NFamily Magazine Sept/Oct 2013

San Antonio Parenting Magazine

By St. Peter – St. Joseph Children’s Home

A PLACE OF LOVE

THE CYR FAMILY

FIGHTING BACK

Ryron Gracie’s Bully-Proofing Program

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Bringing the Magic

THE PLAYHOUSE Perfect Balance

BRAIN BALANCE ACHIEVEMENT CENTERS september.october 2013

> Preparing for Homeownership > TAKE CONTROL ECZEMA 101 > Parenting 911 nfamily magazine 1

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Excellence...

in all aspects of Pediatric Orthopaedic & Spine Problems

The Children’s Orthopaedic & Spine Center specializes in the entire spectrum of non-surgical and surgical care.

Our surgeons and proceduralist are board certified and fellowship trained by the nation’s top institutions. ● ● ● ●

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To learn more about how we can help with your child’s back, neck or extremity pain, call: 210.387.3388 To Make An Appointment 210.487.7463 Main Office Children’s Orthopaedic & Spine Center Texas Center for Athletes 21 Spurs Lane, Ste. 245 | San Antonio, Texas 78240

SaChildrensOrthopaedics.com SaKidBone.com SaKidSpine.com SaMedicalCenters.com

Dr. Hongbo Liu is a fellowship trained pediatric and adult orthopaedic spine surgeon, who received extensive training to specialize in the delicate science of Spine Surgery at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota.

HAVE AN INJURY? HAVE SCOLIOSIS?

Feel like a Hero again…

Our Services include, but are not limited to: Scoliosis Cerebral Palsy Pediatric Orthopedic Disease & Deformity Spina Bifida

Dr. Eric R. Ritchie is a board certified pediatric orthopedic surgeon. He joined the Children’s Orthopaedic and Spine Center in 2013 after a distinguished 20-year career in the United States Air Force Medical Service.

Spine Surgery Sports Medicine

l anni o San Ant nfamily magazine 3 Po ● ● ● ●

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september 2013october

contents 08

parenting

12

kids’ etiquette

28

mom on the go

30

education

32

child development

42

special issues

56

therapy

60

fitness

62

fur family

66

nonprofit

74

arts

76

events

- Parenting 911 - Stress buster for moms

- Get the ball rolling

14

- ‘Awe’ moments

- Spreading hope

- Keeping things normal - Take control - Get up and play!

- Beating the jitters - Fighting back - Continuing the mission - Opening books and minds - Preparing for homeownership - Create a better you - Legal consequences of bullying

- Put the pain behind you - Be yourself

- Challenged, but not defined

- Pet-proofing - Quick and easy dog treats

As partners both in business and in life, Steven and Le Ann Cyr manage faith, family and a full schedule and always remember to give with gratitude.

- A caring community - Driving force - Teamwork for tomorrow

- 20 years of magik

- Fall into autumn - A fine balance

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Having recently come to the Alamo City, the Brain Balance Achievement Center reconnects families and brings children’s minds back to life one dream at a time.

24

As the oldest municipally built theater in the country, The Playhouse continues to bring the joy and magic of theater to the Alamo City community 101 years after its establishment. nfamily magazine 5

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september/october 2013

Eliot Garza

CEO / NSIDE Media Productions

liz whittaker Publisher

Editorial Director Shana Hamid

Executive Editor Erin O’Brien

Creative Director Elisa Giordano

Senior Graphic Designer Cristina Villa Hazar

International Marketing Account Sales Anabelle Rodriguez

Contributing Writers Genevieve Allen Olivia Bakke Katrina Campbell Dr. Erika Gonzalez-Reyes Lauren P. Halpern Shana Hamid Kelly Hamilton Dr. Gary Henry Erica Jones Lenore Kaiser Katherine Lozano Heather Magarian Anna Migeon Lisa Munter Elizabeth Nickell Tracee Orihel Bethany Reynolds Deborah D. Salas Samantha Salazar Lena Scalercio Jennifer Pucci Starr Carol Thomas Katrina Torres Dr. Sandra Carrell Tremblay Jenny Williams

With your family of the way.

every step

Liz Whittaker 210.621.7301 liz@nfitsa.com ● ● ● ●

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Photography Memory Magic Photography

Editorial Intern Katrina Torres For advertising information, please call 210.373.2599 or email eliot@getnside.com.

For editorial comments and suggestions, please email kelly@getnside.com.

www.getnside.com 18402 U.S. Highway 281 N, Ste. 201 San Antonio, Texas 78259 Phone: 210.298.1761 Copyright © NSIDE Media Productions. All rights reserved. Reproduction without the expressed written permission of the publisher is prohibited.

nfamily staff Liz Whittaker

shana hamid

Publisher

Editorial Director

liz@nfitsa.com

shana@getnside.com

Erin O’Brien

Elisa Giordano

Executive Editor erin@getnside.com

Creative Director elisa@getnside.com

“ Where smiles blossom ”

pediatric dentistry Carlen Palmer Blume, DDS, PC Board Certified Pediatric Dentist Dr. Blume and staff aim to nurture and support your child’s oral health throughout the formative years. We provide contemporary, preventive dentistry in an intimate, fun environment.

Cristina Villa Hazar

Anabelle Rodriguez

Senior Graphic Designer

International Marketing Account Sales

8221 Fredericksburg Road, San Antonio, TX 78229 210.614.3334 www.BlumeDentistry.com

210.685.3028 anabelle@getnside.com

Se habla Espanol

cristina@getnside.com

Major insurance accepted, including Medicaid nfamily magazine 7

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Where Hearts and Minds Heal

The Ecumenical Center is an interfaith organization dedicated to alleviating suffering and facilitating spiritual, physical and emotional healing and growth through the services of counseling, education and consultation.

OUR SERVICES INCLUDE: ■ Counseling for children, adults and families (including play therapy, testing and assessment, neurofeedback) ■ Training for clergy, religious workers and healthcare professionals.

■ Collaborative community based educational programs.

www.ECRH.org

Medical Center, 8310 Ewing Halsell Drive San Antonio, TX 78229

from the ceo of st. pj’s

Never give up on your family, at least in hope and spirit. My father has lived the majority of his life in another state. I hoped for years that he would move to San Antonio, but he did not want to leave everything he’s come to know, which I totally understand and appreciate.

However, once he turned 80, I wondered if I’d ever get to spend quality time with him on a frequent basis again. Well, this summer, at the wonderful age of 88, he agreed to give Texas a try and moved here in July. What a blessing for us all!

It’s a difficult notion to never give up on family. Through the children we serve at St. PJ’s Children’s Home, I know family can cause some of the greatest hurts and pains emotionally, psychologically, physically and spiritually. Yet to me, hope is the oxygen that keeps family alive.

Even though there may be suffering, hope enables one to not despair. Enduring hope is not easy because it can leave you disappointed over and over again. But if you are the one who never gives up, you breathe life not only into yourself, but also into every other person you meet.

So please consider helping St. PJ’s Children’s Home keep hope alive as we nurture and nourish our children.

james castro

210.533.1203

P: 210.616.0885 / F: 210.616.0845 / E: mail@ecrh.org ● ● ● ●

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Transplants for Children empowers families to

MASTER LIFELONG CHALLENGES of pediatric transplantation

We accomplish this through: n Peer to Peer Networks for children and their parents to create a sense of “normalcy” and acceptance, and to keep families together n Transition Program from pediatric to adult medical care that prepares transplant recipient youth to survive into adulthood n Patient Navigation & Direct Services to help families overcome the complex demands of transplant care cycles

1.

2.

3.

“Transformational Change”

Your donation changes a child’s life.

Your gift goes to where it is needed most Tax deductible

n Advocacy & Parent Education to eliminate barriers to critical services and assist families to succeed long term

CALL TODAY 210.949.1212 OR DONATE AT www.transplantsforchildren.org 7550 W IH 10, Suite #104 San Antonio, TX 78229

Phone: 210.949.1212 Fax: 210.949.1217 nfamily magazine 9

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parenting

911 Need parenting advice?

Kids don’t come with instruction manuals, but parenting classes might be able to help.

by Katherine Lozano

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woman screaming image CREATISTA/shutterstock.com

Parenting

angry little girl image MANDY GODBEHEAR/shutterstock.com

I

recently purchased a small light fixture to put above my bathroom mirror, and it came with what seemed like a full workbook of instructions, all for 60 watts of illumination. These days, most electronics come with online instruction manuals that we seldom reference. Most of us just jump in and start using the device, figuring out our new phones, computers, iPads and iPods with a combination of trial and error and prior knowledge of previous devices.

We want to know everything “right now” and are more likely to text a friend or consult Google than we are to look things up the instruction manual. There are other quick resources out there, yet not all of them are reliable or accurate.

We often use the same quick search methods to figure out the complex challenges of parenting, yet our children did not come with instructions! There is no “care tag” on the baby’s leg, and not one baby is born with an “owner’s manual.”

We use our experience as children, we watch others and we try all sorts of techniques to soothe a crying infant and find patience with a cranky teenager.

Some of us follow the way our parents raised us, and others seek to do the opposite.

There is no “perfect” way to raise a child any more than there is a “perfect parent” or a “perfect child.” Some techniques our parents used were positive and helpful, and others were painful and harmful. As parents, we decide what patterns to repeat and what patterns to “delete” from our parenting toolboxes.

What works with Johnny does not work with Jerry; what works when they are 3 no longer works at 3-and-a-half. The “evil eye,” licks with the belt and “go to bed without dinner” are no longer acceptable forms of child guidance, and parents are looking for some new techniques for raising and guiding their children.

As a parent educator, I help parents explore positive and effective ways to help children make good choices rather than help parents “control” their children.

Many of the methods of the past relied on pain and fear rather than accountability and respect. Families who choose not to use physical punishment are looking for alternative ways to help their children build self-discipline.

We go to driver’s ed to learn to drive

Parents in “Precious Minds New Connections” participate in a group brainstorm.

There is no “perfect” way to raise a child.

and have to pass a test to get a license; we spend 12 or more years in school to get a high school diploma; and we must graduate from “boot camp” in order to advance in the military. Yet to qualify for a baby, all we need is two ingredients from Mother Nature. The children who come into our lives do not come with instructions, and we are often at a loss as

to how to handle the tears, the tantrums and the trials of launching a child into a successful life. So where can parents turn for help, advice and support in the most important job they will ever have?

Parenting classes are a good place to start.

When I was an early childhood center director in the early ‘90s, I often found myself holding parent conferences to help moms and dads problem-solve challenges with their children. This was long before “Supernanny” and “Nanny 911.” I combined reasonable limits, consistency and love and gave parents new tools to replace the yelling and exasperation they felt while trying to “control” their children.

Our program began the Parents’ Academy in 1994 with the goal of providing parents with information and support. The program includes classes for families with infants, toddlers and preschoolers and other classes for families with school-age kids and teenagers. If joining other parents in an informative discussion centered on positive guidance appeals to you, give us a call. Our parenting programs are free, and meals and childcare are offered at all classes.

Your child did not come with instructions, but we just might be able to help! ✪

Katherine Lozano is the director of the Parents’ Academy. Call 210-5320894 for information on parenting classes.

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parenting

Stress Buster for Moms Fairy LiceMothers offers full-service inhome lice treatment, making life easier for Central Texas families.

C

entral Texas’ warm climate offers head lice a unique chance to thrive.

Unlike other “bugs” that die off or hibernate in the winter, lice are constantly laying eggs. And while most of us can remember our moms’ pharmacy runs to purchase foul-smelling treatments, there’s a new business model to handle head lice: full-service lice treatment companies. Some of these businesses are in-home and others are salons.

Austin is fortunate to have Fairy LiceMothers, a professional in-home lice

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treatment service.

Based in New York with two salons on Long Island and a salon in New Jersey, along with Austin’s in-home service, Fairy LiceMothers has seen steady and substantial business growth averaging in the double-digits each year the company’s first five years in business. In fact, lice treatment has grown not only because it’s a viable business model, but also because lice themselves have become resistant to in-store remedies. This has led to some of these companies, like Fairy LiceMothers, formulating their own

private label products to combat lice.

Stacey Pomerantz has operated Austin’s in-home service for two years.

She provides the ultimate value to her clients by taking the stress out of lice. “The in-home aspect of my service offers clients privacy and convenience,” she says. “I receive consistent feedback that I take the stress out of a very stressful situation.”

Pomerantz aptly considers herself a “stress buster for moms.” She elaborates: “I try to convey that head lice are more of a nuisance than anything.

So I educate my clients as I work.

boy scratching head image Boris Mrdja/shutterstock.com

by Lauren P. Halpern

lice illustration image justone; lice comb image Lusoimages/shutterstock.com, photo by jennifer sims photography

There are so many lice myths in our popular culture. But in truth, they die pretty quickly once off the head. With proper comb-outs and products, they’re relatively easy to get rid of.”

Parents love the simplicity of the Fairy LiceMothers treatment. “I bring my portable salon to their home, treat the entire family at once and then walk the mom around the house to describe what needs to be done with bedding, stuffed animals, etc.” Plus, Fairy LiceMothers guarantees its work. “I return to the family’s home twice over a three-week period to ensure the head lice have been cleared.”

Pomerantz is trained and certified in the Shepherd Method of strand-by-strand nit removal. Her patience and caring personality – coupled with her 18 years as a schoolteacher – have helped her gracefully manage any situation, from children with severe autism to those who simply can’t sit still.

“My job throws all kinds of challenges my way. At the end of the day, my amazing family – who pick up the slack for me when I’m working long hours – is what keeps me motivated to help others.”

Austin’s Fairy LiceMothers helped more than 250 families in 2012. If you find yourself needing help, do not hesitate to contact them. One of their founding tenants is their commitment to community and helping spread knowledge about handling head lice.

“We love taking our knowledge on the road and offering free educational seminars for schools and PTAs,” Pomerantz says. “We’re here to support and educate everyone, whether or not they use our services.” ✪

“The in-home aspect of my service offers clients privacy and convenience.”

Quick Tips for Busy Families

With the new school year in full swing, Stacey Pomerantz has a few easy tips to keep lice at bay. Families should keep in mind that lice are transmitted via direct head-to-head contact 95 percent of the time. They don’t jump or fly.

They also die relatively quickly (within 24 to 36 hours) if they’re not directly on your scalp. Rest assured that lice are easier to avoid and get rid of than you might imagine.

1

Use lice deterrent spray every day.

There are a few varieties of combination detangler/lice repellant sprays on the market. These sprays contain scents that lice find offensive such as mint and tea tree oil. When used daily, these scents repel a louse and cause it to nest elsewhere (on another scalp). It’s most effective when applied every day, including before sleepovers, play dates, camp and school. Worried about others seeing your “lice spray” bottle? Decant it into a clear container.

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Fairy LiceMothers likes to say, “Once a week, take a peek.” Each Friday afternoon, pop your kids in front of the TV and do a quick comb-out with a nit comb and gentle hair conditioner. Catching lice early can prevent a household contraction and make it easier to get rid of. Get in the routine. There are many “how to” videos, including on the Fairy LiceMothers website.

