Willamette Kids and Family- July/August 2016

Image by Butterfly Portrait Studio

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ello Summertime!

Happy July and August! I thought that summer may never get here. Now it’s here in all it’s glory and I’m dreaming about all the wonderful ways to fill it!

This issue has some great ideas for outdoor activities with your family near the Salem area. Whether you are hankering for a hike, wishing for water fun, gearing up for Movies in the Park, or fantasizing about the fairgrounds- I’ve collected a lot of great info to help make your lazy summer days, ones to remember!

Butterfly Portrait Studio and I just wrapped up our cutest kiddo contest on facebook and we couldn’t BELIEVE how many cuties were entered! Our cover baby Linora, won hands down with over 2000 likes!

Special thanks to Jenn at Butterfly Portrait Studio!

So much fun!

I invite you to join us online for up to the minute local events, giveaways, sweepstakes, links and so many cool activity ideas for all around family fun.

Oh, and guess what?! I’m putting together a monthly e-newsletter for all my readers! I expect it to be ready mid-July. You can sign up for it on the website www.willamettekidsandfamily.com.

While you’re on the website, you will also find an updated calendar of events, information on giveaways, a local blog and more! There’s absolutely no reason to be bored in the Willamette Valley- so much is going on!

Happy Summer to you and your family. May it be full of lemonade flavored giggles and sunshine warm hugs. I’ll be over here thanking my lucky stars that I get to live in such a gorgeous state with the best people ever.

Yvette

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Kids & Trauma:

4 Common Myths Debunked { + Tips for Recovery }

by Jenifer Trivelli, M.S

Trauma is a fact of life. As parents, we

memory of a traumatic event, it didn’t happen.

often operate on the belief that we have to construct lives for our children that protect and keep them from experiencing negative, scary, and overwhelming things in the world. While it’s true that there is much we can do to create positive life experiences, it is also our duty to provide them with the skills and tools needed to survive and cope with emotional anguish as they get older.

Trauma is stored in the cells of our bodies, regardless of whether a conscious memory accompanies it. When a person experiences any event as too overwhelming to process, the parts of the brain which encode what’s called explicit memory go offline to protect the person from experiencing it in that way.

The body retains the memory, and after time goes on, the trigger of the physical body’s memory can pull up the previously repressed explicit memory.

With media outlets sharing dramatized versions of events which are already difficult to understand and process, we as a society are in need of developing a deeper and more accurate understanding of the impact this has on our basic sense of safety in the world. The impact of trauma, in fact, can be described as a rupture in a person’s basic sense of safety.

Myth #3: Children who have experi-

enced trauma need to talk about what happened in order to heal.

Surprisingly, talking about trauma is not necessary to heal from it. Because trauma is largely a process which happens in the body and subcortical areas of the brain, healing approaches which target these areas help children re-integrate a basic sense of safety from which meaningful healing can occur. Pushing a child to talk about something they experienced as overwhelming can often end up re-traumatizing the child instead of providing any healing.

Myth #1: Trauma is related to one time, dramatic events; such as car accidents, acts of war, medical procedures, and natural disasters.

Trauma can also be a pattern of neglect, abuse, or difficult experiences that happen over time. Having parents that are unavailable or unpredictable emotionally can be a form of trauma.

Myth #4: Flashbacks and irrational

Myth #2: Children who are too young

fears are the main signs that a child has experienced trauma.

to remember trauma don’t suffer any effects; and if a person doesn’t have a

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Kids who have experienced trauma often display physical and emotional symptoms more frequently than mental symptoms. Psychosomatic complaints such as headache and stomach problems are common, as well as difficulty focusing. In fact, some estimate 70% of ADHD diagnosis are actually mis-diagnosed trauma.

Emotional symptoms include irritability, hyper-reactivity, rage, and sadness without a cause. Isolation, over- and under-eating, and an addiction to screen time are additional signs to look for. Regression behaviors such as bed-wetting, speaking from a younger developmental stage, and difficulty managing emotional states are clues, too.

Tips for aiding recovery from trauma (which happen to be good tips in general, too):

•

• • • •

Less talk, more non-verbal soothing (think: hugs, turn down noise & lights, reading books & singing songs) Less screen time, more physical activity Less Facebook, more face time (especially one-on-one for kids who have siblings) Enlist knowledgeable professionals to support both the child and parent Less medications, more natural supports for the body’s systems

There is much more to learn about understanding and responding to trauma. These myths and tips are merely scratching the surface of what has been uncovered in the last few decades. May it provide you with a helpful starting place in understanding the journey of the children in your care who may have experienced this unavoidable facet of life.

