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HOW TO CREATE THANKFUL CHILDREN

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BALANCE RECEIVING WITH GIVING

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October 2020 | OurKidsMagazine.com

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November/December 2021 volume 37 • number 6

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CREATE THANKFUL KIDS

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Creating Thankful Kids By Sarah Lyons

As Thanksgiving approaches it is nice to reflect on and appreciate our blessings. In our family, each member writes down something they are thankful for on Thanksgiving Day saying and we read them aloud at Thanksgiving dinner. This is a fun exercise that teaches our children to show gratitude for things otherwise taken for granted. We enjoy that daily pause to remember what we are grateful for; but, what about every other day of the year? How do we teach our kids to be grateful all year long?

Model gratefulness The easiest and most effective way to start teaching your children gratitude is to model it yourself. Let your children hear you talk about the things you are thankful for. “I am so grateful for this beautiful day today so that we can go to the park.” or “I am so thankful for a great job to pay for our home and our food.” You can also do as we have on Thanksgiving Day and go around the table at dinner and name something you are thankful for any night of the year. When kids

Our Kids Magazine | November / December 2021

acknowledge the blessings they have in their lives, they will begin to take note and appreciate them.

Serve as a family Families who do service projects together tend to be families who appreciate what they have more. When children see that some are less fortunate, they will develop a desire to help others and make a difference. Not only do they become more aware of others and the blessings in their own lives, but they are more likely to give of their time and treasures for a lifetime. Teach them to say thank you From a young age, teach children to say thank you. Encourage kids to say thank you for any acts of service or gifts. Even toddlers can be taught to sign “Thank you”. Writing thank you notes is a great way to provide kids the opportunity to thank someone for the gifts they receive and the time it took to purchase them. Encourage a “It’s the thought that counts” policy and

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explain that it isn’t the actual gift itself but the thought behind the purchase that we are grateful for.

Take care of property Teach kids the value of their property by showing them the importance of caring for their belongings. Clothes cost money so they should not be on the floor in piles. Toys cost money so if one is broken due to misuse, do not rush to replace it. Say no It isn’t healthy to say yes to every request your child has. An answer of “No.” or “Not right now.” teaches children both the value of delayed gratification and encourages gratefulness for occasional treats. If a child is allowed to purchase a toy every time he visits the store, this will become expected. If the toy is purchased as a special reward or with their own money, the child will appreciate it much more. Teach them the cost of things Parents know everything costs money and it adds up fast. Allow your child to come along to the grocery store and have them help you find the best deal on food they would like to purchase or allow them to bring their own allowance and purchase something they would like. Point out how much it costs when you go out to eat as a family or make a large purchase of groceries or other items the family

needs. Take care to avoid blaming or anger when discussing the cost of items and use the opportunity to teach. When children understand the true cost of items, they are more likely to appreciate the purchase in the first place.

Give them chores When children have chores and responsibilities to their family, they begin to understand how much work goes into cleaning, yard work, or other household tasks. Some families may choose to give an allowance for tasks completed which can help kids learn to budget and understand the value of hard work and in turn develop gratitude for the work that others do. The main thing to remember as you encourage gratefulness in children is to model the behavior. Thank them for their hard work, acknowledge and thank others for their acts of service, help kids understand the value of items, and give them responsibilities that teach them hard work. We don’t have to eat turkey every day to be thankful for the blessings that surround us all year. Sarah Lyons is a wife and stay at home mom of six children, including seven year old triplets. She writes from her home in Kansas City.

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Feature

Make this Thanksgiving Meaningful By Sarah Lyons

When we think of Thanksgiving Day, delicious food, football, and getting together with family and friends come to mind. The original purpose of Thanksgiving was to show gratitude and give thanks for a bountiful harvest. Now as we celebrate Thanksgiving it is easy to get caught up in distractions like football games, Black Friday shopping, and the quest for the perfect meal and table settings. We tend to forget all about stopping to give thanks for all of our blessings. Make this Thanksgiving meaningful by starting some family traditions that help everyone in the family stop and count their blessings.

Make a list One way to remember your blessings is to acknowledge them. Go around the dinner table and have each person name something they are thankful for. This could be done each night at dinner during the month of November or for the week leading up to it. On Thanksgiving Day, have all your guests do the same. It is heartwarming to give thanks for the blessings we have. Looking for a more concrete idea? Have everyone write down or draw a picture of what they are thankful for. After everyone shares their paper, place them all in a three ring binder. Each year add to the binder and reflect on all the blessings of the past. “We do a Thankful Tree throughout November.” says Stephanie Loux, mom of three. “I draw a tree to tape on our pantry door and the kids cut out leaves from construction paper. Each night we all write one thing we are thankful for on a leaf and tape it to the tree. Kids can be grateful for a variety of things from butterflies to Elsa. We look forward to this tradition every year.” Donate to charity Christmas is right around the corner and many kids will receive new items as gifts. In anticipation, have the kids 8

