Lehigh Valley Family September/October Issue

Family Lehigh Valley

September/October 2010

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Are You a Frantic Family?

Preparing the Allergic Child for School 10 Ways to Get Ready in 10 Minutes or Less Fun Things To Do With Your Family 13 Tips for Raising a Confident Child www.lehighvalleyfamil y.com

Family Lehigh Valley

OUR TEAM Publisher Jeff Tintle, II

Editor

Laura Putt editor@lehighvalleyfamily.com

Copy Editor Vicki Bezems

Janet Sena Pix-Ology, LLC

Contributors

Art Villafane Catherine Hertzog Lauren Wuscher Pam Cantone Denise Continenza

contact 610-762-9011 or sales@lehighvalleyfam

www.LehighValleyFamily.com

September-October 2010

Photography:

For Advertising

A Thrive, LLC Publication P.O. Box 414 • Macungie 18062 610-762-9011 editor@lehighvalleyfamily.com

Copyright© 2010 by Thrive, LLC. All rights reserved.

The contents of this publication may not be copied or reproduced in any manner without the express written permission of the publisher. Thrive, LLC assumes no responsibility for damages arising from errors or omissions.

Thrive Media, PO Box 414, Macungie 18062, www.lehighvalleyfamily.com.

Lehigh Valley Family’s monthly issues are available online at www.lehighvalleyfamily.com. Print issues are published quarterly (fall, winter, spring and summer issues) and are available at libraries, churches, health clubs, medical facilities, child care centers, preschools, educational centers and other locations where publications are generally found. Print subscriptions are available for $10 (4 issues).

A message from the editor...

This issue marks the second anniversary of Lehigh Valley Family. It is great cause to celebrate. We thank you, our readers, for your support and feedback. We also thank our advertisers; many have been with us from the beginning. Please help support these local businesses, and tell them that you saw their ad in Lehigh Valley Family.

Over the past two years we have gotten lots of feedback from our readers, and we are working hard to meet your interests. In response to your request that we print more often, we are excited to announce that we will begin to print the magazine every other month, rather than on a quarterly basis.

The second major announcement to share is that we will be featuring a local family on the cover of Lehigh Valley Family magazine in all upcoming issues. We will choose a family by looking at how they give back to our community.

The family chosen will then participate in a photoshoot with Janet Sena of Pixology, LLC. To submit your photo and application for consideration as our cover family for an upcoming issue, please our Facebook group page, called Lehigh Valley Family.

We can’t wait to see our readers and hear how you are making the Lehigh Valley a better place to live!

Last but certainly not least, is a renovation of our website. Check in with us often as we are working hard to release a new site that will better meet the desires of our readers. If you aren’t already signed up for our newsletter, you can sign up at www. lehighvalleyfamily.com. Simply provide us with your email address and we will email you our monthly newsletter filled with timely articles and even more ideas of fun things to do with your family.

Thank you again to our readers and advertisers. We look forward to growing alongside your family!

On the Cover: Lehigh Valley residents Liza and Damon of Bethlehem. Photo courtesy of Janet Sena of Pix-Ology. Read about our inspiring cover family on page 6!

www.LehighValleyFamily.com

• Lehigh Valley Family

Sept-Oct 2010 Table of Contents

Family Lehigh Valley

ONLINE!

• Fun Facts ...Page 5 • Meet Our Cover Family ...Page 6

Lehigh Valley Family offers a monthly online magazine with fresh content, articles, listings, calendar of events, videos, links and more! It’s all free and available online. Also sign up on the web site for a free email subscription to Lehigh Valley Family’s news and updates.

• Tips to Stay Healthy This School Year ...Page 7 • After School Accountability ...Page 7 • Are You a Frantic Family? ...Page 8 • 13 Tips to Raising a Confident Child ...Page 9 • Community Board ...Pages 10-11 • Time Saving Cleaning Tips ...Page 12 • Why Getting Messy is Good ...Page 13 • Eating Breakfast Boosts Chances for School Success ...Page 14 • Child Care Guide ...Page 16-17 • Parents Should Teach Finances, Not Just Schools ...Page 18 • Practice What You Preach ...Page 19 • 10 Ways to Get Ready in 10 Minutes or Less ...Page 20 • Hide and Seek, Tips to Finding Opportunities ...Page 21 • Fun Monthly Stuff ...Page 22-23

Cool Idea: Make an Erupting Volcano.

Making a volcano that erupts is something that kids love! Have lots of “PEAL Starch mixture” on hand, as kids want to participate and see the volcano erupt again and again! Ages 6 and up.

Things You’ll Need

• 1 Cup of Peal Starch • 1/4 Cup of Baking Soda • 2 Drops of Dish Soap • Red Food Coloring • 1 Cup Vinegar • Foil • Empty gallon jug, plastic

Directions:

1. Beginning with a clean, empty gallon jug, begin building foil on the outside of the jug to resemble a mini-volcano.

2. A realistic looking volcano can be achieved using

playdough and paint to decorate the foil.

3. Once you’ve built your volcano, mix PEAL Starch, water and salt to make the paste the consistency of thick gravy.

4. Mix the PEAL Starch mix with baking soda, and pour half way into the volcano/jug.

5. Mix food coloring with vinegar in a separate cup. Add 2 drops of soap (make sure you add soap, it slows the reaction).

6. When you are ready for the eruption, pour the vinegar mixture into the cup and watch the eruption! ***Adult supervision required.

You may purchase PEAL starch at www.PealStarch.com

September/October 2010 • www.LehighValleyFamily.com

FUN FACTS • Cookie Monster’s name is Sid. • Money isn’t made of paper, it is made of linen.

• There is a company in Taiwan that makes dinnerware out of wheat, so when you are done eating your meal, you can eat your plate!

• Every 3 days, your stomach makes a new lining.

• There are 6 million parts in a Boeing 747.

• Pucks hit by hockey sticks have been measured to reach a speed of 150 miles per hour.

• Scallops have approximately 100 eyes around the edge of its shell.

• Only female polar bears hibernate.

• It costs about 3 cents to make a $1 bill.

• Herbert Hoover, who was the 31st president of the United States, turned over all the Federal salary checks he received to charity during the 47 years he was in government.

• Macadamia nuts are not sold in their shells because it takes 300 pounds per square inch of pressure to break the shell.

• Infants spend more time during sleep dreaming than adults do.

• In Belgium, there is a museum just for strawberries.

• The Olympic was the sister ship of the Titanic, and she provided 25 years of service.

• The national anthem of Greece has 158 verses.

• An average city dog lives approximately three years longer than an average country dog.

• Crayola is a French word that means “Oily chalk.”

• Every year, Burger King restaurants prepare over 950,000 pounds of bacon for their breakfast customers.

• On average, a typical dairy cow lies down and stands up about 14 times a day.

• There are approximately 45 billion fat cells in an average adult.

• To make one pound of butter, 29 cups of milk are needed.

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Meet Our Cover Family!

2010-2011 Season

Children’s Series

You may have seen Liza and

Damon before. They were recently featured in a PBS episode on teen pregnancy. Their portion of the episode focused on how although you might be a teen parent, you Photo courtesy of can still follow your dreams, as Liza Pix-Ology. did by attending college and then graduate school, all while working full time.

Subscribe for only $25 a person!

Liza was born in Puerto Rico and raised in South Side Bethlehem, where she is now raising her son.

