heard and supported by you.

3. Communicate your concerns with teachers and counselors. Occasionally, accommodations can be made to support a child with a history of generalized anxiety, such as being given extra time on a test. Teachers can also be enlisted to remind a child to practice relaxation techniques before and during an exam.

4. Practice relaxation skills and positive affirmations. In addition to employing self-calming techniques like deep breathing and progressive muscle relaxation, positive affirmations are proven confidencebuilders. According to Cramer, the best thing you can do as a parent is help your child change their inner self-talk from negative to positive. She recommends having your student repeat affirmations such as, “I am loved, no matter what my grade.” “Help the child review their successes,” says Cramer, “and realize those successes will repeat.”

5. Prepare for the test, get to bed early and eat a healthy breakfast. As you help your child prepare for their exam, Williams reminds parents to set a calm example for them to follow. She also tells parents that making sure their child gets enough sleep the night before the exam and starts their day with a healthy breakfast is crucial to their success.

Finally, it’s important to recognize that when a child feels valued for their hard work and effort, instead of a grade, test anxiety can become a thing of the past. As Cramer says “From the beginning, make sure you do not value your child based on their accomplishments.” While it’s important to celebrate what a child has achieved, he or she needs to know that you see beyond their report card and appreciate the attributes and qualities that make them special to you.

www.hamiltoncountyfamily.com

TWEENS & TEENS

WORDS BY // Stephanie Lowe-Sagebiel

The Counselor’s Corner Handling mean girls “How can I help my 13 year-old daughter deal with a group of mean girls at school who seem to have targeted her for nasty remarks and rude jokes? I’ve told her to just ignore them, but the situation is really starting to affect her self-esteem and make her feel anxious about going to school.

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As parents, if we discover our child is being treated unfairly or bullied, our immediate response can be to jump in and resolve the problem. This may not always be the best course of action however. At its core, bullying is an issue of power. If your daughter becomes a victim or target of others, she may feel as if she has lost her power. Finding a way to help her feel empowered again can help her a great deal in navigating this challenging issue. Many people (including young people) still think of bullying as strictly physical intimidation. Not only has the definition of bullying broadened, so too have the consequences. In Indiana, bullying is defined as “intentional efforts to harm one or more individuals, may be direct or indirect, is not limited to behaviors that

cause physical harm, and may be verbal (including oral and written language) or non-verbal.” (Source: Indiana Anti Bullying Laws and Policies; Stopbullying.gov 2016). Fortunately, Indiana has some of the most progressive laws in the country regarding anti-bullying. In regards to your daughter, here are some thoughts to keep in mind: • While adults and lawmakers have labeled certain behavior as “bullying,” many young people still just label those same acts as “mean.” Use whatever language makes sense for your child and don’t get caught up in the terminology.

• See if your child can solve the problem first before jumping in to help. Although she may ultimately require your assistance, stepping in too quickly might actually make the situation worse and send the message to your daughter that she is not capable of handling the problem. • Ignoring bullies often doesn’t work. Your child may need to address the issue head-on. Help her by practicing what she can say with a firm voice and strong body language. A good first step is simply telling the bully to “Stop!” • Bullies find power in silence. See if your daughter can gain the support of her friends and peers. The more people who become aware of the situation (friends, teachers, school administrators, etc.) the more avenues for support. If your daughter is feeling isolated at school, help her find friendship connections outside of school where she can connect with like-minded people and have a chance to excel in a different environment. • If the bullying is taking place online, talk with your daughter about limiting her social media time or taking a complete break for a while. Help her re-focus her energy on close, supportive friends and family. Also talk with her about the importance of not processing how she is feeling online. Sometimes young people find support this way, but it is just as likely that she could be unexpectedly ridiculed and feel even more isolated. • Get the help of your school personnel. Your school should have anti-bullying policies in place that address these issues and can help your daughter feel supported and safe. Most importantly, keep the lines of communication open between you and your daughter and take her experiences seriously. Middle school is a critical developmental time for most young girls. Let her know she is supported and valued by you as she navigates this sensitive time. Stephanie Lowe-Sagebiel is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with Centerpoint Counseling and Baume Psychological Services and has nearly twenty years of experience helping adults, teens and children develop healthy skills to manage life’s challenges.

