Military Parent, Spring Edition

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FEBRUARY 2011 | FREE

Healthy Living with the EFMP

www.onslow.org The life of a mother. You know what it’s like. So join our blogs at MomTalk. Share your highs, your lows, your triumphs and your eye-rolls. It’s a place where all moms can learn from each other — for our children, and for ourselves.

2011 | Military Parent 2 February WINTER 2010 | MILITARY PARENT

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January winter 2010 2011 | Military Parent 3 5

in this

issue

OVerseas Adventure

20

Local selected to particpate in Youth Friendship Games

5

Catch your firsts in a flash 5

catch your firsts in a flash

17 is my child too short?

6

Naval hospital makes special delivery

20 overseas adventure

8

Child Care Backup planning

9

tips for parents with teen drivers

21 Scoliosis screening your child 22 kids not so stuck on sugary cereals 23 tween sleep disturbance

10

gOING OUT

11

Life’s no picnic after kindergarten 25 surviving family dinners

12

Navigating the family road trip

26 healthy living with the EFMP

13

tackling childhood obestiy

27 removing a child’s tonsils

14

diy: build a toy chest

28 teaching children how to ride bikes

16

Play to learn Fun and educational toys for children

24 for tweens, the glass is half-empty

military parent 1122 Henderson Dr. Jacksonville, N.C. 28540 Advertising 347-9624

contributing Editors Amy Binkley Hillary Bratton Russell Varner

advertisement designers Scott Schwartz Hillary Bratton Dorian Gibson

Publisher James M. Connors

SALES MANAGER Heather Miller

Website CampLejeuneParent.com

Military Parent disclaimer Military Parent Magazine is published by Landmark Military Newspapers of N.C., a private enterprise not connected with the DoD or the U.S. Marine Corps.

The appearance of advertising in this publication does not constitute endorsement of these products or services by the DoD, the U.S. Marine Corps, or Landmark Military Newspapers of N.C. Everything advertised in this publication shall be made available for purchase, use or patronage without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, physical handicap, political affiliation, or any other nonmerit factor of the purchaser, user, or patron. If a violation or rejection of this equal opportunity policy by an advertiser is confirmed, the publisher shall refuse to print advertising from that source until the violation is corrected.

The editorial content of this publication is the responsibility of Landmark Military Newspapers of N.C. For distribution and advertising inquiries, call 347-9624.

4 February 2011 | Military Parent

A

chubby thigh, a dimpled cheek, that powdery baby aroma -- there’s so much families love about new babies. From the moment a couple says, “We’re expecting,” the baby frenzy begins with friends and relatives awaiting the latest scoop or the smallest update.

Hollywood paparazzi have nothing on a doting grandmother or an adoring aunt anxious for the first glimpse of that pintsized pixie. And as baby grows, so does the interest in new pictures and information about it.

New parents routinely turn to online resources for sharing because of the convenience and ease of use they provide.

These are months and years of your life when you may be full of love, but short on time.

Luckily, there are fast and easy ways parents, grandparents, or anyone in your virtual community can enjoy and share the adventure that is new life.

Having a baby involves a roller coaster of emotions and memories on which parents certainly want to reflect. But just as the pangs of labor pains become a distant

memory a year or two after a baby arrives (trust us, they will), so can those little details you were determined to remember.

A journal can keep track of those special snapshots in time. Plus, it is easier than you’d think. Create a digital chronicle of your pregnancy and time spent as a new family.

With so many online templates, anyone can design and share an online digital scrapbook. Keep track of all of those “firsts.” Attach your favorite pictures and include other special items, such as sonogram shots or progress reports.

As soon as your baby arrives, loved ones are anxious to hear all about it and to see a picture of that cute little bundle.

Enlist the help of a friend to do the honors of sharing the big news with well-wishers when you only have eyes for that special someone.

Picture sharing remains one of the best ways to preserve the memories of all your times together.

Uploading to an online photo database is a real timesaver, not only because loved ones can view images directly, but because you can create slideshows with personal ized captions, as well as order

gifts made with your favorite pics.

With images organized online, there’s no more hunting through boxes upon boxes of prints. Then simply reach out to your virtual community so others can contribute to these family albums with their own content and commentary.

Enjoy life with your children and share moments with friends and family far and near 365 days a year.

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T

he staff at Naval Hospital Camp Lejeune is prepared and standing at the ready for the next big baby boom.

Cmdr. Elizabeth French, Department Head for Maternal Child Inpatient Nursing Unit, notes with Marines and sailors deploying all the time, “It’s kind of always busy.”

With the growing number of expectant mothers over the past few years, the hospital recognized a need for an upgrade.

The Labor and Delivery and the Mother Baby Units have received makeovers of which any mother would be proud: remodeling of the labor and delivery suites, paint and wallpaper for 14 postpartum rooms, remodeling of the Level II Nursery, and the purchase of all new equipment for these areas - beds, furniture for rooms, monitors and warmers.

The largest and most noticeable change is the expansion of the birthing suites. For the reconstruction, the hospital

6 FEBRUARY 2011 | MILITARY PARENT

took every three rooms and turned them into two, almost doubling the size of the suite.

“At the time of delivery, there’s potential to be a lot of people in here,” said French.

“They stay right here the whole time unless there’s an emergency.”

The intent was to be able to keep new mothers in the same room, with no transfer, until a couple hours after delivery.

Suites include a bed for the mother, a sleeper chair for the father or other visitor, a rocker, a private bathroom with walkin shower and a television.

The cable channels include the Newborn Channel, which plays programs with pertinent information for new parents on an eight-hour loop.

The staff of the Labor and Delivery Unit may be busy delivering an average of six babies a day, but they are happy to be able to share in the momentous occasions with their patients.

“It’s always a fun environment,” said Navy

Lt. Carolyn Howard. “We have a great staff who knows what they’re doing.

There’s stability here.”

However, while overall patient satisfaction is ex extremely high, the hospital staff recognizes they are combating a reputation that doesn’t reflect the superior upgrades.

“There is an upside and a downside to everything,” said Obstetrics and Gynecology department head, Dr. Timothy Sayles. “But when we look at the numbers, we are as good if not better than other hospitals.”

When the hospital began the changes on the units, they made a conscious effort to not only buy physical things, but also to enhance their staff.

“One of the key things we’ve done is that all providers work 12-hour shifts instead of 24 hours,” said Sayles. “This prevents provider exhaustion and increased patient security.”

The expansion of the birthing suites has made it more convenient to have the baby stay with the mother at all times. The newborns will not be taken out of the room unless they require special

assistance and only by a Labor and Delivery or Mother Baby Unit nurse.

“Most of our parents are really young and first-time parents,” said French.

Keeping the baby in the room allows parents to learn and ask questions they may not think of if the baby were to be out of sight.

“You don’t know what you don’t know,” she said.

All new mothers and babies are required to stay at least 36 hours for observation after delivery to make sure both are healthy. Parents are also required to attend a mandatory discharge class before the patients can leave.

In the class, they will watch two videos, one concerning mother and baby care and the other concerning shaken baby prevention, using the Period of Purple Cry criteria.

“We had a great experience,” said Carroll, a first-time father. “The staff was very thorough, answered all of our questions and was very attentive to my wife’s needs.”