Michael Cooper: Masked Marvels and Wondertales

Damon is eight years old and has just begun the third grade.

Their family is made complete by the addition of Damon’s iguana, Godzilla.

December 4, 2010 at 7:30 p.m. & December 5, 2010 at 2:00 p.m.

Liza and Damon enjoy the many family friendly activities available in their community, such as going to the Bethlehem Public Library, attending “Movies at the park” during the summer and going for walks. Because they live near the downtown, they like watching a movie at the Boyd Theater, grabbing a bite to eat, and window shopping on Main Street.

Liza jokingly calls him “her little tail” because every where she goes, he goes. Aside from work and school, they are inseparable.

Liza works in foster care. She states that although it is her job, she does her best to give abused and neglected children and youth the most normal life possible. Liza and Damon are also graduates of the Nurse-Family Partnership program. This local program mentors first time parents, from pregnancy until the child turns two. Although they completed this program several years ago, Liza still does a lot of advocacy work for the program, writing to senators in an effort to gain funding for it.

Liza cannot help but be affected by the sad situations she sees on a daily basis in her job, reminding her to treasure the little moments with her own child. She passionately states, “I think that parents are always looking for things to do with their kids, [which] can be pricey if there are multiple children. It’s important to remember that kids don’t care how much money we spend, if any. Getting on the floor and playing a board game, playing ‘race’ with kids, and chasing them around the playground… I’ve found that those are the things that kids remember the most.”

The team at Lehigh Valley Family thanks Liza and Damon for being our cover family. We especially thank them for sharing their inspirational story and applaud them for all they do to give back to our community.

Sunday, October 31, 2010 at 2:00 p.m.

The Snowman

Jonathan Sprout: The Dr. Music Confidence Concert Sunday, March 20, 2011 at 2:00 p.m.

www.KutztownPresents.org

Z

Building Confidence

Etiquette • Manners • Modeling • Fashion Group and individual classes available for young girls, teens and ladies.

Call now to register for fall!

Zenddy Etiquette & Fashion Academy 610-762-6535 • www.zenddy.com

Tips to Stay Healthy This School Year

After School Accountability

By Carsa Kruppenbach, PSA HealthCare

By Cathy Heimsoth, Hanover Township Community Center

With the return of school comes the return of cold and flu

Remember the commercial, “It’s 10 o-‘clock, do you know

season. Parents can keep their children healthy by teaching them a few things before the start of school.

Hand Washing: Hand washing is the most effective way to prevent the spread of germs. Teach your children how to wash their hands properly for 15 seconds with soap and water. Teach them to sing the “Happy Birthday” song or another favorite song while washing their hands. The “Happy Birthday” song lasts approximately 15 seconds and will put a smile on their face as well as remove germs from their hands.

Hand Sanitizer: Using hand sanitizer is also effective in preventing the spread of germs and is handy when soap and water are not available. Kids hand sanitizer can be found at local drug and health food stores.

Avoid Touching Face: Germs can cause illness when they come in contact with the eyes, nose, or mouth. Teach children to avid touching their faces.

Don’t Share Food or Drinks: Germs can be spread from mouth to mouth when children share food or drinks. Teach children not to share food and drinks and also teach them to avoid putting pens, pencils, school supplies into their mouths.

Get Immunized: Getting a yearly flu shot, starting in September or as soon as the vaccination is available. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention recommends consulting a physician if the following conditions exist: • People who have a severe allergy to chicken eggs.

• People who have had a severe reaction to an influenza vaccination.

• People who have a moderate-to-severe illness with a fever (they should wait until they recover to get vaccinated.).

Boost immune system: When children are tired, undernourished, or exposed to the elements, they can increase their chances of getting sick. Make sure they get plenty of rest, eat a healthy diet with fruits and vegetables, wear proper attire when going outside, especially waiting for the bus, and keep physically active.

Do unto others: If your child is sick, keep them home! Germs can quickly pass from one student to another when a child sneezes or coughs. Teach children to cough or sneeze into a tissue or into the crook of their elbow to help minimize the spread of germs. Also, children need to rest when they are ill to prevent their illness from worsening.

Learn more about PSAHealthcare by calling them at 610-4395700 or visiting them at www.PSAKIDS.com.

www.LehighValleyFamily.com

where your child is?”…. In today’s world we often wonder the same thing around 3 or 4 o’clock in the afternoon!

With more children coming home to parents who are still at work, the question is often asked, “How do I know my child’s time is accountable in a constructive environment?”.

The temptation is high to sit and play video games or watch tv. How do we bridge the gap of teaching responsibility and accountability to those school age children who just don’t want to be in a “day care” setting anymore? Those “tween” years can sometimes be the most difficult in terms of finding the right mix for your child. Just as importantly, how do we create an affordable alternative?

Hanover Township Community Center has created an environment where they foster that independence the children are looking for with a mix of accountability for the parents.

Every parent would love to create the opportunity for their children to enjoy a constructive after school time, staying active both physically and mentally. At HTCC their school age Enrichment programs provides just that.

Parents can pick and choose how many days they would like their school age child to participate. Enrichment is offered Monday through Friday and can be registered for one day or all five.

After school enrichment includes an opportunity to do homework with teachers on hand to help if needed. Participants will also have time in the gym areas or game room as well as have planned activities each day; this gives the participants something to look forward to. Comforts of home such as the computer and a WII system are also available, but only with supervision. A creative “enriched” environment during those after school hours when some kids find themselves bored or looking for some form of engagement is the end result!

When looking for activities for your child the first place to look is your local recreation department. If they do not have a program in place, they may just need the feedback from the community to get started. If you would like more information about the Hanover Township Community Center and its Enrichment Programs for children 3 to 12 years old, call 610317-8701 or go to: www.hanovertwp-cc.org.

• Lehigh Valley Family

You Might Be a Frantic Family. . .

by Denise Continenza, Family Living Educator with Penn State cooperative Extension, Lehigh County

If you find yourself racing home to pile kids in the car to get them to

their activities or sports, flying through the drive-through window at a fast food restaurant or fixing dinner at nine o’clock on most nights . . . you might be a frantic family.

If you opt out of family gatherings and plan vacations around your children’s activity schedules . . . you might be a frantic family.

If you find yourself saying things like, “Is the teacher nuts giving all this homework? Doesn’t he know we have basketball, wrestling, and private dance lessons to go to?!” . . . you might be a frantic family.

If you think that your six year-old will never get into a good college unless you have her perfecting her skills every night of the week . . . you might be a frantic family.

The signs and symptoms go on. Yet, the benefits of extracurricular activities are well-established. Participation in activities outside of school has been shown to be a significant factor in youth resilience. Kids who are involved in constructive activities are much less likely to become involved in destructive ones.

However, these days it appears that overly zealous parents are pushing their kids to the brink so that involvement in sports, clubs, and activities has become more of a stressor for the whole family rather than an enhancement for the youth.

Studies have shown that between 1981 and 1997, children’s “free time” has declined by 12 hours per week. Participation in organized sports nearly doubled. “Passive spectator leisure” (a.k.a. “watching siblings play or perform”) increased from ½ hour per week to 3 hours per week. Likewise, churchgoing among families has decreased by 40%, family leisure activities like taking a walk have decreased by 50%, and family conversation has gone down by 10%.

