Local Parent GWINNETT
JULY/AUGUST
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MAGAZINE
INSIDE this issue: ▶
back to school
▶
birthday parties
▶
family dining
▶
teen talk
▶
expecting moms
▶
smart parenting
▶
money & finance
▶
family pet
▶
home & garden
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Local Parent Magazine of Henry County
The Premier local parent Magazine serving moms and dads In gwinnett
St. Jude patient Chartavious with his sister
Honor a friend . . . Remember a loved one.
Honor the accomplishments of a friend or remember a loved one by making a donation in their name to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, the premier pediatric cancer research center. Give the gift of life to children around the world. St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital Memorials and Honors P.O. Box 1000, Dept. 142 Memphis, TN 38148-0142 1-800-873-6983
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Summer Burn
come feel the heat of dance
Before you spend another year studying ballet spend some of your summer at our ballet intensive. Three simple reasons to come: • Improve basic skills in a short period of time; nearly 80 hours over two weeks • Learn form distinguished and proven faculty; experienced on the biggest stages • Save expenses by staying local; save time and money Ballet foundation required, Ages 11+ 2 weeks: 13-24 July Not Ready For the - $450 Intensive? Try our Fusion camps 1 week: 13-18 July specifically designed for - $275
children to gain exposure to the wonderful world of dance.
The Royal Dance Academy 7784 McGinnis Ferry Road Suwanee, GA 30024 Tel: 770.232.2997 info@goroyaldance.com www.henryparents.com www.goroyaldance.com
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CONTENTS
8
Education - Inside Henry County Public Schools
12
Smart Parenting: 5 Ways to Raise Globally Conscious Kids
14
Teen Talk: Tips On Starting High School
16
Expecting Moms: Crossing the Breastfeeding Finish Line
18
12
Birthday Parties: Party on Wheels
20
Money & Finance: Time to Ease the Cable Chokehold
22
Family Dining: Back-to-School’s in the Bag
26
Family Pet: Protecting Your Dog’s Immune System
18
28
Home & Garden: Low-cost Projects That Make Your Home Look Like a Million Bucks
28
“With caring words, warm hearts and a gentle touch, we are in the business of making smiles.”
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82% of our readers are moms
Local Parent Publisher Terrie Carter
Editorial belinda Shamily marcus slocumb
Photography JOHN AINSWORTH Bella portraits
Circulation CURTIS THURMAN JOHN HABOWSKI
Advertising ANDREW CARTER JENNIFER MARTINEZ
Intern KAYCI ALBRITTON
Writers/Contributors Ethel Carter, Gwinnett Public Schools, THAIS CUFFY, Vivian Glyck, Bruce mills, TAMMY PETERSON, Aurelia Williams, Irene Zoppi, Carol Copeland, Debra Dawkins
18%
of our readers are dads
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your business to the person who makes majority of the purchasing decisions at home. Call 678-889-9552x22
Contact Information Local Parent Magazine of Gwinnett County 3651 Peachtree Pkwy. #325 Suwanee, GA 30024 /678.889.9552 Q678.889.9553 ____________________ All contents of this magazine are copywritten by Local Parent Magazine and it’s licensees. No part may be reprinted, copied, reproduced, or used without written permission of the publisher. Each edition independently owned and operated. For franchise information visit: www.localparentmagazine.com
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Local Parent Magazine of Henry County
[ EDUCATION ] Permissive Transfer Process The Gwinnett County Board of Education has in place a process that allows students to transfer from their assigned school to another school within the district. This process includes permissive transfers, childcare/hardship transfers, medical/legal transfers, No Child Left Behind transfers, as well as the transfer of children of employees and current high school students rezoned to a new high school. Last spring, the Georgia Assembly passed HB251, which is often referred to as the “choice” bill. The Georgia Board of Education approved an amendment to Gwinnett County Public Schools’ IE2 Partnership Contract waiving this requirement for Gwinnett County Public Schools, acknowledging that the district already maintains a streamlined permissive transfer process for parents to request student transfers between schools within the district. In the spirit of HB251, Gwinnett County Public Schools shares the following information with its community about its permissive transfer process: • Permissive Transfer Process: General Information • The parent or guardian must submit an “Application for Student Transfer” form to the local school principal of the school their child is zoned to attend, requesting reassignment to a school on the “permissive transfer list.” The form is available at the school. • Permissive transfers are allowed to the schools on the district’s “permissive transfer list.” • Student transfers are approved for one year only and are valid for the school year for which they are issued. A student must return to his/her home school or reapply under applicable criteria each year. • A student may receive only one transfer during a school year. • Transfers by currently enrolled students should be requested as early as possible and should not be made later than 7 days after each semester
begins. Approval for any student requesting a transfer outside of the seven days after the semester begins is subject to the discretion of the receiving school principal based on the best interest of the child. • Parents or guardians should receive a response to the transfer request within 30 days of receipt of the request, stating reasons for approval or denial. • Transfer requests will be approved based on the order in which the request was received and the availability of “permanent classroom space.” • Transportation for students on transfer, including children of employees, is the responsibility of the parent /guardian. • If a student is granted a transfer, there is no guarantee that it will be to the requested school. • If a student transfers at the high school level, he/she must meet Georgia High School Association requirements to participate in competitive interscholastic activities. • Transfer of a student does not guarantee the transfer of a sibling. • Revocation or denial of transfers may be appealed to the Director of Health and Social Services. • Parking spaces at the high schools are not guaranteed. • Transfers are not considered for the following: - Grievances arising from parent-school conflicts - Peer group associations - Discipline and/or attendance problems - General dissatisfaction with a particular school • If a request for a transfer is granted, the receiving school principal, with written notice, may revoke the transfer based on one or more of the following reasons: - The student becomes a discipline problem - Excessive absences, tardies, or late pick-up of student - False information is given on the application form or other records - Other just cause • Permissive Transfer Process: Schools Accepting Transfers (Fall
Local Parent Magazine of Henry County
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2009) Based on projected enrollment figures and available classroom space, the following schools are options for the fall of 2009 under the permissive transfer process. High Schools: Archer HS, Dacula HS, Meadowcreek HS, Mountain View HS
to the transfer request within 30 days of receipt of the request, stating reasons for approval or denial. For additional information about GCPS’ permissive transfer process and the form to request a transfer, contact the local school your child is zoned to attend.