Our Kids Magazine | November / December 2021

help clean their closets and toy boxes and set aside items they no longer need. Donate gently used toys and clothing to a local charity or family in need. This process will not only reduce clutter around the house but it will teach the kid to be generous to those that are less fortunate than they are. In the same spirit, talk with your kids about how some people may not have coats, hats, and gloves to keep them warm during the cold winter months. As a family, collect hats, coats, scarves, gloves, and blankets to donate to a homeless shelter. Gather items you may have in your home that you are no longer using and ask friends and family to do the same. Go to the store and have the kids pick out items they would like to give to another child their age.

Take a break Have each family member take a break from a luxury they enjoy. Ideas may include dessert, manicures, coffee, soda, or a favorite video game or TV show. This exercise reminds us to be grateful for the luxuries that are otherwise taken for granted. Family service project Set aside time to do a service project as a family. Ideas may include cleaning up trash in a local park, rake a neighbor’s leaves, working at a food pantry, purchasing items for a Thanksgiving meal and delivering them to a family in need, organizing a book drive for a local children’s hospital, or adopting a family for the holidays. When you volunteer as a family, kids see you helping others and are more likely to continue serving as an adult. Serving in an area that your children are already interested in helps create excitement for the project. If your child loves singing, go caroling at a senior center. If your child loves to play at the park, plant flowers or pick up litter to help maintain it’s beauty. If they LIKE US @ facebook.com/OurKidsMagazineSA

love crafts, make blankets for a homeless shelter. There are many possibilities for children of any age and skill level.

Gather together Encourage the kids to think of friends and neighbors who may not have anywhere to go on Thanksgiving and invite them to come over for dinner. Discuss the importance of hospitality and welcoming others into your home. If you are not hosting Thanksgiving, consider hosting a brunch the following day and opening your home to friends and family. Little helpers Thanksgiving dinner preparation is a lot of work. Having the kids help prepare dinner and clean up for company will teach them how much work really goes into preparing a large meal like Thanksgiving dinner. This will teach them appreciation for the work that goes into a holiday meal and also encourages a good work ethic at a young age. This Thanksgiving, take time to remember what Thanksgiving really means. It’s not about Black Friday deals or endless football. It’s about giving thanks for what we have, sharing with and serving others, and celebrating with those we love. Opportunities to serve with your kids Organize a collection drive - ideas include coats, hats and gloves, blankets, toys, or clothing to donate to those in need ■ Fill the food pantry - Take the kids shopping for favorite

non-perishable food items and/or go door to door in your neighborhood to collect items to donate to a local food pantry ■ Offer to rake leaves or shovel snow for a neighbor or friend ■ Operation Christmas Child - fill shoeboxes to send to children overseas. Check www.samaritanspurse.org for more information and collection dates and locations ■ Bake cookies for friends, neighbors, or take them to the local police or fire station ■ Send care packages, cards, and letters to soldiers overseas ■ Draw pictures for seniors and deliver to an assisted living center ■ Volunteer at an animal shelter ■ Plant flowers or trees ■ Clean up the school grounds or a local park ■ Have a lemonade stand or garage sale and donate proceeds to your favorite charity Sarah Lyons is a busy mom of six kids, including seven year old triplets. Her family enjoys doing service projects together.

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Savor the Holiday Season at Home By Katy M. Clark

There is a reason why the song “Home for the Holidays” is a seasonal favorite. I think it’s because it captures what we all know to be true--there really is no place like home, sweet home, especially during the most magical time of year. So if you and your family find yourselves worn out by rushing from activity to activity, especially after last year’s more limited festivities, why not take a moment to slow down and savor the season right where you spend most of your time? Here are 7 sweet and simple ways to celebrate the holidays at home. 1. Send cards in the mail. Help your kids embrace the tradition of sending Christmas cards. There are tons of online photo sites that allow you to personalize photo cards. Or simply ask your kids to draw or paint handmade greetings. No matter how fancy the cards may be, just imagine how much joy they will bring the recipients, especially Grandmas and Grandpas who love getting good old-fashioned mail! 2. Bake. Spend time together cutting out sugar cookies, rolling rugelach, or making a special recipe that your family treasures. Tell your kids about the relatives who wrote the recipes in cursive on those cards passed down from generation to generation. Maybe you can drop off your homemade treats to homebound seniors or veterans in your neighborhood. 3. Make music. Host a concert in your own home. Have your child play a solo in front of the family. Or be like the Partridge Family and encourage everyone to pick up an instrument for a holiday jam session. Have a sing-along to your favorite hymns or holiday classics. Most lyrics can be found online. 4. Read together. Be like Clark Griswald and his clan in 10