Why on earth are families so busy? According to Dr, William Doherty, author of “The Intentional Family” and “Take Back Your Children” the concept of parental peer pressure is the underlying factor that drives families into a state of “scheduled hyperactivity”. In many cases, adults are trying to “keep up with the Jones’” not only with their homes and cars, but also with their children.

sheet, consider your reasons for choosing the activity. What are the expectations around practices, rehearsals, games, or performances? How will this impact the family? What do I want my child to get out of this experience? Outside of this activity, how much free time will my child have?

Believe it or not, children need time for nothing. Not every minute needs to be filled with structured activity. Not only do kids need time to process information that they have taken in all day, they also need unstructured opportunities to play and solve problems with peers and siblings as well as by themselves.

A teacher I spoke with recently lamented that in spite of all the sports and extra-curricular activities that kids are involved in, it seems like more than ever they do not know how to work in teams or occupy themselves independently. Is it any wonder?

Dr. Doherty suggests that as parents we slow down, schedule less, and place more value on family time.

Denise Continenza is the Family Living Educator with the Penn State Cooperative Extension in Lehigh County. Read their blog at www.FamiliesLivingWell.blogspot.com.

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PSA specializes in providing care to technology dependent children and adults.

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The solution is not to disenroll our kids from their activities, but rather to strive for balance. Before signing the registration

September/October 2010 • www.LehighValleyFamily.com

13 Tips to Raising a Confident Child

By Zenddy Etiquette & Fashion Academy

There is no doubt that the world is a tough and often cruel

place for kids, especially as they enter their awkward tween and teen years. Aside from being at an age where they aren’t quite sure who they are, influences from the media and school life may further shake their confidence.

Give your child a boost of self-confidence with these 14 tips:

1. Be a role model. Display optimistic reactions to life’s

challenges. This will show the kids that you have confidence that you can overcome challenges, and they’ll learn to do the same.

2. Give your kids an opportunity to succeed. If he is good at

playing the piano, enroll him in classes to further his skills.

3. Likewise, allow your child to be average. Not the star on the soccer team? We can’t be the best at everything, but it’s still important to participate and have fun even when we’re not.

4. Choose your words carefully. Don’t make comments such as

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“You’re so stupid” or other derogative statements. You might not literally mean what you say, but kids can’t detect the difference.

5. Learn to accept compliments, and teach your child to as well.

How many times does someone tell us something nice, and we say, “Thanks, but (insert negative self comment here)”? Learn to simply accept and be grateful for a compliment. Your kids will learn to do the same.

6. Teach them to appreciate the good in others. Being happy for

our peers and accepting the talents of friends is much easier than being jealous of them. Show that everyone has their own unique set of talents. Each of us can find and embrace our own!

7. When you make a mistake, don’t

wallow in it. Instead, admit that you made a mistake and say that you will learn from it when you try again. Do the same when your children make an error.

8. Show the kids that you can each

take charge of your own happiness. For example, if your daughter comes home from school miserable because none of her friends are in her classes, point out what she can do to find happiness despite the challenge.

9. Laugh together, never at each other.

10. Show your pride. When your child

Photo courtesy of Pix-Ology.

fails at something, acknowledge that you know it was a challenge for them but you are very proud of their effort.

11. When your children misbehave, make sure they understand that it is the behavior you dislike, not them.

12. Focus on the inner beauty. Yes, we know kids are sick of

hearing about their inner beauty. But like it or not we are often judged on how we look. Make inner beauty sink in by thinking of a few of her friends that she really likes and discuss what she likes about that friend. Chances are it isn’t about how her friend looks or the stuff they have. Point out that her peers also value her for whatever her specific strengths are.

13. Hugs, kisses, and other random and thoughtful gestures. Who

doesn’t feel good when given a random hug or finding a note in their backpack saying you love them? Just be discreet. Your 15 year old son probably won’t like a giant hug and kiss from his mommy or daddy when getting out of the car before school.

The most important thing to remember when trying to boost your child’s confidence is that it is really a lifestyle choice.

Choose to display positive and optimistic behavior towards yourself as well as them. Similarly, speak positive and optimistic words about yourself, your children, your spouse and others.

To learn more about Zenddy Etiquette & Fashion Academy, call 610-762-6535, or visit www.Zenddy.com.

Community Board!

Join in the 3rd annual 5K Run/Walk which benefits Ashly Moyer Scholarship Fund and Lehigh Valley Blue Star Mothers. Saturday, September 4, in Lehigh Parkway. Ashly was a local soldier KIA on March 3, 2007. For more information visit www.5kraceforfreedom.org Free Mammograms!

Do you need a mammogram but don’t have insurance to cover this life-saving exam?

Sacred Heart Hospital can help! You may be eligible for a free mammogram. If you’re 40 & over and have been putting off getting your annual mammogram because you can’t pay please call 610-871-5888.

Organic Apple Festival Sept. 11, 10-5 at the Rodale Institute.

Pick your own organic apples, there will wagon rides, games for the kids, farm tours, raffles, shopping and more. Admission is FREE!! For more info email info@rodaleinst.org

Visit us at www.LehighValleyFamily.com for a full calendar of events and additional articles updated each month. Don’t forget to sign up for our monthly newsletter!

10

Did You Know???

That the Penn State Cooperative Extension in Lehigh County gives local residents easy access to the resources and expertise of the Pennsylvania State University. Through free educational programs, publications, and events, cooperative extension agents deliver unbiased, research-based information to Lehigh County citizens.

They offer a wealth of information to area residents; you can find blogs, classes, informational brochures and so much more! You can find information on topics from agriculture, horticulture and gardening, information for families about a range of topics from relating to your teen to budgeting, even information about food and nutrition. Check out their website which is jam-packed full of more info than you can imagine http://lehigh.extension.psu.edu.

Start using this little known resource today!

Did You Know???

Community Services for Children, Inc is home to the GROWTH Program?

G.R.O.W.T.H. focuses on strengthening and enhancing marriages.

We focus on the benefits of a healthy marriage such as effective communication, understanding the individuals thoughts around money, techniques on resolving conflicts, and much more. We are free and open to the community and would like to have more married couples take advantage of this resource and participate in our retreats. The retreats are scheduled on weekends and include meals and a childcare allowance.

To participate couples must meet the following requirements: · Low-income (family of 4 must make less than $66,150 per year) · Married · Must have at least one child that is 5 or under · Live in the Lehigh Valley.

Learn more about G.R.O.W.T.H. by calling Álvaro Castillo at 610 437 6000 Ext. 2248 or email acastillo@cscinc.org

Riverside Festival of the Arts Sept 18-19 10-5:30.

Larry Holmes Drive, Easton.

Bark For Life. Sept. 19th. 10-2 Rodale Cycling and Fitness Park.

A noncompetitive walk event for dogs and their owners to raise funds and awareness for the American Cancer Society’s fight against cancer.

September/October 2010 • www.LehighValleyFamily.com

Advertiser’s Spotlight: Brookside Children’s Early Education Center

Here at Brookside our number one goal is “Striving for

are 6:30am to 6:00pm. All of our lead teachers have their degrees, experience and knowledge in the Early Childhood field. Brookside feels that current knowledge in the field is a must to run a successful program and offers continuing educational training courses for our staff as well as seminars for our families.

Excellence in Early Childhood Education” by providing quality child care. Quality child care has a direct impact on your child’s ability to learn and build healthy relationships.