For more information the Labor and Delivery and Mother Baby Units, visit med. navy.mil/sites/nhcl/Patients/ Pages/MaternalChildInfantNursing.aspx.

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FEBRUARY 2011 | MILITARY PARENT 7

What to include in your backup plan

will care for your children?

Just as single parents and dual military couples must create a Family Care Plan spelling out how their children will be provided for in their absence, you can do the same by creating an emergency backup plan for child care.

It isn’t pleasant to think about an accident or illness, but if the unexpected does happen, having a plan in place will lessen the stress on your family and give you peace of mind.

Plan ahead

A

s the sole parent in charge, there are steps you can take to make everyday life at home go more smoothly during your spouse’s deployment. But what if something happens to you while your partner is away? Who

The pimples popped up a month before my daughter’s 11th birthday. Her bangs could almost hide them. I stayed quiet because I didn’t want to make her self-conscious about the eruptions on her forehead. How long could I bite my tongue before offering her advice, though?

It was killing me, because I saw two simple ways she could make those little invaders disappear: 1. Wash hair more often: My sweet girl could push washing her hair to two or three times a week and still look great. Suddenly, that was no longer the case.

2. Wash face every night: She was okay at washing up in the morning, but she had no night routine. Plus, she was using makeup and all of us over 20 know what that does to skin if you don’t remove it.

Finally, she complained to

8 FEBRUARY 2011 | MILITARY PARENT

Before your partner’s deployment, discuss who you can count on to be there for your children in an emergency, and who you would want to take over their care should something happen to you while your partner is deployed. These may not necessarily be the same person. Make sure to ask the people if they’d be willing to help before putting anything to writing.

me, and I gently suggested my ideas. She moaned, but she did both. For a week or so. Then I reminded her of the necessity to keep at it. My gentle, manipulative approach: “It’s just part of a teenager’s life to take care of her skin.”

Three months of this approach has kept most of the pimples in check. (I’ve been fortunate she hasn’t been picking at her face. And I’m sure she would be glad to learn diet doesn’t have much to do with causing acne. She loves chocolate and chips and would hate to give them up.)

I’m ready for another attack if it presents itself. My weapons: Oil-free and “noncomedogenic” makeup and over-thecounter acne medicine.

According to the Mayo Clinic, there are three types of acne-fighting products. Some

• The names, phone numbers, and schedules of the people who have agreed to care for your children in an emergency.

• Your spouse’s contact information. Include the name and address of the military unit, commander or commanding officer, first sergeant or command chief, command enlisted advisor, and supervisor’s name and telephone number. Include the Key Volunteer, Ombudsman, or Family Readiness Program point of contact and phone number.

• Limited power of attorney for your backup caregiver. This would allow your backup caregiver to authorize emergency medical care for your children. Some hospitals may not perform certain procedures without the consent of the caregiver. Your base legal office can help you with this.

• The names and phone numbers of your children’s pediatrician, dentist, schools, child care providers, and other caregivers in their lives.

• Your children’s schedules. This would include the time they

kill propionibacterium acnes (called P. acnes), the bacterium that causes acne inflammation.

Others decrease excess oils from the skin, speed up the growth of new skin cells and remove dead skin cells that clog pores. Certain products do all of these things.

Here’s what to look for: Benzoyl peroxide. This kills P. acnes, helps remove excess oils from the skin and removes dead skin cells that clog pores.

Salicylic acid. This slows shedding of cells inside the hair follicles, which decreases pore clogging, and can break down whiteheads and blackheads.

Alpha hydroxy acids. This ingredient will be listed as glycolic acid and lactic acid, and they remove dead skin cells, reduce inflammation and stimulate the growth of new skin, which will be smoother and reduce scarring.

•

•

•

• •

leave for school or child care and when they return home.

Also be sure to list any afterschool activities, such as dance lessons or scouts.

Your children’s routines at home. Describe bedtime rituals, homework time, and other important routines at home.

Your children’s likes and dislikes. Name your children’s favorite toys and foods, whether they need a nightlight to sleep, and other particulars that would help the caregiver.

The names of any medications your children take regularly.

Write down where you keep the prescription and include instructions on administering the medication and how to order refills.

A list of any food or medication allergies your children may have.

Copies of the following papers or instructions on where to find them: 1. Military ID cards for your children if they’re over 10.

2. Copies of your children’s medical and dental plan cards if other than TRICARE. 3. Copies of your spouse’s most recent military orders.

Sulfur. This is often combined with one of the other ingredients to remove dead skin and reduce oil.

The Mayo Clinic suggests starting with a lower-dose benzoyl peroxide product. If you don’t see results, increase the dosage. If that doesn’t work, try products with different ingredients. You can use one at night and one in the morning.

If you don’t see results, it’s time for professional help.

The dermatologist needs to hear from your child about the progression of the acne and what they have been doing to prevent it. Let your child know the doctor can prevent the spread of acne with topical and ingestible medicine. You want to visit the dermatologist for part of the visit to ensure you understand how the medicine should be used.

Tips for Parents of Teen Drivers

A

rguably no parent in the history of the world has looked forward to the day their teenager gets his or her driver's license. Though getting a driver's license is a milestone for kids, it's also the cause of heartache for parents who understandably worry about their teenager hitting the open road all by their lonesome. While there's no way to keep kids from growing up, there are steps parents can take to make a teen's transition to fully licensed driver a little easier. * Institute a no cell phone policy when driving. This is a relatively new, yet major concern for parents of teen drivers.

Most of today's teens have their own cell phones, and parents could very well be helpless when it comes to keeping kids from talking or texting on their cell phones while driving.

That said, a no-cell-phone-while-driving policy should be instituted and thoughtfully discussed with teenagers. Make it known that should an accident occur because of cell phone use while driving, both the car privileges and the phone will be taken away. * When applying for colleges, consider the school's freshman driving policy. A child's first year away at college is enough to make any parent lose sleep, but sending kids off to college with a car for their first year only adds to the sleepless nights. When kids are applying to colleges, look for schools that don't allow freshmen to have cars. Many schools don't, so this should not be a problem. If a child chooses a school that does allow freshmen to have a car, let kids know you would be more comfortable if the car stayed home, at least for the first semester while kids learn to adjust to their new surroundings. * If possible, wait an extra year. If your teenager is the rare breed who isn't especially excited about getting a driver's license, let it slide. Studies show 16-year-old drivers are far more likely to get in accidents than their 17-year-old counterparts. * Limit passengers. Teenage drivers are more likely to get in an accident with each passenger who comes along for the ride. One study indicates teen drivers with one fellow teenager in the car are 40 percent more likely to get in an accident than they would be if they were driving alone. Those percentages increase with each additional teenage passenger, so parents should institute a reasonable policy that limits the number of passengers that a teen can take on when driving. * Make sure teens are driving safe vehicles. While it might be nice to give your teen the flashy sports car for his or her birthday, doing so is a big mistake. A teenager's first car should be the kind of vehicle that discourages irresponsible driving. The vehicle should also be fully equipped with all the necessary safety features, including airbags and anti-lock brakes. * Stress the importance of seatbelts. A significant percentage of teenagers killed in auto accidents weren't wearing their seatbelts at the time of death. All drivers should wear seatbelts, and parents should set a positive example by wearing their seatbelts whenever riding in a car. To encourage teens wear their seatbelts when driving, institute a policy wherein they lose their vehicle privileges should they be caught driving without a seatbelt.