Jenifer Trivelli, M.S., author of Peanut and the BIG Feelings: a Guidebook for Children, works with children, couples, families, and organizations to deepen self-understanding, increase emotional regulation, and promote healthy relationships. She partners with The Trauma Academy LLC to further aid parents and organizations that serve children who have experienced trauma. Please reach her by email at jenifer.trivelli@gmail.com.

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Ankeny National Wildlife Refuge

TAKE A HIKE

Distance: 2.5 miles Difficulty: Easy Fees: None Distance from Salem: 23 miles This wildlife refuge just south of Salem is home to a wide variety of bird species. Two well kept boardwalk trails wind through the wetlands and covered bird blinds for wildlife viewing. The flat incline make this a great outing for all ages.

Most trails are open year round.

The Rail Trail boardwalk is a great opportunity at Wood Duck Pond where Hooded Mergansers, Egrets, and Canada Geese are often spotted in numbers.

Pintail & Egret Marsh Boardwalk follows Bashaw Creek. Keep an eye out for Red legged frogs here! The boardwalk ends at an observation blind overlooking Pintail and Egret Marshes. Watch for Osprey, various duck species as well as Tundra Swans and Canada Geese.

Directions: Ankeny NWR can be found off of Interstate 5, 12 miles south of Salem, Oregon or 10 miles north of Albany, Oregon; take the Ankeny Hill Exit (243). The refuge is bordered by Ankeny Hill Road, Buena Vista Road , and Wintel Road.

Map it! Ankeny National Wildlife Refuge, Jefferson, OR 97352

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Like a modern day treasure huntGeocaching is a great outdoor adventure for family members of all ages!

ing, if you take something from the cache, you replace it with something of equal or greater value. So, have the kids pack an assortment of trinkets to leave.

You will also need a small handheld GPS reciever or a downloaded app such as c:geo for android. A quick search of your phone app store will yield various open source GPS apps specifically for geocaching. You can download one on www. geocaching.com Lastly- caches have logbooks, so don’t forget your pen!

What is geocaching?

What is geocaching, you ask?

It’s amazing fun that is alive and well in the Willamette Valley, that’s what it is!

Geocaching uses small GPS units or cell phone apps to find hidden “caches” that people have hidden in your neighborhood or out in parks and on trails. Caches are containers of various sizes that are hidden and blend into their surroundings. The cache contains a logbook to sign, and sometimes even small, themed trinkets for trade.

Tips for finding the cache.l

Most GPS recievers are accurate to about 20 feet. Once you near the cache, it’s time to start looking! Remind your children to exercise care and encourage them to be aware of their surroundings.

The geocache community follows the “Leave no Trace” principle and even practices a “Cache in, Trash out” mentality.

Always respectfully leave the site better than you found it.

How do we get started?

Your first step will be to sign up for a free account on the world-wide database found at www.geocaching.com. Log into the database to find a cache near you.

Each cache lists the size of the cache, the difficulty in finding it, terrain and when it was last found.

A quick search located over 32 caches within a 2 mile radius of my house!

Right here in Salem. One of the caches is boy-scout themed and asks for trinkets that are traded to be of the boyscout variety. Fun!

We found it! Now what?

Woo Hoo! Your first find! Here’s what you do. Open the cache, take something, leave something and write a note in the logbook! Now, carefully replace the cache exactly where you found it.

Once you are home, log into your geocaching.com account and leave a message for the owner of the cache. Nowon to the next one! Geocaching is a great addition to hiking excursions, and vacations. There’s always enough time to fit a little “caching” in! Visit our website at www.willamettekidsandfamily.com to find links to helpful sites and let us know about your geocaching adventure!

What do we need to bring?

Getting your kiddo ready for a cache hunt can be as simple as preparing for a hike. Sturdy shoes, snacks and water are a given.

Having done your research in advance, you will know if your cache is a trade cache, and in such a case,it will contain small items, toys or trinkets. In geocach-

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Today’s technology is all about convenience. And everywhere you turnthere’s an app to make your life easier.

We’ve gathered some together for parents and kids that are affordable, fun and almost neccessary!

comical roles. From a virtuous pianist, to a spaghetti-slurping dog, or a living cuckoo-clock, anything is possible!”