We offer your child a stimulating environment to help prepare them for elementary school.

Brookside is a proud participant of Keystone Stars and currently holds a “Star 3” rating and is licensed by the Department of Public Welfare. Our quality care environment exceeds minimum standards set forth by the state.

Our program offers infant care starting at six weeks old thru school-age up to twelve years of age. Our hours of operation

Contact us at 610-481-9955 or www.brooksideearlyeducation.com/ to set up a tour. We are located at 675 N. Brookside Rd. Wescosville, 18106.

And the Musik Played

By Catherine Hertzog, Lehigh Valley Family

It was Friday August 13th at Musikfest where a group of 29 talented students from Community Music School in Allentown, performed for the crowd on a beautiful afternoon. There were stunning solo performances from a guitarist, 2 violinists, and 4 pianists. The Mariachi Band, which included 3 students and 1 educator didn’t seem to miss a beat.

The Jazz Ensemble Impressions, consisting of 12 students and a teacher, was very impressive to watch. The students of different ages played saxophones and trumpets and were on key. The final performance was the group Fusion where 7 students joined Ian Holmes on stage for a wonderful rendition of a pop song.

To learn more about the Community Music School, visit them online at www.CMSLV.org.

Time-Saving Cleaning Tips ...For even the busiest household

By Laura Putt, Lehigh Valley Family Phot

o cou rtes

Nearly everyone loves a clean house. But with our schedules so full, housecleaning is often pushed to the bottom of the list. It is nearly impossible to find the large chunk of time it takes to give the house a good thorough cleaning.

An alternative to one morning or afternoon a week spent cleaning is to do a little bit as you go. If your family can start adapting some of these tips into their daily routine, your house will always be relatively clean, in just a few minutes a day!

Tidy Up Each Room Each Day

This sounds harder than it actually is. But consider that if you spent 5 minutes at night picking up the mess you created in your bedroom as you rushed to get ready in the morning, you would have 5 days less mess to clean on Saturday!

Cut the Clutter

Take 10 minutes each day to put things away and stay organized.

Consider having a bin for each family member. Gather their stuff up and make it each person’s responsibility to put their own things away.

Also, have a home for everything. Even the junk drawer will be less stressful to deal with if you have drawer organizers. You can pick them up for very little money at the dollar store or a garage sale.

Make Your Bed

A lot of people don’t take the time to make their beds anymore.

Admittedly, it is a silly thing to do because you get out of bed and usually don’t come back into your bedroom unless its time to get back into the bed again. But taking 2 minutes to make the bed will visually make a bedroom seem bigger and cleaner, with the added benefit of the pleasant feeling of crawling into a tidy bed each night.

Don’t Let the Dishes Pile Up

Dishes become an overwhelming task if you let them pile up throughout the day. By the time evening comes, nobody wants to go into the kitchen because it’s so piled up with dirty dishes.

12

y of P ix-Ol

ogy.

Take just a few minutes after each meal to load the dishwasher and wash the dishes that don’t go in the dishwasher. It may feel like extra work, but you’ll thank yourself at the end of the night when all you have to do are the dinner dishes.

Another idea is to work as a team. Each member of the family can take a job. One loads the dishwasher, one empties it, one washes what doesn’t fit, and one dries and puts them away. You’ll have a few extra minutes to spend as a family, plus it’s nice to have the work split up.

Find and Stick to a Laundry System

Consider doing one or two loads of wash a day instead of all the wash for one entire day. Put your laundry away immediately, as it tends to sit in the wash basket, getting picked through and unfolded if you don’t. Teach your kids how to put away their own laundry.

Another time saving technique is to use products that aide your efforts. One example is Peal Starch. Simply pour this starch into your washing machine when you start the laundry cycle and you don’t have to worry about it again. Your work clothing will be crisp and fresh and stay that way for much longer with this handy product. Find it at www.PealStarch.com.

Wipe the Sink and Shower Right Away

Get into the habit of wiping down the shower walls after each time it’s used. Do the same in and around the bathroom sink after brushing your teeth. This 1 minute of extra cleaning will equal a lot less elbow grease when you give the bathroom a heavier cleaning.

Keep It Together

Place all your cleaning tools together in an easy to use caddy.

It will save you time gathering everything up or running from room to room to find your gloves or cleaning solution.

Good luck with your new cleaning system! You just may find that doing a little each day will make your deep cleaning days much shorter, as well as those in between days less mess-filled!

September/October 2010 • www.LehighValleyFamily.com

Why Getting Messy is Good

By Family Features Playing outside and getting messy may just seem like fun to kids, but playtime actually has an important role in child development.

Research shows that various types of play and parental interaction are vital to the healthy development of children. That’s why awardwinning child care author of “The Big Book of Parenting Solutions,” and mom of three, Dr. Michele Borba is teaming up with all® Oxi-Active™ laundry detergent to let moms know it’s okay to let their little ones get dirty and have a blast doing it, instead of fretting about the mess.

“By teaching kids that it’s okay to get messy sometimes and even encouraging it occasionally, we as parents show them that nobody is perfect, that accidents happen and most importantly, we teach them to be themselves,” said Borba. “Childhood is just too short to worry about getting dirty.

Moreover, today’s advanced detergents, such as all® Oxi-Active, can remove many tough stains in one wash, but the memories that come with making them can last a lifetime.”

“We’ve always known that kids and play are just a natural combo,” Borba said. “But new research also shows that letting kids engage in self-directed play has immense value for their social, emotional, cognitive and physical growth.”

• Play expands kids’ minds and neurological development. Self-initiated play improves skills such as problem solving and interpreting and is important to brain development and learning.

• Play boosts children’s creativity and imagination. Play gives children the chance

to invent, build, expand, explore and develop a whole different part of the brain.

• Play stretches our children’s attention spans. Playing outdoors just 30 minutes a day increases child’s ability to focus and pay attention.

• Play boosts self-confidence and self-regulation. Kids learn to become masters of their own destiny without an adult directing, pushing, managing or scheduling • Play helps kids learn to enjoy just being in their own company, entertaining themselves and developing identity. Ease that guilt when your kid says, “I’m bored, Mom!” and wants to be amused by you.

Borba urges parents to ask these questions: • How much are your kids plugged into some kind of a digital device?

(Did you know the average child is plugged in for 7 1/2 hours a day?)

• How often are they glued to that TV or clicking that keypad?

• How much free time do they have (unscheduled, unsupervised)?

• How often do they go outdoors to just decompress?

• Do your kids know how to entertain

www.LehighValleyFamily.com

themselves and enjoy the great outdoors?

• How do you respond when they get messy?

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• Lehigh Valley Family

13

Eating Breakfast Boosts Chances for School Success

By William Nichols, Penn State Cooperative Extension stuffed baked potato, rice or noodles, still can make for a balanced healthy breakfast when accompanied by a glass of juice or low-fat milk.”

Children who eat breakfast are more alert, less irritable, participate more fully in learning activities and are better behaved.

University Park, Pa. -- Your mother was right -- breakfast is the most important meal of the day, according to an expert in Penn State’s College of Agricultural Sciences.

Eating breakfast improves concentration, memory and problemsolving ability, said Katherine French, registered dietitian and extension educator in Mercer County. “Eating breakfast improves the brain’s ability to function and gives you the energy to get you going and keep you going throughout the day.”