Stacey Pomerantz is a mother of two school-age children who sometimes bring home a little more than homework. Her in-home lice treatment business, Fairy LiceMothers, prides itself on educating others about the truths of head lice.

Pomerantz considers herself a “stress buster for moms.”

For more information, contact her at 866-561-0492, option No. 4. You can also find her online at www. fairylicemothers.com. nfamily magazine 13

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kids’ etiquette

The art of meeting and making new friends

S

ummer fun has come to an end, and school time is officially here! What can make schooldays the most fun? Meeting and making new friends! When you walk into that daunting classroom early in the school year, it is important to remember that everyone is just as excited, nervous and curious about how the new school year is going to roll.

Even if you struggle with being shy and ● ● ● ●

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the thought of walking up to someone new and introducing yourself sounds terrifying, know it will be worth the effort! You want to make it the best year ever, don’t you? Here are some tips on how to get the ball rolling.

First, smile. It’s that simple. People will know you are happy, friendly and confident (“fake it ‘til you make it”). Kids who smile are accepted more readily and easily than those with zero expression or worse, a frown.

by Heather Magarian Next, walk up to or turn to someone new and extend a hand to shake. Shaking hands is your first “contact” with a potential new friend, so it is important to make sure you have practiced with mom or dad so you know what a firm, but not scary-firm handshake feels like. Also, please always extend your right hand. When children extend their left hand, it is positively obvious that their parents have not gone over introductions.

girls shaking hands image sunabesyou/shutterstock.com

Get the Ball Rolling

If you smile, people will know you are happy, friendly and confident.

FREE FITNESS CLASSES NOW ONGOING

The dialog goes as follows: Heather: Hi, my name is Heather.

Kelly: Nice to meet you, Heather. My name is Kelly.

Heather: Nice to meet you, Kelly.

Notice how there is some name repeating going on here. This is crucial for two reasons. Reason No. 1: You will probably not remember their name, even right after they say something as basic as “John,” if you don’t repeat it to them immediately.

Reason No. 2: It will ensure you said/pronounced it correctly. We have become so modernized and creative in our naming these days that it is quite common for kids to have a name never heard of before. If you repeat it, you are certain to remember it and guarantee you are articulating it spot on.

So you have exchanged names … now what? Let’s ensure there are not any “cricket chirps” by commencing with a little bit of small talk. This is light and short conversation on any benign topic. The rules of small talk are as follows: Ask a question, answer the question in sentence form (no one-word responses or it will be super quick) and comment on the answer. Then switch roles.

It goes something like this:

girl hugging girl image sunabesyou/shutterstock.com

Heather: Kelly, did you do anything fun over the summer?

Kelly: I sure did. I went on a road trip to the Grand Canyon with my family, and it was so fun!

Heather: Wow, I’ve never been to the Grand Canyon. I’d love to see a picture, though!

TO VIEW THE CURRENT SCHEDULE VISIT OUR WEBSITE Fitness in the Park brings fun & challenging fitness classes to a park near you. Best of all it’s

Kelly: Did you read any good books this summer?

Heather: Yes. I read “Diary of a Wimpy Kid Book 8,” and it was so funny!

Kelly: Oh cool! I haven’t read that one yet; maybe I could borrow yours over the weekend.

100% free and open to the

It is important to remember that if you do not even bother trying to meet new people, you could be missing out on meeting your next lifelong friend. ✪

SANANTONIO GOV/PARKSANDREC

public.

No registration is

required. Just come exercise with us!

.

Or Call Us At (210) 207-3000 for more

Heather Magarian is the owner of Little Miss Manners Charm and Etiquette School for Children. For more information, visit www.lilmissmanners.com or email heathermagarian@yahoo.com.

information

nfamily magazine 15

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cover story

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by Shana Hamid photographs by memory magic photography

For power couple Steven and Le Ann Cyr, leading their family of five by example, counting their blessings and always remembering to pay it forward is all in a day’s work.

A Family Affair L e Ann and Steven Cyr might have never guessed back in junior high that they’d one day become a powerhouse couple that would save and enrich the lives of thousands of families. They were military kids who grew up overseas while their parents were both stationed at Clark Air Base in the Philippines. They knew each other and shared mutual school friends, but neither was on the other’s radar. Fortunately, God worked his plan through the hands of Steven’s brother and Le Ann’s friend, turning over an oversight.

Today, Le Ann and Steven Cyr maintain a paved road of philanthropy and raise their children to remember that everything they have has been given by God and so too should it be paid forward. If you’ve ever wondered

how to manage faith, family and a full schedule, you can gain guidance from Le Ann and her family’s story.

After junior high, Steven attended Texas State University and graduated as valedictorian. He then went on to medical school at UT Health Science Center San Antonio. Le Ann attended George Mason University in Fairfax, Va., for her undergraduate and graduate degrees. While concurrently working on her graduate degree, she moved to Fort Lauderdale, Fla., and took a position as a corporate headhunter and simultaneously as a university career counselor. After earning his M.D., Steven joined the United States Air Force and served as a flight surgeon for two years before entering his residency in orthopedic surgery at Wilford Hall.

As Steven was about to enter his residency,

nfamily magazine 17

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Le Ann had transitioned into a substantial role as a corporate career counselor.

Both were very successful and content with their positions in life, but an even more divine plan would soon bring the two back together.

On the brink of the social media age, many people were reconnecting through MySpace. Old school friends, Steven’s brother, Bryan, and Le Ann’s friend, Maria, found each other through MySpace and soon started working on the single status of Le Ann and Steven. They thought it would be cute to hook the two up. Steven was a quiet type and very reserved about

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contacting an old classmate four states away. But his brother was firmly encouraging, and Maria also had a strong feeling about the pair. After almost a year of scheming by their matchmakers, Steven finally decided to give Le Ann a call.

That night, they talked for three hours and truly felt a kindred spirit. They talked about many things they have in common, including their biracial families (Le Ann is half Vietnamese and Steven is American and Spanish-Filipino) and their many mutual friends and childhood experiences.

Steven called Le Ann every night after that. Le Ann and Steven were so fulfilled

with how well their relationship was growing that they didn’t even bother to exchange pictures of themselves.

Without having seen each other since junior high, Steven flew out to see Le Ann in Florida. They spent a week together, and they just knew. “It was pretty obvious that the relationship was going to turn into something from the very beginning,” Le Ann says. After a few more visits, they started to talk about getting married, and after four months, Steven asked Le Ann’s parents’ permission for her hand in marriage. He proposed the next spring at Walt Disney World, and Le Ann soon moved to San Antonio. They married in December 1999.

During Steven’s last year of residency, they had their first child, Alexa, in July 2002. Steven had received the rare and prestigious fellowship opportunity at the renowned Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minn., the No. 1 ranked training program in the country for orthopedic and neurosurgical training. The Cyr family moved to the Mayo Clinic and spent a year there as Steven trained before moving back to San Antonio, where he would continue to pay back his commitment to the military.

In 2005, Steven and Le Ann were blessed with their first son, Caden. It soon became a very trying period for the Cyrs, as Le Ann and Steven simultaneously started their orthopedic and spine practice while Steven was still in the military and the pair was raising two young children.

As the business grew, Steven was also deployed to Iraq. Le Ann couldn’t afford additional help while he was away, but she managed to hold down the fort.

Le Ann serves as the chief operating and financial officer of the Orthopedic and Spine Institute (OSI). “It was a very difficult time for our family,” Le Ann says.

“It was very taxing. I was keeping the business going and taking care of the two kids. We really couldn’t afford any extra expenses. I was spreading our resources out to cover everything.”

When Steven completed his military service, his schedule lightened up and he was able to keep a five-day workweek. He no longer took frequent surgery calls. “Everything slowly started coming together,” Le Ann says. The two were content and finally had more time with each other and

Raising their children with faith

and a deep sense of what God provides is pivotal to Le Ann and Steven.

nfamily magazine 19

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their children. They thought they were finished having children. But again God incited his plan, and Le Ann realized something that would soon change their course.

“We packed everything away,” she says. “And one day, when Caden was 5, I went into my daughter’s room, and I opened up her memory chest where I keep all her special things. I opened up her baby album … and I missed having a baby.” Knowing Steven would no longer be deployed and his military service was complete allowed Le Ann more security and a comfortable place for the family.

“I told Steve, ‘I’m not done. I want another baby.’ He looked at me like I was crazy.”

Le Ann realized how much she missed that stage of life. She then considered adopting, and the two began to explore the process, but while they explored, the two decided they should still try naturally while Le Ann still could. In 2010, they had their second son, Colton. They beam with pride over the decision to have Colton. “I look at him and think, ‘What if I didn’t make that decision?’ I almost didn’t have him,” Le Ann says. “He is an amazing little boy and such a blessing.”

Still, adoption became a very personal thing to the Cyrs. Le Ann and Steven have actually gone through the entire process to adopt a child. And though some might think it’s too much, Le Ann admits, “Adoption is still on my heart. It’s something I really want to do.” They’ve taken the steps and have left the rest up to God. “It’s his will. And he’ll decide. If the doors open and God is leading me that way, then we’ll have a fourth child. But for now, that’s on my heart.”

There’s even a furry Cyr that has grown up with the family.

Polo is the Cyrs’ big white and fluffy Bichon. Le Ann reflects warmly on Polo, but admits it wasn’t her doing that brought him in. “My husband thought it was a good idea when Colton was 2 months old to get a new dog. It was very stressful at first to potty train him and have a 2-month-old. But he’s actually the greatest dog ever.”

Le Ann says Steven is known for making over-the-top decisions and he usually thinks full speed ahead, but his decisions always end up supporting the family. His decisions can be grandeur and sometimes hard to manage, but they’re always in the family’s best interest. “In the end, he’s usually right. He’s always thinking large and what’s best for the family. His heart’s always in the right place, and he’s usually right about those types of things.”

The close-knit family of five strikes a cohesive balance of bus-

tling schedules and gratifying togetherness, and it’s all in a day’s work. In fact, they know no other way. Making the most out of every moment is the Cyr family way. Le Ann explains that they’ve always been busy, yet they always stay very involved in their children’s lives. One of the best decisions they ever made was to enroll their children in the Geneva School of Boerne, a school known for its classical Christian education. “It’s one of the best decisions we’ve ever made. I love that school; my kids love it.

They love your children.”

Raising their children with faith and a deep sense of what God provides is pivotal to Le Ann and Steven. The Cyrs are very involved with their church, but also with their extended families and the children’s schedule of events. While Sundays are devoted to church, every other day is devoted to what’s on the agenda for Alexa, Caden and Colton. There are a lot of sporting events on the Cyrs’ agenda, including basketball, baseball, tennis and swim meets. There are also singing and guitar lessons and family nights out to eat.

Though it might seem hectic, it’s really the Cyrs’ haven, and Le Ann insists the important thing is that they love doing it all together. “We do life together. We love spending time together. It’s all specific to what’s in the kids’ lives. We always do dinner together.”

The Cyrs are known for their substantial philanthropy. Le Ann and Steven established the Steven and Le Ann Cyr Family Charitable Fund, which was born from their desire to continue to give consistently with a plan that supports their Christian values. As their relationships in and requests from the community grow, the fund has organized financial support to more than 25 organizations that support Christian-based charities, youth sports, education, hunger and medical and military needs in the community and worldwide. Such beneficiating organizations include MedSend, Hill Country Daily Bread Ministries, Kinetic Kids, Teed Off At Cancer and World Vision.

“The reason we started the family foundation – and the biggest thing I want to get across – is that we have been tremendously blessed,” Le Ann says. “I think it’s important that we understand that everything we have is because God gave it to us. You can’t become boastful or arrogant. You have to stay humble because everything you have in life you have by virtue that he allowed you to have it.” And the more successful the Cyrs become, the more money they give away. “You do it because it’s the right thing to do.

Making the most out of every moment is the Cyr family way.

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20 nfamily magazine

You always do it with an open heart.”

As parents, it’s imperative that their children get to experience as much as they can. While some kids invest in being the best at something, Le Ann doesn’t want her kids putting all of their eggs in one basket. She tries to avoid the single skill superstar and provide them the opportunity of versatility. She and Steven don’t want their kids growing up missing out on anything.

“I never want them to grow up and be the best at one thing,” she says. “My goal is to make them well-rounded people. I really believe it’s important to be involved. One of the most important things I can give my kids is good memories.” With all of the excursions, family is still the core force that keeps them grounded.

The family spends time each week with grandparents from both sides. They’re lucky enough to have Le Ann’s mother living close by, and every Sunday afternoon after church, they have dinner with Steven’s mom. They simply love spending time together, but Le Ann intends to give her kids the opportunity to form as many relationships with people as possible.

As an intuitive matriarch, Le Ann makes sure that the way their family leads cultivates the regard for Christ and God’s blessings and a duty to reciprocate through serving those in need. Her mission remains to impart to her children to return their blessings to others. “If there’s one lesson that I could instill in my children, it would be that. If my children grow up to own that, then I’ll feel like I did my job as a mother.”

People have congratulated the Cyrs on their success based on good decision-making. Le Ann insists God gave them the ability to make those decisions. Le Ann and Steven impress gratitude, humility and respect for God, and Le Ann knows that laying that foundation for their children will help make them better decision-makers in life.

“If they have that as a foundation for thinking and they own the idea they have to work hard, live according to his word and return those blessings, then I know they’ll be living a good life,” she says. “If I can do that for them, then I’ve done my job as a mom.” Convictions sincere, it’s clear that the Cyrs lead by example. The entire family is involved in the foundation’s charitable events, church events and community outreach programs.

The Cyrs make most things a family affair, but Le Ann and Steven make sure they spend time with each other, too. These business partners are life partners first. They enjoy doing things like attending their church group and going to Bible study together. Their success grows and so does their giving, but the second doesn’t follow based on the first. They give back freely, and cyrcharitablefund.com cites a proverb they live by: “One man gives freely, yet gains even more; another withholds unduly, but comes to poverty. A generous man will prosper; he who refreshes others will himself be refreshed.”

The Cyrs have made a life out of taking care of others and paying it forward. God and family come first, and with that, everything else harmonizes. Ambition on this scale can be stressful, but the Cyrs move as a clan and lead with God in mind. As Le Ann says, “If your heart is in the right place, I can almost guarantee that the majority of decisions will come from a place of love.” ✪

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For more information on the Steven and Le Ann Cyr Charitable Fund, visit www.cyrcharitablefund.com. And to learn more about the Orthopedic and Spine Institute, visit www. saspine.com. nfamily magazine 21

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profile

e h t f ide o

R

w o b n ai S s i h T

ters: n e C ement v e bringing e Achi and life Balanc families to ain r B back minds s ’ reconnecting n children by Kelly Hamilto

Sometimes dreams come true.

There are many who pray daily for a certain wish to be granted – possibly for a business venture to come to fruition or for the general well-being of a family member.

Now imagine your child is struggling academically, behaviorally or socially or is disabled in some way and the granting of a wish could alter the trajectory not just of a

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22 nfamily magazine

child’s life, but that of an entire family unit.