www.hamiltoncountyfamily.com

MOMS

WORDS BY // Dr. Susan Benson, OB/GYN, St. Vincent Fishers Hospital

Secondary Infertility The unexpected “bump in the road” You have a happy, healthy child and have gotten used to motherhood, so you and your partner excitedly decide it’s time to add to your family. After a problem-free conception the first time around, you don’t expect any difficulties. But as months go by with no result, your frustration and worry begin to set in. This is secondary infertility, and it happens more commonly than most women realize. Secondary infertility is defined as an inability to conceive after one year for a couple who have had a previous successful conception without the aid of any assistive technology. Unfortunately, having had a prior easy conception doesn’t guarantee future fertility. There are several reasons why this can occur: • Advanced reproductive age. A woman’s age (considered more of an issue over 35) is the most common reason for reproductive complications. The years that pass between pregnancies can be enough to change a woman’s ability to conceive. As a woman gets older, the quality and quantity of her eggs decreases, thus decreasing her chances of a successful pregnancy. • Sperm quality. Just as a woman’s reproductive capacity can change over time, so can a man’s. This can be due to age, weight gain, changes in health status or new medications.

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• Weight gain or other new health issues. Weight gain can change the regularity of a woman’s ovulatory cycle, making it harder to conceive. Also, as people age they can develop issues like thyroid disease, diabetes or high blood pressure that can contribute to infertility as well. • Smoking. Always a bad idea, but this habit is also linked to infertility in both men and women. • Anatomical changes. Internal scarring from prior surgeries like a cesarean section or a D&C, or even endometriosis or appendicitis can damage the delicate female reproductive structures, thus making it harder to conceive. Once a problem is suspected, the next step is to visit your doctor for guidance and testing. There are many tests that are available to evaluate the conditions listed here, as well as simple and thorough history-taking to see where the problem may have arisen. It is likely that a semen sample will be requested, and possibly some blood work to check for thyroid disease, hormonal problems or other diseases depending on your health history. It is also possible to do some imaging studies of the reproductive system to make sure that future moms are anatomically normal. After a thorough investigation and depending on the results, there are several things physicians are able to do to support and improve a couple’s chances of conception. This includes: • Medications. There are many medications available to enhance a woman’s fertility, including oral medications like Clomid® which can increase the number of eggs each month that are available for fertilization.

• Assisted reproductive technology. This doesn’t always mean in vitro fertilization, but this too is an option. Sometimes a simple insemination procedure during a fertile time period can increase the chances of conception. • Egg donation. For women who have a minimal reserve of quality eggs, this is a viable and helpful option.

All couples and circumstances are different, and the reason behind their fertility struggles may be just one problem or a combination of issues. Sometimes, there is no identifiable reason for the infertility at all and doctors have to do their best to try and come up with an answer. The key is to see a specialist and work toward a diagnosis and a solution. A physician who is familiar with the difficulties of infertility is going to be best suited to support a couple during this frustrating and emotional time. By using a team approach with good information and sound decision making, often this hurdle can be overcome and a couple can be on their way to a successful pregnancy.

DADS

WORDS BY // KAREN RING

Set Up Camp this Spring! Grab your gear and get outside with these quick tips Spring has arrived! Warm breezes and sunny days are finally here. Dads, you know what that means – time to pack up the family for a weekend camping trip! But isn’t it still a bit too cold to sleep outdoors? Provided you are well-prepared, cooler temps make for some very comfortable sleeping weather, as opposed to the summer months when the heat can make sharing a tent almost unbearable. Mild temperatures also make long afternoon hikes more pleasant, help keep bugs at bay and promote snuggling around the campfire at night. Heading out before peak season is also a great way to take advantage of more affordable rates.