This is especially important for school-age children because those who eat breakfast are more alert, less irritable, participate more fully in learning activities and have better behavior, said French. “These kids have longer attention spans, get better test scores and are tardy and absent less often,” she said. “Breakfast-eaters even make fewer visits to the school nurse.”

Since breakfast-skippers consume more calories and fat later in the day than breakfast-eaters, researchers suggest that eating a nutritious breakfast helps to control body weight.

Despite the advantages of eating breakfast, some children (and adults) choose not to. They believe they don’t have time, aren’t hungry or just don’t like breakfast foods. “But when it comes to kids not eating breakfast, the main reason they may not eat is that there may not be a parent or caregiver around at breakfast time,” French said. “They need encouragement to eat and to help them to put together a quick, easy breakfast.”

To encourage breakfast-time consumption, French suggested having quickly accessible breakfast items, such as ready-to-eat cereals, instant oatmeal, fresh fruits or juices, mini-bagels, muffins, toast, yogurt, string cheese and milk. “Set the breakfast table the night before,” French said. “For children, just seeing the bowl, spoon and box of cereal on the table is a good cue that they will be eating breakfast.”

Parents can think outside the cereal box, too. “Breakfast choices do not have to be ‘traditional’ breakfast foods,” said French. “Items such as sandwiches -- grilled cheese, turkey, or peanut butter and jelly -- or leftovers from last night’s supper, such as a slice of pizza, taco, a

14

Eating breakfast jump-starts a body’s metabolism from an overnight fast, replenishing blood glucose stores.

“When kids don’t eat breakfast each day, they are unable to reach their full learning potential,” said French. “It’s hard to ‘make up’ for missed nutrients by eating later in the day. Skipping breakfast makes it difficult to get the adequate fiber, vitamins and minerals that are important for growing bodies.”

“While any breakfast food is better than nothing, healthier choices will stay with a child longer until they eat their next snack or meal,” explained French. Higher-fiber foods such as whole-grain breads and cereals digest more slowly, creating a more stable bloodsugar level and greater staying power. “Look for cereals with less than 5 grams of sugar per serving and shoot for 5 grams of fiber.”

Enjoy high-sugar cereals and drinks sparingly, as they cause a quick rise in blood sugar and energy followed by hunger symptoms within an hour. The same for traditional breakfast foods such as bacon, sausage, biscuits and gravy, and fried hash browns -- they are typically high in fat, cholesterol and salt, so look for lower-fat versions, or consume them in moderation.

To combat the tendency of some homes to eschew breakfast, most school districts offer breakfast programs. These programs may or may not be based on income level, and they offer varying menu selections. Check with your local school district for more information.

“Just don’t make breakfast complicated,” said French. “It doesn’t have to be time-consuming or expensive. Plan ahead. Use your freezer: make a batch of muffins at the beginning of the week and pull out a few each night to have for breakfast the next day. You also can make your own French toast, waffles or pancakes and freeze them. When it’s time for breakfast, just take them out of the freezer and pop them in the toaster.”

“No one ever said that dinner had to be the ‘family’ meal,” said French. “Turning off the TV in the morning and getting up just 10 minutes earlier can help make breakfast together a reality. Even just sitting down a few days a week together around the breakfast table can be a good time to check schedules, discuss upcoming events or just share with each other. A good breakfast can get everyone started on the right foot -- nutritionally and emotionally.”

Source: www.familieslivingwell.blogspot.com.

September/October 2010 • www.LehighValleyFamily.com

Preparing the Allergic Child for School

By Vicki Bezems, Lehigh Valley Family

For most families, August means shopping for school clothes,

attending pre-season sports practices, taking last minute vacations and spending warm late-summer afternoons at the pool. But for the family of a child with food allergies, it means putting a system in place to safeguard that child’s life -- from accidental exposure to ordinary foods that can cause rashes, hives or even anaphylactic shock, which is life threatening.

Parents of a child with food allergies going to school for the first time, or a child newly diagnosed with food allergies, face a daunting list of things to do in preparation. Parents with an older allergic child probably already have a checklist of steps they take to ensure their child’s safety. They use this list to start the process, but every year presents a slightly different set of circumstances. Whether you’re a veteran or a novice at preparing your allergic child for school, here are a set of basic steps to follow:

1. Check with your school for the

mandatory forms to authorize the dispensing of medications to your child.

For this information, contact the school nurse, the main office, or the school district office. Allow time to get your doctor’s signature if required. Tip: Get a doctor’s signature on documents even when it is not required, for example, on a set of emergency procedures you may have written yourself.

2. Order refills on all your child’s medications. School districts

may require that prescription medications be sent to school in the original packaging with the child’s name on the prescription label.

3. If your child is allergic to peanuts, ask if the school has a peanut free policy either for the classroom or cafeteria.

4. Take time to meet with the school nurse to discuss your

child’s condition. Discuss an emergency plan for accidental exposure.

5. If the child has severe or multiple food allergies, contact the

school’s guidance counselor or principal about creating a “504 plan” for your child. The “504 plan” refers to Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act and the Americans with Disabilities Act, which provides for accommodations the school must make for your child’s special medical condition. Accommodations could www.LehighValleyFamily.com

The number of kids with food allergies has increased 18 percent from 1997 to 2007, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. About 3 million children younger than 18 had a food or digestive allergy in 2007. include, for example, your child’s right to sit at a “peanut free” table or your right to accompany the class on field trips. With a 504 plan, you will be given the opportunity to meet with his or her teachers, administration and the school nurse to develop emergency procedures for your child, as well as steps to prevent your child from being exposed to allergens.

6. Contact the food services manager or cafeteria manager. If

you plan to allow your child to eat school lunches, ask for a menu. Identify the foods your child is likely to eat, and ask for a list of ingredients in those foods. Ask about cross contamination in the preparation and serving of foods. Ask about access to a peanut free table if your child is allergic to peanuts.

7. Contact your child’s homeroom teacher and specialists

before school starts; introduce yourself and your child. Send the teachers a written description of your child’s allergic condition, including a list of allergens, instructions in case of an allergic reaction, and emergency contact information. Ask the teacher to inform you in advance when food will be served in the classroom. Also include a list of safe snacks for your child. Tip: Don’t wait for the 504 meeting to be scheduled. Do this in advance.

8. Get permission to inform parents of the other children in the class about your child’s condition. If families are allowed to send snacks to be eaten in the classroom, furnish a list of snacks that are safe for your child.

9. Send a supply of safe snacks for your child’s teacher to have on hand when there is an impromptu birthday party or other class celebration.

Above all, be proactive and thorough. Be the one who initiates contact with schools and teachers. Provide more information than is necessary about your child’s care. Establish a cooperative relationship with teachers, the principal, the school nurse, and food services. If your child is old enough, involve him or her in developing emergency and preventive plans. More than likely, you’ll find that your school staff will be eager to work with you and your child to facilitate the type of care that he or she needs.

Vicki Bezems is the mother of a 13-year old son with dairy, egg, peanut, tree nut and fish allergies and an 11-year old daughter with soy allergies. She is interested in helping and networking with other families who have the same challenges. She can be reached at vebezems@rcn.com.

• Lehigh Valley Family

15

Childcare Guide

Choosing a child care center for your children can be one of

the most stressful choices parents have to make. Aside from the obvious safety issues, many children spend the majority of their time in childcare; making it of the utmost importance to choose a program that is a good fit for not only your child, but also your family.