Dr. Zach and Amanda Petter understand that dream and work tirelessly to improve the lives of the children and families who cross their path. Amanda, a Texas native, grew up with a strong work ethic instilled by her family as they fostered in her a sense of team effort and hard work. She

knew early on that owning a business was something she wanted to do in her future.

Amanda met her husband, Zach, while attending Tarleton State University. After college, she worked in medical sales, but her heart was in management leadership, so she knew that was the direction her future was headed. Zach received his

nfamily magazine 23

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happy boy lying on a rainbow image Andresr/shutterstock.com

doctorate in chiropractic with a specialty in functional neurology, while Amanda concentrated on the home health care field.

As if a predictor of their future career together, Zach grew up with three cousins who were diagnosed with neurological disorders. Through that interaction experience, the couple knew they wanted to make a difference in the lives of children much like Zach’s cousins who struggled with their respective disabilities. The Petters began investigating their business options three years ago only to encounter one roadblock after another.

Zach’s close friend, with whom he studied during his doctorate program, also focused on functional neurology and ultimately opened a Brain Balance Achievement Center in South Lake, Texas. The success of that center motivated them to keep trying to secure the necessary resources to open their own center. During a conversation with family, they were offered the opportunity of support to open their own center and the wheels started rolling – “two steps forward and one step back.”

Amanda states that ultimately, they had multiple family members assisting them and a bank that finally recognized the need for a Brain Balance Center. Pregnant with their first child, all signs pointed to San Antonio, where Amanda’s family lived, instead of the Dallas area where they were originally focused. ● ● ● ●

24 nfamily magazine

Brain Balance San Antonio was quickly coming to fruition, and the Petters were ready to study under Brain Balance founder, Dr. Robert Melillo. Both Amanda and Zach spent two weeks in New York training every day with Melillo and his staff. It helped greatly that Zach already had a background in neurology and innately understood a large majority of the material.

“Our combination of my business background and Zach’s neurology background and Dr. Melillo’s training with continued educational support resulted in the perfect balance to efficiently manage our center,” Amanda says. “Our staff is constantly supervised by Zach until they are 100 percent proficient in the different training approaches for each child.”

The Petters’ San Antonio center is one of some 65 Brain Balance Achievement Centers nationwide, the first of which Melillo started more than a decade ago.

Brain Balance actively helps thousands of children between the ages of 4 and 19 handle ADHD and other behavioral and processing disorders, thus improving their academic, communication and social skills.

“Our program is supported by the theory that the brain can be changed, and thus, a child’s disabilities are not permanent,” Zach says. “We feel it is important for parents to understand that medication is not a cure.

It merely works as a short-term fix to treat

the symptoms. The Brain Balance program is designed to address the root cause of these neurobehavioral issues, not just the symptoms.” The Brain Balance approach focuses on the complete understanding of what is taking place in a child’s mind.

“We are comprehensive because we measure objectively the motor skills, processing, academic, diet and nutrition, motor sensory and behavior of each child,” Melillo says. “We assess the patterns. Are there elements that are superior or severely delayed? We identify their weaknesses.

If we can create a balance by stimulating the growth of missing connections, then we can synchronize and coordinate areas of the brain through the concept of neuroplasticity. Simply said: The brain can change.”

The Petters and Melillo concede, “Not every child is appropriate for Brain Balance.” Each child is thoroughly tested for hemispheric weaknesses. If such a discrepancy is not indicated, they suggest alternative methods of therapy for the child that may not include Brain Balance at that particular time. If a child presents to them and is unable to respond appropriately in a functional manner, they temporarily may not be able to accept that child into the program.

However, they do support the parents by providing them with a home program they can perform with their children until a

developmental marker is reached wherein the Brain Balance program will then be effective.

One of the Petters’ favorite success stories features a 6-year-old boy with high-functioning autism. The child’s mother told Amanda that her son could not express emotions such as crying. He would just say, “My tears are coming out; my tears are coming out.” After a brief period of therapy at the center, the boy was watching one of his favorite movies and he began to cry. This was profound progress considering the child had never cried before.

It touches Amanda’s heart to know the child is learning how to express emotion and experience empathy through the

The Brain Balance approach focuses on the complete understanding of what is taking place in a child’s mind. therapeutic games he is playing at Brain Balance. “It makes me so excited that we have played a pivotal role in developing the part of his brain that controls emotion.”

“Autism begins in the womb and results from a developmental imbalance in the right side of the brain,” Melillo says. “This often results in a learning delay.” Melillo goes on to explain that environmental factors are responsible for altering the brain, turning off genes that should turn on to build the brain properly.

He believes the genes can be turned back on with the correct approach.

Profound differences are being made with the Petters’ now 30 students. Not every child is an immediate success story, but one life at a time, one family at a time and one dream at a time, the Petters are reconnecting families and bringing children’s minds back to life. ✪

For more information on Brain Balance Achievement Centers, please visit www. brainbalancecenters.com or call the Petters at the local San Antonio center at 210-6207378. nfamily magazine 25

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profile

The Joy of

Theater The Playhouse celebrates 101 years of bringing the magic of theater to San Antonio.

I

n the early 1900s, communities gathered together to form small living room organizations of actors who had the same goal of creating and producing theater. During this time, they knew not of how to build a company from the living room setting, but they understood that producing theater was of great importance not only for them, but also for their community.

Because of this “little theater movement” that swept across San Antonio and throughout America, The Playhouse – or at that time, the San Antonio Little Theater (SALT) – was founded in 1912. Not many years later, the City of San Antonio valued the theater movement so much they built The Playhouse in 1928. The Playhouse stands even now as its original structure built back in 1928, and it is the oldest municipally built theater in the country.

The Playhouse is celebrating an enormous accomplishment, as the 2013-14 season of operations as an organization marks their 101st anniversary! Throughout the past century, The Playhouse has had its share of victories. With generous contributions from prominent San Antonio families to help keep theater alive, The Playhouse not only produced, but thrived as one of the only successful theaters in San Antonio during the Depression and WWII. Even during the toughest of times, San Antonians valued ● ● ● ●

26 nfamily magazine

theater enough to keep The Playhouse alive.

President and CEO Asia Ciaravino has a vision for future of The Playhouse and how to spread the joy of theater throughout San Antonio. “We value the past. We appreciate and honor the past, but we’re not going to let the past cloud where we’re going in the future,” Ciaravino said. “I know where we’re going. I can see the vision very, very clearly. And I know that if we go towards this vision of creating the highest-quality theater in San Antonio – having the best actors, directors, designers and creative partners involved, and to bring in and involve the community – it’s going to be magical.”

Currently, The Playhouse offers a conservatory program in which students ranging in age from 5 to 100 years old learn the tools of performance. The conservatory is ongoing and constituted of classes in which professionals teach in every subject matter about theater.

The Playhouse brings in professional dancers, voice coaches, stage combatants and actors to train students in their craft. “Being a great actor takes daily training,” Ciaravino said.

The conservatory program also encompasses acting classes for adults at corporations who want to learn how to do presentations successfully – or who just want to dive into theater because they’ve never worked as an actor. “It’s so important for adults to get into acting and to get into theater because you can explore so much about who you are,” Ciaravino said.

The fall course this year in the program focuses on how to audition. The courses spotlight proper memorization for

theater masks image Natykach Nataliia; red curtain image ecco/shutterstock.com

by Katrina Torres

Theater has a conscience;

it understands the narrative of what’s put onstage, which has a powerful impact on people.

“Annie”

Season 2013 and 2014 will feature “Les Misérables” as the main attraction at The Playhouse. They are working to appeal to a variety of demographics by choosing classical and contemporary pieces to attract a younger audience base, as well, appeasing both younger and older audiences. The Playhouse is bringing the community that may have lost interest back into theater while bringing in a new audience, as well, creating a resurgence of energy.

The Playhouse values the voices of the elders and is creating a middle ground between the generations – not being afraid to

photos this page by dwayne green

monologues, preparing a song, dancing at an audition and much more. At the end of the fall semester, The Playhouse will bring in casting directors from all over the city to see the showcase the students have produced.

Through these courses, the students are given real tools and skills that will help them successfully advance in their future careers. When walking out of the class at the end of the semester, every single student will understand all aspects of performance arts and be ready to pursue their future in theater.

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nfamily magazine 27

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28 nfamily magazine

have controversial issues in the theater and using the stage as the medium to communicate these issues. While The Playhouse definitely appreciates the older generation and the foundation they’ve laid before the theater community, they are also part of the future. The Playhouse brings all generations together to experience a rebirth of the definition of theater.

The Playhouse reaches out to the community in various ways, notably through a heavy social media presence.

Intern Daniel Quintero writes the blog for The Playhouse, directs the young adult group called The Tribe (a network of motivated young artists) and engages the next generation of creative leaders of the community, forming a hub of creative energy at The Playhouse.

Most of the students are also interns who are involved in many aspects of The Playhouse, having a voice and engaging themselves in the mission and the goals set before them. They are valued, and they make an impact on the team, which is moving them into the future. “I definitely feel like I’m part of a team, and a team that is actually doing something that matters,” Quintero said. “Here I feel like I’m actually doing something that’s almost changing a

city because it’s so unprecedented. It’s so important to engage our youth.”

Theater is much more than just jazz hands; it’s about connecting with the community. The Playhouse does theater to change people, which is different from the previous generation. Theater has a conscience; it understands the narrative of what’s put onstage, which has a powerful impact on people.

“The value of arts education and what it does in our community is immense,” Ciaravino said. “The impact that we can make on giving children the gift of theater at a very young age is something that will benefit them lifelong.” The Playhouse is brave enough to put on art that is about, by and for the San Antonio community. We should all be brave enough to have that dialogue alongside ourselves in whatever capacity our gift allows. ✪

For more information about The Playhouse, visit www.theplayhousesa.org, or follow them at www.facebook.com/theplayhousesa, www.twitter.com/theplayhousesa or www. youtube.com/user/playhousesanantonio.

photo by sragnar fotografi

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Lone Star National Bank is an independent bank with more than 2 billion in total assets and twenty-five (25) full-service banking centers throughout South Texas.

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nfamily magazine 29

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mom on the go

‘Awe’ Moments Let your kids vitalize you so you can find the strength you didn’t have yesterday.

by Bethany Reynolds

S

ummer meant warm weather and lots of time with my kids.

Fall in South Texas means warm weather and kids back in school. As we continue another exciting school year, I can look back at our time together this past summer and clearly see all of the ways my kids vitalized me. They were full of pep and they kept me moving, but not always the way I would have chosen.

My two kids have fun for fun’s sake. They are not trying to live in the moment – they just subconsciously do. If only we could all find the youthful joy in winning a board game or soaring high on the swings

silliest face?” game, why not?

Fun is a gift that needs to be opened often.

The kids not only take silliness to a new level, but they find awe in odd, unusual and even ordinary things.

Just driving past Fiesta Texas gets an “awe” out of them.

Sometimes it is a dragonfly that lands on their toes or a cloud shaped liked an alligator eating cotton candy. Whatever it may be, I want that awe moment. I think to truly see the awe-inspiring parts of your day, you must stop and look around. The mountain is not as awe-inspiring when you are halfway up as it is when you are at the top.

Can you look at your workout today in awe? Can you

Fun is a gift that needs to be opened often. at the park. Kids are satisfied with life’s experiences. If I can turn the time we sit in traffic into a fun rhyming game or the time we wait in line at the store into a “who can make the ● ● ● ●

30 nfamily magazine

look back and say, “I pushed myself harder than I usually do”? Did you go longer or with more intensity? Kids naturally seem to push themselves in their exercise. They want to

swing bigger, climb higher, bike faster and balance better.

They do it for the amusement of it – or maybe for the victory of it. Maybe I can run a 5K faster, lift heavier weights or do 20 more minutes on the stair climber than I could last year.

I can find the victory in my personal accomplishments.

To do this, I need to purposely prepare for my workout. I need the right gear and a set time for it all, right?

Well, if I look at my kids, I can see preparation is not needed for vitality. They seem to get by without much foresight. If we can simply choose an activity we enjoy, start slowly and gradually build up to moderate or more intense levels, we are on the path to our own victory.

When I watch my kids playing on their own, I see them give themselves gold stars. They don’t expect too

much. I see achievable goals being set and triumphs as a result. Their small wins fuel them with motivation. If you’re just starting out on an exercise goal, set easy marks at first.

Give yourself a pat on the back for hitting the mark. Focus on each small victory and keep moving forward with new goals.

We can learn so much from the children in our lives. Let the fun in life find you again.

See the beauty that takes your breath away. Find the strength you did not have yesterday.

Don’t get overpowered by the rules. Hear the applause for each good choice. Now go exercise and do it without complication. ✪

For more information, visit www.facebook.com/ momonthegosanantonio.

nfamily magazine 31

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education

In total, the Archdiocese of San Antonio Catholic school graduates of 2013 have earned more than $70 million in scholarships.

Spreading Hope The Archdiocese of San Antonio makes the Catholic school advantage available to families with financial needs through Hope for the Future.

by Jennifer Pucci Starr

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32 nfamily magazine

From pre-K through graduation, the Archdiocese of San Antonio is a leader in providing the very best in education through its Catholic schools. For more information, visit www.sacatholicschools.org.

photo courtesy of the Archdiocese of San Antonio

C

atholic schools have a dress code. The students wear their uniforms proudly, as they know that uniform will lead to a future grounded in faith, values and service. They also know that uniform will one day include a cap and a gown, as 99 percent of Catholic school students graduate and 98 percent continue on to attend college.

The Archdiocese of San Antonio Department of Catholic Schools has been educating its children in strong academics and faith for more than 170 years. It has relied upon the successes of its students to create word-of-mouth buzz throughout its community and inspire others to give their children the Catholic school advantage.

However, this past spring, the department decided many families were not aware of this opportunity and it was time to speak up. A multidimensional marketing campaign was launched throughout the city promoting the proven benefits of a Catholic school education. The impressive graduation rate, as well as the strong development of critical thinking skills, is a highlight of the campaign.

With 43 schools in the archdiocese, the Catholic school advantage is available to residents throughout San Antonio and the surrounding counties. John Paul II Catholic High School in New Braunfels, the newest addition to the archdiocese, celebrated a milestone this year as its first class of seniors graduated. Its grads stand proud with a 100 percent graduation rate and scholarships for many of the class.

In total, the Archdiocese of San Antonio Catholic school graduates of 2013 have earned more than $70 million in scholarships and dedicated 91,242 hours of service to their community.

Many worry that they cannot afford a Catholic school education, but there is hope: In 2006, the archdiocese created Hope for the Future (HOPE), an organization that provides tuition assistance and grants to families who desire a Catholic school education, but cannot afford one. This year alone, nearly 1,900 students received the good news of a Catholic school education thanks to generous donations to HOPE. ✪

M

arsha and Derek were at a meeting for parents of multiples the first time they heard about LearningRx, a program that pairs clients with trainers for intense mental workouts that improve the way the brain thinks, reads, learns, remembers and pays attention.