Our Kids Magazine | November / December 2021

Christmas Vacation and gather round to read The Night Before Christmas. There are also classic audio books your family could listen to as you wrap gifts or unwind after work or school. Books are the perfect way to learn about different holiday traditions, too. Ask your local librarian for recommendations of books about Christmas, Hanukkah or Kwanzaa or celebrations such as Lucia Day or Three Kings Day. 5. Watch holiday movies. There’s nothing like the holiday season to inspire me to create a cozy movie night in my own living room. My family can’t wait to don comfy pajamas, snuggle up in throw blankets with snacks and hot cocoa, and laugh our cares away watching Elf and A Christmas Story. There are so many great shows and movies celebrating the season that your family is sure to find one that inspires festive spirit in everyone! 6. Celebrate outside. No matter the temperature it’s always an excellent idea to head outside. Go for a walk and listen to the wind whistling through bare trees or whipping around buildings. Notice the birds that winter in your area. Decorate a tree outside, whether in your backyard or on your balcony. Get warm by a backyard bonfire or stargaze on a frosty evening. Maybe the best outdoor activity of all is piling into the car to see the holiday lights and outdoor decorations in your neighborhood. 7. Go Virtual. It’s likely impossible to see all of your loved ones in person during the holidays, no matter how hard you try. So take advantage of virtual ways to shower season’s greetings on friends and families, using Facebook Messenger, Zoom, or Skype. Plan that video chat with Aunt Susie or hang out online with your long distance best friend. Reaching out and connecting, even in a virtual format, benefits everyone, especially during the holidays. Katy M. Clark is a writer whose work has appeared in numerous parenting magazines. She blogs at ExperiencedBadMom.com LIKE US @ facebook.com/OurKidsMagazineSA

Ideas for serving with your kids When children have the opportunity to serve in their community, they develop a desire to help others and make a difference. Not only do they become more aware of others who are less fortunate, they will learn to appreciate the blessings in their own lives. Kids who serve others are more likely to give of their time and treasures for a lifetime. Here are some ideas to get you started.

Organize a drive Collect coats, hats and gloves, blankets, toys or clothing to donate to those in need. Have the kids clean their rooms and sort through items that are in great shape but are no longer needed. Many organizations will collect these items to give to shelters, foster care, or victims of fire. Fill the food pantry Talk with your kids about others who may not have enough to eat. Take them shopping to choose their favorite nonperishable items for meals and snacks to donate to a local food pantry. Try going door to door in your neighborhood to collect even more items. Work outdoors Help a neighbor, friend, or family member who may be unable to do their own yard work. Offer to rake leaves, shovel snow, or mow the lawn.

By Sarah Lyons

Work in the kitchen Everyone loves cookies. Get the kids to help out in the kitchen by baking up some tasty treats to share with friends and neighbors. Consider taking them to a local police or fire station to show your appreciation for their hard work in the community. If you know a family in need, consider taking them a meal and, if appropriate, deliver it as a family. Send cards Words of encouragement, handmade cards, or coloring pages are a great way to brighten a soldier’s day and show your appreciation for the sacrifice they are giving for our country. This is a great way to talk to kids about soldiers, veterans, and our country’s freedom they defend. Nursing homes also appreciate delivery of items like these for their residents. Help a four-legged friend Animal lovers will enjoy volunteering at a local animal shelter. Typically shelters need help walking dogs, cleaning cages, and giving lonely animals attention. Oftentimes shelters can also use donations of food, cat litter, bedding, and cleaning supplies. Contact your shelter to see if there are things your family can donate as well.

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Holiday Traditions Treasure By Kimberly Blaker

Whether you celebrate Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, Eid al-Fitr, Bodhi Day, or the winter solstice, holiday traditions are a fun way for families to bond and create fond memories. The traditions you choose are limited only by your imagination in the way you and your family carry them out. The following are a few fun traditions to consider.

CUSTOMS FOR GATHERINGS Storytelling. Choose a theme such as ‘my most memorable holiday season’ or ‘the best thing that happened this year,’ and ask each person to share a memory. Record the storytelling on video or audio, then play it in future years as part of your memory-sharing tradition. Poetry. Hold a holiday poetry reading. Ask each person to bring copies of their favorite seasonal or holiday poems to pass out and read aloud at your gathering. White elephant. Rather than exchanging gifts or doing a drawing for a gift exchange, hold a ‘white elephant.’ Each guest brings a wrapped gift that anyone can use. Everyone then draws a numbered slip and takes a turn choosing either a wrapped gift or taking an unwrapped gift from another participant. If a player loses their gift, that person gets to choose another wrapped gift or take a gift from someone else. For complete rules and variations on this fun gift exchange, visit whiteelephantrules.com