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ROTOVUE February 2011 | Military Parent 9

JOB WELL DONE! THE

GLOBE Serving Camp Lejeune and surrounding areas since 1944

The Globe military newspaper was recently awarded

Best Newspaper in the Marine Corps by the Division of Public Affairs and United States Marine Corps Combat Correspondents Association.

Landmark Military Newspapers of North Carolina, civilian publisher of The Globe, salutes all Camp Lejeune Public Affairs OfÀce Marines, combat correspondents and our civilian staff on base and in Jacksonville who contributed to the previous year’s efforts.

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10 FEBRUARY 2011 | Military Parent

Story by Gina Roberts-Grey An adult’s idea of dating is filled with dinners, movies and conversation. Walking hand in hand while fighting for space to walk down a crowded hallway and stopping every ten feet to chat with a friend does not seem to classify as a date.

‘Going out’ and ‘seeing each other’ are frequently uttered phrases in our children’s schools. In the halls, friends are coerced into acting as liaisons with secret crushes. Children spend hours talking about how to find a love interest, how to lose a love interest or who has a new love interest.

While our children are in a hurry to experiment, parents are not always prepared for this phase of their child’s life. The potential for teens to experience a broken heart, or be misinformed about sex and disease is higher when they begin dating young.

When a child feels old enough to be part of an adult relationship, he makes judgments based on the advice of friends, examples in the media and hormones. Helping your child navigate through the intrepid waters of first loves often leaves parents feeling as naive as their children do.

When her twelve year old son came home from middle school raving about his new girlfriend, Laura Schwebber fought back her giggles.

“My first thought was ‘Where are you going?’” Much to her surprise, her son’s relationship lasted nearly a year. “I couldn’t believe they spent so much time together.”

The fragile egos and emotional stability of young children can be compromised when incorporating matters of love. Although discovering love and the desire for a companion is a natural process of life, children diving into this complex phase of life can find themselves in precocious situations.

Experimenting with their sexuality The desire for parents to ignore the possibility eleven year olds are engaging in kissing, groping and sexual activities is understandable. The notion the person you see still needing to hold your hand across the street is seen by peers as ‘eligible’ ‘available’ and ‘attractive’ is boggling.

Delving into the physical aspects of dating opens a world many children are not prepared for. The pressure to begin discovering their sexuality is heightened when children start dating. They increase the potential of disease and emotional devastation when introducing physical contact into their relationship.

Talking with your child about the risks associated with dating, and the importance of maintaining his individuality helps preserve a child’s emotions.

“I think I was more nervous than my daughter.” Jane Lawler laughs, recalling the first time she and her daughter discussed dating. “We had already discussed shaving, wearing bras and menstruation, but this was different. I knew this talk would help shape her ideals.”

Jane’s trepidation is not without merit. Your first reactions to your child’s discovery of love can determine how much information they’ll be willing to trust you with. If he senses you’re not receptive to this passage of life, he may opt to keep feelings, details or questions from you.

When love affects grades Teen dating affects moods, mannerisms and sometimes performance in school. Beth Maurin, a teacher in Barrington, Illinois has seen how going out affects her students. “They change schedules to be in the same class.” The mother of three teen boys, Maurin is concerned for how young relationships impact studies.

“Tuning into who is talking to their boyfriend often takes priority over paying attention to the class lesson,” Maurin explains. Missing assignments instead of missing a phone call, or forgetting to study for a biology quiz, yet remembering how many hours they’ve spent as a couple becomes common practice of children going out.

BY JIM VAN SLYKE

O

ur oldest son, who is currently living the wild life in 1st grade, is slowly beginning to understand that life is all downhill after kindergarten. While he was a mega-superstar who could almost do no wrong last year, he’s finding things are not so easy once you move up a level.

In kindergarten he could wow people with his impressive vocabulary and charm them with his heartbreaking smile, but now he’s found that people expect more. The pressure has apparently gotten to him because he’s shunned his impressive skills to become a member of small gang of troublemakers. I’m pretty sure they are all getting leather jackets with “1st Grade Gangsters” written in crayon on the back.

The good news is that he’s still doing well academically. We were told at the first parent-teacher conference that he’s either exactly where he needs to be on all subjects, or slightly ahead. We were also told that our son apparently likes to get some of the other kids riled up in the classroom. It appears he’s some sort of instigator. He also doesn’t listen to the teacher occasionally and has even gotten in trouble for talking back.

A golden child, my son is not.

But that’s not news to me. I get to see him at home, on the soccer field and wherever else we have “family time.” He can be the smartest, most charming and funniest kid in the room. He can also be a complete pain in the neck who ignores simple commands from his mother and me, and also sometimes can’t focus enough during soccer practice to do a simple - but usually fun - drill.

And, yes, I am aware he’s just 6 years old.

Most of the time he gets in trouble when he’s tired or, and, this is important for his at-school issues, bored. I understand this because I was the same way. In elementary school I would do whatever it took to get out of class because I was able to finish my in-class work quickly and “sit quietly and wait for everybody else to finish” was not a command that my elementary school

brain could process. So I visited the nurse’s office on a regular basis even though I wasn’t at all sick and volunteered for chorus even though my voice could never be considered song-worthy.

I even volunteered to pick up trash around the school just to escape the classroom.

I can’t say that his 1st grade follies are a surprise. My wife and I expected him to run into his fair share of trouble, even though we know he’s nowhere near being a bad kid. However, we got some hope when we learned back in August that our son would have a male teacher.

That’s not to take away anything from the teachers of the female persuasion. No, I would never do that. They can be as tough as men and teach just as effectively. Both of my parents were teachers and highly regarded by both the students and parents with which they partnered. No, I will not disparage the female teacher. My mom would send me to detention for a week if I did that.

But in the mind of a 6-year-old boy that’s got to be a bit different. So far, his idols are all men, even if some of those men are just LEGOs action figures and

orange-haired cartoon characters he’s seen on TV. He’s quite clear that he wants to grow up to be taller than me, and never mentions being taller than his mom. All of his spare-time activities soccer, etc. - are driven from what he sees me do.

We thought maybe our son would fall in line and do what he was told because he had a male teacher and perhaps by June that will be the case. Of course, it also might have still been the case if he had a female teacher, too.

So it probably wouldn’t matter if his teacher was Godzilla, our son is still going to be a fairly typical 6-year-old boy. Perhaps if he was shy or if corporal punishment was still an option - kidding! - he might toe the 1st grade line, but instead we have to rely on a traffic light of trouble colors - red is bad, yellow not as bad, green is good - that are marked on his school calendar each day by his teacher to find out of our son instigated another riot in the elementary school cafeteria or tried to organize a sit-in because his teacher wouldn’t let the class sing “Pop Goes the Weasel” in the hallway while walking to lunch.

I hate to chalk his behavior to “it’s all part of growing up” even though I think a lot of it is just being a boy and also being 6 years old. I’m pretty sure he won’t be getting in trouble on the playground for “accidentally” pushing somebody down when he’s 18. He’d also better eliminate the talking back to anybody - by, um, tomorrow.