After hearing other parents rave, Marsha turned to her husband and said, “If any of our kids ever have problems at school, we need to do this first, before doctors or medication.”

Two years later they faced that very decision. Their son Trevor, 9, was struggling with attention, memory and reading, and his teacher recommended medical intervention.

Instead, Marsha and Derek looked at each other and said, “No doctors. No medication. Let’s look at LearningRx.”

“Trevor has the perfect trainer!”

After taking Trevor to his first day of brain training,

Derek came home and enthusiastically announced to his wife, “Trevor has the BEST trainer! Connor is going to be awesome! They’re a GREAT fit!”

“Trevor loved doing brain training with Connor,” Marsha says, adding that he was a tremendous resource for her, too, giving her tips that made the training she did at home with Trevor a lot more fun and challenging.

One-on-one brain training is unique because it takes place in a coaching relationship. LearningRx brain trainers customize workouts, create accountability, and keep sessions fast-paced and intense. They make training interactive, relational and fun. And in the process, they get students out of their comfort zone and into dramatic results.

“Your son is on task 95% of the time.”

After completing brain training, Trevor’s teacher said he was working on task 95% of the time. Marsha noticed other changes, too: “He’s more confident.

He has a better work ethic. He tackles problems saying ‘I can, I can, I can.’

He even laughs more!”

She’s even seeing a difference in his friendships. “Last year I’d say, ‘Who did you play with at school today?’ and he couldn’t remember the names of his friends. This year he says things like, ‘Blake said this… and Shawn did that…”

“You just can’t send a child to a computer and say, ‘Go play a game,’ and see the same growth,” she says, adding, “There’s nothing that compares to that relationship with a trainer.”

Trevor, 9, and his LearningRx brain trainer, Connor.

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Can LearningRx make learning–and life–easier for you or someone you love?

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Offer valid through 09/30/2013.

www.learningrx.com/san-antonio nfamily magazine 33

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child development

Grant, 11 months, gets therapy for food aversion and swallowing difficulties with Christie Olguin, M.A., CCC-SLP, clinic director at ABILITY Pediatric Therapy in San Antonio.

Keeping Things Normal Pediatric feeding therapist Christie Olguin offers advice for parents of picky eaters.

by Anna Migeon

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34 nfamily magazine

Progress can only come at the child’s own pace.

C

hristie Olguin is a certified speech-language pathologist who treats children with feeding issues.

She’s helped many severe cases overcome problem eating. “Feeding problems are highly stressful for parents,” says Olguin, clinic director at ABILITY Pediatric Therapy in San Antonio. “But you are not alone, and you can get support.”

Olguin offers parents several suggestions that can help even the most severe problem eaters improve.

But these “rules” are surprisingly ordinary. Simply maintaining a normal home environment may be one of the most effective tools for bringing a child’s eating back to the normal range. 

Signs an Infant May Have a Feeding Problem The following reactions may indicate a need for therapy:

✓ Frequent coughing or gagging ✓ Throwing arms out as if alarmed ✓ Turning head away from bottle ✓ Arching her back and crying ✓ Unable to keep a pacifier in her mouth ✓ Picky about the type of nipple ✓ Voice sounds “wet” after a feeding

nfamily magazine 35

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Set the table “No. 1 is the concept of the meal,” Olguin urges. “It’s got to be a family activity – a social time.” Setting the table and sitting down together help set the stage for better eating in several ways. Even a child who cannot eat by mouth benefits by being at the table with the family, without judgment, she urges.

“It’s very easy to get out of sync when your child has problems,” Olguin cautions.

“Meal time can become a stressful event. We have to remember how vital it is to keep love and nurturing involved in family meal time.”

Restricting eating to scheduled mealtimes is also an effective tool for improving a child’s appetite for the right foods at the right times.

Parents of a child categorized as “failure to thrive” find it difficult to refuse when that child asks to eat, Olguin notes. But junk foods and sweet drinks undermine the appetite for more nutritious foods. Safely spacing out feedings can help improve eating even for newborns who are not eating well.

And if you needed another nudge away from feeding kids processed foods, Olguin gives us one more. Avoid feeding children out of food packages, she warns. Kids with food aversions can become fixated on particular packaging and have a difficult time accepting the same foods in a different package.

Enjoyment counts A child who’s had painful experiences with eating needs to learn that it can be enjoyable. Olguin is treating Grant, 11 months, for difficulties in swallowing and food aversion. Severely allergic to milk and suffering from acid reflux, Grant learned early that eating led to misery for him. Negative experiences led to revulsion, like it does for anybody. With therapy, Grant is now learning that eating can bring pleasure. It may be the most important lesson for a child to learn about eating.

Take off the pressure “Getting a child to consume a certain amount generally means success for a parent,” Olguin says. So when families come to Olguin for therapy, they’ve usually been begging, bribing and forcing the child to eat.

“Don’t force feed,” Olguin redirects. “Pushing doesn’t work; tricking doesn’t work. If you push a kid at all, he can’t help but push back and resist.” Even praise for eating can be counterproductive with a picky eater.

Grant’s mom tells the story of how she shouted “Don’t!” at her own mom, Grant’s grandma, when she praised him for taking a bite. Olguin’s suggestion? Instead say, “Isn’t that good?”

Progress can only come at the child’s own pace, Olguin instructs.

“Nobody has to eat everything, either,” she adds. “There are always other ways to get those nutrients.”

Getting to know food Children need non-stressful opportunities to get familiar with a variety of healthy foods, Olguin says. All degrees of positive, pressure-free interaction with foods and flavors, whether through play, shopping, cooking or gardening, help children gain greater comfort with eating that food. Family meals are the perfect opportunity for smelling, seeing and touching food – and eventually, even eating it. ✪

Decreasing Your Child’s Resistance to a Food Try the following nopressure techniques: ✓ Start with goals such as the child just being OK with being in the same room as a certain food. ✓ Progress gently and gradually to having it on the table, then next to his plate, then on his plate. ✓ Ask him to hand the food to you. ✓ Ask him to kiss the food and put it back down.

Feeding therapist Christie Olguin uses food chaining techniques with children. This method builds gradually on accepted foods to expand a child’s range of foods and decrease sensitivities.

ABILITY Pediatric Therapy specializes in speech, occupational and physical therapy. More than 100 therapists offer a variety of therapeutic treatments and evaluation techniques to promote growth in aspects of gross motor, fine motor, speech, language, thinking and reasoning, behavior, social, emotional/psychological, adaptive and self-help skills in either a clinic or a home health setting. For more information, visit ABILITY at 10609 IH 10 West, Ste. 201, in San Antonio, Texas. You may also call 210-344-5437.

Anna Migeon offers workshops and coaching to help parents establish healthy and harmonious family meals. To learn more, visit www.sacredappetite.com or call 210-896-6141. ● ● ● ●

36 nfamily magazine

Shine

She’S achieved So much already, but that doeSn’t SurpriSe you.

becauSe

you’ve

alwayS

known

She

would

excel.

becauSe you believed in her. you have

Faith in her and her ability to go Far. and when She arriveS here, we Further her potential. becauSe we believe in her. we alSo See all that She can become and work to nurture her through Faith-baSed learning and Shared belieFS rooted in SiSterhood, enSuring She not only SucceedS at college, but leaveS with the Faith to move mountainS.

incarnate word high School Office Of AdmissiOns 210.829.3123 www.incarnatewordhs.org

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HELP YOUR CHILD START THE SCHOOL YEAR STRONG!

brainbalancecenters.com nfamily magazine 37

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Take Control

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If you suspect your children have eczema, develop good skin hygiene habits in them early on to help keep it under control and lessen the toll it has on their daily lives. by Dr. Erika Gonzalez-Reyes

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ost kids get itchy rashes at one time or another, which can cause even the most experienced parents to worry.

Redness or bumps on the skin is often the body’s way of reacting to certain irritants, and young children tend to be more sensitive because their immune system and skin are still maturing. While inflamed and itchy skin can be annoying, most rashes are harmless and will fade on their own. However, for kids who have eczema, it is not that easy.

Eczema is also known as atopic dermatitis, and it affects up to 10 percent of children. The exact cause of eczema is not known. It is thought to be inherited, so children are more likely to get eczema if they have a parent who is also affected with eczema, seasonal allergies or asthma.

The rash’s appearance varies widely, but it most often presents as red, irritated and itchy skin. It can also cause scaly patches, and in the most severe cases, lead to red, crusty skin with open sores. Although any area of the body can be affected, babies most often get the rash on their cheeks, arms, legs and trunk, while older kids get the rash on the bends of the elbows, behind the knees or on the backs of the wrists and ankles.

Older children tend to have more problems with itch and dryness. The excessive itching leads them to use anything in sight to relieve the itch, which ultimately results in more skin irritation and worsening of the skin.

Symptoms can appear as early as the first few months of life, and almost always before a child turns 5.

Although there is no way to cure it, eczema can be well controlled with proper treatment and management. Eczema is not an allergy itself, but it can be triggered by other allergies including food and airborne allergies. In addition, environmental factors such as excessive heat, emotional stress and harsh soaps and detergents have been known to make eczema worse.

In many cases, eczema goes into remission and symptoms may disappear altogether for months or even years, but most children will continue to have occasional flare-ups. Luckily, these flareups can be prevented or improved by avoiding any known triggers.

Diagnosing eczema can be challenging

girl scratching arm image pedalist/shutterstock.com

child development

boy with rash on cheek image Zurijeta/shutterstock.com

because there is no test available to diagnose it definitively. Because it can be difficult to be sure, if you suspect your child has eczema, it is a good idea to have your child evaluated by a pediatric allergist or dermatologist. These specialists can help you identify things in your child’s environment that may be contributing to the skin irritation and get you started on the right treatment plan.

The main goal of eczema treatment is to maintain skin moisture and itch control.

A healthy skincare regimen with the daily use of moisturizing ointments or lotions can be very successful. Staying well hydrated, especially during the long and hot San Antonio summers, helps add moisture to the skin. Avoiding hot baths, scented soaps and lotions and the use of alcoholcontaining moisturizers, which can make skin drier, can also be very important.

Being aware of scratching and taking steps to minimize it as much as possible is also crucial. Keeping your child’s fingernails short can help minimize skin irritation caused by scratching. Use cool compresses to the affected skin or medicines such as antihistamines to control itching and improve eczema control.

Recognition and avoidance of triggers

Eczema affects up to 10 percent of children. can also go a long way. Using clothes made of cotton and avoiding harsh or irritating fabrics (i.e. wool) are often recommended. Keeping your child from becoming overheated and at the same time minimizing excessive sweating can also help prevent flare-ups. If your child has any known allergies to foods, dust or pet dander, avoidance of these triggers is a must.

If your child’s skin is not controlled

despite all of these attempts, topical steroid lotions and other non-steroid medications are available to achieve symptom control and should be discussed with your doctor.

The emotional impact that difficult-tocontrol eczema can have on children is often more prevalent during the preteen and teen years. Therefore, helping your children develop good skin hygiene habits early on can dramatically help them in the future.

The frustration of eczema is experienced by both kids and parents alike, but it is important to know that although there is no cure, more than half of the kids who have eczema today will outgrow it by the time they are teenagers. Until that time, taking preventative precautions and following your doctor’s recommendation can successfully keep it under control and lessen the toll it has on your child’s daily life. With a properly individualized treatment plan, you can take control of your kid’s eczema. ✪

Dr. Erika Gonzalez-Reyes is a double boardcertified allergist/immunologist specialist and pediatrician. For further information or to contact Gonzalez-Reyes, please email txallergydoc@gmail.com.

The 10th Annual My Princess & Me Benefitting St. PJ's Children's Home

October 20, 2013, 1:00-4:00pm JW Marriott Hill Country Resort & Spa San Antonio, TX 78261 Visit www.myprincessandme.com or call 531-8592 *Children should dress in their best princess costume! nfamily magazine 39 NFamily Ad My Princess.indd 1

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7/15/2013 4:17:04 PM

child development

Fitness and fun start young! Don’t wait to instill healthy habits to give your child a head start on health. by Katrina Campbell

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arents and caregivers may have different styles or approaches to parenting, but they ultimately always have the same goal in mind: to help their children live healthy, balanced and successful lives. There are many important factors that play a role in providing these opportunities for your children such as discipline, education, a nurturing environment, etc. But one of the most critical components of helping your children achieve the life you dream for them is teaching them the importance of keeping their bodies healthy.

In a world full of technological advancements that allow us to be constantly entertained without ever having to leave our couch, we are forgetting to instill one ● ● ● ●

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of the primary principles we as adults all grew up with: Get up and play! At the Brighton Center, we are holistic in our approach to serving children and believe exercise and a healthy diet are critical to all babies’ and toddlers’ development – not just those with a disability or delay.

Babies need exercise, too

Do babies really need to exercise?

Absolutely! Babies need plenty of opportunities to move and explore a sensory-rich environment in their first year of life. For babies, play is exercise and hard work.

Through play, babies learn about their bodies and develop strength and coordination. Parents and caregivers should interact in daily physical activities that promote an infant’s exploration of the

environment and movement skills.

Brighton’s early child intervention specialists occasionally observe that some children are missing major milestones simply because they don’t move enough.

Babies are often entertained by baby toys that do not necessarily promote or encourage movement. Some parents don’t put their baby on the floor anymore because of all the gadgets available to put their baby “in.” There is developmental progression for everything a baby learns, and that can be disrupted if babies are turned over solely to aids and gadgets for their physical motivation.

1, 2, 3, 4 – Get your baby on the floor

Tummy time is so important! Babies

preschoolers running image Rene Jansa /shutterstock.com

Get Up and Play!

and

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C e nter

for all ages and abilities!

ig

Trick or Treat Trot

A Bene

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Saturday, October 26th 2013 Walker Ranch Park 12603 West Avenue Races begin at 9:00am

Brighton Center is proud to host their 3rd annual fitness festival and kids run with a Halloween twist, the Trick or Treat Trot! We invite adults and children of ALL abilities to participate in this event that will feature a chip-timed 5k run, shorter kid’s runs, food, drinks, prizes, costume contest and activity booths for all ages!

Trick or Treat Trot will feature: • 5k Timed Run (Chip-Timed) for ages 12 & Up • Kids Run for ages 6wks to 12 » Diaper Dash (babies to 3 years) » Tot Trot (4 – 5 years) » Junior Jog (6 and up)

$25/Adult and $10/Child (under 12) Scholarships for children available

• Health & Wellness Booth Activities • Costume Contest for all ages • Food & Drinks • Trophies, Medals and T-shirts for Participants

The Trick or Treat Trot is an opportunity for the community to come together to not only support the Brighton Center and the more than 2,700 children with disabilities or delays that they serve every year, but also to give these same children the opportunity to be a part of an event where their abilities can shine and fun can be had!

To register for this run visit www.brightonsa.org or call 210.826.4492

nfamily magazine 41

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*

Active toddlers are more likely to stave off heart disease, diabetes and some forms of cancer as they get older. nearby, play tag in your own yard or build your own hopscotch game on your driveway using sidewalk chalk.