FOR TWOSOMES OR THE WHOLE BROOD Cozy escape. Escape the holiday hustle and bustle, and enjoy a holiday retreat. Try a cozy cabin in the woods or 12

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another scenic setting. Then enjoy your togetherness near a roasting fire, flipping through family photo albums, enjoying holiday music, doing crafts, and other relaxing activities. Holiday countdown. Take a 3” by 3’ strip of ribbon and cut 24-paired slits from top to bottom. Thread each pair with a narrow ribbon and tie a sucker in each. Beginning December 1st, remove a lollipop each day through Christmas Eve, or the eve of the holiday you celebrate. Romantic evening. Couples often forget to take time out for each other during the busy holiday season. Plan an evening for two and reserve a table near a fireplace or a different romantic setting. When you return home, light some candles and your tree, listen to holiday or soft music, and exchange a special gift with each other. Then spend the evening reminiscing and sharing your dreams for the future. International customs. Pick up a book on holiday customs around the world. Each year, choose a different culture or nationality for your theme. Then decorate and try new traditions accordingly. Shopping date. Make a date with your partner, and assist each other in selecting your holiday attire. Decide in advance on the formality so you choose complementary outfits and your shopping trip together remains agreeable.

JUST FOR YOU Pamper yourself. Decorate the bathroom in holiday candles, fragrance, and holly. Throw on some holiday or LIKE US @ facebook.com/OurKidsMagazineSA

other relaxing music. Then enjoy a long bubble bath and give yourself a full salon treatment. Include a manicure, pedicure, deep hair conditioning, facial mask, and body buff.

TRADITIONS FOR ALL Stockings for adults. Fill stockings for your partner, parents, or grandparents to discover. Stuff them with treats, beauty products, postage stamps, lottery tickets, and other inexpensive or usable items. Help a needy family. Deliver a box of groceries, or supply a family with gloves and hats. Ask your children to make room for their own new gifts by donating good, unwanted toys. Offer the toys to the needy family to leave from Santa, or wrap them yourself and leave them on the doorstep. Take a horse-drawn carriage ride. Don’t forget blankets and your favorite hot beverage for warming your lips and hands.

holiday-colored paint, and stamp the shapes onto the paper. Use glitter and glue to add to the festive look.

TRADITION TIPS Discontinue holiday traditions that have lost their appeal and usefulness or that create too much stress. Talk to your family members or friends who share in the tradition, explain your feelings, and ask for input. They may feel the same. Even if they don’t, you can try to reach a compromise that satisfies everyone. Don’t overdo it. It’s easy to get carried away with customs. Be selective and choose those that mean the most to you and your family. Most traditions require some investment of time, energy, or money. Taking on too many can cause stress and lead traditions to lose their appeal.

A special ornament. Buy a new tree ornament each year that signifies something important such as your baby’s first Christmas or solstice. If it’s your first season in a new home, find an ornament that represents it.

When you choose traditions, divide the responsibilities. Women often take sole responsibility for holiday activities, which can be overwhelming and interfere with their ability to really enjoy the season. So try not to strive for perfection, and allow men and children to help in the preparation.

Homemade wrapping paper. Get a roll of brown Kraft paper. Then cut holiday shapes out of sponges, dip them in

By keeping these tips in mind and being flexible, you and your family can enjoy holiday traditions for years to come.

November / December 2021 | OurKidsMagazine.com

Feature

Balance Receiving with Giving By Sandi Schwartz

One of the key challenges of holiday time is that our children get so used to receiving oodles of gifts that they begin to expect that they will always get more and more. But have you noticed how quickly they lose interest with many of the toys they receive during the holidays? Showering our children with gifts every year can end up being detrimental if they become numb to the excitement of gifts, and if they only focus on the receiving side of the holidays. There are several ways that we can instill some balance so that our children learn to appreciate what they receive while also giving to others.

Express Gratitude Gratitude is one of the most important ways for us to get a happiness boost, providing us with so many wonderful psychological, physical, and interpersonal benefits. It improves our health, reduces stress, and helps us focus on the positive aspects of life. Teaching our kids how to step back and be thankful for what they have will keep them grounded and help them realize just how lucky they are to be receiving toys and other gifts at holiday time. You can encourage your kids to express their gratitude for the gifts they receive by writing thank you notes to friends and relatives. You can also go around the dinner table and invite everyone to say how grateful they are for each gift and why it is so meaningful to them. Finally, one of the most popular and effective ways to express gratitude is through journaling. It encourages 14

Our Kids Magazine | November / December 2021

our kids to acknowledge the positive moments in their day, no matter how insignificant they may seem. Consider giving them their own gratitude journal this holiday season so they have the perfect place to record what they are thankful for, including their holiday gifts and other special moments throughout the year.