I think it’s a great thing that my son has a male teacher. It’s not that I think that this teacher will advance my son faster down the academic trail or even provide a better sense of discipline than a female teacher.

But having another male role model is a good thing. It takes a little bit of pressure off me and gives my son the chance to see another working in a respectable profession. I have no doubt that as the year goes on my son will rise to the occasion and learn to focus on his schoolwork.

A large part of that will be due to Aidan’s teacher. I wonder if he has any time to help me coach soccer, too?

FEBRUARY 2011 | MILITARY PARENT 11

BY JIM VAN SLYKE

A

s the chauffeur on our family’s road trips, it’s my job to get everybody from Point A to Point B in as safe and quick a manner as possible. That’s it. You really could give my road-trip job to a robot and not lose very much. Other than sighing every time my wife argues with our GPS unit and singing along to various ‘80s tunes that come on the radio, my only other role is to encourage both our 6- and 2-year-old boys to fall asleep.

Unfortunately, I always fail at that job.

I’m proud to say that I’m much better at driving and navigating. I’m not the type of dad who needs to set land speed records while driving, but because I often have two energy-filled boys bouncing off the car walls for hours on end, I will admit that shaving a few minutes off our trips is always on my mind.

However, I never, ever speed more than the rest of the people on the road. Or at least that’s what I like to tell myself while wondering if the sedan I just passed is really an undercover state trooper.

I bring this up because road trips are a necessary part of just about every family’s life. Some road trips are for fun and some for family reasons, but they almost always end up being stress-filled and making much of my car look like the floor of a movie theater after the opening night of the latest teen vampire flick.

We now have DVD players and TVs in our cars - my 12 FEBRUARY 2011 | MILITARY PARENT

family doesn’t, but we’re rethinking that - as well as handheld video games and other electronic distractions.

Our vehicles have turned into traveling movie theaters and arcades that have a good chance of stopping for some drive-thru fast food. So our kids shouldn’t complain about road trips.

They don’t know the pain we suffered growing up.

Heck, I had to travel from Virginia to New Mexico one summer in a car that didn’t have air conditioning, and with a mother who thought fast food was poison and a younger sister who had to go to the bathroom every hour on the hour. My only entertainment was counting how many bugs took their own lives by slamming into our windshield. If I got really bored, I would give

them names.

Sure, there was the license plate game and it was fun to occasionally venture into the demilitarized zone my mother established in the back seat between my sister and me. I had to cross the line from time to time just to see if my sister was paying attention. If she was asleep and I was really bored I would have to start the “He poked me!” game until my parents threatened to pull the car over.

But even though kids today have the DVD players and video games I’m not going to wail about how easy their lives are. They do have it pretty easy, but that’s not really their fault. After all, I’m pretty sure I would have run through my junior high with nothing but the school colors painted on my awkwardly lanky body just to be able to watch reruns

of “Happy Days” while in the car on long road trips. In fact, I would have been happy to watch the same episode in an obscure Chinese dialect over and over again on those eighthour drive days.

The irony is that now that technology has advanced to the point where we can have TVs and video games in cars I can’t use any of them because I’m now the driver.

I’m almost of the mind that my kids should suffer along with me - let them try to find a Hawaii license plate in the middle of Kansas! - but then I realize that the only good backseat is a quiet backseat.

The best things for a road trip driver are quiet and a steady supply of iced tea.

Of course, my drink always runs dry and the boys inevitably have a backseat meltdown of nuclear proportions, but there’s only so much I can do about that while navigating the nation’s highways and byways.

As our children grow up, I’m sure we’ll hand official car trip roles to them and my wife won’t have to act like a nightclub bouncer from time to time. The mood in the car will change and we will worry less about child safety seats and more about if watching the same DVD in our car over and over again will turn the boys into brain dead zombies.

Road trips, equal parts fun and frenzy with a dash of fast-food fueled stress, are one of those things memories are made from. Even if I spend way too much energy trying to block out some of those memories.

O

besity is now among one of the most widespread medical problems for children and adolescents.

The American Obesity Association reports that about 15 percent of adolescents (aged 12 to 19 years) and children (aged six to 11 years) are obese in the United States. Doctors say that obesity among children is one of the country’s greatest health challenges.

Many health care providers define obesity in a child as weighing 20 percent or more over the healthy range. The percentage of body weight that is fat is also a good indicator of obesity. Boys over 25 percent fat and girls over 32 percent fat are considered obese.

Childhood obesity puts youngsters at risk of being overweight adults. It also presents risk factors for other serious health concerns, such as heart disease, stroke and diabetes. In addition, overweight children can experience psychological side effects. Bullying and teasing by peers may lead to poor self

worth and even depression.

Some experts believe that breastfeeding and delaying solid foods for infants can help prevent obesity. Teaching children how to eat healthy as they grow up is another way to

promote a healthy weight.

Here are some additional suggestions to help your child stay healthy: - Limit the time spent watching television, playing video games and surfing the Internet to no more than seven hours per week.

- Encourage physical activity, such as sports leagues or simply playing outdoors with neighborhood friends.

- Set a good example by limiting the fattening foods you eat. Make healthy meals a family affair.

- Many people overlook the extra caloric intake and sugar of sodas and other soft drinks. Serve water whenever you can.

- Have children avoid snacking or eating while watching television.

They may eat subconsciously while distracted by the show -- and consequently eat much more than what is recommended.

- Pack your child’s lunch so he or she is less likely to rely on processed or fast foods.

- Regular health checkups can determine if your child is in a healthy weight range. Doctors have the equipment to most accurately measure body mass index (BMI). You can also roughly calculate it at home: Multiply the child’s weight in pounds by 705. Then divide by the child’s height in inches. Divide this by the height in inches again.

Stay connected while he’s away.

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february 2011 | Military Parent 13

Y

ou’d be hard-pressed to find a parent who isn’t looking for more storage space for children’s toys. The overabundance of gifts from grandma can lead to overcrowding in children’s rooms and

family areas.

A solution to the toys children are bound to collect is an attractive and functional storage area. A toy chest can offer just what the average homeowner is looking for.

Plus, building a toy chest can be a project that the avid do-it-yourselfer can tackle, perhaps with children serving as pint-sized helpers.

Toy chests can be made in a variety of sizes depending on the available space. All that’s needed are a few supplies: plywood sheets, strap or metal hinges, corner braces, screws, power drill, circular or hand saw, sander and paint or stain.

Figure out the dimensions to the toy chest. Mark out the sides, bottom, front and lid of the toy chest and cut to size.

It may be safer to have two small lids that close toward the center of the chest instead of one larger lid that can slam down on children’s fingers, unless safety hinges are used. As an added safety precaution,

be sure the front face of the toy chest is sized smaller than the other panels so that the lid does not meet the panel. This allows room for small fingers, and ensures that they cannot get trapped beneath the lid.

The bottom of the toy chest should also be smaller than the total dimension so that the side and front panels will overlap and the bottom will fit inside.

Use the corner brackets and screws to secure each panel together. Once the chest is secure, attach the lid with the hinges of choice.

This is a basic toy chest design. The chest can also be customized with paint or by routering a decoration right into the wood. Also, handles can be made out of rope and secured to the chest sides by drilling small holes, inserting the rope and knotting the ends.