By doing a lot of homework you can rest easy knowing you made a well informed choice which will hopefully meet the best interests of your children.

Take some time to research child care on the internet. Visit forums on parenting websites and read advice and tips other parents have to offer. Many times one family’s negative experience results in a lot of good advice to provide to their peers.

Also, look at ratings of child care centers online. Many websites allow users to post ratings and comments of businesses. Proceed with caution. Some people can overreact or make situations seem better or worse than reality. Likewise, the business owners and employees can post glowing reviews by pretending to be a client.

It is the nature of the internet, so don’t believe everything you read.

One of the most important things you can do to ensure a good fit is visit the center, and observe the teachers and staff.

When the time comes to visit and meet childcare directors and caregivers whom you are considering to care for your child, don’t be afraid to ask too many questions or a question you may feel is silly. It is of utmost importance that you feel comfortable with the persons and setting where you are Hanover Township leaving your child, and the Community Center staff from a quality child Preschool & care setting will understand After School Programs your need for comfort and understanding.

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September/October 2010 • www.LehighValleyFamily.com

Try to take notes, and use the checklists we’ve provided to keep track of your observations. It will help you compare and contrast the different care settings you are considering.

Questions to Ask a Child Care Center: o How long have you been providing care? o How long have you been Photo Courtesy of Brookside Children’s Early Education Center providing care in this building? o Is your center currently licensed through the state? o How often is your center visited to check for safety and cleanliness? o How often are you visited to maintain your license? o What training do your caregivers have? (Look for first aid, CPR, and some early-childhood education training.) o Do you have your child abuse clearances and criminal background check? Are your caregivers required to have their criminal background checks and child abuse clearances? o What is your child to staff ratio? (Recommendations are: 3:1 in a center caring for infants, 4:1 for 2-year-olds, and 7:1 for 3-year-olds) o How many children are currently being cared for, and what is the age span? o Is there one particular caregiver that my child would be assigned to? If so, who is he? Tell me about him. o What is a typical day like for the children in your care? o Do you ever take children on outings or off-site? If so, how often; and where are some of the places you visit?

Do you tell parents ahead of time and require written permission? o How long have you been caring for the group of children who are currently under your supervision? o Do you take the children outside every day, weather permitting? o How much time do children spend watching television and movies, or playing video games? o How do you discipline children? o What meals and supplies do you provide? o What is your policy regarding days when my child does not attend, such as staying home sick or family vacations? Do we still have to pay? o Are you flexible if I sometimes have to drop my child off early or pick him/her up late? o If my child were to become ill during the day, would you call me before administering medication? o What types of activities are provided?

Parents Should Teach Kids Finances...

Not Just Schools!

By Jason White, FrugalDad.com

Here lately, I have been thinking more and more about

the need for financial education curriculum in public schools. I am constantly amazed by the number of young people (and young adults) I interact with that have no basic understanding of how finances work. I mean a very elementary understanding – like how to balance a checkbook, how to compute interest, or what a mutual fund is.

After watching story after story from this latest recession, it is clear to me that our national personal finance IQ is too low.

Perhaps if we raised more financially savvy generations we could avoid many of the same mistakes.

What Age to Start Teaching Basic Finance?

I like the idea of teaching kids about money when they are fairly young – like eight years old or so. By this time, many kids are receiving allowances, or receiving money for birthday presents. This makes money lessons a little less abstract – they can actually touch, and spend, their own money.

If we start at seven or eight years-old, that means plenty of very basic financial concepts could be well-covered over the next ten years. We could teach kids the value of saving money.

We could teach kids the dangers of taking on too much debt.

We could teach kids the power of compounding interest to foster and early interest in investing their money.

Will every child “get it” and become a future Warren Buffett?

Of course not. Just like every kid doesn’t fully grasp chemistry and become a research scientist. But for the general student population, a general course each year in personal finance could go a long way towards creating a more financially-savvy young adult population.

Isn’t It Up To Parents to Teach Kids About Money?

Yes, it is. I believe it is up to parents to teach their kids most of life’s lessons. However, teachers can supplement that learning, and in cases where parents are unable or unwilling to participate, teachers may provide the only education source for children. It is a sad reality that the latter scenario plays out far more often than the former. Lack of parental involvement makes teachers jobs much more difficult. This is especially true in “real world” subjects such as personal finance.

18

How Can Parents Teach Kids About Money?

Besides modeling responsible spending habits for your children, there are a few things we can do to help kids learn financial concepts outside of a classroom setting.

Take your kids grocery shopping. Rather than having kids passively follow along while you do all the shopping, encourage them to help with your math tasks. Teach them how to calculate the unit price and compare two items for the best value. Weigh your produce and let them estimate the total cost by multiplying the weight by the cost per ounce/ pound. Let them keep a running total of your bill on the back of your grocery list (for bonus points, older kids can even calculate the sales tax for a total bill).

Take your kids to the bank. My grandfather was in his 70s before he first used an ATM, and I don’t think he has ever used a drive-thru window at the bank. He believes in “eye balling” people when doing banking business. So growing up, I knew my way around the bank after tagging along with him.

I watched him cash a check for cash (he called this “walking around money”). We rolled coins and deposited them into my grandparent’s account. Of course I loved it, because I always got a lollipop from the teller. Little did I know I was actually learning about how banking works, something I now hope to pass along to my own kids.

Give kids a four-quarter budget lesson. (http://frugaldad. com/2008/02/21/teach-your-kids-about-money-with-only-4quarters/) It’s a simple exercise, but helps kids understand that money is finite. If only Congress understood this! I digress.

The link above explains the exercise in detail, but basically you give your child four quarters representing major categories of your budget (taxes, mortgage, transportation, everything else). Ask for a quarter back to pay taxes on your income, another to pay for your home, and another for your car, auto

September/October 2010 • www.LehighValleyFamily.com

insurance, gas and maintenance. Then explain with that last quarter you have to put some in savings, some towards food, lights, water and most of the rest towards bills. With that last little fraction of a quarter of your budget you can spend on toys and fun stuff.

Let kids pay the power bill. No, not out of their allowance! Let your child sit down a couple months and write out the check for the power bill. Show them the bill and explain the various lines.

This is how much electricity we used every day. This is how much it costs us to run the television, lights, air conditioner, etc. This should also help them understand why you constantly go through the house behind them turning off lights and the television (I’m not the only one doing this, right?).

Buy kids a share of stock, and let them pick the company.

If they like Disney movies, buy a share of Disney. If they like chewing gum, give Wrigley’s a look. And who doesn’t like McDonalds (which is actually a pretty good dividend play, too!). Show them how to look up the stock quote in the newspaper, or online. Consider adding a second share in a completely different industry – a great introduction to diversification.

What are you doing to teach your kids about money? I always enjoy learning new teaching methods, games, etc, so please share, and read more articles about family and finance at www.

FrugalDad.com.

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Practice What You Preach

By Liv Easton, MerryMatriarch.com

Last week my son verbally began his wish and need list. “Mom

I really wish I had a snowboard, new iPod, my own video camera and a dirt bike. I need a softer mattress…hey can we get another dog?” I began the lecture of need vs. want when a bulldozer and five construction workers across the street caught my eye. Seeing the curiosity, my son joined me at the window and began to explain the neighbors are having a “sweet” in-ground heated pool installed with a six foot slide.