How do I prepare for camping on cooler nights? Preparing for a spring camping trip is really not that much different than planning for an outing in the heat of summer. However, there are a few considerations to keep in mind:

Dress in layers. Let’s face it, spring weather in the Midwest can be fickle. Highs in the 70s during the day may turn to temps that hover close to freezing at night. Dressing in layers is the best way to combat these temperature fluctuations – bundle up for cooler mornings, shed some layers in the heat of the day and re-layer to face the chill of the evening. Mittens, stocking caps and thick, wool socks will also help ensure your extremities stay nice and warm all night long. Be sure to pack a few wool blankets that you can wrap up in while sitting around the campfire or layer over sleeping bags.

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Prepare for rain. Did we mention spring

Shakamak State Park

weather is fickle? A rain-soaked tent is the quickest way to spoil a perfectly good camping trip, especially when you add cooler weather to the mix. Be sure to pack rain gear for your family members, but also ensure your tent is able to withstand an unexpected shower. Over time the tent’s factory-applied waterproofing can wear off. To learn more about how to waterproof your tent, visit: http://boyslife.org/outdoors/ ask-the-gear-guy/8198/waterproof-myinexpensive-tent/

A bit further away, but well worth the drive, Shakamak State Park is located just outside Terre Haute. Roughly two-thirds of the campsites are in a wooded area, making this a great campground to immerse your family in the beauty of spring. Both primitive and modern campsites are available.

Indiana is chock-full of fabulous campsites. Here are a few of our favorites for spring camping. Turkey Run State Park Located in Marshall, IN, Turkey Run features some of the most ruggedly beautiful hiking trails in the state. High- lights include beautiful sandstone gorges, a suspension bridge and an abundance of wildlife. Campsites feature electrical hookup and modern restroom facilities.

Summit Lake A bit closer to home, Summit Lake is located northeast of New Castle and southeast of Muncie. The park features scenic bike and hiking trails perfect for taking in the budding spring foliage. There is also an excellent bird watching and wildlife observation area. All campsites have electric and water hookups with modern comfort stations.

With the right clothes and gear, the mild temperatures of spring can provide the perfect setting for a memorable family camping trip!

www.hamiltoncountyfamily.com

FAMILY FRIENDLY 5Ks

Walk, run or stroll your way through these local races!

{APRIL}

Ditch those snow boots and strap on your running shoes. We’ve got your guide to fun fitness events that will get the whole family moving this spring.

NCAA Women’s Final Four Bounce Fueled by Powerade Location: Bankers Life Fieldhouse Date: Saturday, April 2 Start Time: 1:30 p.m. Register: www.ncaa.com/womens-finalfour/bounce

{MARCH} Big Ten Hoops Day 5K Location: Bankers Life Fieldhouse, Downtown Indianapolis Date: Saturday, March 12 Events: Competitive & Non-Competitive 5Ks Start Time: 8:00 a.m. Register: https://secure.getmeregistered. com/get_information.php?event_id=123176 Competitive runners, casual runners, walkers and those pushing strollers are all welcome at this basketball-inspired event. Don’t forget to wear the colors of your favorite Big Ten School!

2016 Great North Run & Fitness Fair Location: North Central High School campus and surrounding neighborhoods

Youth ages 18 and under receive a free t-shirt and basketball and then dribble their way down Georgia Street, from Bankers Life Fieldhouse to Tourney Town™. This event is FREE but registration is required.

Date: Saturday, March 12 Events: 10K, 5K, Fun Run

Carmel Marathon Weekend

Start Time: 10K, 9:00 a.m.; 5K, 9:20 a.m.; Fun Run, 9:25 a.m.

Location: Palladium at the Center for Performing Arts, Carmel

Date: Saturday, April 16

Register your whole family for any event they choose for just $50. A portion of your entry fee directly benefits the Washington Township school of your choice.

Events: marathon, half marathon, Horizon Bank 8K and Carmel 5K Start Time: 7:30 a.m., all events Register: www.carmelmarathon.com/pages/ registration All events are walker-friendly. Participants must be 12 on race day to register for the Carmel Half Marathon; 16 to register for the Carmel Marathon; no age minimums for the

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Horizon Bank 8K or Carmel 5K, but youth under 12 must be accompanied by an adult. Strollers welcome at Horizon Bank 8K and Carmel 5K.