If intricate designs or painting will be done to the toy chest, it may be easier to decorate the individual pieces prior to assembly. This allows the application of paint, stencils, stain or clear-coating before hardware is attached. It’s easier to maneuver individual pieces rather than the completed chest.

Involve children in the design of the toy chest. Gear it to the theme of the bedroom. If it will be in a family area, design it so it coincides with furniture already in the space.

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Active duty spouses are the unsung heroes who maintain the home-front during lengthy deployments, selflessly give back to their communities and provide moral support for friends, family and their loved ones serving in harms way, at home and abroad.

While service members are rewarded for superior job performance with medals, promotions and ceremonies, military spouses generally only receive a kiss and a “thank you” from their significant others.

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All nominees, finalists and the Spouse of the Year will be recognized by the business and military community at an awards luncheon hosted by Landmark Military Media of North Carolina, proud civilian publishers of The Globe and Rotovue, at the Camp Lejeune Officer’s Club on Thursday, May 19th.

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Fun and educational toys for children Story by Hillary bratton • COURTESY PHOTO

G

rowing up, I was enthralled with discovery.

I wanted to learn about every animal, plant and fungus I observed while romping around my yard.

For a child, the world is ripe with opportunities to uncover new and exciting information. I was lucky enough to have parents who catered to my thirst for exploration and knowledge. When I was seven years old, I got a microscope set.

The microscope came equipped with blank glass slides and covers, forceps, an eyedropper and endless possibililties. Now, this was a big deal. I had become a scientist!

Toys like this made observing the world around me even more of an adventure and an awesome learning experience. And you better believe I put just about everything under that microscope. Bugs, lint, food, leaves.

You name it. I found out what it looked like at ten times magnification.

Microscopes, chemistry sets and toy computers may sound expensive, but the wealth of knowledge that can come out of such toys for your child is absolutely priceless.

Educational toys like these are perfect for children interested in science and technology, or just have a love of learning in general. They are also good for familiarizing your children with this type of equipment before reaching biology and chemistry in school.

If you’re intimidated by something like a chemistry set and your child shows interest in science, baking or cooking could be a great outlet for them.

If your child is more musically inclined, there are child-sized guitars, drums and other instruments that can help stimulate your child.

It is important to provide your child with learning tools, especially when they show a profound interest in a particular subject. It will help them grow and, eventually, it may help them decide on a major in college or a career.

18 FEBRUARY 2011 | MILITARY PARENT

Y

By Onslow Theckla, tweenbeat.onslow.org

ou’ve been watching your child grow over the years and now that your child is entering their tweens, you notice that your child seems short next to others of the same age. Should you worry?

The short answer is maybe.

Some children grow more slowly than others. Height in the low normal range is still normal, doctors say. If you and your spouse are short, your child will likely join you.

Ask the doctor

Although being short is common, serious growth disorders are not. But don’t ignore your concerns—talk with your child’s doctor. The doctor can show you how your child compares with the average.

After age 2, kids tend to grow a bit more than 2 inches a year, on average, until a growth spurt at puberty. Spells of less rapid growth may follow growth spurts.

Chronic illness, poor nutrition, and hormone problems can hamper growth. To pin down a problem, doctors may do some tests.

Growth problems Some growth problems are genetic, and others may be because of hormonal disorders or digestive problems. Here are some common causes of growth problems: • Family history. Short parents often produce short children.

• Growth delay. A child who has a growth delay usually grows to the same height as his parents.

• Illnesses that affect the whole body.

• Poor nutrition.

• Hormone diseases, such as lack of thyroid hormones or insufficient growth hormone.

• Chromosome abnormalities.

A doctor diagnoses a growth problem by noting a child’s growth over time, but also may

order blood tests, bone X-rays, or a test of the pituitary gland.

Prescribing hormones Can growth hormones help?

Yes, particularly if the hormones are given before the bones finish growing. If you are concerned about your child’s height, talk with your doctor to see if growth hormones might be appropriate.

If your child worries about height, explain that kids grow at different rates—and that late bloomers tend to catch up.’ february 2011 | Military Parent 19

STORY BY RUSSELL VARNER • COURTESY PHOTO

20 FEBRUARY 2011| MILITARY PARENT

O

n their summer vacations, most kids will either take part in summer camp, play sports or travel. Jack Brarens has a something a little more special planned..

Jack has been selected to take part in the 2011 Youth Friendship Games in Austria this June as a member of the United States’ soccer team.

The 12-year-old from Wilmington joined the select team when he was nominated by a coach at a recent soccer camp at the University of North Carolina at Wilmington and could not be more excited about the trip. “(He can’t wait to) meet players from other countries,” said Jack’s mother, Chris. “We took a Disney Cruise a few years ago and Jack met kids from Columbia and England.

They ended up playing soccer on the beach.

We found it funny that even (when we go) to other countries, he still connects with other soccer-heads.”

Jack will have plenty of opportunities to connect with more “soccer-heads” this summer. The 14-day event includes games against teams from other countries as well as trips to Italy and Germany, where they will visit

Local soccer player invited to 2011 Youth Friendship Games world famous landmarks and soccer stadiums and compete in the Ambassador’s Cup tournament. On top of that, Jack will also train with European soccer professionals and practice in facilities where World Cup teams have trained. “(I’m) interested to see how Jack reacts after seeing the monuments they will also visit in addition to playing in the tournament,” said Mrs. Brarens. “We are expecting him to come home with a whole new appreciation of other parts of the world and how lucky he is to be living here in the U.S.” Jack, who has been playing soccer since he was 5, has played all over the field in the midfield, striker and goalkeeper positions. He said he tries to model his game after two of his favorite players, David Beckham and George Corrie of the Wilmington Hammerheads, who helped sparked Jack’s interest in soccer when he was in kindergarten.

Jack’s parents love how soccer has influenced Jack and helped raise his self-confidence. Now, they cannot wait to see where soccer will take him next.

For more information on the trip or to follow Jack’s journey, visit his Facebook page, “Jack’s Trip to Austria.”

Scoliosis

Screening kids is still important

A

dults no doubt recall being tested for it in school. But unless they were diagnosed with it, adults probably recall little else about scoliosis.

Though not a terribly common disorder, the fact that many school districts still test children for scoliosis indicates it’s not entirely innocuous either.

Who is Most Likely to Get Scoliosis?

The most common type of scoliosis is adolescent idiopathic scoliosis, which is most likely to occur in girls over the age of 10. Research has also shown that idiopathic scoliosis can be genetic, and children who have a brother, sister or parent with idiopathic scoliosis or if any such relative has had it in the past should visit their physician regularly for checkups and examinations.

What Causes Scoliosis?

More often than not, the cause of

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scoliosis is unknown. In fact, NIAMS estimates that the cause of scoliosis is unknown 80 to 85 percent of the time.

Physicians will look for causes such as injury or infection, and if they find curves, those curves are classified into two categories: * Nonstructural -- A nonstructural spinal curve is temporary, and can be caused by an underlying condition such as leg length or muscle spasms. * Structural -- Structural curves of the spine are more serious, and can be the result of a tissue disorder or disease.

Does Scoliosis Have to be Treated?

Each individual case of scoliosis is different, but oftentimes school screening programs are in place to shed light on a condition and determine whether or not there is a need for observation as a child continues to grow. In many cases, children who are sent to the doctor by screening programs have very mild curves that don’t require treatment. If treatment is required, a child could be sent to an orthopaedic spine specialist.