Price: FREE with in app purchases for iOS and Android.

Got a favorite app? Shoot me an email and I may feature it in upcoming issues! I love to hear what is working for you and your kiddos. Yvette@willamettekidsandfamily.com Visit our website for more app ideas!

Www.willamettekidsandfamily.com

For ParentsLocal Peek a Boo Moments: “A simple way to save your baby photos online and create a lifetime of photo memories.

Main features: Storing all your baby photos securely online, Browsing photos based on baby’s age, Searching photos using keywords and categories, Adding notes and comments, Accessing the photos from both mobile apps and web, Securely sharing photos with friends and family. FREE with in-app purchases.

Available for iOS and android.” www.peekaboomoments.com iVaccine Immunization Tracker: “The first year is filled with immunizations that are important for your baby’s wellbeing. With several shots given at various pediatric appointments, it can be difficult to keep track. iVaccine keeps a handy log for your child (or multiple children), provides helpful information on each vaccine administered and sends reminders of your child’s upcoming vaccines.” Price: Free for iOS and Android

For Kids: CHOMP by Christoph Niemann “‘CHOMP’ combines playful, humorous, and lovingly hand-drawn animations with live video, enabling children and adults alike to slip into a variety of

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When I first stepped into Little Angels

WKF: What are your plans for the future of Little Angels Kid Salon?

Kid Salon here in Salem, it was like stepping into a technicolor whirlwind of fun and excitement. The cutest little hot rod cars all lined up in front of mirrors, arejust waiting for little drivers to play while getting their hair cut and styled. Graffiti on the wall adds to the bright colorful atmosphere, while happy parents and kids chat animatedly with their stylists.

JEN: My plans for the future are to keep doing what I’m doing and hopefully open a second location. It may be many years down the road, but I think having a place where you can take your kids to get groomed is so helpful. I have heard and witnessed many other stylist who refuse to do children’s hair, period. Its scares them and honestly they don’t want a screaming child in a relaxing salon for adults. We have so many moms and dads appreciate the work we do. The kids may not all LOVE haircuts, but we try and make it as fun and comfortable as possible!

I’m looking for Jen, the owner- and as my eyes scan the micro crowd of tiny fashion forward patrons, a chipper voice calls out to me. She makes her way through the mini sea of kiddos and welcomes me with a smile. I can see why the kids love it here, and I can see why they love Jen.

WKF: I’m looking around and wondering, how do you do it, superwoman! How do you balance all this work and family?

As sunshine streams in the windows of the shop on 1724 Center St NE, I tour the party room and take in all the kid-friendly fabulousness.

JEN: This is a hard one for me because my husband travels Mon-Friday and that leaves me to do it all. I wouldn’t say I balance it, I just DO it. I have to. In order to do a job I love and have time for a family, I have to make it work! I have the flexibility to adjust my schedule when needed and that makes a huge difference!

Time to get down to business. Jen is a busy woman, and there are a lot of hairs to be cut. I begin by asking her about her vision.

JEN: My vision at Little Angels is “ We are focused on providing Hair Care services with the highest levels of customer satisfaction, and we will do everything we can to meet your expectations.”

WKF: I can really tell that you love this business. How long have you been doing this and what is it that you love most?

Looks pretty safe to say that her vision is alive and well, today!

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JEN: I love owning this small piece of heaven! I have worked as a stylist for over sixteen years, nine of which were working with children in a children’s salon.

January of 2012, I was able to achieve my dream of opening up Little Angels Kid Salon LLC. I love almost everything about business. You never know what is going to happen from day to day, it always keeps me guessing. Sometimes it can get overwhelming and stressful, but it doesn’t get me down. I have a great team of women I work with and they keep me going. Thank goodness!! I think my most favorite thing about owning is the constant learning. This industry changes quite quickly and there are always new things and techniques to learn!!

WKF: Salem is lucky to have such energy here. I’m sure they love you! Tell me what you love about Salem?

JEN: As a wife and mother of two amazing kids, I have lived in Salem for ten years and love it! I love the small town feel, but to still know that we have all that I need in this town. I am always excited to learn of new places to eat and new adventures to go on!!

WKF: What would you like the public to know about Little Angels Kid Salon LLC? JEN: We keep a pretty full schedule here but there is always room for more! We are more than just haircuts, and with fun services for kids such as classes, themed birthday parties, even spa treatments!