Middle Schools: Bay Creek MS, Couch MS, Dacula MS, Lanier MS, Lilburn MS, McConnell MS, Shiloh MS, Twin Rivers MS
)
Elementary Schools: Annistown ES, Cooper ES, Craig ES, Dyer ES, Fort Daniel ES, Grayson ES, Harbins ES, B.B. Harris ES, Ivy Creek ES, Knight ES, Lovin ES, Mulberry ES, Rock Springs ES, Rosebud ES, Starling ES, Sycamore ES, Taylor ES, Trip ES, Walnut Grove ES, White Oak ES, Woodward Mill ES • Permissive Transfer Process: Timeline
Transfers by currently enrolled students should be requested as early as possible and should not be made later than 7 days after each semester begins. (The first day of the 200910 school year is Monday, August 10, 2009. The first day of the second semester is Tuesday, January 5, 2010.) Approval for any student requesting a transfer outside of the seven days after the semester begins is subject to the discretion of the receiving school principal based on the best interest of the child. Parents or guardians should receive a response www.henryparents.com
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[ EDUCATION ]
BACK-TO-SCHOOL
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Local Parent Magazine of Henry County
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Five Star’s new Advance Index Card Tat Lil’ lets students easily cart and study index cards on-the-go with 50 wirebound, perforated index cards and a storage pocket in one convient case. $2.49, Wal-Mart, Office Depot and Rite Aid.
Five Star Flex Hybrid NoteBinder $14.19
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Five Star® 2” Zipper Binder $19.00
Mead Writing Fundamentals, a line of 15 products guiding parents how to best introduce and develop fundamental writing skills at all handwriting stages. Retails $3.55-5.99 at Wal-Mart. www.Mead.com
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1152 Auburn Road Building 4 Dacula, GA 30019
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Local Parent Magazine of Henry County
11
[ SMART PARENTING ]
Be The Change You Wish to See in Your World:
5 Ways to Raise
Globally Conscious Kids By: Vivian Glyck
A
s the mother of a six-year-old boy and the founder of Just Like My Child Foundation, an international organization that saves the lives of thousands of kids, I am constantly thinking of how to move kids from “me” to “we.” How do we teach our kids that what’s going to fill them up is Giving not Getting? After eight trips to Africa and running a non-profit enterprise that is committed to women and children, here are my Five Steps To Raising Globally Conscious Kids. 12
1
Identify a cause There is something so beautiful and pure about a child’s innate passion and energy. Don’t be afraid to leverage this! What is your child naturally interested in? Expose your kids to a cause you feel strongly about, even if it’s by sharing information with them, showing them an article in the paper about poverty or a great story of triumph over tragedy. Kids can handle way more than we imagine. Try to focus their innate passion on a meaningful cause.
Local Parent Magazine of Henry County
2
Interpret why it matters Help your child to interpret why becoming conscious of others is important to them. Develop their natural instinct to be compassionate beings. Introduce the concept of “oneness” – we are all in this together. The kids on the other side of the world are just like them; the earth is our home.
3
Make it interesting In schools we share a program we call “Be The Change – Spare Change www.henryparents.com
Bringing Big Change to the Fight Against Malaria.” We teach a curriculum on kids in Africa, really underscoring how similar we all are. Then we teach a bit about malaria and how a simple $10 insecticide-treated bed net can save up to three lives. We then open up the presentation to questions. I never have enough time to answer all the questions because they are SO eager to learn more. Invariably, the kids ask how they can help and practically mow me over with ways to collect spare change to make a difference. The point is: give them something to be interested in! Give them something that they can champion, something that will build their confidence in their own ability to make a difference.