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Give your child a head start with a nutritious breakfast STORY BY HILLARY BRATTON

For a parent, nothing is more important than preparing their child for the day they will leave the nest.

Providing your child with proper nutrition is the key to their health, well-being and academic success.

And, of course, the most important meal of the day is breakfast.

A well-balanced breakfast should be served to your child every morning before they head off to school.

A breakfast rich in fiber, protein, vitamins and minerals will help to keep them full and focused

W

until the lunch bell rings.

Here is a list of essential nutrients your child should have before taking on their busy day: Fiber A great source of fiber is whole wheat toast or multigrain cereal. Many cereals today are fortified with vitamins and minerals.

Protein Breakfast sausage, bacon, eggs and cheese are great sources of protein that your child will love. Try making a breakfast sandwich on whole grain with a combination of these ingredients for a power-packed breakfast.

Calcium Serve your child milk for breakfast or yogurt.

Calcium builds strong bones and contains other supplements to promote healthy brain function.

Vitamins & Minerals Juice is a great source of vitamins, especially citric juices, which are rich in vitamin C. Sprinkling fruit on cereal is another great way to deliver extra nutrition to your child. Grapefruit with a little sugar is a great way to incorporate more fruit into your child’s diet. A multi-vitamin can also be provided.

BY ONSLOW THECKLA

hen you hit the grocery store, do you dread the cereal aisle, wishing to avoid the fight over the sugary cereals your kids crave versus the healthier options you’d prefer? Well, it turns out getting kids to happily eat nutritious, low-sugar cereals may be easier than you think.

A new study found that children will gladly chow down on low-sugar cereals if they’re given a selection of choices at breakfast, and many compensate for any missing sweetness by opting for fruit instead.

The 5- to 12-year-olds in the study ate about the same amount of calories regardless of whether they were allowed to choose from cereals high in sugar or a lowsugar selection. However, the kids weren’t inherently opposed to healthier cereals, the researchers found.

This week, food giant General Mills announced it is reducing the sugar levels in its cereals geared toward children.

In the meantime, many parents believe that if cereals aren’t loaded with sweetness, kids won’t eat them.

But, is that true? In the new study, researchers offered different breakfast cereal choices to 91 children who took part in a summer camp program in New England.

22 FEBRUARY 2011 | MILITARY PARENT

Of the kids, 46 were allowed to choose from one of three high-sugar cereals: Froot Loops, Frosted Flakes and Cocoa Pebbles.

The other 45 chose from three cereals that were lower in sugar: Cheerios, Rice Krispies and Kellogg’s Corn Flakes.

The study findings appear in the January issue of Pediatrics.

Taste did matter to kids, but when given a choice between the three low-sugar cereals, 90 percent “found a cereal they liked or loved,” the authors report.

In fact, “the children were perfectly happy in both groups,” Schwartz said. “It wasn’t like those in the low-sugar group said they liked the cereal less than the other ones.”

The kids in both groups also took in about the same amount of calories at breakfast. But, the children in the high-sugar group consumed almost twice as much refined sugar as did the others and also drank less orange juice and ate less fruit.

Len Marquart, an associate professor of food science and nutrition at University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, said the study findings “confirm that (parents’) choices in the cereal aisle do make a difference.”

“The biggest challenges are taste and marketing. In the morning, kids are sleepy and cranky, and it’s hard to get them to

sit down and eat breakfast,” he said. “The sugar cereals marketed with flash and color and cartoon characters help get kids to the kitchen table when nothing else seems to work. And, we have to be realistic, they do like the taste of presweetened cereals.”

But one solution is to be creative, he said. “Take Cheerios and put some strawberries and vanilla yogurt on top, and that’s going to taste better than any presweetened cereal anyway,” Marquart said.

y tween has problems “turning her brain off ” and it is becoming increasingly important to help her get the sleep her body desperately needs. Her doctor recently recommended starting her on melatonin to help her sleep at night. I’m one of these overprotective, neurotic moms that needs to research EVERYTHING before I can dive in and start something. Like everything, doctors debate, research isn’t concrete enough to convince and there is a hesitation to try something new.

In the Child Health Monitor magazine they stated, “Sleep disturbance is common in childhood, and is particularly problematic in children with neurological problems such as learning difficulties, cerebral palsy, autism spectrum disorders and epilepsy, as well as children

STORY BY KRISTEN PAULSEN and dark. When darkness falls, with visual impairment. This is the pineal gland produces more probably because these children melatonin, promoting sleep and have difficulty recognizing and regulating the body’s sleep-wake attuning their sleep cycle to cycle with the outside world. the outside world’s sleep-wake Because of its use in promoting cycle.” My tween has a visual/ sleep, melatonin is increasingly auditory processing disorder. used in the treatment of sleep Due to some issues at birth she disturbance in children. Howevwas later found to have some er, this particular use of the drug minor developmental delays has been studied very little and in neurologically. We first thought it was related to a different health fact, melatonin is not licensed as a drug in most countries.” issue. Yet, once she had surgery Another physician Andrew the problems did not resolve.

Weil said, “To find out about the The Child Health Monisafety of using melatonin as a tor described how melatonin sleep aid for children, I consulted works, “Melatonin, a hormone two experts: Rubin Naiman, produced by the pineal gland in Ph.D., a sleep and dream specialthe brain, is increasingly being ist and clinical assistant professor used to treat sleep disturbance of medicine with the Arizona in children. Melatonin is most Center for Integrative Medicine commonly used for jet lag, but at the University of Arizona, and claims have been made it also George C. Brainard, a melatonin promotes general health and expert at Thomas Jefferson Uniprotects against the effects of aging. Melatonin helps regulate the versity in Philadelphia.

Dr. Naiman told me that chilbody’s sleep-wake cycle and its production is determined by light dren’s brains produce significant

amounts of melatonin. Because of this, and since the effects of extra melatonin on development are unknown, sleep specialists have cautioned against using it with kids. Dr. Naiman noted that some preliminary data suggests that melatonin may be effective in helping developmentally delayed children, especially autistic kids, with sleep problems, but he said the essential question to explore in your son’s case is why he is having trouble sleeping. Addressing the underlying contributors is central to any long-term strategy.

Dr. Brainard said taking melatonin supplements is safe when used for short periods of time, but for both adolescents and adults, the safety of taking them at higher doses for months or years is unclear. He also noted when prescribed to children, melatonin has been effective and rarely associated with side effects.

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FEBRUARY 2011 | MILITARY PARENT 23

For tweens, the glass is

halfempty

BY ONSLOW THECKLA

A

study in the October issue of the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that, depending on age, only 15 to 60 percent of boys and 10 to 54 percent of girls get the minimum amount of water recommended by the Institute of Medicine.

Water is critical for good health because it helps with digestion and carries nutrients to cells in the body. It also helps regulate body temperature and lubricates joints. Even mild dehydration can cause fatigue, muscle weakness and headaches.

A Closer Look Researchers at the City University of New York and National Cancer Institute looked at the water intake of 3,978 boys and girls, ages 2 to 19, who had been in a national nutrition study from 2005 to 2006. They looked at water consumption, as well as water in moist foods and moisture in beverages such as milk and juice.