Strong and healthy tod bods

Good habits start young

While toddlers have an immense amount of energy, it is important for parents to be active participants in their child’s daily exercise routine. According to the National Association for Sport and Physical Education, your toddler should log 30 minutes of structured exercise (a planned physical activity such as a game of kickball or a tricycle ride) and at least an hour of unstructured exercise (like a session of free play at the park) every day.

Kids who are active not only sleep better and are better able to maintain a healthy weight, but also are much happier. If the reasons listed are not enough incentive to make sure your child is getting enough exercise, consider this: Active toddlers are more likely to stave off heart disease, diabetes and some forms of cancer as they get older.

So how can you make sure your tots get the exercise they need? The following are some ideas any parent or caregiver can implement – and the best news is they don’t have to cost you a dime!

➊Play outside

Take your children to a park where they can run, jump and climb. If a park isn’t ● ● ● ●

42 nfamily magazine

➋Crawling Games

Engage your children in crawling games throughout the house. Have them chase you around furniture and in different rooms, all while crawling. This is excellent for large muscle development.

➌Roughhousing Activities

Nothing beats a good tickling session or some old-fashioned roughhousing. You’ll tire before your children do, and all the while, they will get some great cardiovascular exercise.

➍Rides Rides on toys or tricycles are great for developing leg muscles and coordination, as well as for motor planning.

Healthy eating is just as critical as exercise is to a developing child. As parents, we

SAVE THE DATE! Be sure to join the Brighton Center at the upcoming Trick or Treat Trot Family Run, which will be held on Saturday, Oct. 26, at Walker Ranch Park! See adjacent ad for more details.

are responsible for providing our children with nutritious food options. Unfortunately, a busy lifestyle can eventually lead to bad food habits because the need for convenience takes a front-row seat in our busy lives. Here are some healthy options for parents to consider that don’t require a lot of time or money, but can make a big difference in your child’s overall health!

➊ Limit juice

Juice is not necessary in a child’s diet, but it can be healthy if 100 percent juice is provided in small amounts. More than half a cup per day may cause a decreased appetite for meals. Although juice provides vitamin C, it would be best to obtain vitamins from food sources. Remember to always offer water first when your child is thirsty.

➋ Monitor snacks

Teach your children to recognize when they are truly hungry and full. Grazing also contributes to a decreased appetite at mealtime. Implement a feeding schedule that provides two to three snacks daily for hunger to be better regulated and predictable. A snack should include a source of protein or fat to satisfy hunger. Avoid unhealthy snack foods.

➌ Encourage veggies

Eating plenty of fruits and veggies is linked to a better diet, a healthy body weight and a lower risk of disease. Try to have your picky eater eat at least one serving of dark-green or orange veggies daily.

Adding a little bit of healthy fat may make veggies taste better. ✪

This article was provided by the Brighton Center, a local nonprofit organization that provides direct services to children with disabilities and/or developmental delays through a holistic and family-centered approach. Brighton’s programs include a child learning center, home-based therapy services, counseling, case management and family support services. To find out more about the Brighton Center, visit us online at www.brightonsa.org.

fabric ball image Venus Angel; baby in costume image Olga Sapegina/shutterstock.com

need plenty of tummy time to keep their heads and shoulders strong. By about 3 weeks of age, babies can lift their heads when on their tummies. By 4 months of age, babies can push up on their forearms from the tummy position and hold their heads steady. Tummy time is vital to strengthening a baby’s neck. Most babies need to spend time on their stomachs creeping and crawling to strengthen their backs and legs.

It’s better for your child to crawl first and then walk because crawling activates both hemispheres of the brain needed for walking skills. Research shows that not only is crawling linked to reading skills, but children who miss the crawling stage may exhibit learning difficulties later on.

Why? Crawling gets both sides of the body working together and activates eye teaming, which is a crucial skill for learning to read.

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Beating the Jitters

With back-to-school in full swing, follow these simple steps for relieving related stress and anxiety for the whole family. by Dr. Gary Henry

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oing back to school is exciting for the whole family. Children and parents alike experience stress and anxiety, especially after the long, fun-filled summer vacation. It is normal to feel nervous when starting school for the first time or transitioning to a new school. Admitting and identifying stressors that affect children can be an enormous help.

Please remember that parents’ stress is contagious.

The following are some suggestions for relieving back-toschool stress and anxiety for children and the family.

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44 nfamily magazine

group of children image courtesy of boystown; BACK TO SCHOOL ILLUSTRATION Lorelyn Medina/shutterstock.com

special issues

Things that make school great:

• Shopping for new clothes, backpacks and school supplies •Seeing friends they may not have seen during summer break •Classes like art, music, drama and sports

Talk to your child:

•Ask your child about what he or she is feeling •Remind your child or teenager that it is normal to be nervous

Get enough sleep:

•Research has established that a well-rested child is less irritable, less cranky and better able to respond to stressful situations in a balanced, calm manner •Set an appropriate time for bedtime each night and be consistent

Be consistent and organized.

•Consistent lights-out time decreases bedtime resistance •Eat on a regular schedule •Establish a comfortable study area •Get children’s input on what they want in their lunch or if they would rather eat in the cafeteria

The unknown can cause anxiety.

boy raising hand image courtesy of boystown; book pile illustration benchart/shutterstock.com

Visit the school: •A visit can alleviate stress and anxiety in children who are just starting school or transitioning to a new school

Good nutrition:

•A balanced diet is very important – sugar, soft drinks, caffeine and food coloring can increase the anxiety in your child and should be limited •A good, balanced breakfast with protein and carbohydrates is important for brain function, mood and the ability to focus and pay attention in school

Listen to your children:

•It is important to try to set some time aside each evening to talk and listen to your children about their day •This is a great way to relieve stress and anxiety

Talk about the school day: •When the school bus will arrive •Where the bathroom and cafeteria are located •What to do with coats, jackets and backpacks •Where the children go after school Knowing these things lessens the worries and makes your child feel more comfortable.

School input:

•Make a point to meet your child’s teachers at the beginning of the year to develop a relationship early

Be prepared for dealing with back-to-school jitters both mentally and physically. Your enthusiasm is important because your child will pick up on it. Have a great school year! ✪

Parents’ stress is contagious.

Nothingness: •Schedule a few hours to do nothing on the weekend; use it reconnect with your child or teenager •These are relationship-building moments that provide needed stress relief for both you and your children

Dr. Gary Henry is the director of Boys Town Texas Outpatient Behavioral Health Services. For more help relieving stress in your family, contact Boys Town Texas at 210-2711010 or visit www.boystown.org/texas. And to learn more about back-to-school, visit www.parenting.org. nfamily magazine 45

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special issues

Self-defense expert Ryron Gracie partners with area organizations and activists to help bring awareness to the horrors of bullying and teach victims how to fight back with his Bully-Proofing program. by Tracee Orihel

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yron Gracie, jiu-jitsu master and self-defense expert, understands that for some children, the beginning of the school year is a terrifying experience. It means they have to return to a horror zone where they must encounter their bullies.

This terror doesn’t end after the first day or halfway through the year. The horrors bullied children experience are constant and continuous throughout the school year.

In the past, bullying was overlooked and ignored. It has only just become

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46 nfamily magazine

an issue, as people are starting to fully understand the devastating effects that bullying can have on kids today.

Gracie is one of the many people who have stepped up to help end bullying, as well as empower children who have become victims of bullies. Gracie came to San Antonio on July 14, 2013, and conducted a seminar that taught our youth how to protect themselves against bullies by using tried-and-true self-defense techniques.

Gracie’s Bully-Proofing program aims to help bullied kids get past their fears of bullies by instilling in them the confidence and bravery that come with know-

ing self-defense. As the eldest grandson of Grand Master Helio Gracie, the creator of jiu-jitsu, Gracie was introduced to the practice as soon as he could walk.

His father, Rorian Gracie, is the world’s foremost expert in self-defense.

Rorian Gracie started by teaching jiujitsu in the family’s garage, where Ryron would watch as a child. His observation of his father inspired him to open the Gracie Academy so that bullied children across the country could learn how to fight back.

Though Ryron Gracie has a busy schedule at the Gracie Academy, he makes time to travel around the United

preschoolers running image Rene Jansa /shutterstock.com

Fighting Back

States and lead seminars. The inspiring teacher came to San Antonio to conduct a seminar for the youth participants in the Lenny Walls Next Level Fitness Youth Olympics on July 14, 2013, at Boerne High School Stadium.

Lenny Walls, former NFL player, put on the Walls Next Level Fitness Youth Olympics on July 13 and 14. This two-day fitness camp encouraged kids (first- through eighth-graders) to be team players, create healthy habits and show off their individual skills. Walls brought three other NFL players, along with former Spurs player George Hill, to work one-on-one with the kids and help motivate them to be their best and believe in themselves.

The Cyr Family Charitable Fund partnered with Gracie for the event, as it strives to give back to the community by supporting organizations that are dedicated to helping others such as this seminar, St. Jude’s Ranch for Children and Hill Country Daily Bread Ministries. Their partnership with Gracie serves as a momentous step for schoolchildren in the San Antonio area who are picked on, degraded and tormented at school.

The seminar was instrumental in the lives of those who attended. Not only did the seminar help children who are punched, kicked and pushed while walking the halls at school, but we hope it helped steer children away from being or becoming bullies when they saw that real fighters, such as Gracie, don’t torment others. ✪

For more information on the Lenny Walls Next Level Fitness Youth Olympics, please visit www.lenny@lennywalls.com or contact Cedar Joiner at 210-492-1563.

Gracie aims both to help end bullying and to empower children who have become victims of bullies.

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nfamily magazine 47

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special issues

SSFCU is helping the San Antonio community grow.

Continuing the Mission

Security Service Federal Credit Union employees exemplify the values of the company by volunteering their time and talents to St. PJ’s Children’s Home. special to nfamily

F

rom planting healing gardens to organizing employee appreciation events, the values of Security Service Federal Credit Union (SSFCU) are evident in the volunteer work of their dedicated employees. St. PJ’s Children’s Home has been supported by SSFCU through volunteerism, sponsorships and children’s activities for several years.

Currently, SSFCU employee Starlene ● ● ● ●

48 nfamily magazine

Ashley serves on the board of governors, and she has been instrumental in securing the support needed to continue the mission of healing children at St. PJ’s Children’s Home.

“St. PJ’s Children’s Home is grateful to receive the support and kindness from SSFCU on the Healing Garden project and many others,” said James Castro, CEO of St. PJ’s Children’s Home. “Starlene Ashley serves on the board of governors for St. PJ’s – she truly characterizes all the great values of Security Service.” ✪

“St. PJ’s Children’s Home is grateful to receive the support and kindness from SSFCU on this project and many others. Starlene Ashley serves on the board of governors for St. PJ’s – she truly characterizes all the great values of Security Service.”

– James Castro, CEO of St. PJ’s Children’s Home

Thanks to SSFCU volunteers, employees at St. PJ’s were able to enjoy a special appreciation picnic complete with great prizes and delicious food.

nfamily magazine 49

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special issues

Opening Books and Minds

H-E-B’s Read 3 initiative continues to get children excited about reading and keep early childhood literacy top of mind for many Texans. by Jenny Williams

➻ open a child’s mind to a world of possibility.

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50 nfamily magazine

mother reading to child image Julia Metkalova/shutterstock.com

Books

W

father reading book to children image Monkey Business Images; book illustration Lyudmyla Kharlamova/shutterstock.com

hen a child opens a book, something amazing happens. They don’t just read words on paper; they’re transported to a world of adventure, wonder and imagination.

They might be sitting at the helm of a spaceship, blasting off to a far and distant planet. They could be a visitor to a magical kingdom where fantastic creatures abound. They might even be a famous explorer setting foot on a wild and undiscovered country.

Books open a child’s mind to a world of possibility. Yet sadly, it is estimated that more than 500,000 Texas preschool children do not get read to on a regular basis and many of these children don’t have books in their homes. That’s why H-E-B launched the early childhood

“We believe in nourishing the future of Texas.” literacy program called Read 3. Now in its third year, H-E-B’s Read 3 initiative continues to keep early childhood literacy top of mind for many Texans.

“The goal of Read 3 is to educate parents and caregivers about the need to read to their children a minimum of three times a week so they are school ready by kindergarten and to provide them with increased access to affordable books,” explains Christa Carreno Aldrich, H-E-B literacy program manager. “We believe in nourishing the future of Texas.

This is why we launched Read 3 back in 2011 and continue to support and expand this initiative to reach even more Texas families.

“This year, we have sponsored various literacy events, including a birthday celebration for Dr. Seuss in March, Día de los Niños y Día de los Libros in April and a summer reading program.”

To celebrate the Read 3 campaign, H-E-B hosts a store event each year aimed to increase circulation of early childhood books in Texas by giving away free books with Combo Locos and Meal Deals.

H-E-B aims to collect one million books every year

through in-store book drives.

In addition, H-E-B hopes to improve the exposure of Texas children under age 5 to words and books through H-E-Buddy Story Time and the H-E-Buddy Book of the Month Club, along with in-store scavenger hunts and H-E-Buddy activity pages.

“H-E-B has 14 store-based literacy centers across Texas that host literacy events throughout the calendar year and promote reading by getting children excited about books,” Aldrich says. “We also go straight to the community with the Read 3 Family Literacy Workshop.

The 12-hour or 24-hour curricula are designed to introduce parents and caregivers to nutritional concepts and

literacy ideas that they can foster in their homes. The workshops also introduce 3and 4-year-olds to early literacy concepts and provide them with free books to establish an at-home library.

“We value each family’s commitment to their child’s education and honor them at the end of each workshop series with a graduation ceremony. Since 2011, we have graduated over 1,800 families in six Texas cities. In addition, we continue to provide financial support to local programs that encourage kinder readiness.”

More than 1.5 million books have been collected since September 2011 through H-E-B’s Read 3 Texas Size Book Drive.

These books were redistributed at H-E-B’s annual Feast of Sharing dinners and to local literacy groups, including schools, festivals, nonprofit organizations, public libraries and other at-risk youth programs.

The goal is to collect one million books each year to redistribute into the communities H-E-B serves. H-E-B also operates 14 literacy centers in high-need areas across the state where books are not readily available. ✪

To learn more, parents, caregivers and educators are encouraged to go to www. heb.com/read3. nfamily magazine 51

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special issues

Preparing for Homeownership If you are thinking of buying a home, consider these three things before you sign on the dotted line.

by Samantha Salazar ● ● ● ●

52 nfamily magazine

T

1

hinking about buying a house? It will probably be one of the largest purchases you’ll ever make. So before you sign on the dotted line, make sure your family is financially ready for homeownership. Here are three things to consider before you make the big purchase:

Credit: The better your credit score, the better the rate

you will get from your mortgage lender. The best way to maintain good credit is to pay all of your bills on time and in full. And when shopping around for the best mortgage, make sure all inquiries by lenders occur within a 45-day period. These will show up as several inquiries on your credit report, but they will not affect your FICO credit score.