4
Get them involved Engage kids by “involving” them in a project. When we do a “Be The Change” campaign in school, the kids create their own collection jars, design campaign posters, pick a goal they want to reach (like raising enough to buy 300 bed nets), and then choose a reward, like an ice cream party for the winning classroom. When you involve them in the process, it becomes their own, and they LOVE this! And kids are so capable and creative. Serving in the local community with your kids through small volunteer projects (which abound everywhere) are a great antidote to consumerism. After spending a day distributing meals to the homeless, it’s far less likely that you’ll be getting the plea to buy your kids anything new on the way home!
5
Let Them Struggle What I want more than anything in the world is for my little boy to be happy. As I see life unveil it-
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self to him, I’ve learned that he’s going to have to manufacture his happiness from within. If he learns to turn the challenges he encounters into learning opportunities, he will develop the inner strength to carry him through life. This self-reliance will help him to be “happy for no reason.” I often reference the story of the little boy and the butterfly. In the story, the little boy comes upon a cocoon of a caterpillar ready to emerge into a butterfly. The boy watches the butterfly struggle to break free of its home. Taking pity on the butterfly, the boy removes the chrysalis for the butterfly. The butterfly spreads its beautiful wings a few times and then, unable to fly, lays down and dies. The butterfly needed to struggle out of its shell to gain the strength to fly and live. Our children need to struggle to grow stronger. Allowing them to feel their own pain helps them feel the pain of others. This is the only way to learn compassion, which literally means, “to suffer together with.” Your child’s heart already inherently understands compassion. All you have to do is guide him or her along the way about what it looks and feels like to be a globally conscious human being. About the Author: Vivian Glyck is the founder and executive director of Just Like My Child. A successful author and marketing director, Vivian started Just Like My Child after the birth of her son, Zak, when she realized that all mothers love their children and that all children deserve healthy bodies and a chance to be educated. Learn more at www.JustLikeMyChild.com or email Vivian at Vivian@ Glyck.com.
Local Parent Magazine of Henry County
13
[ TEEN TALK ]
Parenting Teenagers: Tips On Starting High School Written by Aurelia Williams
and taking on more responsibility, but that doesn’t mean that they are full blown adults with minds that can handle all the stress and pressure of taking on those tasks. Reassure them that you are there when they need you and also how to “back off” when necessary so they can figure things out for themselves.
T
eenagers all over the world will take the leap from child to young adult this fall. They will be entering High School for the first time. This milestone brings a variety of feelings and emotions. They are beginning four of the most difficult, yet most memorable years of their life. If you think you are anxious and scared, try being your teen. Here are a few Parenting Teenager tips on how to make the best of this stressful and confusing time in your teenager’s life. Be Open and Understanding Realize that your teen is going to be stressed and irritable for the first few weeks of their freshman year. There are many things that can contribute to your teen’s moodiness or withdrawn state. They are experiencing numerous changes in their life; all at the same time. Just like when you are pushed to your max with stress, your teen may experience headaches, stomachaches, or sleepiness. They need time and space to figure it all out in their own mind. Be patient and give them the time they need to sort things out for themselves. Be Available and Reassuring They may be young adults with a need to start making more decisions on their own 14
Your teenager is just that, a teen. You need to let them know that you trust them to make their own decisions. Let them know that you are always there should they get stuck and need a helping hand from someone they trust. Show them in ways other than saying things such as, “I’m here if you want to talk.” It’s not always easy for a teenager to start up a serious conversation, especially with Mom or Dad. There are times when you need to get creative. Depending on your teen that may mean writing a letter or taking them shopping and talking about what’s going on in their life while driving. Be Supportive and Loving Your teenager is no longer the ‘big dog’, but instead a ‘newbie’. Teenagers need to know that Mom and/or Dad support their decisions. They may have a difficult time fitting in; therefore, the need to try new things is necessary and helps them to figure out who they are. As long as the activity is not detrimental to them or anyone else, let them try a new sport, club, or other extracurricular hobby. Support them in their decision, even if you know in the long run they will not participate next year. Give them the opportunity to find out for themselves if they enjoy certain activities. Remind them that family is something that will always be there. They are moving away from you as a parent but not disconnecting with the family completely
Local Parent Magazine of Henry County
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and that’s ok. Set Routines and Limits Yes, they may be growing up, but they aren’t adults yet. Even teenagers need routines and limits. It will help to make the transition to high school easier on both of you if make limits together before the first week of school. Sit down and tell your child what your expectations are and really listen to their expectations of you as well. Settle on certain guidelines and routines that make both of you happy with the end result. This not only puts your mind at ease, but will also show your teen that you acknowledge that they are capable of making sound decisions and taking other’s considerations into account. Parenting Teenagers can be a trying time and high school can seem overwhelming for them. Share in the good times and be there to lean on for the bad. Before you know it, you’ll be catching that cap and tassel at your teen’s graduation. If you’re looking for great information on helping your teen through the High School years, you can get it right now…any time of the day, any day of the week. Real Life Guidance to Helping Your Teen With High School is available for easy and instant download to your computer.