They found kids of all ages were more likely to drink sugary drinks than water at mealtime. More than two-thirds of water consumed came from beverages with meals, and only one-third of water was consumed with meals.

Children who drank the most plain water also consumed fewer sweetened beverages and ate fewer high-calorie foods.

Changing Preferences As the children got older, they drank more plain water and less nutritious beverages, such as milk, the researchers found.

“Efforts to moderate the consumption of sweetened bever-

24 february 2011 | Military Parent

ages and promote plain water intake should not only continue to promote plain water for snacks, but also should recognize the importance of replacing nonnutritive beverages at meal time with plain water,” the researchers say.

According to the IOM, children ages 1 to 3 years should have 5.5 cups of water or equivalent fluids each day. Children 4 to 8 should have 7.25 cups a day. Preteen boys should have 10.25 cups; teen boys, 14 cups. Preteen girls should have 9 cups of water or equivalent fluids a day; teen girls, 10 cups.

Beverages of Choices When your children are thirsty, offer water first and make skim or 1 percent milk their second choice.

Here are other ideas from the CDC and the American Dietetic Association on how to encourage your children to make more nutritious beverage selections: wOffer water as the beverage at snack time. wDon’t use beverages or food as rewards or forbid them as punishment. wLimit sports drinks to youngsters who play a vigorous sport for more than an hour at a time. wGive your child a water bottle to use that’s decorated with a favorite sports or school logo or a favorite animal. wJuice is acceptable occasionally, but keep in mind juice has the same number of calories as soda. Choose beverages that are 100 percent juice. wAsk your childs’ school to make water available during the school day at no cost to students. wAlways talk with your health care provider to find out more information.

STORY BY JIM VAN SLYKE • STOCK PHOTO

I

t’s a distant memory now, one that fades more with each passing day, but I remember when my wife and I shared quiet dinners together where we had adult conversations, ate the same food and nothing ended up on the floor. We never once yelled to the other that we needed more milk, screamed at the top of our lungs that vegetables were “disgusting” or finished our food before the other person even sat down at the table.

We would take turns cooking because it wasn’t a big deal if we didn’t eat until 7:30 or 8 p.m., a possibility because I couldn’t start working on a recipe until I got home from work. We would keep each other company in the kitchen, perhaps enjoying a glass of wine while we talked about our day. After the meal, the person who didn’t cook would clean up whatever mess there was - and there was never a lot.

Those days are long gone now.

Now that we have children, it’s enough to say on some days we feel like we barely survived having dinner with our boys, ages 5 and 2. Meals no longer feel like relaxing times to enjoy each other’s company and more like torture sessions where we try to maintain the peace and get our kids to eat something nutritious. There are some meals where I know I ate something, but if you asked me an hour after we got up from the table what we had for dinner the best I could probably do is say, “Pasta?”

For now, even though we prepare one meal - main course, vegetables, etc. - there always has to be variations on the theme if we are going to get our children to eat. The kitchen, much to our chagrin, has turned into a restaurant

with my wife as head chef. A good example is the night my wife made enchiladas only to find our youngest wouldn’t touch them and loudly “requested” a quesadilla instead.

We rarely make things we know will force the kids to run screaming from the table like little half-starved monkeys. We’re all about getting the kids to try new things - and the 5-year-old usually does if the entree doesn’t look “yucky” - but we’ve learned to choose our battles.

Anything with onions is out because the 5-year-old can sniff them out better than a bloodhound. So is any entree that might have two textures, such as chicken and pasta.

My sons have explained to me if things feel weird in their mouths that food can’t possibly be good. My wife countered by dividing the foods so they weren’t mixed together.

We’ve had some success with the 5-year-old on that, but the 2-year-old isn’t fooled.

So I know all of this - giv-

ing the children foods different than what the parents are eating, avoiding recipes they probably won’t like, etc. - goes against the advice of every child nutritionist and parenting expert on the planet.

They want us to feed our kids the same things we eat, but I don’t think they’ve ever tried to make sure a 2-yearold wasn’t starving as he was winging his milk cup at their heads.

I know the boys aren’t going to waste away and I know they will eat if they are hungry enough. Plus, I think we’re fortunate that the 5-year-old will at least try most new foods rather than run screaming from the table like I did as a kid.

But, to be fair, we’ve never tried to force-feed him liver like my mother did to me.

In fact, it’s really not the eating that drives me crazy.

Both boys eat a variety of vegetables and fruits and will generally eat most of what we give them.

What I could really do without is the chaos that erupts most nights at the table. While I’m all for kids expressing themselves, I’d prefer they not do it by turning their carrot sticks into missiles or their milk cups into giants crushing machines that repeatedly smash the unfortunate state of Maine on the 2-year-old’s 50 states placemat. I’d also enjoy it if the boys wouldn’t turn into copying machines and mimic each other’s actions throughout entire meals.

I know the day will come when the boys will behave at the table and we’re also fortunate both of them are usually on their best behavior when we go out to eat.

Dinnertime is special to me right now, even if it can be exhausting. On weekdays, it’s generally the first time I’ve gotten to spend with the family and hear about their day.

However, it would be nice if I could do that without having to duck flying milk cups.

FEBRUARY 2011 | MILITARY PARENT 25

Healthy Living with the EFMP Story by ruSSell Varner • COURTESY PHOTO

W

ith the new year comes new resolutions from people and their families to live healthier lives. But, for some families with special needs children, this can be very difficult because there are so few programs that cater to their needs.

In 2011, the Exceptional Family Member Program looks to change that.

Starting this year, the EFMP will be hosting programs for both their enrolled families and other families on base as they help promote a healthy lifestyle with modified yoga, Zumba, relathinship, behavioral, communications and cooking classes. “(We want to take care of) the whole gambit,” said Maria Ready, the head of the EFMP. “The mind, the body ... we’re

looking at being holistic in the approach for better health in our families.”

The EFMP program was created to help families who deal with disabilities from attention deficit disorder to diseases that bound family members to wheelchairs, giving the families services and support they need that they would otherwise be unable to receive.

This year, the EFMP is working with numerous groups on base, including Semper Fit and Clubs & Catering, to help out their families.

With the Semper Fit program, Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune will be adding new equipment in gyms, a shotgun stabilization bracket at shooting ranges and even specialized boats for disabled people at the marina.

With Clubs & Catering, the EFMP will be hosting cooking classes and tastings of healthy meals (and not just “rabbit food”)

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to help show that eating healthy can still be delicious.

But the behavioral classes have traditional been some of the most popular classes, according to Ready, who says that they are also some of the most important classes they offer.

“Many people think that parenting is innate and that they should (automatically) know how to parent,” she said “But that’s not the case at all. So we bring in these behavior specialists (and) it shouldn’t scare people from attending this because behaviors are behaviors. The way you manage those behaviors is pretty applicable to (everyone). It’s based on reinforcement and if it’s consistent, etc. We just encourage all families, not just our enrolled families, to attend these workshops.”

For more information on the Exceptional Family Member Program, visit their website, www.mccslejeune.com/efmp/index.html.

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When a child’s tonsils need to come out

I

t doesn’t take long—about 20 to 30 minutes—for an ear, nose and throat specialist to remove your child’s tonsils. Still, many doctors recommend a tonsillectomy only after careful consideration.