5k Family Fun Run to benefit Peyton Manning Children's Hospital

Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure

Date: Saturday, April 23

Location: Military Park, downtown Indianapolis Date: Saturday, April 16 Events: 5K timed competitive run, 5K noncompetitive run/walk, one-mile family walk, Kids' Dash Start Time: Kidsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Dash, 8:40 a.m.; competitive 5K, 9 a.m.; non-competitive 5k/walk, 9:10 a.m.; one-mile family walk, 9:20 a.m. Register: http://indy.info-komen.org/site/ PageServer?pagename=IND_2016_TR_register There is something for the whole family at this event, including a 100-yard dash for children ages 2 through 8. One hundred percent of the net proceeds support the mission of the Susan G. Komen Foundation, including breast health education and breast cancer screening and treatment.

Location: Butler University Health & Recreation Complex, Indianapolis Events: 5K and FREE Kids Race

Runners and walkers will enjoy a scenic tour of beautiful Noblesville! There are events for runners of all abilities, including The Boys & Girls Club of Noblesville Kiddie Run, which is open to ages 9 and under. A portion of the proceeds from the event benefits the Boys & Girls Club of Noblesville.

Start Time: 8:30 a.m. Register: https://secure.getmeregistered. com/register.php?event_id=122242&c= This event is fun for all ages, and includes a DJ, games, face painting and more. There will be a race for children 4 and under and another for children ages 5-9 years.

{MAY} Noblesville Mini Marathon Location: Hare Chevrolet Field, Noblesville Date: Saturday, May 28 Events: Half marathon, 10K, 5K, Kiddie Run Start Time: 7:30 a.m. Register: https://korgeo.com/htmlclient/#/ ViewRaceEvent/4/

2016 March for Babies Walk Location: White River State Park, downtown Indianapolis Date: Saturday, May 14 Events: Family-friendly walk Time: 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Register: www.marchforbabies.org/event/ centralindiana In addition to the walk, families can enjoy food and games as they help raise awareness. Registration is free, but participants are asked to make a personal donation and/ or fundraise. Proceeds support the March of Dimes mission to help moms have healthy, full-term pregnancies.

www.hamiltoncountyfamily.com

PETS

WORDS BY // KAREN RING

Is Your Family Ready for a Pet? Find out before you bring a furry friend home! Adopting a pet is a huge commitment and one your entire family needs to be on board with for the life span of the animal. Take our quick quiz to see if you are ready to initiate the family pet discussion.

Our family is considering a new pet because: a) the kids have been begging for years and I am just tired of saying no. b) all of my kids’ friends have pets – I guess we might as well get one too. c) we all love animals. A pet would be a wonderful addition to our home.

The thought of having to clean up after a pet on a daily basis is: a) unthinkable – who has time to deal with one more mess? b) a bit of a concern, but I’ll just get my kids to do it. c) no problem. I’m used to changing diapers and wiping spit up off my clothes – I’ve got this!

Dog owners spend an average of $225 on annual well visits and $66 per trip to the groomer. These numbers: a) come as a total shock – count me out! b) surprise me – time to take out a loan! c) are what I had planned on and will work in our family’s budget.

You just found your cat using your brand new sofa as a scratching post for the umpteenth time. You: a) head back to the shelter to see about a refund. b) put the cat in time out to let him think about what he has done. c) use your voice to let the cat know that behavior is not allowed and then place him on his own scratching post, which is within easy reach of the sofa.

The pouring rain shows no signs of letting up and your dog is giving you that look. You: a) decide he can probably hold it a little longer. b) think just maybe you can be the first person to convince a dog to use the toilet. c) grab an umbrella and take your dog for his regularly scheduled walk.

If you answered anything other than “c” to any of these questions, it might be best to put the idea of a pet on the back burner for now. While we are having a bit of fun here, adopting a pet is a serious matter. Be sure to consider your family’s perspective, as well as the needs of the animal, before welcoming this new family member into your home.