www.henryparents.com
Buford’s Finest Family Recreation Center
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2276 Thompson Bridge Rd. Gainesville, GA 30501
770-532-3248
Local Parent Magazine of Henry County
15
[ EXPECTING MOMS ]
Crossing the Breastfeeding Finish Line: How to Reach Your Goal
A
ugust 1st through 7th marks the 18th-annual World Breastfeeding Week. Since the celebration began nearly two decades ago, the body of research on the benefits of breastfeeding has been growing every day. For baby, these include an easier transition from womb to world, improved emotional and physical development, and protection from asthma, inflammatory bowel disease and some childhood cancers. For mom, breastfeeding can help with post-pregnancy weight loss and provides her with protection from breast cancer, ovarian cancer and osteoporosis. In light of these benefits, many mothers strive to meet the American Academy of Pediatrics’ recommendation to breastfeed for at least a year. In order to achieve that milestone, I advise expectant moms to take the following steps: -Go to the pros. Plan to learn as much as you can about breastfeeding before baby arrives. Sign up for a class about breastfeeding at the hospital where you will deliver. Speak with a certified lactation consultant (visit
16
http://medela.findlocation.com/ to find one near you) and keep her contact information handy in case you run into any hurdles. Also, ask friends and family for referrals to pediatricians who are supportive of breastfeeding in your community. -Go to your peers. While a good lactation consultant and pediatrician are extremely important to breastfeeding success, sometimes you simply want to talk to someone who has been there before. Support organizations such as La Leche League International (LLLI) and the Nursing Mothers’ Council offer the opportunity to meet and compare notes with other local breastfeeding mothers. Go to www.llli.org or contact your hospital for support groups located in your area. -Plan for the next stage. For many mothers, the return to work is a critical junction in their breastfeeding journey. If you’re planning on going back to work, your first step is to talk to human resources before your maternity leave. Ask for a clean, private place to pump, and remind them that the health benefits of breastmilk will translate into fewer days when you’ll stay home to take care of a sick baby. Next, make sure you have the right equipment. Choose a double-electric breastpump that mimics what babies do naturally to make pumping as quick and easy as possible. Look for research-based breastpumps that have been demonstrated to imitate a baby’s natural sucking rhythm, which begins with rapid sucking to stimulate milk ejection reflex (MER), followed
Local Parent Magazine of Henry County
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by longer, deeper sucking once milk starts to flow. -Go to your support system. Postpartum adjustment isn’t easy. Make sure your partner and close family members are educated on the benefits of breastfeeding, know your breastfeeding goal, and are prepared to offer encouragement and help. With the proper planning and support, breastfeeding can become something that you’ll celebrate not just during World Breastfeeding Week, but every day as you enjoy this unique bonding experience. Written by: Irene Zoppi, international board certified lactation consultant, Medela clinical education specialist.
www.henryparents.com
Register Online (www.GwinnettParents.com) For Your Chance to WIN Medela Products courtesy of The Reynolds Communications Group. Medela Products • Nursing Stool • Tender Care Lanolin • Tender Care Hydrogel Pads Medela has developed an extensive line of products to meet the diverse needs of nursing mothers.
Local Parent Magazine of Henry County
17
[ BIRTHDAY PARTIES ]
Party on Wheels!!!! by: Terrie Carter
A
s a parent of three, I know my share about birthday parties but I also know how difficult it can be to make each year a unique and unforgettable experience, not to mention the many responsibilities and worries that come along with planning a kid’s party. This is why I decided to use Rent-A-Kat for my son’s 4th birthday party. I was truly amazed at the results.
tions w/the option to print), paper products, lemonade, water, gift bags, and prizes. Steve also has a cool, “tricked-out” trailer where the kids can color, listen to music, and watch movies and videos on the large screen. Surprisingly, Steve and his “pit-crew” even plan outdoor activities and relays for the kids. The best part is that each kid gets the chance to
Steve, who is the owner of Rent-A-Kat, specializes in “car” themed parties and offers the choice of bringing either a black Prowler or a red Viper as the main attraction. He provides e-vites (electronic invita-
18
Local Parent Magazine of Henry County
www.henryparents.com
sit and take a picture in the chosen Viper or Prowlerespecially the birthday boy or girl who also receives a t-shirt and a toy model of the car. My favorite part of the party was the cleanup because for the first time it wasn’t me doing the cleaning up! Steve and his crew cleaned up everything once the party was over with. And it gets better! A few days after the party, Steve sends a package via mail with pictures of the party on CD and a poster of the birthday boy/girl in the Viper or Prowler. The package also includes custom-made thank-you cards using a picture taken from the party. How cool is that! Overall, this has been a most rewarding experience. Steve was very eager and prompt in responding to my inquiries as well as great at communicating and planning for our event. His services were incredibly convenient as he did most of the preparation. My only responsibility was to enjoy my son’s special day. My four year old and his friends had a blast at the party and I am grateful to Rent-A-Kat for providing a one-of-the-kind experience. The only problem now is figuring out how to top next year’s birthday! To book Rent-A-Kat for your child’s next birthday please contact Steve at (770) 500-0478 or visit the website at www.rentakat.com.