“Really…” I said with one eyebrow raised.

How can the neighbors afford such luxury and we can’t? And there they were, the perfect little couple holding a cup of coffee embracing each other watching their new addition come together.

“Well, isn’t that cute?” Thoughts took over my mind and I began to ponder. Why is her husband so laid back about an expense such as a pool and mine was not? My husband gives me the stink eye when I have mulch delivered. A five year old temper tantrum was brewing in my adult mind. “It’s not fair, I want a pool too!”

Taking mental control I gave a “humph” and walked away from the window to continue preaching to my son; “the mattress may be a valid need however another dog is not.”

I was determined to let it go with a silent “who cares about a dumb pool” but the idea ran in my mind all night. They even have a concrete pad in the back yard for the kids to play basketball and our hoop is traditionally hung from the garage. It is not fair. They have modest jobs like we do – how can they afford this? It wasn’t until I stood in front of the kitchen window after dinner did the topic become knowledge to my husband. There I was…a grown adult scrubbing dishes feverishly, staring at the construction as I explained and described the neighbor’s newest purchase. Seeing my envious reaction, the picking began. “Hey Mom, maybe if you bake them an apple pie she’ll let you float in her pool on a hot day.” “Ha-Ha, yes Liv, and maybe she’ll let you swim with her if you offer to split their electric bill when they heat it!” “Better yet Mom, we’ll just get you an inflatable, put on your sunglasses and fill the bath tub with cold water in August.”

So there I was…a grown adult wanting vs. needing and my own child caught me on it.

I try to teach my children simple concepts from old tales: The grass is not always greener on the other side.

Be careful what you wish for.

Be happy with and grateful for what you have.

Blah. Blah. Blah.

At the end of the day, giving an example is easy; setting an example is a whole different concept. By the way, and immaturely, I found peace knowing the neighbors were in debt for the next ten years.

a

Your Style

10 Ways to Get Ready in 10 Minutes or Less

By Lauren Wuscher, IMAGEine U

Being able to sleep in every single day would be a miracle. If

you have kids, sleeping in may never be an option. But if you can get them to stay in bed a little longer, you can, too, with the following tips that will allow you to get ready and look good in the morning without having to spend too much time:

1. Set your clothes out the night before. I know, it

sounds like something you do for your children… who are in 2nd grade. But, really, there’s a reason you do it for them, and there’s a good reason you should do it for yourself. It’s easy to wake up in the morning, but picking out an outfit can sometimes be grueling if you have no idea what to wear. So decide the night before, and save yourself the hassle at 6 am.

2. Your lunch should be ready. Making your lunch in

the morning (along with breakfast) takes time. Make your sandwich the night before and just grab and go.

3. Plan on curling your hair? Don’t wrestle with the curling iron at the crack of dawn. Look for curling sprays and soft curlers that you can actually sleep in. This will dramatically cut your get-ready time since you will be showering the night before. If you follow the recommendations above, your clothing and lunch will be ready, and all you will need to do is apply a little makeup and you’re set!

4. If you apply makeup, try using a tinted or shimmer

moisturizer on your face. This will cut the time for you since you won’t be applying all that foundation. Look for double duty products such as lipstick that can also be used as crème blush, or a cover-up that can also be use on your eyelids as primer. This will save a significant amount of time.

5. If you’re going to an after-work dinner or outing, you can

easily spruce up your outfit or look in a few minutes without running home or changing your clothing. Follow these steps:

6. Change the part in your hair. Yes, that’s right, flip it to the other side of your head or move it over a few inches. This will add more volume and lift to your style without a blow dryer, or even styling tools.

7. You can also rinse your hands in water and run them

through your hair – this will reactivate any product you already have in your hair, and you will be able to manipulate and add more volume and life in an instant.

8. Refresh your lipstick and blush. Adding more mascara

only causes a clumpy mess, and eye shadow takes too much time. By simply re-applying your lipstick and blush, you will look refreshed and ready for a night out.

9. Change your shoes. Shoes can mean a lot. Wearing

flat, boring loafers to the office won’t work for a night out. Bring along a change of shoes, whether they have a heel or are more casual (make sure they still match your outfit though). They will change your outfit completely.

10. Throw on some jewelry. Bring along a fun

necklace or bracelet and throw it in with your current outfit for a more updated look. Men, you can easily make your outfit more casual by removing your tie or jacket before going out.

Lauren Wuscher is President of IMAGEine U. where she a serves as a Personal Style Educator and Consultant, and Fashionista. Lauren has worked with major fashion companies including BCBG Max Azria and Nine West. Lauren is also the Philadelphia Budget Boutiques Expert for Examiner.com. Find out more about IMAGEine U at www.IMAGEineU.com.

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Hide and Seek:Tips to Finding Opportunities

By Pam Cantone, Moments Coaching

The only thing remaining after

departure kisses and a short goodbye was an empty house. An extravagant graduation gift had whisked my kids off to Russia for three weeks with my inlaws. After a brief conversation with the dog I headed toward their bathroom, and before I knew it my hand was in their toilet scrubbing away. Bitter jealousy splashed in my face. Gifts of opportunity were being flushed down the toilet if I didn’t take off the rubber gloves and unwrap the gift I was just offered.

Peace and quiet was waiting for me. As if it were a warm bath ready to soothe my soul, I stepped into a tub filled with dreams and possibilities. Choosing what to do next with my gift was the only decision I had to make. So I made a list.

A bucket list. A list of all the things I would do if I weren’t always so wrapped

around the guilt of motherhood.

Freedom put me in a kayak. Quiet gave me a book to read. Time allowed me to discover what I wanted next.

(after kids move out). The nest stays dull and empty only if you choose not to renovate and decorate with a style all your own.

With the image of sending my oldest daughter off to college in August, and my youngest would soon be following her footsteps, my gift of opportunity turned into a crystal ball predicting my future. A small glimpse of my potential life ignited adventure, uncovered desire and renewed independence away from my motherhood roles.

Pam is a Parent Life Coach who works with women ready to move forward and create a change in their life. One program Pam offers is the “Opportunity Martini” where women gather for a Girls Night Out to discover and explore the opportunities being offered in their lives. For more information go to www.momentscoaching.com.

As much as I missed my girls while they were away, I also missed my lack of restrictions when they came home. Opportunity gave me a new perspective on the “empty nest” and the sadness was replaced with rejuvenation to start living by my own rules. In reality, the opportunity opened up my possibilities to find a new life AKMO

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September is often a month known for new beginnings. From the first day of kindergarten to the first day of college, this time presents parents and kids with gifts of opportunity to grow and change. Key to embracing the gift in these moments is to recognize the opportunity. Open your eyes to see the opportunity in your circumstances with a few tips that will help you discover and understand what is being offered: • Know what you want. Identify your values and priorities to use as a guide.

• Slow down. Set aside time to consider what is being offered.

• Be open to change. Tap into adventure and step out of your comfort zone.

• Focus on what you have.

Consider what you already have and build from it.

• Stay positive. Turn the negative into positive and gain from every experience.

• Lehigh Valley Family

21

September 10 Great Things To Do

1. September is a great time for fresh starts. Re-evaluate your family’s

priorities and make time now for the important stuff. Pick an evening to have family dinner and game night. Set it in stone and enjoy the time reconnecting each week.