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Hawaiian BBQ Chicken expenses.

Make sure your family’s income will allow to12live Includes a drinkyou for kids & under Chicken Pesto Smoky BBQ sauce, grilled chicken, mozzarella, red onions, Housemade basil pesto sauce, Roma tomatoes, grilled chicken, Shakes 3.65 pineapple & cilantro comfortably after all of the bills are paid. mozzarella & Parmesan Made with hand-dipped Blue Bell ice cream or low-fat yogurt.

Chicken Pesto Vanilla, chocolate, banana, Oreo cookie, cherry, peppermint, Four Cheese Housemade basil pesto sauce, Roma tomatoes, grilled chicken, espresso, strawberry, chocolate mocha Shakes 3.65 Marinara sauce, mozzarella, Parmesan, goat cheese, & bleu cheese mozzarella & Parmesan Made with hand-dipped Blue Bell ice cream or low-fat yogurt.

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EZ’s began with a new idea. Several of them in fact.

We serve up classic pizzas, salads, burgers, fries and shakes.

A neighborhood place where food is served fast, but cooked Choices abound with Build-Your-Own Burgers and Plates. slow in an open kitchen featuring a wood burning oven.

Always dedicated to made-from-scratch, fresh-to-order value.

We serve up classic pizzas, salads, burgers, fries and shakes.

Innovation continues with new, healthy choices, morning service, Choices abound with Build-Your-Own Burgers and Plates.

Vegan Burgers, Superfood Salads and Gluten Free breads.

Always dedicated to made-from-scratch, fresh-to-order value.

So come as you are and come often.

Innovation continues with new, healthy choices, morning service, Vegan Burgers, Superfood Salads and Gluten Free breads.

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With the personalized guidance of a certified consumer credit counselor, consumers interested in homeownership, along with other financial goals (raising credit scores, saving money, decreasing debt and gaining financial knowledge) are given the tools and information to become financially stable. ✪

EZ’s Caters Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner!

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nfamily magazine 53

● ● ● ●

Create a

Better Y u How to live a healthy, balanced life in our increasingly supersized world

by Dr. Sandra Carrell Tremblay

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54 nfamily magazine

Changing the way you eat, move and think is not inherently difficult, but you must have a plan.

smiling woman image Warren Goldswain; eco food illustrations Bistraffic/shutterstock.com

special issues

E

arly in my practice, I worked with a lovely family. The husband was Hispanic, and his wife was Caucasian. Together, they had a son and an adopted Caucasian daughter. Quite an interesting mix, but other than their skin color, they looked very much the same. They were all very overweight and physically unfit. How could that be?

Easy: They live together, influencing their actions and ideas and reinforcing them on a daily basis. Not only did they become overweight and unfit, but society has followed their lead.

In 2010, the CDC said that San Antonio was the No. 1 fattest city in the country and No. 3 in the world, with 31 percent obese and 65 percent overweight.

We are growing very accustomed to living in a supersized world. We either have forgotten or have never been taught how to live well, and as a result, our children are no longer expected to live as long as we do. Changing the way you eat, move and think is not inherently difficult, but you must have a plan.

Take “The Blue Zones Project” as an example. This popular book by National Geographic author Dan Buettner explores the five areas around the world where people live healthy lives to over 100 years old in far larger numbers than everywhere else. Buettner’s exploration of their success principles has spread into Blue Zone’s Community Projects, which are changing the lives and health of entire small towns, impacting their future in a positive way.

I encourage you to read the Blue Zone’s “Power 9 Principles.” They focus on knowing your purpose in life, decreasing your stress, using the 80 percent rule when eating (use smaller plates and stop eating when you are not quite full), eating only lean meats the size of a deck of cards along with more plants, having a glass of wine with friends at dinner at night (more is not better), surrounding yourself with like-minded friends (it is hard to stop smoking around other smokers),

having a faith-based community and finally, making your loved ones first in importance at all times.

Living in a healthy balance allows you to enjoy your life. Is your life balanced?

Take a moment and write down which of these principles you are already doing well and those that need your specific attention to improve. Keep the good areas of your life in place and start a plan for each of the areas that need improvement. Bear in mind that everything you want to change

time, and it works best in motion. Park farther away. Take the stairs. Get up every half hour and walk around the office. Bend, squat, lift, arch and turn during the day. Studies show that walking 10,000 steps each day (about five miles) has a great impact on your health.

Write your goals down and place them along with pictures where you can look at them every day. Chunk down your goals and tackle them one at a time. The good news is that our bodies are systematized,

woman walking image Anetlanda; eco food illustrations Bistraffic/shutterstock.com

Studies show that walking 10,000 steps each day has a great impact on your health.

can be helped or hindered by the people you are around every day.

Choose well. Family, friends and coworkers you spend time with may not want to change with you. On the bright side, many people truly want to get healthier and need a catalyst to make that change. You might be the spark that ignites more than just your new way of life. Get an accountability partner who will be supportive and keep you focused on your goals.

We live in a sedentary society, with technology allowing us to barely move.

Your body was created to move all the

so once you have established a new schedule, you will fall into a new rhythm and reap the rewards of your efforts.

You have the power to create a better you. Take the challenge today! ✪

Dr. Sandra Carrell Tremblay is the clinic director of Alamo Heights Chiropractic Health Center, located at 4501 McCullough Ave., No. 107, in San Antonio. For more information, call 210 828-9211 or visit www. ahchc.com.

nfamily magazine 55

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Legal Consequences of

Bullying

While damaging to the victims, bullying crimes can also have lifelong legal ramifications for the bullies themselves.

by Erica Jones

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56 nfamily magazine

sad boy image Monkey Business Images; bullied boy cartoon image akiradesigns/shutterstock.com

special issues

depressed girl image fasphotographic/shutterstock.com

lthough our nation’s schools are intended to be peaceful places of learning, the reality is that many students fear attending class each and every day. Bullying affects the emotional and physical health of the victims, but for the bullies who are caught, the legal ramifications can last a lifetime.

According to criminal defense attorney Kevin L. Collins, when students are suspected of bullying, they undergo a school hearing process where, if a finding is made that they have engaged in acts of bullying, they can be suspended or expelled and relocated to a new school or alternative school. All of these facts depend on the nature of the individual case.

“No matter the case, bullying is a serious offense and it is not to be taken lightly by any school district,” Collins said. “If found responsible, a written report can be included in the student’s records, sometimes preventing them from attending certain school functions, or in worst-case scenarios, their actions can result in assault charges.”

More recently, bullying crimes involving the Internet and social media sites, called cyber-bullying, have plagued schools. According to Collins, cyber-bullying is new and has stricter and more complex ramifications resulting in punishment from a Class A misdemeanor all the way up to a third-degree felony.

Collins believes the best way to prevent these crimes is to have an open line of communication between bullying victims and adults. “Adults can step in and make sure the offender is stopped and taken care of,” Collins said. “These cases get out of hand when the victim and the victim’s friends who know about the crime stay silent.”

With any luck, bullied children will seek help from parents or school administrators. However, parents may also want to step in if they see certain warning signs.

Aside from the obvious torn clothing and unexplained bruises and cuts, bullied

children may also experience a loss of appetite, appear anxious, suffer from low self-esteem and have few, if any, friends with whom they enjoy spending time.

“I see too many kids suffer because of bullying, hazing and sexual harassment,” Collins said. “I’m determined to help put a stop to these crimes by presenting the facts to students and parents about the repercussions their actions may have and also to inform the victims of their rights.” ✪

If you believe your child is bullying or being bullied, contact the school counselor.

For more information about how to protect your children from bullying, set up a free seminar by contacting the administrators at 210-390-5546.

The National Education Association estimates American schools house 2.1 million bullies and 2.7 million bullying victims. Additionally, six of every 10 students witness an act of bullying each day.

The best way to prevent bullying crimes is to have an open line of communication between the bullying victims and adults. nfamily magazine 57

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Put the

Pain

Behind You How you can manage and prevent migraines and headaches and keep them from disrupting your life by Lisa Munter

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58 nfamily magazine

D

o you have more than four or five headaches per month? Do these headaches disrupt your home, work or school life? If you answered “yes” to these questions, you are not alone; people all over the country suffer from chronic headaches and/or migraines. Many of these people think these migraines are just part of living a stressful and fastpaced life, but life does not have to be this way. There are now many treatment options to consider.

A migraine headache can cause intense throbbing or pulsing in one area of the head, and it is commonly accompanied by nausea, vomiting and extreme sensitivity to light and sound. Migraine attacks can cause severe pain for hours and even days, and it can be so severe that all you can think about is finding a dark and quiet place to lie down. There are many types of migraine headaches, including sinus, tension, hemicrania continua, chronic headaches and status migrainosus.

New research has shown that migraines can be caused by genetics, as well as a multitude of factors busy people face

woman with headache image EmiliaUngur/shutterstock.com

therapy

every day such as lack of or too much sleep, skipped meals, caffeine (too much or withdrawal), stress and anxiety and relaxation after stress. Some other causes of migraines and/or headaches include: Bright lights, loud noises and strong odors Hormone changes during the menstrual cycle Weather changes Alcohol (often red wine) Foods that contain nitrates such as hot dogs and lunch meats Foods that contain MSG (monosodium glutamate), seasonings and spices Foods that contain tyramine such as aged cheeses, soy products, fava beans, hard sausages, smoked fish and Chianti wine Aspartame (NutraSweet and Equal)

lightning bold illustration SoRad; kids having a fight image Ilike/shutterstock.com

While there is no official cure for migraines, there are ways you and your doctor can work to treat your symptoms.

You should consider seeing a migraine specialist if: Your headaches disrupt your home, work or school life You have more than four or five headaches per month, and each headache lasts for several hours or days You have nausea, vomiting, vision or other associated neurological symptoms (such as numbness or tingling, weakness, difficulties with speaking, vertigo and double-vision) You have pain around the eye or ear You have a severe headache with a stiff neck You have a headache with confusion or loss of alertness You have a headache after a blow to the head You were headache-free, but now experience increased frequency of headaches, or the headache quality has substantially changed from prior headaches

If you suffer from any of these symptoms, HealthCrave’s new Migraine Treatment Center may be able to help. Located conveniently in the Medical Center in San Antonio, this multidisciplinary health center staffs doctors with various specialties ranging from primary care to plastic surgery and everything in between.

Since HealthCrave has its own team of neurologists, pain management physicians, family practice doctors and nurse

Migraines can be caused by genetics, as well as a multitude of factors busy people face every day.

practitioners, they can work with each other and with you to determine the underlying cause of your headaches and/ or migraines. Their unique preventative approach will work not only to mask your pain, but toward preventing future migraines and headaches.

Stop letting migraines and headaches disrupt your life. Talk to your doctor today about treatment options to manage or prevent migraine and headache pain. ✪

The HealthCrave Medical Centers Migraine Treatment Center is located at 21 Spurs Lane, Ste. 320, in San Antonio, Texas.

To learn more, visit www.samigraine. com or www.sahealthcrave.com, or call 210-GET-WELL.

Po l anni o San Ant

nfamily magazine 59

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therapy

Be Y urself Staying true to yourself is the best way to make true friends and keep them.

D

o you ever not want to be yourself? Do you ever want to change?

Do you ever want to just start over? Well, we all feel this way sometimes. I am Olivia, and I can help you.

My mom always tells me to be myself … but that can be hard.

Sometimes my friends won’t play with me at recess – that makes me sad and feel like I don’t belong. But my mom encourages me to look for other kids who look lonely on the playground and try to make them happy by asking them to play with me.

Chances are they feel sad, too, and maybe I can make them smile and feel better by asking them to play with me. Maybe they will become my new BFF. An American Girl book I read called “Friends: Making Them and Keeping Them” helped me understand that great friendships take time, patience and a little bit of hard work. The book also has a quote from Ralph Waldo Emerson that I really like: “The only way to have a friend is to be one.” I like this quote because it really tells me a lot. You have to follow your heart and learn to be a good friend to someone else. You have to get to know a person before they can be your BFF. True friends like you for who you are. They take the time to listen to you, and they care

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60 nfamily magazine

about your feelings. They notice when you are sad, and they play with you on the playground.

Do you have a lot of friends?

Do you ever find yourself acting a certain way in front of some of them because you feel like they wouldn’t like you if you were just yourself? I bet half of those people don’t really know who you are. It’s better to have a couple of really good friends who know you really well and love you just the way you are than to have a bunch of friends who don’t really care about you.

When I look for a friend, I want somebody who is loving and caring, who will always lend a hand and who likes me for me.

I love friends who appreciate me, and I appreciate them.

So I hope you will always be yourself, and that you will not change who you are or start over.

It is OK if you make a mistake.

I have made a lot of mistakes, but I have gone back and fixed them. I hope you have learned something from me. Thank you for reading this. ✪

Painting by Bryson Brooks courtesy of Anarte Gallery

Great friendships take time, patience and a little bit of hard work.

background illustration Aleksey Mishin, children & their things illustrations suerz, cloud illustration vectorlib.com/shutterstock.com, photo by michael giordano

by Olivia Bakke

✝

■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■

St. Thomas Episcopal School provides a faith-based education for children ages two through fifth grade. Our core values include inclusiveness, creativity, respect, and excellence.

The dedicated teaching staff of degreed teachers instructs students in a caring environment that promotes excellence in education.

Fully accredited by the Southwestern Association of Episcopal Schools, St. Thomas builds on its thirty plus years of faith-based education.

Visit us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/tom1604school

OUR CURRICULUM INCLUDES: ✚ Mathematical thinking ✚ Inquiry science ✚ Literacy ✚ Art ✚ Computer literacy ✚ Spanish ✚ Music ✚ Physical Education

Contact: DR. DEBRA ROOT 210-494-3509 www.stthomaskids.com 1416 N. Loop 1604 E. San Antonio, TX 78232

!

se u a C t a e r G A r o F n Ru pkin Buy a Pum t. PJ’s S e h t m o fr Patch! n i k p m u P

Children’s Activities, Costume Contest & More!

Pancake Breakfast Sponsored By: Magnolia Pancake Haus

*New ThisYear* Chip Timing!

Go to www.stpjhome.org or call 531-8592 to start a team, become a sponsor and participate in St. PJ’s Great Pumpkin Run! Please sign up, set up your webpage and fundraise online to help us reach our goal for the children at St. PJ’s.

nfamily magazine 61

Pumpkin Run NFamily Ad.indd 1

● ● ● ●

7/15/2013 4:19:40 PM

fitness

Challenged, But Not Defined LaDonia Franke takes control and gives diabetes a run for its money.

A

pproximately 1,919,500 adults, or 7.30 percent of Texas’ adult population, have diagnosed diabetes. Someone is diagnosed with diabetes every 17 seconds in the United States.

As a resident of one of the highest-percentage cities with diabetes, San Antonio native LaDonia Franke could easily let herself be a statistic instead of an inspiration to those fighting diabetes. Having Type II diabetes, Franke has to manage her diabetes with carb counting and insulin daily. Most importantly, exercise plays a key factor in her goal to stay healthy.