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www.gosimplydancing.com Local Parent Magazine of Henry County
19
[ MONEY & FINANCE ]
Time to Ease the Cable Chokehold By: Carol Copeland
and family-friendly networks like the Discovery Channel, they are also forced to pay for channels that they don’t want and that actually make their job as a parent and TV cop much more difficult.
B
roadcast decency is anything but passé. The U.S. Supreme Court recently made that clear when it handed down two important rulings upholding the Federal Communications Commission’s authority to fine the TV networks for airing indecent content. But if we ever hope to address the problem of indecency on television, we must address indecency on cable as well. As a member of the Commerce Committee, Senator Isakson can and should serve as an advocate for the families of Georgia by breaking the cable industry’s monopoly and becoming an advocate for cable choice in the U.S. Senate. More than 80 million U.S. households subscribe to some from of cable or multi-channel television service, and with the government-mandated digital TV transition on June 12, the cable industry stands to gain a windfall of new subscribers, nearly half a million, by some estimates. But those new subscribers need to beware of the hazards posed by welcoming cable into their households. Basic cable has become a kind of Pandora’s Box for families. Many parents welcome basic cable into their homes because it opens up a whole universe of family-friendly programming. But to access these educational 20
To make matters worse, cable networks -which are not bound by the broadcast decency law -- lobby their distributors long and hard for the favorable channel positions near the “traditional networks.” In effect, networks like FX and MTV pay to be “lower on the dial.” So, a family “channel surfing” from one network that is bound to uphold today’s decency laws to another is likely to flip through any number of networks that are not held to any standard of decency. No other media sector requires customers to purchase products they do not want or may even find harmful or offensive in order to consume a product that they do want. If you go to the newsstand to buy Time magazine, are you also forced to purchase People magazine? Of course not, and if you were, you’d go to a different newsstand. So why is it that we cannot pick and choose to pay for only the cable networks we want in our homes? Because the cable network programmers have a chokehold on the public. They make billions of dollars every year by forcing you to pay them for channels you don’t watch, don’t want, and may actually find offensive. And unlike the newsstand analogy, the programmers force their bundle onto every distributor, whether it is a cable system or a satellite operator. There is no alternative. There are practical cable choice solutions. One is an “opt-in” solution. Think of it like a sushi restaurant menu. You pick and pay for only the items you want. Another is an “optout” solution. You would purchase a programming tier and could “opt out” of some
Local Parent Magazine of Henry County
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number of networks which you didn’t want, receiving a credit on your monthly cable bill for those networks you “opt out” of. It seems like a no-brainer, but the industry has shown no interest or movement towards embracing amore free-market approach to cable programming bundles. That’s why such a diverse group of organizations and a growing number of Americans are mobilizing to make cable choice a reality. Family groups like the Parents Television Council have joined with national consumer organizations and even a number of prominent cable television executives in calling for some form of á la carte cable pricing. Unless and until families can subscribe and pay for only those networks they want, the harmful and graphic material will continue to pour unabated into homes across the nation on both free and pay TV. Carol Copeland is the Atlanta Chapter Director for the Parents Television Council. Consumers can learn more about cable choice and calculate what their cable bill would be if they were able to opt out of the channels they don’t want at www. HowCableShouldBe.com. www.henryparents.com
Southeastern Railway Museum Southeastern Railway Museum
Georgia’s Official Transportation History Museum
Georgia’s Official Transportation History Museum • Train rides on x Georgia’s largest land transportation museum. restored cabooses Overplace 10 kinds • A great for of rail cars to experience and 28,000 square family outings or feet of indoor exhibits. x QCC field trip outlines/activities available to help corporate events. plan your course work. • Special Events x Picnic areas available for lunch year round x Caboose train ride complimentary with • Gift shop with admission or group tours. Thomas® & other x Field trips & guided group tours available by train souvenirs. appointment. Please call (770) 495-0253 x2
One free child admission with a paying Georgia’s 10am – this 5pmad. Call Today! adult with
Official
Thursdays – Saturday -- April - December (770) 476-2013 Saturdays only -- Jan-Mar 3595 Buford Hwy • Duluth
www.srmduluth.org 770-476-2013 www.srmduluth.org
1300 Peachtree Industrial Blvd., NW Suwanee
Dance Camp Fairy Tale Camp Hip Hop/Jazz Workshop Jazz/Tap/Ballet Workshop One Week & Two Week Sessions Discount on Multiple Workshops July 6 - July 31st Ages 3-17
Dance Arts Centre Named #1 Competitive Studio in Georgia by Dancer Magazine for 2008
678 765-7347 www.danceartscentreatl.com
Local Parent Magazine of Henry County
21
[ FAMILY DINING ]
B
ack-to-School brims with new beginnings even though the old routines are still valued, such as putting together the daily school lunch. Kids develop new tastes and interests as they grow and change during the summer months, so by the fall, something as favorite as a trusted PB&J combo seems downright boring. It’s time to brighten up those brown-bag goodies with some simple changes. Jazz up all your child’s favorites by thinking through bread choices and complementary condiments. Slice some apples for that PB&J sandwich and put them between raisin bread or cranberry-walnut slices. A plain turkey sandwich with plain mayo
Keep the family athlete fueled up for practice with a hearty Supreme Sandwich With Turkey, Ham & Roast Beef.