Most children that are examine have been referred to a specialists by their pediatrician because their tonsils are very swollen, causing breathing problems, or they’re experiencing repeated infections that keep them from school and other activities. When antibiotics and time don’t seem to help as much as you’d like and when your child’s ability to breathe and function normally is impaired, it may be time to consider surgery.

Healthy tonsils are small, rounded lumps at the back of the throat on each side, visible just above the tongue. They are part of a ring of lymphoid tissue in the back of the throat that includes the adenoids.

The adenoids must be checked with an angled mirror since they lie between the back of the nose and the throat.

Swollen tonsils are easier to see, forming a reddish, oval mass. Occasionally they are large enough to actually touch in the middle. The severity and frequency of tonsillitis must be taken into account when considering a tonsillectomy. Massively enlarged

tonsils and adenoids may obstruct the airway and cause sleep apnea and breathing difficulty during the daytime.

As part of the immune system, tonsils and adenoids are part of the overall lymphatic system and help to fight infection by filtering bacteria and viruses from the air and food.

Few absolute criteria for tonsillectomy exist other than blockage severe enough to cause a lack of oxygen in the body and cardiopulmonary changes. The following may indicate the need for a tonsillectomy: • The child has a severe sore throat seven times in one year, or five in each of two years, or three in each of three years.

• The child has a throat infection severe enough to cause an abscess, or an area of pus and swelling, behind the tonsils.

• The child has a case of tonsillitis not helped by antibiotics.

• The child’s swollen tonsils and adenoids impair normal breathing.

Any decision regarding tonsillectomy should be made in collaboration with the family, surgeon and pediatrician. Tonsillectomies are usually same-day surgery, but doctors may suggest an overnight stay for very young patients.

Your child will miss about a week of school, then resume a normal routine.

Say ahh

BY JIM VAN SLYKE arsenal in our house I can tell you where these pistols, laser blastWith my apologies to the Second Amendment, I’ve been a ers and occasional rocket launcher have come from: school. I’m strong advocate of not keeping guns in my house - at least not sure a recess doesn’t go by that our kindergartner isn’t blasting where my kids can reach them. Battle axes, burning scimitars, feathered spears and the occasional magic dagger are just fine, but someone - or something - with his classroom cohorts.

I worry about both of our sons turning into the type of boys guns are just too noisy. who like to shoot squirrels for fun, but I probably don’t have to Unfortunately for me, my two sons don’t quite feel the same stress about it. I had toy guns growing up and gave up my quest way. Whenever the boys - ages 5 and 2 - are together, our house for bullets long when girls finally became interesting. I don’t buy turns into Gunfight at the O.K. Corral. We don’t actually have into the idea that violent video games turn people violent - alanything in our house that looks remotely like a real gun, so the though, full disclosure, my kids will not play those types of games duo has been forced to turn to their own imaginations for their in my house unless their mother isn’t home. weaponry. I’ve seen toilet paper tubes, toy lemons, and even the Like most boys, our two young soldiers will likely grow out of occasional pillow turned into something that makes a lot of noise their need to shoot at each other. and supposedly shoots a projectile.

Since we’re essentially raising the white flag on having toy But it doesn’t stop there. Our furniture has been turned into guns in our house - but not on having plastic guns that look real tanks, battleships and a flying Roman chariot that can shoot - my wife and I are bunkering down with the mentality that we’d lasers and drop bombs. I’m not sure how that chariot found its better just accept the idea that this couch warfare is a reality for way into our home, but apparently some sort of time travel was now. It’s not an ideal situation, but at least the boys aren’t biting involved. the heads off their stuffed animals or setting fire to our lawn.

This wacky warfare concerns my wife and me to no end mostSo I’m filing this under “boys will be boys.” Gunplay, I guess, ly because these duels at often less than 20 paces are noisy and, is as natural to them as picking their noses and getting dirty every like every mom every created says, somebody always gets hurt. chance they get.

Though I could - and probably should - blame myself for the february 2011| Military Parent 27

Teach your child to ride a bike Story by Jim Van Slyke It turns out the saying is wrong; it’s not just like riding a bike. The axiom goes well with everything from trying to bowl every five years to re-mastering chopsticks even though you hardly eat sushi. It does not, however, apply to learning to ride a bike.

I know this because I have struggled for a while to teach my oldest son to ride his bike.

We’ve been through several bikes because he keeps outgrowing them and so a stable of failed bikes takes up far too much room in our garage, taunting me with their bright colors and handlebars that go “Vroom! Vroom!” when you give them a twist. They wait there for my youngest son - who will one day also not learn to ride on them.

I set several goals for this summer. I have already failed at some of them. At the top of the list is teaching my 6-year-old to ride his bike. The problem is he’s a smart boy and understands far too much about gravity and he also thinks training wheels are his best friend.

How did I respond to both of

those things? Well, I told him all about all the wipeouts I had on my bike when I was child and I also removed the training wheels from his bike. They now rest on my workbench in the garage. My son looks longingly at them every time we go out there, as if they were a friend I’ve banished from his life.

Why did I tell him about the wipeouts? I wanted him to understand wipeouts happen to everybody and even though they hurt, the pain goes away. I obviously survived learning to ride a bike.

My son was suitably impressed when I told him when I was a kid and riding my bike up and down the hills of Albuquerque, N.M., that not only did I wipe out, I did so without wearing a helmet.

Unfortunately, instead of proving to him crashes and skinned knees are a way of life when you are a boy, he now thinks I was not very good at riding my bike. It didn’t help that I fell off his bike the first time I sat on it. With a skinned knee and bruised ego, I wouldn’t blame him if he asked his mother

to teach him how to ride his bike.

It bothered me to see him peddling around our court as fast as he can go with those training wheels keeping his balance. I thought all of our neighbors were watching us, saying, “Oh the Van Slyke boy isn’t clever enough to ride his bike without training wheels yet. That doesn’t bode well for his future. I wonder if he’ll ever be able to hold down a fulltime job when he’s older.”

My wife completely disagrees with my actions and would be happy if we left the training wheels on his bike for the rest of his life.

It didn’t take too much convincing, but I did get my son on his bike without the training wheels. We’ve gone around our court dozens of times with me holding on to the seat as he peddles furiously and usually leans too far to the right or to the left. Also, despite having lots of experience on his tricycle and other bikes (with training wheels), steering seems to be a foreign concept to my son.

He looks exhilarated while I try to keep pace while hunched over while holding the bike upright. Teaching someone to ride a bike is exhausting. After all, I don’t have to think about riding a bike; I just do it. The balance that is eluding my son is hard to teach.

It’s difficult to put into words and it doesn’t matter if I show my son a million people riding their bikes; he has to find his own balance if he’s going to be able to ride.

He’s encouraged me to let go of the bike several times, but I know he’s not ready. I can feel the bike swaying and he’s not making an effort to correct the imbalance.

Still, I know he will get it and it won’t be long before he’s finally peddling on his own and taunting me as I try to keep pace with him during one of my morning jogs.

I find it interesting he’s telling me to let go and I can’t bring myself to do it just yet, because I know he will wipe out and end up with skinned knees. But then again, a lot of parenting is about letting go. One day my son will be ready for me to let go. Will I? february 2011 | Military Parent 28

february 2011 | Military Parent 29

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