There are great add-ons for birthday parties, such as princess visitors, custom cakes, and photography. I work hard to keep it affordable, and of course, fun!

You can schedule your appointment easily online. We would love to meet your cute kids and give you the best experience ever!

For more information about Little Angels Kid Salon, visit their website at www.littleangelskidsalon.com or find them on facebook! Phone: 503-391-8861 Email: littleangelskidsalon@gmail.com

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Babies, Birth & Families Wellness Fair Corvallis SATURDAY, JULY 9 -2PM TO 8PM

Salem Movies in the Park- The Muppets SATURDAY, JULY 16, 2016. 9PM

Salem’s Movies in the Park is a free summer outdoor film series shown in the amphitheater at Salem’s Riverfront Park. Movies start soon after dusk. Some people show up as early as 7pm to enjoy the park and have a picnic before the show. Others show up as the movie starts. Your choice. We always start with some old cartoons, shorts or other retro clips to entertain until it is dark enough.

Visit www.salemmoviesinthepark.com for other movies and showtimes.

Exhibitors offering birth, wellness and parenting support, natural and eco- friendly products, fun activities for kids, local nonprofits, holistic wellness information, and more. Learn about products, services, and options that support a healthier, more conscious approach to birth, wellness, parenting and family life.

Bruce Starker Arts Park SW 45th St, Corvallis www.midvalleybirthnetwork.com

Marion County Fair- Family Day Salem SUNDAY, JULY 10 AT 1 PM

Movies in the Garden- Sandlot Silverton- Oregon Gardens THURSDAY, JULY 21, 2016 - 7:00PM

It’s Family Day at Marion County Fair in Salem! Kids 12 & under are free admission! Activities include Home Depot Kids’ Workshop, a FFA Tractor Driving Contest, a Cheesecake Contest, Fair Grill Off, roaming superheroes and characters, and more! The fair runs from July 7th-10th with carnival rides, inflatables, rodeo, kids activities, animals, food booths and vendors.

2330 17th St NE, Salem, Oregon 97301

Join us for ‘The Sandlot’ (PG) presented by Willamette Valley Pie Company. Doors open at 7pm, and the show will begin at dusk. Adults- $4, Teens 12-17- $3, Children 5-11- $2, Members- $2, 4 & Under- Free.

The Oregon Garden 879 W Main St. Silverton www.oregongarden.org

River Rhythms- The New Breed Brass Band Albany THURSDAY, JULY 21, 2016 - 7:00PM

www.co.marion.or.us

Enlightened Theatrics- The Wizard of Oz Salem WEDNESDAY, JULY 20 - AUG 28, 2016, 2016 2:00 PM and 7:30PM

New Breed Brass Band lives and breathes the culture of New Orleans, infusing funk, rock, jazz, and hip-hop into a custom-made enhancement of second-line brass band tradition. Monteith Park, 909 N Cummings Dr. Albany

The Wizard of Oz is the magical and heartwarming, musical journey of the young and frustrated, yet optimistic Dorothy Gale of Kansas, as she dreams of a better world just over the rainbow. $20 - 30, Reserved and General Admission.

Salem’s Historic Grand Theatre 191 High St. NE Salem www.EnlightenedTheatrics.org Find us on facebook! /willamettekidsandfamily

Force Wars- Vacation Bible School Salem JULY 25- 29 9AM TO 12PM

This Summer in a galaxy not so far away, Family Life in West Salem invites you to join them for a five day

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Blockhead Lego Building Camp - Salem AUGUST 15 -19, 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM

event of galactic proportions! This is a FREE event you won’t want your kids to miss! Open to kids entering Kindergarten up to kids entering 6th grade. There will be games, prizes, crafts, and even some costumed guests! Sign-up at thisisfamilylife.org/events/ today!

Honey Mustard Lane is hosting a week long Lego building camp for girls and boys ages 8 to 12. $135 covers the whole week. Pre-registration is required.Each child will receive a mini fig,a take home mini build from the daily theme, and plenty of fun hands-on STEM activities & group builds! $135 Abbey Art Center 331 State Street, Salem www.honeymustardlane.com

Santiam SummerfestStayton SATURDAY JULY 30,2016 - 9:00 AM

Old-fashioned street faire with over 100 vendors, featuring art show, car show, Family Fun Zone, pet pavilion, outdoor games for all ages, local entertainmen. Free admission. 3rd Ave. & Water St. Stayton www.staytonsublimitychamber.org/events

Camp Paw Paw: No Pup Too Small! (Age 3-6) Salem FRIDAY, AUGUST 19 AT 10 AM - 12 PM

Willamette Humane Society presents PAW Patrol in this two hour camp session for our youngest campers to learn skills important for success in life. Activities include crafts, live animal interaction, and lessons on safety around pets. Parents are welcome to stay.