might also make eyes roll this season, so consider the wide range of interesting deli meats available today. Try combining maple glazed honey turkey or ham with Munster on a soft roll. Add a smear of cranberry jelly and a sprinkle of sunflower seeds for crunch. Deli meats are also flavored with hickory smoke, Cajun spices and even South-ofthe-border peppers for the more adventurous young palates. Here are more tips for pepping up lunches and snacks that travel to school or are enjoyed at home: n Add color and texture — orange carrot sticks and green grapes brighten the meal while whole wheat pretzels and crackers add crunch. Slip green pepper slices inside a wrap or sandwich —
kids will eat healthier without realizing it! n Make brown bag lunch fun! Younger children love the doit-yourself aspect of building their own pizza or cracker stack creations. Turn fun into healthy, too, with cubes of Boar’s Head meats and cheeses packed in a lunch bag along with some lowsalt crackers. n Pack an extra half sandwich for the active athlete in the family. Before a workout, eating a ham, cheese and veggie combo on half a roll is a great way for your soccer or baseball player to keep fueled up during long afterschool practices. n Kids often come home hungry. Be prepared with some rolled up Boar’s Head meats and cheeses and condiment dips to hold them over until mealtime. n Since kids will eat what’s available in the cupboard or fridge, take charge when deciding which foods to stock in the house. Encourage healthy in-between snacks
with a bowl of washed fruit on the kitchen counter, or keep cut up vegetables in the refrigerator along side a healthy dip. Visit www.boarshead. com for more recipes and tips to help you create satisfying lunches your kids will love. Turkey and Apple Roll-Up Makes 1 wrap 1 96% fat free tortilla, taco size 2 tbsp low-fat whipped cream cheese 2 1/2 oz Boar’s Head Maple Glazed Honey Coat Turkey Breast 1/4 oz (approx. 2 to 3 leaves) fresh baby spinach 1/2 tart apple, sliced into matchstick pieces Spread cream cheese on tortilla. Place turkey evenly over tortilla. Then add
spinach and apple. Roll tightly from one end of tortilla. Note: Unless apple is very small, you will use less than 1/2 apple. Nutritional Information (per serving): 304 calories, 24g protein, 41g carbohydrates, 5g dietary fiber, 6g total fat, 2g saturated fat, 47g cholesterol, 954mg sodium, 136mg calcium, 3mg iron Apricot Turkey Sandwich Makes 1 sandwich 2 slices wheat bread 1 1/2 tbsp cream cheese, low-fat whipped 2 oz Boar’s Head Roast Breast of Turkey Skinless 1 tbsp red onion, chopped 3 dried apricots, chopped 1 tbsp slivered almonds Spread cream cheese evenly over both slices of
The crunchy apple “matchsticks” in this Turkey and Apple Roll-Up make lunch more fun.
bread. Layer turkey on bottom slice of bread and sprinkle with chopped onions, apricots and nuts. Top with remaining slice of bread. Supreme Sandwich With Turkey, Ham & Roast Beef Makes 1 large sandwich 1 whole wheat roll 1 oz Boar’s Head Roast Breast of Turkey Skinless 1 oz Boar’s Head Deluxe Ham 1 oz Boar’s Head Deluxe Cap-off Top Round Roast Beef 2 bread and butter pickles, sliced 2 slices red tomato 1 slice, red onion 1 leaf, green leafy lettuce 1 oz (approx. 2 1/2 tbsp) green bell pepper, sliced 1 1/2 tsp extra virgin olive oil 1 tsp red wine vinegar
1/2 tsp dried ground basil Prepare just before serving. Place meats and vegetables between the two halves of the roll. Sprinkle with olive oil, vinegar and basil just before closing. Chicken Salad Tarragon Wrap Makes 1 wrap 1 96% fat free tortilla, taco size 1 oz green leaf lettuce (4 to 5 leaves) 3.25 oz Boar’s Head Golden Classic Chicken Salad, (see separate recipe) 1 tsp tarragon 1 oz (approx. 2 1/2 tbsp) green bell pepper, chopped 2 oz (approx. 3 tbspoons) red tomatoes, chopped Lay tortilla flat. Place green leaf lettuce evenly over tortilla. Place chicken salad
www.anitasar tscool.com
Drawing, Painting & Clay Classes Ages 5 and Up • Summer Camps • Birthday Parties
678-230-4937 • www.anitasartscool.com
Located in Historic Buford • 179 Moreno Street, Suite D, Buford, GA 30518
24
Local Parent Magazine of Henry County
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on top of lettuce and then add tarragon, peppers and tomatoes. Roll tightly from one end of tortilla. Nutritional Information (per serving): 258 calories, 20g protein, 32g carbohydrates, 5g dietary fiber, 6g fat, 1g saturated fat, 41mg cholesterol, 843mg sodium, 135mg calcium, 3mg iron
2 tbsp light mayonnaise These recipes have been reviewed by the American Diabetes Association.