2. Bird watch at Hawk Mountain in Kempton. The birds are on the

move this month and you are almost certain to catch a glimpse of these magnificent birds.

3. Get exercise while honoring a fallen veteran. Attend the 3rd annual

5K Run/Walk on Saturday, September 4 in the Lehigh Parkway. Ashly was a local soldier KIA on March 3, 2007. For more information visit www.5kraceforfreedom.org

4. Need some new stuff (well, new to you)? Save money and support the Pediatric Cancer Foundation by shopping at the children’s Used Clothing and Bake sale on Sept 18th at the Grace Lutheran Church, Macungie.

5. Have fun and learn while exploring Da Vinci Center’s Cool Moves exhibit. This will highlight the grace, beauty, and technical marvel of every body or object that moves. The exhibit can be seen till Sept 6 at Da Vinci Science Center, Allentown.

6. Support your community at the Small Town USA event in North

Catasauqua on the 6th from 5-8 pm. North Catasauqua Park. Enjoy a car show, food, music, fun, free admission!

Make Something Delicious Apple Squares Ingredients:

• 1 c. flour • 1 tsp. baking powder • 1/4 tsp. salt • 1/4 tsp. cinnamon • 1/4 c. butter or margarine, melted • 1/2 c. packed brown sugar

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 350 F. Grease a 9x9 inch pan. Mix together flour, baking powder, salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of cinnamon; set aside.

2. Mix together melted butter, brown sugar, and 1/2 cup of white sugar with a wooden spoon until smooth. Stir in the egg and vanilla. Blend in the flour mixture until just combined, then stir in the apples and walnuts. Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared pan. In a cup or small bowl, stir together the remaining cinnamon and sugar; sprinkle over the top of the bars.

3. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes; finished bars should spring back when lightly touched. Cool and cut into squares.

7. Parents Day out on the 11th or 12th. Its harvest weekend on the

Date Night Suggestions

Lehigh Valley Wine Trail. Wine pairings, vineyard tours, food, music and other special activities are featured. Various wineries in the Valley.

8. Cheer on the runners at the Lehigh Valley Health Network

Marathon for Via. The race will be running from Cedar Crest Blvd all the way to Easton! Starts at 7 am on Sunday the 12th.

9. Savor the last of the warm weather. The Valley is rich with parks.

Ride bikes, run and play with the kids, enjoy the outdoors!

10. Greet the arrival of fall with our annual PA Dutch Harvest

celebration. Learn about life on a Pennsylvania German farm with living history demonstrations of a wide variety of farm life activities.

Venture inside our historic farmhouse and make sure to visit all of our children’s craft activities including scarecrow making and pumpkin painting. Pennsylvania German Cultural Heritage Center in Kutztown.

Runs the 25-26 from 10-4 and 11-4, respectively.

• 1/2 c. white sugar • 1 egg • 1 tsp. vanilla extract • 1/2 c. chopped apple • 1/2 c. chopped walnuts • 2 tsp. white sugar • 2 tsp. ground cinnamon

Broaden your Horizons Sign up for a noncredit course at your local community college. Learning something new together like techniques on a couples massage or cooking a romantic dinner for two. Fun and learning together will not only enhance your personal skills but should also bring you closer together.

Celebrate Marriage Health Month September is marriage health month. Celebrate your commitment by signing up for a weekend marriage retreat.

Marriage retreats are fun and focus on your relationship while teaching you ways to make it last. Techniques on how to communicate, resolve conflicts, and manage stress are all worth the investment of your time.

Celebrate September!

• Self-Improvement Month

• Funny Hat Month

6-12: National Waffle Week 20-26: Keep Kids Creative Week

• Children’s Manners Month 21-27: Remember to Register to Vote Week

5: Be Late for Something Day 19: Talk Like a Pirate Day 22: Elephant Appreciation Day 25: Love Note Day 22

September/October 2010 • www.LehighValleyFamily.com

October Make Something Delicious

1. Like music? Check out a free concert from 12:10-1:00 on the

Pumpkin Pancakes Ingredients: • 3/4 c. all-purpose flour • 1/2 c. whole wheat flour • 2 tbsp. sugar • 2 tsp. baking powder • 1/2 tsp. salt • 1 1/2 tsp. pumpkin pie spice

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• 1/2 tsp. cinnamon • 1 c. milk • 8 tbsp. canned pumpkin puree • 2 tbsp. melted butter • 1 egg

12th, at Central Moravian Church in Bethlehem. Free admission, and no reservations required! Music provided by members of The Bach Choir and Bach Festival Orchestra.

2. Alice & Wonderland: A Rock Opera. This musical journey

takes you into the life of Alice, the White Rabbit, the Mad Hatter, Cheshire Cat, and more in singing and dancing you will remember forever. Its a family show, so bring your kids with you as we offer a family four pack, along with child and adult ticket pricing.

Symphony Hall on Sun. Oct 3, at 2 pm.

3. 1st Friday in Bethlehem, Shopping, food, art, music and

Directions:

1. Whisk dry ingredients together.

2. In a separate bowl, stir together milk, pumpkin puree, melted butter and egg.

3. Fold wet mixture into dry ingredients.

4. Pour batter onto griddle, roughly 1/4 c per pancake.

Makes 8 pancakes.

5. Cook pancakes about 3 minutes per side; serve with butter and syrup.

friends in downtown Bethlehem.

4.

Visit the Ice House in Bethlehem on October 22-23 for Stoketoberfest, a 2 day Ski Film Spectacular designed to blow your stokemometer’s top off. They will be screening 2 films on Friday Night, 2 films Saturday afternoon and 2 films Saturday Night.

5. As a family, rake the leaves for a neighbor who has a hard time doing so for themselves.

6. Take the time to plan creative Halloween costumes that you can make yourselves. Trick or Treat as a family.

7. Try something new and experience Art Stories. You will be

Date Night Suggestions Harvest Fair Indulge your taste buds with some local baked goodies while listening to a live show at the local harvest festival.

The sounds, smells, and sights of the autumn should be great for a romantic fall date.

Costume Party Bring out your inner child by dressing up and using your creativity to create a costume together to showcase at the next costume party. You can even dress up as a famous couple from history. The idea is to have fun together!

delighted with a multi-media performance of stories that range from lighthearted and humorous to historical and abstract.

The 26th from 3:30-5:00. Northampton Community College, Bethlehem.

8. Have one last ‘summer’ day on one of the last warm days

before the cold sets in. Plan a backyard picnic with grilling, picnic blankets, and lots of games!

9. Have a harvest day. Go to a pumpkin patch, pick pumpkins, go home and carve them. Roast the seeds, and later make pumpkin pie and hot apple cider. Enjoy the treats over board games.

10. Listen and play during the interactive story time at at Milk

and Honey Kids. 11 a.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Apple Tree Plaza on Bath Pike in Bethlehem.

Celebrate October!

• Positive Attitude Month • Eat Better, Eat Together Month • National Caramel Month 1-7: Kid’s Goal Setting Week 19-25: Character Counts Week 25-31: Peace, Goodwill, and Friendship Week 13: Face Your Fears Day 14: Be Bald and Be Free Day 25: Mother In-Law Day 30: National Candy Corn Day www.LehighValleyFamily.com

• Lehigh Valley Family

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