Session 1 & 2: July 29 10 – noon OR 1 -3 p.m.

Session 3 & 4: Aug 5 10 – noon OR 1 -3 p.m.

Session 5 & 6: Aug 19 10 – noon OR 1 -3 p.m.

Session 7 & 8: Sept 2 10 – noon OR 1 -3 p.m.

Tickets Available at whs4pets.dogbizpro.com

Great Oregon Steam Up Antique Powerland- Brooks SATURDAY JULY 30TH- SUN JULY 31ST SATURDAY AUGUST 6TH- SUN AUGUST 7TH

Train and trolley rides, parade, steam sawmilling, traditional tractor pulling, machinery demos, threshing, flour milling, fire apparatus demos, museum tours, kids pedal tractor pulling and a Youth Passport program. Blacksmithing, Brooks Depot Museum, a Country Store, models, early electricity exhibit, miniature farm display, swap meet and flea market sales, country music, and great food!

3995 Brooklake Rd NE - Brooks 97303 www.antiquepowerland.com

An Evening with Malala Yousafzai Portland TUESDAY AUGUST 30 7:30

Malala Yousafzai, winner of the 2014 Nobel Peace Prize, will be speaking about her life experiences and take part in a question and answer session. Malala was named one of ‘The 100 Most Influential People in the World’ in 2013 by Time magazine. She is also the author of the international bestseller I am Malala, which has been published in over 27 countries.

Moda Center at the Rose Quarter 1 N Center Court St, Portland, Oregon 97227 Tickets Available at roseq.co

Detroit Lake Water Ski ShowDetroit SAT, AUG 6 - 11:00AM & 3:00PM SUN, AUG 7 - 12:00PM (NOON)

3 free water ski shows on Detroit Lake in front of Kane’s Marina.530 Clester Rd W, Detroit

Annual Riverfront Family Fest Salem SATURDAY, AUGUST 6 AT 10 AM - 2 PM

HAVE EVENTS TO SHARE? Submitting it is easy! You can either email me, yvette@willametteKidsandFamily. com or use the order submission on our website www.willamettekidsandfamily.com. Inclusion in the calendar and on facebook is free for community related events!

Family Building Blocks brings you over 50 local agencies & businesses will host booths with FREE handson, interactive activities focused on health and safety for children ages 0-8. Helicopter Landing, Firetruck display, face painting, Dunk a Doctor andmore.

Riverfront Park 200 Water Street NE, Salem www.familybuilding blocks.org

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Super fun day-trips just a short jaunt from Salem.

BROOKS, OR

Distance from Salem 15 min.

If you have a love for history and transportation, antiques and machinery, Brooks is a must-see day trip! Just in time, too- The Great Oregon Steam Up is coming July 30th and 31st, and August 6-7th! The Great Oregon Steam-Up is the largest event at Antique Powerland and it involves all of the local museums and many other participants. 42 acres and 15 museums ensure that you and the kids will find plenty of cool new, old things to discover.

Learn about the early machinery that made Oregon develop and grow. Hear about innovators and manufacturers of times past. Machines on display include farm tractors and implements, early engines, crawlers, fire apparatus, vintage trucks and cars, logging gear, an early Oregon flour mill, and an authentic steam sawmill. Rides include an historic trolley and a miniature railroad.

During the Great Oregon Steam Up, A parade takes place each day at 1:30 pm and it includes vintage tractors, trucks, and automobiles. The steam powered sawmill operates four times a day and the trolley tours the site perimeter all four days of the show.

Scheduled activities: Train and trolley rides, BIG parade, steam sawmilling, traditional tractor pulling, machinery demos, threshing, flour milling, fire apparatus demos, museum tours, kids pedal tractor pulling and a Youth Passport program.

Other Attractions: Blacksmithing, Brooks Depot Museum, a Country Store, models, early electricity exhibit, miniature farm display, swap meet and flea market sales, country music, and great food!

Antique Powerland is open March thru October Open Wednesday thru Sunday - 9 am to 4 pm Admission $6* - Children 12 and under: free *May be higher for Steam-Up and Other Events.