Learn That Less Is More How many dolls does one little girl really need? If you dig through your children’s old toys, you may be taken aback by how many of each item they actually have: multiple puzzles, games, cars, trucks, plastic figures, and art supplies. It never ends. When they are showered with too many presents, it reduces the interest value of each toy very quickly. According to Kim John Payne in Simplicity Parenting: Using the Extraordinary Power of Less to Raise Calmer, Happier, and More Secure Kids, kids who are inundated with toys are so overwhelmed that they are unable to play by themselves and can even develop focus issues. It is so important to teach our children how to pick and choose a few special gifts that they would like and to not go overboard. Parenting coach Carla Naumburg developed a fabulous poem to inspire the types of presents to give to children for the holidays that helps make each gift meaningful. This approach goes beyond just the obvious toys that children typically want, allowing both parents and children to be more creative with gifts. LIKE US @ facebook.com/OurKidsMagazineSA

Something you want, something you need, something to wear, something to read. Something to see, something to spare, something to cook, something to share.

Choose Experiences Over Stuff Research over the last decade shows that experiences make us happier than possessions. Instead of always giving our kids gifts that they can hold in their hand, why not try a new experience that will provide them with a memory for a lifetime? It doesn’t have to be an expensive family vacation to Disney World; it can be a simple activity close by that you can enjoy together. Here are some ideas that your kids will love: Enjoy nature by visiting a zoo or garden, going camping or hiking, spending a day at the beach, or trying out skiing or snowboarding. Show them the excitement of the city by visiting historical monuments, exploring museums, going out to a fancy restaurant, or attending a concert or sporting event. Expand their knowledge by signing them up for an art class, cooking class, music lesson, science event, or computer course. Give To Those Less Fortunate The holiday season can quickly turn into a shopping

spree if we are not careful. But this is a particularly critical time of year to remember those who are not able to celebrate the holidays like we are with piles of gifts. December is the perfect time to clean out the playroom and practice some giving. Spend some time each year going through every nook and cranny to weed out the old toys before you bring in the new ones. Ask your children to collect piles of items to recycle, throw away, and donate. When the children choose from their own pile of toys, they gain a powerful handson experience to learn about that balance between giving and receiving. After you do this exercise a few times, your kids will automatically realize that no matter what new gifts they receive, they will choose some that they no longer play with to give to children who may not get any presents at all. This is a habit that everyone can easily add to their holiday traditions. You can also start to encourage your children to forgo a new gift or two to purchase items for those in need. Look for a holiday toy drive in your community to support and take your kids along with you to purchase the items and to deliver them to the charity.

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210-671-5411 The Children’s Bereavement Center of South Texas www.CBCST.org 210-736-4847 ChildSafe www.ChildSafe-sa.org 210-675-9000

Our Kids Magazine | November / December 2021

San Antonio Food Bank www.SAFoodBank.org 210-337-3663 SA Pets Alive www.sanantoniopetsalive.org 210-370-7612 San Antonio Youth Literacy www.SAYL.org • 210-299-1533 LIKE US @ facebook.com/OurKidsMagazineSA

Health

6 MYTHS ABOUT By Cheryl Maguire

“I think this red bump is getting bigger.” That is what I told my husband since I was concerned about the size of a red painful bump that seemed to be growing. I read online that most rashes are not serious, so I thought a trip to the doctor was unnecessary.

getting the virus. “I have seen and have heard of numerous cases of shingles developing in younger individuals in their twenties during the height of the Covid pandemic. It is unclear if the stress and the immune system impact has increased the frequency of shingles,” she said.

“What if you have Lyme disease?” His question prompted me to be evaluated but I was concerned that the doctor would tell me it was only a pimple. I was shocked to learn that I had shingles even though I am only 48 and had a small rash on my face. I was even more shocked to learn that if the rash spread to my eye (it was very close to it) I could have gone blind. Fortunately, my doctor diagnosed the rash as shingles, and I was prescribed an anti-viral medication. Within a week after my doctor’s visit the painful rash was gone.

2. Myth: The Shingles rash is only located on your torso. Fact: The Shingles rash is usually on one side of your body and can be on your torso, face or shoulder. It can be all over the body but that is rare. In my case I only had a rash on my forehead above my left eye. It felt painful like a sunburn but mostly only hurt when I touched it.

Shingles (herpes zoster) is caused by the same virus as chickenpox—the varicella zoster virus (VZV). If you had chickenpox then you can get shingles since the virus lies dormant in your body and then reactivates as shingles. According to the CDC, shingles rates have been increasing in the United States for unknown reasons and 1 in 3 people will contract the disease at some point in their lifetime.