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www.hamiltoncountyfamily.com

LOCAL SPOTLIGHT

WORDS BY // SUSAN BRYANT

Youth Mentoring Initiative Making a difference in the lives of Fishers kids YMI is a volunteer mentoring program that pairs local students with caring adults. Founder Darren Heil shares how the organization has evolved over the years and why it is so vital to young people in our community. What was the impetus to start YMI? During my 15 years in service to youth development, I had the opportunity to work with teenagers in various capacities as a local youth pastor. I loved creating events for students to attend, being a positive adult role model in their lives, and creating opportunities for them to grow emotionally and spiritually. Throughout those years, I noticed that schools have a wonderful opportunity to impact the life of a teen [beyond academics.] Because of this, I started Community First Initiative (now Youth Mentoring Initiative – YMI) in April of 2008. My desire is to bring the community around the school systems and create specialized mentoring programs to meet the critical needs of students. With limited budgets and small counseling departments, schools need volunteers from the community to get involved and to recognize the role they can play in the growth and development of students.

Our area seems to have parents who are very involved in their children’s lives. Do you really find that many students benefit from having a mentor? Teachers will tell you that parental involvement tends to drop after 5th grade. It declines further as students get into high school. We do live in a community with an emphasis on sports.

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There is a lot of parental involvement in kids’ extracurricular activities, but not always in their lives. Back in 2013 an anonymous survey taken of 7th-12th grade students in the HSE school system (9,000+ students) found that 37% reported feeling hopeless, 35% were not engaged in school and 30% reported a poor sense of well-being. In my opinion, we do not have enough adult interaction with our youth based on these numbers. We don’t need more programs, we need more relationships. After the 2014-2015 school year, 100% of students who had a mentor reported feeling better about themselves. They also reported that they really valued having someone to talk to on a regular basis.

What schools do you partner with and what grades do you serve?  We are in six Fishers/Hamilton Southeastern Schools: Riverside and Sand Creek Intermediate (5th-6th), Fishers Junior High and Fall Creek Junior High (7th-8th), Fishers High School and Hamilton Southeastern High School (9th-12th). Our goal is to be in all four intermediate, four junior highs, and both high schools by 2020.

What kind of feedback do you get from mentors about their experience working with students? Many mentors tell us they feel like they learn more from their mentee sometimes. They say they under- stand more and more the importance of adult interaction.

We don’t need more programs, we need more relationships............ They begin to see the “poverty” of relationships that so many young people are in.

If someone is interested in volunteering, or has a child they think would benefit from the program, what is their first step to finding out more?  If a parent would like to see their student have a mentor while in school, they can reach out to their child’s school counselor. If someone is interested in hearing more about becoming a YMI mentor, they can attend one of our next informational meetings. Check out our website under events (www.ymionline.org). Our philosophy is that any student benefits from having another caring adult in their lives. YMI mentoring is for any student – we do not use the term or view students as “at risk.” In reality, we all are at risk from making a bad choice. We are relational beings – we were designed to be in relationships. All that YMI is doing is building more relationships for our young people.

www.hamiltoncountyfamily.com

hidden gems

of hamilton countY

WORDS BY // Kate Burkhardt, Communications Coordinator, Hamilton County Tourism

The best finds only the locals know! Spring has sprung across Hamilton County! Rev your engines and try out a hidden gem as sweet as pie to celebrate the season! K1 Speed 9998 E 121st St, Fishers

Take to the track at the indoor go karting facility hidden in plain sight! Racers use electric karts, making the karts faster, quieter and easier to drive than gas powered karts. Kids four feet tall and above can get their 12 laps in with racers the same size. Visit https://www. k1speed.com for hours and pricing.

Rosieâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Place 68 N 9th St., Noblesville

Have your pie and eat it too at this official stop on the Hoosier Pie Trail! Sample sweets like Coconut Cream Pie and Bumbleberry pie after a delicious family brunch at Rosieâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Place in Noblesville! Pies are baked fresh every day. Check out www.facebook.com/rosiesplaceindy/ to find out more.