Admission to museums is additional but affordable.

Map It: 3995 Brooklake Rd NE - Brooks, Oregon 97303 Phone: 503-393-2424 Check out our website, www.willamettekidsandfamily.com and Pinterest page for even more day-trip ideas! Happy trails and safe drives to youyvette@willamettekidsandfamily.com

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Infant/Toddler Storytime - Infants to 2 ½ years 11 a.m. Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays Story Room A

Tiny Tots Playtime- Infants to 2 ½ years

11:30 – 12 Tuesdays, Wednesdays, & Fridays Story Room B (following Infant Toddler Storytime)

Brainy Babies - Olé Bebé

1:30 p.m. miércoles/Wednesdays Story Room A

Preschool Storytime- 2 ½ - 6 and their grown-ups 10:15 a.m. Tuesdays and Wednesdays Story Room A

Bedtime Storytime- families of all ages 7 p.m. Tuesdays Story Room A

Family Storytime 11 a.m. Saturdays Story Room A

Cuentos en Español (Spanish Family Storytime) 7:00 p.m. miércoles/Wednesdays Story Room A

Salem Public Library 585 Liberty St SE

Phone:(503) 588-6315

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OPEN EARLY! 10 a.m. till 8 p.m.

River Road Park, 3045 River Road N. Riverfront Park, 200 Front Street NE

OPEN AT NOON!

Englewood Park, 1260 19th Street NE. Fairmount Park, 650 Rural Street S. Northgate Park, 3575 Fairhaven Avenue NE. Wes Bennett Park, 2200 Baxter Road SE. West Salem Park, 265 Rosemont Avenue NW.

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5 Tips for taking perfect kid pictures.

1. Pick the perfect time. Naptime is NOT the perfect time. :) Make sure your little darling is at their most darling-est, by choosing the best time according to THEIR schedule.

Outdoor pictures are best taken early morning and just before the sun goes down. Avoid direct, harsh light outdoors during the afternoon hours.

2. Get on their level. Prepare to get down and dirty to get those money shots! Squatting, laying and sitting at your child’s level will make all the difference in the quality of your images. Plus, it helps engage them, and you- which can only mean super moments captured that will be memories forever.

3. Let’s talk catchlights. See the sparkly eyes on the cutie below? Sparkly eyes bring life to your images. How to get the perfect catchlights? Professional photographers look for light at “2 and 10”. Visualize a clock. If you see sparkle shinies in your kiddos eyes at 2:00 and 10:00 you’ve hit the perfect lighting motherlode! Try placing your subject near a window, or other light source and bring those eyes to life!

4. Poses aren’t everything. Smiles either, actually. Capture your child the way they are in the moment. Some of the cutest pictures are ones where your sweetie is pensive, thoughtful or even a little pouty. Let the pictures tell a story.

5. Fill the frame with fun! There’s nothing worse than an adorable moment caught way too far away. Come in close to your baby and don’t be afraid to fill the frame with all that spunk! By zooming in, you limit any distracting background that detracts from your little superstar.

The biggest tip for taking perfect kid pictures is to shoot, shoot, shoot! No regrets about filled flash drives and photo albums. The only bad picture is the one you didn’t take. Happy snapping!

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Ok, so I have a confession.

There are a LOT of products on the market. Toxic and Non-toxic alike. And you can go broke trying them all- which is why I’m here to save you the pain and cost.

I have been battling lice at my house.

Lice! Gross! I’ve raised kids for 23 years and never had a lice issue like this. There are a couple of factors at play here, and I wanted to give you a heads up ( no pun intended.)

After trying everything known to man, I was worried about putting so many chemicals on my daughter’s head but something had to work! Everything I tried was a waste of money. (Rid cost me $19 and Nix about $22.) Exasperated, I looked into the prescription solutions but decided against the expense and chemicals and prescriptions.

Lice are REALLY common. Especially in grade-school . It has nothing to do with social status, financial standings, or cleanliness. Lice are completely impartial.

They love everyone!

Some school districts in other states have a “lice-check” policy where the school nurse will occasionally check kiddos for lice and alert parents quietly, with instructions to treat the lice before they come back to school. This is SO helpful in keeping infestations ( gross ) to a minimum.

Here’s why. In my research I happened upon an article by Consumer Reports that saved us, FINALLY from our lice shenanigans and misery.