Dried apricots add subtle sweetness to a creamy Apricot Turkey Sandwich.
Golden Classic Chicken Salad 1/3 cup diced celery 2 tbsp chopped yellow onion Pinch white pepper
Pinch paprika 1 tsp mustard
Lemon juice, to taste
1/2 pound Boar’s Head Golden Classic Chicken, diced
Gwinnett Gymnastics Center 927 Killian Hill Rd. • Lilburn , GA 30047• (770) 921-5630
Tumbling (Boys & Girls): Age 7 & Up
Pare n
ts Ni Frida ght yN Ages ights from Out 4 - 12 7-11P ye M Visit o ur we ars old b view s it e t sch o dates eduled & cos t.
Just want to tumble or improve skills for cheerleading, this is the class for you. Classes Available Mon., Tues. or Thurs. 6:30-7:45PM
Register Today! Gymnastics Classes:
Totsie’s Jungle Gym: Preschool Age 3 - 4 Buddy-n-Me: Age 18 mo - 2 years old WOW: Ages 5 - 12 years old Classes Available Mon. - Sat. Fall Schedule Begins Aug. 10, 2009
WOW BIR T Tots ie Pa HDAY P r ties ART IE -A WOW Ages ges 3 & S 4 5 Zip L 12 ine O
www.wowgymnastics.com www.henryparents.com
s, bstac le C Bounce Tram ourses, P House, polin it e & G s, Slides , ames
Local Parent Magazine of Henry County
25
[ FAMILY PET ]
Dr. Elizabette Cohen & her dog Allie.
Allie stopped eating when she was 16. Her owner, Dr. Elizabette Cohen says she went crazy trying to find a healthy diet for her beloved pet. “Her problem is that she has a very sensitive digestive system and would suffer from upsets pretty often,” said Cohen, a New York veterinarian and popular radio show host. With a majority of a dog’s immune system residing in the gut, it was critical to address Allie’s digestive health. Understanding Bacteria • Like humans, dogs and cats have short digestive tracts and a complex gastrointestinal (GI) ecosystem. Bacterial cells in their digestive tracts outnumber animal cells. In fact, they account for approximately 95 percent of the cells in the GI tract. As many as 500 different species of bacterial cells may be represented. Some of these bacteria are beneficial, and some have the potential to be pathogenic. 26
When the bacterial balance is disrupted, the result is often digestive upsets and loose stools What Causes Bacterial Imbalance? The intestinal microflora can vary from one animal to the next and is influenced by a number of things, including host species, breed, age, diet, environment, and geography. But beyond these variables, many factors can work to disrupt the bacterial balance: Disease • Age • Diet • Stress • Antibiotic Therapy. Finding a Balanced Solution • “I prefer to treat her digestive problems naturally; however, it was challenging finding an effective natural solution,” said Cohen. A growing trend in pet care is the use of probiotics and prebiotics to support digestive health. Probiotics are live, beneficial or good bacteria supplied in some form (treat or supplement) to the animal that provide
Local Parent Magazine of Henry County
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a health benefit. Prebiotics feed (or support) the good bacteria, helping the good bacteria to grow. “Probiotics provide the digestive system with good bacteria,” said Cohen. “These bacteria support the immune system and its function, produce important B vitamins and take up space in the intestines. This is important because this space could be taken up by disease-causing bacteria instead of the healthy bacteria.” Allie is 18 now, and even though she has some issues common to older dogs, Dr. Cohen says she’s a healthier, happier dog because of the probiotics she’s given in supplement form. “I am recommending Iams Prostora Max as a veterinarian, as a pet reporter, but most importantly, as a pet owner,” says Cohen. “Allie is extremely picky about what she likes to eat and she loves the taste of Prostora. I love it because I’m able to help support her digestive health naturally.” Available through veterinarians, Prostora Max is the only probiotic that is derived from the canine gut. It nutritionally manages dogs’ digestive health, promoting a healthy microflora balance and a strong, healthy digestive system for overall health and well-being.
www.henryparents.com
Local Parent Magazine of Henry County
27
[ HOME & GARDEN ]
I
Priceless Design
f you have big design dreams but are working with a small budget, no fear — you don’t have to sacrifice style and professional-looking results.