“What motivates me when I need the extra push is to realize that my body needs the exercise just as much as it needs insulin,” she said. “I

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62 nfamily magazine

grandmother and grandson image alekso94/shutterstock.com

by Lenore Kaiser

24-Hour Daycare

P A R E N T I N G

EVENTS

advice

still have a lot of plans for my future, and I need to be healthy to accomplish my goals and be an active part of my family’s life.”

Franke incorporates video series “TurboFire and Insanity” to motivate herself because she finds it fun with a great variety of exercises and it takes the guesswork out of what she needs to do and how she needs to do it.

“I don’t want to be the wife in a wheelchair, the mom on the sidelines or the grandmother who only bakes cookies,” she said. “I want to be an active part of my life.

Fitness and health are the only way I know to help ensure that will be the case.”

Franke recently accomplished a halfmarathon in Austin with the support of her husband, stepson and daughter-in-law. “It wasn’t easy, that’s for sure … but it also wasn’t impossible,” she proudly said. “You can’t explain the feeling of pride you get once you cross the finish line of an event like that. It takes a certain amount of both physical and mental strength to complete a half-marathon.”

When asked her advice to others struggling with diabetes, she said, “Strive for better. You don’t have to be perfect. You don’t have to go out and run a half-mara-

EDUCATION

heart running image Jovanovic Dejan/shutterstock.com

“I don’t want to be the wife in the wheelchair or the mom on the sidelines.”

health

for the family T H E R A P Y

spiritual

PLAY

thon. Just strive to do better than you did yesterday. We can do anything if we stick to it long enough.” ✪

For more information on diabetes or to participate in the Stop Diabetes 5K on Nov. 2, 2013, visit www.diabetes.org/stepoutsanantonio.

Lenore Kaiser is the wellness director and owner of Kaiser Medical Management. For more information, call 1-800-764-0418 or go to www.kaisermedicalmanagement.com.

Like us on Facebook!

nfamily magazine 63

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fur family

Pet-Proofing Safely including your canines in your early school year and Howl-o-ween activities

PAWZ IN THE CITY

by Deborah D. Salas and Elizabeth Nickell

I

Supplies and commands

Speaking of “cool,” back-to-school is in full swing already! While most people have gotten their shopping done by this point, there may still be supplies in the house waiting to be taken to school. This is more specifically the case if you have young children.

If that’s you, please keep this little tidbit of information in mind: Small supplies like erasers look a lot like Fido’s kibbles. That’s right, folks: Dogs have been known to eat school supplies – not just homework. So when sorting and/or storing, please keep your four-legged family members in mind.

Happy Howl-o-ween!

Halloween is no longer limited to the two-legged family members. Nowadays, people are opting to take their dog(s) trick-or-treating with them. Whether you’re staying indoors or joining the fun in the streets, are your activities pet-proof?

Here are some tips for keeping your pet(s) safe:

Ingesting costumes: There is nothing much cuter than a pooch dressed up, but Sparky may not agree.

If you notice your pooch chewing/ gnawing on its costume, it’s probably best to remove it. Costumes also tend to be flammable, so keep lit candles (jacko-lanterns included) out of Sparky’s reach.

Chocolate: loved by humans, hated by dogs. Please avoid getting the two in contact with each other. Ingesting chocolate has the potential to be fatal.

Gum: Ingesting gum is another common issue for canines. Doing so can cause liver failure, potentially leading to death.

Dogs have been known to eat school supplies – not just homework.

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64 nfamily magazine

bulldog with pumpkin image WilleeCole; pink eraser image endeavor/shutterstock.com

f you’re reading this, it means you’ve survived yet another triple-digit summer here in San Antonio.

With any luck, you and yours – furry ones included – were able to find fun ways to escape the sun and keep cool the last couple of months.

Safety first: If you are walking the neighborhood with your pooch, be sure to have your pooch adorned in reflective collars and coats.

doggy treat recipe This Howl-o-ween, don’t limit your treats to just the kids – bake some treats for the dogs, too! Here is an easy recipe containing common – and all-natural – household ingredients:

Ingredients: • 2 cups whole-wheat flour • 1 cup oats • 1/3 cup all-natural peanut butter • 1 cup warm water

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

2. Mix dry ingredients together. Add the peanut butter and slowly mix in the warm water.

3. Roll into 1-inch balls and place on a greased cookie sheet. Cook for 25 to 30 minutes.

4. Remove from oven and let sit for an hour to firm up.

5. Let your dogs enjoy!

A listening & spoken language school

Salutes the Texas Cavaliers & Texas Cavalier Charitable Foundation dog licking nose image Fly_dragonfly/shutterstock.com

for Supporting the Children of San Antonio

Save the Date

Sunshine Cottage 2013 Legacy Luncheon Honoring The Texas Cavaliers & Texas Cavalier Charitable Foundation October 9, 2013 • 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m.

That’s it for now, friends! For more information, please contact me at www.pamprdpawz.com or 210-320-6403.

For sponsor or ticket information: (210) 832-2421 or sschwartz@sunshinecottage.org

603 E. Hildebrand Ave. • San Antonio, Texas • 78212 (210) 824-0579 • www.sunshinecottage.org nfamily magazine 65

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fur family

and

Quick Easy TREATS How baking homemade treats for your dog can have benefits for the entire family

illustration elements monbibi/shutterstock.com

by Genevieve Allen

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66 nfamily magazine

M

aking treats at home can be fun and rewarding for the entire family. Your dog will adore you and your children will want to help. Making treats can benefit your family in many ways.

Firstly, you get to decide what ingredients you would like to add based on your dog’s preferences and dietary needs. Secondly, you personally eliminate additives and unnecessary ingredients.

A third benefit for you and your pooch is that you can create treats to support any diet or nutritional needs. Does your dog take glucosamine? Put it in the treats!

When choosing the best recipe for your pooch, be sure to follow some simple guidelines. Decide on a size and shape for your treat. If you are cooking for a Chihuahua, plan on using smaller cookiecutter designs. If you are making treats for a Mastiff, use a big cookie cutter.

Is your dog on a special diet? You can make treats and change recipes to better suit a food in the past. After getting your size and appropriate ingredients, you are ready!

There are many different recipes you can try. Here are some of my favorites:

Carob Chomps Ingredients: • 1 cup rice flour • 1/2 cup carob powder • 1 teaspoon cinnamon • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract • 3/4 cup water

Directions: 1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

2. Mix all ingredients in a large bowl and knead until dough is formed and smooth.

3. Roll onto floured surface 1/4 inch thick and cut with cookie cutter of your choice.

4. Place on ungreased cookie sheet and bake for 10 to 15 minutes or the cookies start to crackle.

5. Cool and refrigerate.

Cool Cubes Ingredients: • 1/2 can wet pt dog food • 1 ½ cup water

Directions: ● ● ●

illustration elements Togataki; dog image Eric Isselee/shutterstock.com

PB Biscuits Ingredients: • 1 cup milk • 1 cup peanut butter • 2 cups self-rising flour

Directions: 1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

2. Mix flour and milk, then combine peanut butter.

3. Roll out dough with rolling pin.

4. Cut into cute shapes with cookie cutters.

5. Place on ungreased cookie sheet.

6. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes until golden brown.

7. Let cool and store in airtight container (can be stored in a freezer for up to 6 months).

Be sure to offer a small treat first to make sure your pup’s belly agrees with the new treats. Once Fido shows you he’s fine, treat away! Homemade dog treats can be perfect gifts for housewarming parties, a sweet hello to a newly adopted animal or just a nice gesture for a friend or neighbor.

Baking dog treats is a perfect way to bond with your family (furry and human).

If you have any questions about which treats or ingredients are right for your dog, contact your veterinarian. A healthy dog is a happy dog. ✪

1. Mix wet food and water in bowl.

2. Spray ice cube tray with cooking spray.

3. Spread mixture over ice cube tray.

4. Freeze and enjoy (serve outside – it can get messy).

For more information, visit www.allrecipes. com or www.dogtreatkitchen.com.

When you make treats, you personally eliminate additives and unnecessary ingredients. nfamily magazine 67

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nonprofit

The annual Doc McStuffins Clinic encourages self-awareness and care for the residents of St. Jude’s Ranch for Children. by Tracee Orihel

S

t. Jude’s Ranch for Children is a popular organization known for giving back to the community and helping children and families in need. The mission of St. Jude’s Ranch for Children is to transform the lives of abused and at-risk children, young adults and families by empowering them to create new chances, new choices and new hope in a caring community.

It can be difficult to imagine the unfortunate circumstances that abused children and families endure, but the issue of abuse is very real – a problem that ● ● ● ●

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needs to be addressed so that change can take place. This is where St. Jude’s Ranch for Children comes in. Fr. Jack Adam founded St. Jude’s Ranch for Children in 1967 when he first opened the doors to a neglected child.

Since that first child, St. Jude’s Ranch for Children has provided a healing and nurturing environment for more than 1,000 children. Today, St. Jude’s Ranch for Children has three campuses: national headquarters located in Boulder City, Nev., and two other locations in the Texas Hill Country.

San Antonio’s North Central Baptist Hospital partnered with Radio Disney and

put on an event at the St. Jude’s Ranch for Children in Bulverde, Texas, that assisted those in need and gave hope that a healthier and better future is possible. The event was the Doc McStuffins Clinic, held in June.

What exactly is the Doc McStuffins Clinic? It is a community event children and families attend to have some summer fun, as well as to receive health and wellness information. The main goal of the annual Doc McStuffins Clinic is to reduce any anxiety or fear that may exist with children regarding doctor visits. It also encourages self-awareness and care for their growing bodies.

doctor examining child image StockLite/shutterstock.com

A Caring Community

The Doc McStuffins Clinic continues to build a sense of community between hospitals and medical providers for residents in the surrounding San Antonio area. This year’s event included the Doc McStuffins Clinic, Doc McStuffins arts and crafts, Radio Disney songs, games and dancing, a water slide and health and wellness vendors, among other kid-related activities.

The children who attended were invited to bring a stuffed animal, or one was provided to them, for a “checkup.”

The checkup event began at the “cuddle lounge,” where the child and their stuffed animal waited to see the doctor. From there, they proceeded through a series of checkup stations such as heartbeat, reflexes and height.

At the end of the checkup, each child was presented with a certificate of checkup completion. “It’s a great opportunity to interact with the children in our community in a setting outside the clinical – one where they can relax and have fun,” said Eric Ritchie, M.D., FAAOS. The Orthopaedic & Spine Institute and the Children’s Orthopaedic & Spine Center were both in attendance at the event to show support for the cause and to distribute information on orthopedic health and wellness.

Drs. Hongbo Liu and Eric Ritchie,

physicians at the Children’s Orthopaedic & Spine Center, were at St. Jude’s Ranch to provide children and families with information on their specialty (pediatric orthopedics) and assist in helping children feel more comfortable about visiting the doctor.

This event was for the children who reside at St. Jude’s Ranch for Children, but it was also open to the community. At the Orthopaedic & Spine Institute, we strongly believe in the importance of giving back time and money to support underprivileged children, especially in their backyard. ✪

photos courtesy of st. jude’s ranch

The main goal of the Doc McStuffins Clinic is to reduce any anxiety or fear that exists with children regarding doctor visits.

For more information, visit www. stjudesranch.com.

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nonprofit

Lena Scalercio, special projects director, at Pawdoptathon adoption event weekend. Eightyone SAPA! animals found homes in one weekend!

Fall Pawdoptathon details coming soon.

Driving Force

S

Rosemary Jones, associate executive director, baby-bottle feeds a kitten.

SAPA! constantly needs fosters and volunteers during high kitten/puppy season in the summer months. ● ● ● ●

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ince January 2012, San Antonio Pets Alive! (SAPA!) has been a driving force in the movement toward making San Antonio the largest no-kill city in the nation. Modeled after Austin Pets Alive! (which is credited with Austin’s achievement of no-kill in 2011), SAPA! is a nonprofit organization largely run by dedicated volunteers.

SAPA!’s mission is to save every adoptable dog and cat in danger of euthanasia at the San Antonio city shelter through adoption, foster care, baby-bottle feeding, Positive Alternatives to Shelter Surrender (PASS) and the involvement of citizens and businesses in order to make San Antonio a

no-kill city. Unique to other rescues, SAPA! focuses solely on pets that have already been passed over by other groups’ and shelters’ adoption programs, which often means pulling the ill, injured and hard-to-place breeds and animals.

By involving the community and the city, SAPA! has been able to take the city’s live release rate to a record high. “In a little over a year, we have helped raise the city’s live release rate from 30 percent to 78 percent and have saved over 9,000 animals,” said Rosemary Jones, associate executive director.

SAPA! is also building resources in San Antonio to help citizens find ways to keep animals out of the shelter and off

all photos courtesy of san antonio pets alive!

San Antonio Pets Alive! works to make San Antonio the largest no-kill city in the nation. by Lena Scalercio

of the euthanasia list. PASS was created to fill that gap.

“We offer a variety of ways to help you help your pet, from re-homing resources, low-cost medical options, behavioral resources, help with food and even advocating on your behalf if needed,” Jones said.

Recently, San Antonio City Council selected SAPA! to manage the new Paul Jolly Adoption Center and PETCO Pavilion scheduled to open in October 2013. Located across from the San Antonio Zoo, the center will be a people- and animal-friendly location where San Antonio residents can adopt a dog, cat, puppy or kitten. The adoption center is on the site of the old Animal Care Services location, which was torn down to make room for this new state-of-the-art facility. Funded partially with a $1 million grant from the Petco Foundation, the adoption center is named after former Petco Foundation Executive Director Paul Jolly.

A covered pavilion is also

located on the campus to allow for events and training. It is expected that 3,000 pets will be adopted from the center yearly. This will greatly expand SAPA!’s ability to save more lives. “In an effort to help fund this expansion, we are reaching out to the community for support and partnership,” said Lindy Hardin, development lead. “We have monthly

difference,” Hardin said. “For those who are not old enough to volunteer onsite, they can host donation drives, lemonade stand fundraisers, donations, make ‘adopt me’ vests or sponsor animals to help them get adopted.

“Volunteering is a great way to teach children and teens to give back and will provide them the opportunity to log volunteer

organizations such as NJHS, NHS and ROTC. Fostering is also a great way to teach a child about responsibility.”

SAPA! is constantly working with the city and the community to continue to save as many animals as possible, and there are a variety of ways to pitch in, according to Vickie Lucero, placement coordinator: “If you can’t adopt, foster. If you

“In a little over a year, we have saved more than 9,000 animals.” fundraisers and are always looking for more ways to involve local businesses.”

SAPA! offers a variety of ways for the community to get involved. Even children and teens can find ways to participate in the movement toward making San Antonio a no-kill city. “There is a way for everyone to help make a

hours for school organizations.