1. Myth: Only older people get Shingles Fact: You could get Shingles at any age if you already had chickenpox, even children can get it (although it is rare). People usually get shingles because their immune system is weakened so it can happen if a person experiences stress or other issues that decrease immunity. I thought that only people who are sixty years or older get shingles, so I didn’t think it was possible for me to get it at age 48. “Years ago, herpes zoster (shingles) occurred almost exclusively in older people but today it occurs in younger age individuals including people in their twenties and thirties,” says Robin Evans, MD, dermatologist at Southern Connecticut Dermatology in Stamford, CT. She has also noticed a recent increase in younger people

3. Myth: Shingles is not contagious. Fact: Shingles can be contagious if there are blisters. If you touch the rash and then touch another part of your body, you can spread the rash. You can also infect other people through contact with the shingles rash. My doctor told me that if I touched my rash that I should wash my hands immediately to prevent spreading it to other parts of my body or spreading it to other people. “If someone has never had the chickenpox or the chickenpox vaccination they can be infected by contact with the actual zoster lesions or even from airborne transition from someone with shingles,” said Beth G. Goldstein, MD, a dermatologist at Central Dermatology Center in North Carolina and founder of Get Mr. 4. Myth: You can only get shingles once. Fact: You can get shingles more than once. It is possible to get shingles more than once although it is rare. Most people only get shingles once. “The virus can reactivate after it goes away. However, receiving the shingles vaccine highly decreases the likelihood of being infected again,” said Stacy Chimento, MD, a dermatologist at Riverchase Dermatology in Florida. Goldstein explained that 1-6% of the people that got shingles will have a 2nd episode, but it is more November / December 2021 | OurKidsMagazine.com

common in women and more common if you are immunocompromised.

5. Myth: You cannot get shingles if you got the shingles vaccine. Fact: You can get shingles if you receive the shingles vaccine although it is unlikely. The shingles vaccine Shingrix is more than 90% effective at preventing shingles. “In one trial of over 15,000 individuals over age 50, followed for 3 years, the vaccine reduced the risk of zoster by 97.2% and there were no cases of PHN in that study,” said Goldstein. 6. Myth: Shingles is rare. Fact: About 1 million people get Shingles every year in the United States. Should you seek treatment? Even if I knew that I had shingles I didn’t know there was a treatment for the disease. A doctor can prescribe an anti-viral medication that can get rid of shingles within a few days. “It is important to seek treatment immediately because medication can shorten the course of the disease,” said Evans. She also added that if the rash is on the face especially in the forehead area that you should see a doctor. “Treatment is very important because it can cause ocular problems if untreated.”

The Shingles Vaccine The CDC recommends that people age 50 and older receive the newer vaccine Shingrix (there was another vaccine called Zostavax that is no longer used in the United States). The vaccine is an inactivated virus. Even if you already had the virus you should still get the vaccine since it is possible to get the virus more than once. The vaccine is two doses administered 2 to 6 months after your initial dose and does not require a booster shot. Most insurance companies will cover the cost of the vaccine if you are over the age of 50. If you need to pay out of pocket the vaccine costs around $200. “It is very individual in terms of vaccine side effects. There is certainly a large number of individuals about 44% who get myalgias and other similar symptoms compared to about 82% with the Covid vaccination,” said Goldstein. The next time I see my doctor, I plan to ask about receiving the vaccine, even though I’m under 50. I was lucky that I had a mild case and I don’t want to get it again or possibly get a severe case if I can help it. Cheryl Maguire holds a Master of Counseling Psychology degree. She is married and is the mother of twins and a daughter. Her writing has been published in The New York Times, National Geographic, Parents Magazine, AARP and many other publications. She is a professional member of ASJA. You can find her at Twitter @CherylMaguire05

Our Kids Magazine | November / December 2021

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Second Baby Lies I Told Myself I know one thing about babies: they are mysterious. I learned this when my two-year-old was a baby, but I buried this nugget of truth in the recesses of my brain, which is disorganized to begin with. I can barely remember where I put my phone. I sailed through my second pregnancy, blissfully unaware of what was to come. My carefree life had already been obliterated with the birth of our first child. We’d barely notice the addition of a mere 8 to 10 pounds’ worth of additional human in our household. This was what I told myself, along with a few other handy lies... 1. Newborns are easy. They don’t do anything and you can take them anywhere! What was I smoking?! While it is true they don’t do anything, consequently, you, as the parent, must do everything for them. Burp them, feed them and change their diapers. If you’re not too busy with the hourly feedings or weekly baths, you can conveniently take them anywhere you want in their car seat. Affectionately known as “the bucket,” this torture device was surely invented by someone who despises parents. You might as well give ergonomics a big fat middle finger every time you take your baby out in one of these. 2. Big babies are good sleepers. I used to go around saying this as if having given birth to one large baby made me a sleep guru. As I predicted, my second baby ended up being big as well, over 9 pounds. But she is not a good sleeper. She is a horrible sleeper, in fact. She wakes up to nurse every two to three hours and sucks like it’s her last meal. I wish there was a way to make her understand that her cankles alone could sustain her for three weeks. 3. Nursing is easy! I nursed one baby easily, so I figured it would be the