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RECI PLEASE -

WORDS BY // Nicole Turner, Registered Dietitian

Asparagus Risotto » 2 cups asparagus, cut into 1-inch lengths » 6-8 cups vegetable or chicken stock » 2 tablespoons olive oil » 1 medium onion, chopped » 1 cup arborio rice

Steps:

Place olive oil in a 2-quart pot. Add chopped onion and stir over low heat until the onions are translucent.

Before all the liquid is absorbed, add another cup of stock and continue stirring.

Add asparagus and mix carefully.

Resume adding stock one cup at a time and stirring until rice is al dente.

When rice is almost done, add grated cheese, sage and pepper to taste.

2. Add the rice. Turn the heat to medium-high. Continue to stir the ingredients, coating the rice with oil. 3.

» 3/4 cup dry white wine

Cook the rice until it has a jewel-like appearance. Pour in the wine and mix well, stirring constantly.

» 1/4 cup grated hard cheese, 4. After the wine has steamed away, add a such as parmesan or asiago

cup full of stock. Keep stirring so the rice doesn't stick to the pot.

» 1/4 teaspoon dried sage » ground black pepper

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Continue stirring as the rice cooks and absorbs the stock, about 8-10 minutes.

Other variations could include a combination of sautéed butternut squash, mushrooms, fennel, broccoli, shredded carrots, brussel sprouts, spinach or kale. Try changing up the spices as well – thyme, oregano or basil would be a great complimenting flavor.

RESOURCES

RESOURCE DIRECTORY INTRODUCING THE GO-TO GUIDE FOR FAMILIES IN HAMILTON COUNTY AFTER-SCHOOL CLASSES · CAMPS · CHILDCARE · EARLY EDUCATION ENTERTAINMENT · HOME SERVICES · and more!

www.hamiltoncountyfamily.com

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www.hamiltoncountyfamily.com

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Before we go… Like our readers, the staff at Hamilton County Family often juggle work life, family life and a myriad of other obligations. It’s no surprise that our busy lives sometimes get the better of us.

Here are a few of our best “I can’t believe I did that” moments.

When my oldest son was in first grade, I dropped him off at school on the Monday after winter break. The only problem was, school didn't actually start back up until Tuesday. Thankfully, the office staff caught me before I drove away! My son was thrilled. I was mortified. Karen Ring Advertising Coordinator

I went back to work after my oldest daughter was 3 months old. I had to go out of town for an overnight sales meeting, so while driving I had to hook up the breast pump to the cigarette lighter and pump away! Luckily it was dark, but the truck drivers made me nervous as they passed by looking down. Talk about multi-tasking – moms do what we need to do! Jennica Zalewski Associate Publisher & Advertising Sales

Since I work mostly from home, oftentimes I turn on my computer and start working as soon as the kids get on the bus. I got so engrossed in whatever project I was doing one day that I barely looked up until the UPS driver rang my doorbell with a package delivery. I was quite a vision still in my pj’s with crazy bedhead at 2:00 in the afternoon – he probably thought I was watching soaps and eating bon bons all day! Susan Bryant

I was sending an email to some advertisers and was copying and pasting the text. I didn't realize that instead of saying "I know how busy you are…” I said "I know how busty you are." I didn't catch the mistake until I had sent out at least 20 emails. Mary Cox Publisher

Editor

I recently showed up to my 36 week OB checkup almost 2 whole hours before my scheduled time. Even though I had received a message the day before confirming the time, AND had it written down correctly in my calendar, I guess I convinced myself otherwise! Can you say pregnancy brain?! Katie Clark Creative Director

Earlier this school year when my boys were car riders because we were temporarily living out of the school district I forgot that it was an early release day and I was supposed to pick them up 30 minutes early. The school called me and said they were in the office waiting and asked if I could please come get them right away. Roxanne Burns Business Manager

I was out running a bunch of errands and one included a stop at the Apple Store. Luckily, the wait was so long I decided to leave because when I got back to my car, my keys were in the ignition and the car was still running. Wendy Cox Public Relations and Events