If students start volunteering now, they will likely directly help San Antonio become the largest no- kill city in the nation within the next few years. How’s that for showing your community impact on and college applications? We encourage group volunteering for students involved in

can’t foster, volunteer. If you can’t volunteer, donate.” ✪ If you are interested in adopting, fostering, volunteering or donating, email info@sanantoniopetsalive.org or visit www. sanantoniopetsalive.org. You can also look for San Antonio Pets Alive! on Facebook or Twitter (@sapetsalive). nfamily magazine 71

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nonprofit

Teamwork for Tomorrow

Austin Sunshine Camps and the Andy Roddick Foundation form a partnership to teach tennis to high-potential, lowincome children in the Austin area. by Carol Thomas

I

n their first year as partners, Austin Sunshine Camps (ASC) and the Andy Roddick Foundation (ARF) collaborated to teach tennis to high-potential, low-income ASC campers. The ARF tennis camp staff visited the ASC facilities to teach tennis to more than 400 youth this summer, providing coaches and assistants, as well as the equipment necessary to learn and play the sport. The tennis lessons are part of a free ● ● ● ●

72 nfamily magazine

summer camp session offered every year at its facilities in the heart of Zilker Park.

“The Andy Roddick Foundation demonstrates what companies and organizations in Austin are capable of, sharing its time, talents and treasures with those in our community who are in need of our care and attention – our youth,” said Jenny Stucky, ASC executive director. “We are grateful for the opportunity to partner with ARF and hope this is just the first of many new area supporters willing

to come out and help mentor Austin’s youth.”

Both ASC and ARF are united in creating opportunities that empower our community’s most vulnerable youth through education and now sportsbased mentoring.

Established in 1928 by the Young Men’s Business League of Austin (YMBL), ASC is the only camp in Central Texas that offers services free of charge to the families who attend. The campers at Zilker Park, ages 7 to 11, are

taught self-confidence, trust and teamwork in a culturally stimulating environment, with experiences in hiking, swimming, canoeing and other engaging activities. ASC staff and YMBL members work with the children during their signature summer camp programs and year-round academic programs to help develop the tools necessary to overcome the variety of difficulties they face in their day-to-day lives.

The children are assailed on all fronts from challenges of poverty and family disintegration to the threats of drug abuse and violence.

ASC’s ultimate goals are to prepare today’s high-potential, low-income Central Texas students for the challenges of tomorrow and help reduce the high school dropout rate. ASC accomplishes this through the cultivation of academically strong and socially conscious young men and women by fostering life skills and promoting educational success.

Since its inception, ASC has served more than 48,000 children. ✪

To learn more about Austin Sunshine Camps, visit www. sunshinecamps.org.

photo by carol thomas

ASC is the only camp in Central Texas that offers services free of charge to the families who attend.

Keeping your family active with

a Fitness guide for the whole family

Liz Whittaker // liz@nfitsa.com // 210.621.7301 nfamily magazine 73

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Be a Hero!

JOIN THE SOCIETY OF ST. PJ’S

HELP PROVIDE OPPORTUNITIES FOR OUR CHILDREN TO LIVE HEALTHY AND FULFILLED LIVES.

The Board of Governors of St. PJ’s Children’s Home cordially invites you into Charter Membership in the Society of St. PJ’s

The Impact of an Annual Gift Our Mission

Don a

The mission of St. PJ’s Children’s Home is to serve the needs of children and families by providing a safe, nurturing community to heal the body, mind and spirit; shape successful adults and break the cycle of abuse and neglect.

The Society of St. PJ’s is a group of concerned people who are taking a personal responsibility in the fight against the abuse of children.

Our members recognize the value of social force. By banding together and pooling our contributions, we are able to have considerably more effect than we could as individuals. It is with great hope that you join us in our fight of helping abused children.

it o

s l e ev

Mentor: L n Annual Gift

Friend: Annual Gift of $250 Keep up to date with a newsletter and receive a decal to share your support!

ofEnjoy $500 a

newsletter, decal, commemorative pin, and a box of St. PJ’s cards.

Caregiver: Annual Gift of $1,000 Invitation to two ‘invitation only’ events plus all the gifts from the previous levels.

Thank You!

Pal: Annual Gift of $100

Be a part of the Society’s sustainable future.

919 Mission Rd., San Antonio, TX 78210 • (210) 533-1203 • (210) 531-8554 • www.stpjhome.org/society • society@stpjhome.org St.Peter-St. Joseph Children’s Home is a 501(c)3 charitable organization. ● ● ● ●

74 nfamily magazine

Pledge Form

❑ I accept your invitation to Charter Membership in the Society of St. PJ’s.

❑ $5,000 Family Member ❑ $2,500 Guardian Member ❑ $1,000 Caregiver Member

❑ $500 Mentor Member ❑ $250 Friend ❑ $100 Pal

PAYMENT METHOD: ❑ Check enclosed (Made payable to St. PJ’s Children’s Home) ❑ You may charge my contribution to: ❑ Mastercard ❑ Visa ❑ AMEX

Big Plans for the Big Picture St. PJ’s intends to expand its support services to include family based services to prepare a family for their children to return home and to ensure the family and child together receive the services needed to stay together for a happy, successful future.

Account #: Name on Card: Exp. Date: Signature: Your gift to St. PJ’s Children’s Home is tax deductible to the full extent of the law.

❑ Please list my/our name on the Roster of Charter Members as follows: Mailing Address:

❑ Do not list my/our name on the Roster of Charter Members

Guardian: Annual Gift of $2,500 A very special level of

giving which includes invitation to an exclusive event at a board member’s home; plus all the gifts from the previous levels.

Family: Annual Gift of $5,000 An opportunity to enjoy

all the gifts of appreciation and an invitation to be a celebrity server at the children’s only annual “Party with a Purpose” on the campus of St. PJ’s!

“Your gift is our future ”

CIE E SO TY O F TH

For more information on general donations, email society@stpjhome.org or call us at (210) 533-1203.

nfamily magazine 75

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arts

20 Years of Magik The Magik Theatre celebrates two decades of fostering a culture of creativity and education in San Antonio-area children.

O

ctober marks the beginning of the 20th anniversary season for the Magik Theatre, where imagination is education. Established in 1994, the Magik Theatre and has produced hundreds of live stage versions of children’s classic and contemporary literature such as “The Cat in the Hat,” “The Velveteen Rabbit,” “Pinkalicious” and “Rapunzel,” among others.

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Throughout the last 20 years, the Magik Theatre has entertained millions of children and their families, and more than 750 schools in 70 school districts spanning throughout South and Central Texas. With a commitment to fostering a culture that allows creativity of literary works and education to coexist, the Magik Theatre is a oneof-a-kind performing arts institution giving children that entrée to live theatre.

The Magik Theatre

photo by david frank

Special to NFamily

photo by david frank

The theatre provides entertainment that focuses on advancing literacy and showcasing the moral strengths of classic characters.

opened as the first professional theatre in San Antonio for both adults and youth. Over the last two decades, the theatre’s casts of professional actors have performed more than 160 plays and toured nationally to bring books to life throughout the country. The Magik Theatre and its actors have become leaders in educating San Antonio’s youth with entertainment that focuses on advancing literacy and showcasing the moral strengths of classic characters brought to life.

Richard Rosen, the founder and executive director of the Magik Theatre, is a firm believer in the arts as education. “The Magik Theatre company’s goal has stayed true since its inception: to synchronize arts and education and provide a well-rounded learning opportunity for San Antonioarea children,” Rosen says.

The Magik Theatre provides arts education programs all year long. At the Magik Theatre, children can attend Camp Showbiz, an acting camp offered each summer. Children are also offered an opportunity to participate in Magik’s Acting & Creative Academy and the Shakespeare Speaks workshop. These programs empower imagination and help students learn to think critically and develop cognitive ability, as well as encourage students to be passionate

about everything they do.

The Magik Theatre also does its part to help the children of our community. Xcelerated Theatre is offered in collaboration with the Cyndi Taylor Krier Correctional Center and the Bexar County Juvenile Probation Department, and it introduces the Magik Theatre mentors to incarcerated youth. Xcelerated Theatre proves that a positive outlet where the arts and mentorship effectively improve academic achievement can reduce delinquent behavior and improve attitudes about themselves and their future.

The Magik Theatre will commence its 2013-14 season on Oct. 11 with “Willy Wonka.” The 20th anniversary season will feature seven main stage performances, including “The Best Christmas Pageant Ever,” “Llama Llama,” “Skippyjon Jones,” “Pinocchio,” “The Bootmaker and the Elves” and “Shrek the Musical.” ✪

Come experience a children’s theatre like never before at the Magik Theatre, located in the heart of downtown San Antonio. For more information about educational programs or to purchase tickets or season passes, please visit www.magiktheatre.org. nfamily magazine 77

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events

Say goodbye to summer and hello to fall by treating the whole family to these festive Alamo City events throughout September and October.

Sept. 7 – Oct. 27, 2013

River City Run/ 5K Running Tour of San Antonio Join us on Saturday and Sunday mornings at 8 a.m. through October for a fun and active way to tour downtown San Antonio. River City Run is a 5K guided running tour beginning at 300 Alamo Plaza.

There are 15 stops along the way where guides share interesting and historical

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78 nfamily magazine

information about many downtown sites. The tour is group oriented, and runners of all abilities are encouraged to participate. The cost is $30. Call 210-201-3786 for more information. www. rivercityrunsa.com

Art in collaboration with Slab Cinema. Special performances and art activities begin one hour prior to screening time.

Bring your lawn chairs, blankets and picnics. Ages 6 and up are welcome. www. samuseum.org

Sept. 14 & Oct. 12, 2013

Sept. 21, 2013

This is an outdoor film series at the San Antonio Museum of

Walk to End Alzheimer’s is the nation’s largest event to

Family Flicks at Sundown

Walk to End Alzheimer’s

raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer’s care, support and research. Join us at the AT&T Center from 7 to 11 a.m. Together, we can end Alzheimer’s disease, the nation’s sixth-leading cause of death. Call 210-822-6449 for more information. www.alz. org/walk

fall leaves against blue sky image Sergey Nivens; fall leaves illustrations ecco; riverwalk image Natalia Bratslavsky/shutterstock.com

Fall Into Autumn

girl in witch costume image Monkey Business Images; girl with skateboard image Tatyana Vyc; runners image Suzanne Tucker; cyclist image Diego Cervo; boy in magician costume image glenda/shutterstock.com

Oct. 5, 2013

Lucky Duck Race & Festival

Sept. 28 – Oct. 28, 2013

SeaWorld San Antonio Howl-O-Scream

The spooks start early with fun for the whole family. Each weekend in October, enjoy kidfriendly shows during the day.

But beware: The later you stay, the more you’ll scream! The witching hour is 6 p.m., and you never know what ghoulish creatures will come up from the graves. Call 800-700-7786 for more information. www. seaworldparks.com

At the Pearl from 3 to 6 p.m., 20,000 rubber ducks will race down the San Antonio River!

It’s only $5 to adopt a duck, and proceeds will benefit the Hire Haven job training program at Haven for Hope, a transformational homeless campus in downtown San Antonio. The event will also feature a free concert by Broken Duck Feet. To learn more, call 210-227-4262. www. thesanantonioriverwalk.com

Sept. 29, 2013

YMCA Siclovia Bring the family to run, walk, ride a bike or skateboard and play in the street for the day.

This free event at Lion’s Field Park will turn Broadway into a safe place for people of all ages to exercise and play in a car-free environment from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Other activities include zumba, yoga, music and many vendors with fun and interesting information on healthy lifestyles. www. ymcasatx.org/siclovia

cycling events across the county. This year’s ride includes both one- and two-day options from 47 miles to 158 miles. It’s not the miles that matter – it’s the unforgettable journey. This event at the AT&T Center is geared to help raise funds in an effort to find a cure and provide programs and services to those directly impacted by MS. The run goes from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday and from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Sunday. Call 210444-5000 for more information. www.biketxh.nationalmssociety. org Oct. 17, 2013

Oct. 12, 2013

Fourth Annual St. PJ’s Great Pumpkin 5K The Great Pumpkin Run is a family-oriented event held in the heart of historic San Antonio at St. Peter – St. Joseph Children’s Home. More importantly, it is a fun, exciting way to support children who have been victims of abuse and/or neglect and to increase awareness of this tragic and ongoing problem in our community. The event starts at 7 a.m., and the cost is $30.

Call 210-531-8592 for more information. www.stpjhome.org Oct 12 & 13, 2013

Bike MS: Valero 2013 Alamo Ride to the River The Valero 2013 ride is one of a series of 100 extraordinary

Green Spaces Alliance Fall Gala Link an evening of delicious food, lively entertainment and the company of great people with the pleasure of funding our important programs now and into the future. The event will take place at the Steves Homestead House Museum, located at 509 King William.

The festivities start at 6:30 p.m., and the cost is $150.

Call 210-222-8430 for more information.

participating in the walk, you help MADD offer services to crash survivors, prevent underage drinking and create safer communities in South Texas. The event runs from 7:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., and the cost is $15 for youth (5 to 20) and $20 for adults (21 and up).

Register online by Sept. 20 and get a free T-shirt. For more information, call 210-349-0200. www.support.madd.org Oct. 31, 2013

More Delightful Than Frightful Wear your delightful-notfrightful Halloween costumes and enjoy the park and a night of trick-or-treating at Morgan’s Wonderland. The event is for ages 12 and under, but specialneeds individuals are welcome regardless of age. Bring in three non-perishable food items per person from Oct. 1 through 30 and receive a coupon for free admission on Halloween.

The event runs from 5 to 8 p.m. Please bring either a food donation or $5 on the day of the event. Call 210-495-5888 for more information. www. morganswonderland.com

Oct. 19, 2013

Walk Like MADD San Antonio 5K This is a walk and festival held annually to raise funds in order to save lives. This family-friendly event features live entertainment, a pet area and activities for the kids at the AT&T Center. By

nfamily magazine 79

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events

A Fine Balance

The Alamo City welcomes the first local Brain Balance Center with a grand opening celebration. by kelly hamilton

For more information on Melillo and Brain Balance, please visit www.brainbalancecenters.com or www.drrobertmelillo.com, or call the Petters’ San Antonio center at 210-620-7378. ● ● ● ●

80 nfamily magazine

photos by Liz Albrecht

S

an Antonio welcomed its first Brain Balance Center via a grand opening celebration on July 18 and 19, 2013. Under the direction and management of Zach and Amanda Petter, the center is based on the study of Dr. Robert Melillo, functional neurologist and founder of the Brain Balance Center concept.

Brain Balance Achievement Centers have helped thousands of kids reach their academic and social potential through their unique drugfree, whole-child approach. “Our customized sensory motor and cognitive activity plans, coupled with nutrition guidelines, address the root cause of most learning and developmental disorders.” ✪

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nfamily magazine 83

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Read 3 times a week.

Help shape a child’s mind.

With your help, we have given away over 1.5 million children’s books!

Over 500,000 Texas children are not read to on a regular basis and many of them do not have any books in their homes at all. H-E-B’s Read 3 program encourages families to read to young children at least three times a week and provides access to books.

Go to heb.com/read3 to learn more. ©2013 HEB, 13-4409

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84 nfamily magazine