By Pam Moore

same with my second. Except my breasts didn’t get the memo that they were supposed to make milk for only one baby. I could have fed my entire block for the first 12 weeks. Every time she latched on, she would pop off within a minute, cough, and wail, milk dribbling out of her mouth. Meanwhile, my exposed nipple would be spraying milk in three separate arcs, soaking me, and anything or anyone within a two-foot radius of me. We repeated this cycle five to six times, then switched sides to do it again, 10 times a day. Eventually, my supply backed down. In the meantime, washcloths, burp cloths, hand towels, and dried breast milk littered every surface of our home. 4. I’ve done this before. I know what I’m doing. Actually, I remember nothing from the first time. I know that it happened and we all survived but the details are hazy. While I call my mom far less frequently with baby questions this time around, I more than make up for it with frequent calls to my sister, who had a baby just a year ago. Thankfully, she still remembers all the things I forgot over the last couple of years. 5. We will sleep train when the baby is 4 months old. I’m still traumatized from when we sleep-trained our toddler over two years ago. Saying you’re going to sleep train and actually doing it are two entirely different things. Definitely, the baby will be sleeping through the night before she goes to college. I can’t make promises beyond that. I’ve told my husband I won’t rule out having a third. What’s one more lie? Pam Moore is an author, body positive health coach, occupational therapist, and certified personal trainer who helps women push through fear to become their best selves. To get her free guide to crushing Impostor Syndrome visit pam-moore.com This article was originally published on In the Powder Room.

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November / December 2021 | OurKidsMagazine.com

Feature

Protect Your Family from Scammers By Kimberly Blaker

According to a 2018 Federal Trade Commission report, 40% of millennials surveyed ages 20-29 said they had lost money to fraud. This reveals no age group is immune from being targeted or victimized by scammers. Scams run the gamut from shop-at-home and catalog sales to sweepstakes and lotteries, business and job opportunities, travel and timeshares, counterfeit checks, and telemarketing scams, to name a few. It’s impossible to know every potential scam out there. So the most effective way to protect yourself from being victimized is to be aware of methods scammers employ. The following are a few common scams that target people of all age groups and how to protect yourself.

INTERNET SCAMS The pace of technological innovation is accelerating, bringing with it new ways of scamming people out of their hard-earned money. The ongoing onslaught of new strategies by scammers makes it difficult to keep up with and be prepared for their gimmicks. 20

Our Kids Magazine | November / December 2021

Generally, internet scams work by using email, popups, or fake websites to elicit money or information, such as login credentials, from the victim. For example, an email may appear to be from a legitimate source and ask you to respond with sensitive information or open a link directly from the text. But scammers have ways of making an email or website look legitimate to trick victims into entering sensitive information or passwords. Pop up ads can also be used to trick someone into thinking they have a computer virus. When you click the ad, you may get tricked into paying for fake antivirus software. Alternatively, you may get connected to a fake tech or computer expert who requests sensitive information to stop the purported virus.

How to Protect Yourself When you receive an email requesting personal information, check the email address and research it to see if it’s legitimate. Don’t respond directly to an email with sensitive LIKE US @ facebook.com/OurKidsMagazineSA

information, even if it appears to be from a legitimate source. If you believe it may be a legitimate request from a known source, open a new email, and input an email address you know is legitimate. You can find this by checking your address book or the company’s website. Don’t click links directly from an email or enter your login details or other information on the page that opens. If it’s from your bank or another familiar company, open a separate web page and go directly to the site yourself. Use pop-up blockers and legitimate antivirus software when you’re on the internet or computer and don’t click on popups. Check with a younger, technologically savvy family member or friend before engaging in something online that seems suspicious.

TELEMARKETING SCAMS Phone scams generally focus on offering victims a great opportunity or impersonating an official to get sensitive information. A common telemarketing scam is when someone calls pretending to be from the IRS. The caller informs the victim they owe taxes and must pay immediately. Some scammers even threaten there’s a warrant out for the victim’s arrest, and the only way to avoid it is to pay up, often by wire transfer or in the form of a gift card. Some callers cite obscure taxes that don’t exist to alarm the victim. Scammers also try to sell fake products or services over

the phone. They use tactics like offering free trials that require your credit card information or limited-time offers to pressure you into a quick decision.