Low-cost projects that make your home look like a million bucks
“When people think about do-it-yourself projects, they automatically think about costly, floor-to-ceiling overhauls,” says designer and contractor Amy Matthews of the DIY Network’s “Sweat Equity” and “Bathroom Renovations.” “However, there are several low-cost projects that homeowners can tackle to freshen up their home’s style and add a punch of personality.” Try these budget-friendly decorating tips
28
from Matthews to help get you the priceless design you’ve always wanted without breaking the bank. Shed a little light: Give your kitchen an instant and inexpensive makeover simply by replacing outdated fixtures such as faucets, lighting and hardware. You can also add a tile backsplash or under-cabinet lights to really dress up your kitchen. Not only are these functional and design-oriented, they really help deliver a big bang for your buck. A little dab will do: Before you commit to a paint color, buy samples and try them out on
Local Parent Magazine of Henry County
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the wall. See how the color looks during the day, at night and under various types of lighting. Also, be sure to have painter’s tape on hand, such as Scotch-Blue Painter’s Tape for Delicate Surfaces. Whether you’re painting one accent wall or tackling the whole house, masking trim, baseboards, and other areas with painter’s tape lets you avoid a mess and achieve clean, sharp paint lines. Something old, something new: Add one special piece in the living room that makes a great conversation starter. This could be a lighting fixture, a piece of furniture or a unique rug — something signature to your style. You can find great pieces by shopping at designer sales and discount showrooms, or uncover treasures in your own house. Rummage through the attic or basement to rediscover pictures, vases or your grandmother’s antique chest. You’ll be surprised with what you may find. Accent on accessories: Fancy towels aren’t just for your guests’ bathroom — treat yourself to new towels in the master bathroom and quickly transform it into an updated and inviting space. For your living spaces, changing couch covers seasonally will keep your décor fresh and make it look like you purchased new furniture. Try brown microfiber for fall, white linen for summer and sage green in the spring. Bring the outdoors in: Take a hint from nature and get inspired by the seasons and the beautiful hues outside. Once you’ve decided on one or two colors, buy pillows, lampshades and other accessories to place throughout your bedroom. Experiment with patterns, warm colors such as red and orange, or calm hues such as moss green and sage. Branches and flowers are inexpensive and can also add instant charm to any living area. Soak up the sun: When landscaping, buy smaller and younger plants that need time to grow. They’ll be ready in a couple of years when you’re ready to sell your house. Fresh cedar mulch or rock landscaping are other great ways to improve curb appeal — they’re inexpensive and will really make your yard pop.
www.henryparents.com
Priceless Kitchen Project An updated kitchen can add thousands of dollars of value to your home and create a welcoming space to entertain guests — and you can accomplish it without spending a lot of time and money. With a few coats of paint and stylish accessories, your kitchen can become a showpiece. Tired-looking cabinets? Breathe new life into your kitchen by updating your cabinets for a fraction of the cost of new cabinets. Quick tips: • When selecting your paint color, keep in mind that a light color will make a room look brighter and more open, while dark colors can help old-fashioned cabinets look more modern. • High-gloss paint is often recommended for cabinets; however semi-gloss adds a rich finish. • When applying paint to cabinets, use a quality brush — the better the brush, the better the finish. • Begin painting at the center of the cabinets and follow the grain. 1. Before getting started, wipe down cabinets with a tack cloth to remove dust. Sand any rough areas and remove sawdust from the area. 2. Tape walls around cabinets and the backsplash. 3. Remove cabinet doors and handles. 4. Tape cabinet inner shelves and sides. Apply primer coat. Note: Using a tinted primer saves at least one coat of paint, so you can buy fewer cans. 5. Apply two coats of paint. Allow time to dry (approximately 4 hours). 6. Remove tape. 7. Remove door hinges. 8. Prime and paint doors. Note: Use a brush instead of a roller to apply primer and paint to uneven cabinet surfaces. 9. Tape fully cured cabinets and trim. 10. Paint wall base coat. Allow to dry. Carefully pull tape. 11. Reassemble cabinets.
Local Parent Magazine of Henry County
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GwinnettParents.com Online Bookmarks
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Snellville Primary Care, P.C.
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Southeastern Railway Museum
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Total Learning Concepts
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Tutoring Club of Duluth
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USA Fit Gwinnett
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Play Ground Equipment
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Local Parent Magazine of Henry County
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What’s right for adults isn’t right for kids.
Children are physically different. So they need pediatric specialists. When you bring your child to Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, you can be certain that they will receive care that is 100% kid-focused. Our staff consists of dedicated specialists, such as radiologists with one or more additional years of pediatric training. And everything here is geared to meet the unique needs of kids of all ages, from pre-natal diagnosis, to repairing ACL tears in 17-year-olds. So the next time your doctor recommends a specialist, ask to see a pediatric specialist. For more information, visit us online at www.choa.org or call 404-250-KIDS. ©2007 Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Some physicians and affiliated healthcare professionals who perform services at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta are independent providers and are not our employees.
U.S. Martial Arts Academy Since 1972
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