However, it doesn’t seem that the SalemKeizer school district does these, and that in turn, leads to rampant lice parties on our unchecked sweetie’s heads. Please, please, check your kiddos.

Lice are getting smarter. Those pesky buggers have built up a resistence to the chemicals in most of these products.

Even the tough chemical ones that warn you about burning your kiddos scalp!

Here’s what you are looking for:

Let me save you some money, time and misery, and tell you what I found.

Lice: About the size of a sesame seed and brown. Lice need human blood to live. In fact, head lice that are left on your blankets or pillows may die within 48 hours without a human host to feed on. You don’t get lice from your pets, either.

After reading the Consumer Reports article, I found this out about Dimethicone.

“Several studies indicate they are somewhat effective at killing lice. Lice won’t develop a resistance to those ingredients because the insects are killed by a physical—rather than chemical—process.”

Nits: Often mistaken for dandruff, Nits adhere to the hair shaft very tightly and can’t be brushed off. If the nits are close ( within a 1/4 of an inch ) of your babies scalp- they’re current trespassers and must be evicted! Nits further up the hair shaft have camped out there for a while.

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Dimethicone suffocates the little invaders, instead of killing them with harsh chemicals that can also harm your kids.

Armed with that info, I headed to the Walmart on Commercial in search of hair conditioner that contained Dimethicone.

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I’m here to tell you- this solution was amazingly CHEAP and it WORKED. I purchased two tubes of Suave Sleep AntiFrizz Smooth & Shine Cream for $2.94 and the second ingredient is Dimethicone.

SCORE!

So- call your kiddo over and take a quick look. Check behind ears and at the nape of the neck. If you find nits or lice- feel free to cuss first, shake your fists, and then- well, you better get busy.

Here’s what you do:

With summer here and having the luxury of a little less interaction with other kids, I have been following tried-and-true remedies for keeping lice at bay.

Prevention

Get kiddos hair wet and apply a generous amount of the cream in it.

Let it sit for about 10 minutes and then, hand your kiddo an ipad or phone, and with a fine tooth comb- or lice comb, Start at the root of the hair and comb, comb, comb. The cream makes the combing so much easier! The lice that come out are dead, having suffocated from the dimethicone.

Remember, lice don’t fly; they crawl, so give them an obstacle course to deter them from camping out! Put long hair up as often as possible – buns are best, but even braids minimize exposure.

Lice repellent is now a part of our daily routine. There are many pricey repellant products available online, or you can make your own repellant using natural oils such as Tea Tree, Rosemary, and Lemon grass oil. We love this method since they are all natural. Simply add 5 to 8 drops in your shampoo or conditioner.

We survived lice and lived to tell the tale!

This lice hotel is now closed! Good Luck!!

I left the conditioner in over night because I wanted to be SURE they were gone- but you can rinse and repeat the next day, if you prefer.

Because dimethicone doesn’t kill the nits (very few products do- even the heavy duty, chemical laden prescription ones) you will have to repeat this process over a 24 day period. The more often, the better. Continue to comb out your child’s hair every day until no live lice are seen and then every few days afterward for about a month.

I won’t lie. It’s a major pain in the rear. But out of all the choices- it is by far the best, most natural and CHEAPEST that I have found.

My daughter actually looked forward to lice-combing. It felt good on her scalpshe got uninterrupted mom-time ( I was a captive audience ) and after all that conditioning, her hair looks great!

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Please say “I saw it inWillamette Kids and Family.”

One year ago, life seemed grim for one-

99% of the children in FBB child abuse

Troy was timid and avoided making any connections with others. Troy’s parents sought help from FBB and began working toward their goals of obtaining steady jobs, reducing their isolation, and helping Troy increase his social skills. Working with Family Building blocks has made a difference in the life of Troy and his family.

IN JUST ONE YEAR, there were: 22,559 books read to children 14,509 meals served in classrooms 6,993 educational home visits 55 parent-child play groups held They changed 27,913 diapers!

year old Troy and his family. Troy’s parents were struggling to find jobs, lived in extreme poverty, and lacked positive people in their lives to offer support and guidance to the young family.

prevention programs were able to live safely with their parents thus avoiding the trauma of abuse, neglect, and foster care.

Troy’s dad now has a full-time job and is working hard to provide for his family.

His mom works part-time and is always excited to welcome the family’s home visitor to share their accomplishments. As a result of FBB’s comprehensive support services, Troy’s family is working to become self-sufficient and Troy is on track to become a star kindergartner when he turns five.

The mission of Family Building Blocks is to keep children safe and families together by nurturing children, supporting parents and strengthening families.

How does Family Building Blocks help families?

Home visits

Family Building Blocks serves families with infants and young children struggling with difficult life circumstances.

FBB Home Visitors make regular visits to families in their homes to focus on hands on parent skill building to strengthen the bond between parent and child. Home Visitors bring age-appropriate information and activities to engage the family.

The goal is to provide early intervention that builds successful and resilient children, strengthens parents, and preserves families through an array of comprehensive and integrated early childhood and therapeutic family support services.

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Therapeutic Classroom

HOW YOU CAN HELP:

Children enrolled in our Therapeutic Classrooms attend classes twice a week.

Family Nights

Family Building Blocks is a public-private partnership, with approximately 60% of funding from state & federal contracts, and 40% comin from individuals, businesses, and foundations.

Parent Education

There are so many ways to give. Multiple fundraisers, Auxillary Membership, monetary donations and more. Volunteering opportunities are varied and can range from office work to special events.

Families we serve are invited to two Family Nights each year. Family Nights provide opportunities for parents and children to have fun together, to meet new people and to gain social skills by interacting with other families and volunteers.

Parents gain leadership skills and take courses to support their family’s growth and development through parent advisory groups, training workshops and one-on-one coaching.

Parent-Child Play Groups

OUR WISH LIST Wearable Baby Carriers Training Potties/Seat Covers Bilingual Children’s Books Boppy Pillow’s Boys &Girls underwear (sizes 2T-6T) Gift cards for hygiene items Enfamil blue cap formula

We offer a variety of opportunities for parents and their children to interact in a healthy, supportive environment.

Respite Care

Enrolled parents who have a scheduled appointment or need a break may place their children in scheduled care for several hours each month.

Clothes Closet & Food Pantry

Quality used clothing and non-perishable food donations are allocated to families enrolled in our programs.

Referrals to Resources

We help connect parents to community resources and services: Women Infants and Children Federal Supplemental Food Program, local food banks, medical and dental providers, mental health services, substance abuse counseling, Head Start, domestic violence programs, homeless shelters, child care, utility assistance, and churches and other charitable organizations that may be able to help families with needed resources during a crisis.

Make a secure one-time donation or become a Stepping Stone Sustainer by setting up an ongoing monthly donation.

Family Building Blocks is a great place to use your talents and abilities to benefit the community- from donations to volunteer opportunities to internships, there’s a place for everyone.

If you would like to contribute to the efforts of FBB or you know a family that would benefit from these services, please visit www. familybuildingblocks. org or call 503-566-2132 .

See next page for an invitation for fun at the FREE Riverfront Family Fest this summer! There’s something for everyone!!

For volunteer sign up, visit their website at www.familybuildingblocks.org.

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Adam’s Rib

KIDS EAT FOR $3.95 EVERY DAY!!!

1210 State Street, Salem, OR 97301 www.adams-rib-smoke-house.com 503.362.2194

QDOBA

FREE KIDS MEAL with purchase of any regular entree 4405 Commercial St Salem, OR 97301 www.qdoba.com 971.600.3174

Venti’s ( downtown location only )

KIDS EAT 1/2 PRICE ! with purchase of adult entree.

After 4pm Sun & Mon Dine-in Only Kids 12 and under 325 Court ST NE Salem, OR 97302 503- 399-8733

DENNYS

KIDS EAT FREE Tuesdays 4PM to 10PM. Ask your server for details.

Restrictions may apply.

3155 Ryan Dr SE Salem 97301

Gilgamesh Brewing

KIDS UNDER 12 EAT FREE! Mondays, 1 free kids meal w/ purchase of adult meal.

2065 Madrona Ave SE Salem, Oregon (503) 584-1789

www.dennys.com (503) 585-8424

HOMETOWN BUFFET KIDS EAT FOR 0.99 EVERY THURSDAY from 5-8pm. 636 Lancaster Dr NE, Salem, OR (503) 585-8163 www.hometownbuffet.com Specials are subject to change, we suggest that you call ahead!

Birdie’s Bistro

KIDS EAT HALF OFF on SUNDAY! with full priced adult entree 3860 River Rd N, Keizer, OR 503.393.2087 birdiesbistro.com

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Please say “I saw it inWillamette Kids and Family.”

Find us on facebook! /willamettekidsandfamily

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