How to Protect Yourself Know that most government agencies and legitimate businesses like banks won’t ask for sensitive information over the phone. To verify who’s calling, hang up and call back the phone number that called you. If it seems legitimate, take an extra precaution. Find the contact number for the company or group online, then call it to ask if it was a valid communication. Hang up or otherwise remove yourself from the situation. Con artists use many tactics to keep you on the phone or engaged. They often impart a sense of urgency or alarm to confuse their targets and increase the likelihood their target will fall for the scam. If you don’t recognize a phone number, let it go to voicemail. Scammers may not leave a voicemail. If they do, you can search the number online to see if others have reported it. Be aware that caller IDs and numbers displayed on your phone aren’t always accurate. Scammers can manipulate what shows up on your screen when you receive a call. ROMANTIC SCAMS Scammers try to take advantage of people who are

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vulnerable because of their loneliness. Con artists use dating sites or social media to form an emotional connection and build trust with the target. Once established, con artists use the relationship to extract money from their victim for an ‘emergency’ or ‘travel expenses’ to come to visit.

How to Protect Yourself Don’t send money to anyone you haven’t met and don’t know very well in person. Be wary of entering a relationship with someone online or by phone, especially if it seems too good to be true. Don’t hide any romantic relationships. Be open with friends or family, and be skeptical of anyone who wants to keep your relationship a secret.

SURPRISE WINNINGS SCAMS Some fraudsters use compelling circumstances like winning a lottery or free vacation to lure potential victims. These scams are appealing because it feels good to win something. You’ll receive a call or notification that you’ve won a prize. To secure the award (that will never come), you need to pay a comparatively small amount of money or provide bank or identification information. How to Protect Yourself Be wary of an unusually great deal. If it seems too good to be true, it probably is.

Our Kids Magazine | November / December 2021

If you didn’t enter a contest or haven’t heard of the opportunity you’ve allegedly lucked into, it’s likely a scam. Don’t give any money or information to someone requesting it to secure your prize.

GENERAL TIPS ON DEALING WITH A POTENTIAL SCAM Be aware when someone is using emotional appeal or emphasizing time sensitivity or another type of urgency. Giving you vague or ambiguous information or trying to get you to supply information is also a warning sign. These are common tactics to manipulate people into falling for a scam. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, for confirmation, or to talk to a superior. Be skeptical, and if you’re not satisfied, don’t give out any information. Talk to other friends or family members to see if they have any knowledge about what the person has asked of you and whether it’s above board before you give out any information. Stay aware of popular schemes by following the news and resources such as the Federal Trade Commission Consumer Information scam alerts. Kimberly Blaker is a freelance writer. She also owns an online store, Sage Rare & Collectible Books, specializing in out-of-print, scarce, signed, and first editions; fine bindings; ephemera and more at sagerarebooks.com

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November / December 2021 | OurKidsMagazine.com

CALENDAR OF EVENTS Disclaimer: Due to Covid, event dates, times and details are subject to change. Always double check by phone, website or Facebook for event updates. November 1

November 19, 2021 January 17, 2022 Rotary Ice Rink at Travis Park:

The Rotary Ice Rink at Travis Park provides a fun and festive recreational activity for the whole family throughout the holiday season – and beyond! November 19, 2021, through January 17, 2022. Cost is $14 and all times are subject to change and weather permitting. Please visit http://rotaryicerink.com/ for updates. 301 E Travis St San Antonio, TX 78205

November 19, 2021 January 3, 2022 Alamo Lights:

Each year during the holidays, the Alamo will be decorated with festive lights throughout that illuminate the grounds, and of course, the Christmas tree in Alamo Plaza. Visitors can enjoy extended hours with the Alamo grounds open until 7:00 p.m. 300 Alamo Plaza San Antonio, TX 78205

Our Kids Magazine | November / December 2021

Free Family Nights at the DoSeum: Free admission to The DoSeum every first Tuesday of the Month. Family night is at 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Wristbands will be given out at 4 p.m. at entrance. Wristbands guarantee entrance for Free family Night. Once all wristbands are given out, Doseum has reached capacity. Parking is limited; please plan accordingly. See website for more details. The DoSeum, 2800 Broadway. 210-212-4453. https://www.thedoseum.org

November 2

44th annual Día de los Muertos exhibition: This event illustrates the artistic, cultural, and religious facets of this popular pre-Columbian Mexican tradition where death is seen as a natural part of life and this reality is approached with humor a celebration of life. Photographs of loved ones passed grace altars as well as offerings of food, marigolds, incense, candles, and other traditional offerings. Altares y Ofrendas Exhibition runs through November 5, 2021 Centro Cultural Aztlan, 1800 Fredericksburg Rd, Ste 103 San Antonio, TX 78201 http://www.centroaztlan.org Carnaval de los Muertos: URBAN-15’s Carnaval de los Muertos will hold a special performance in honor of Dia de los Muertos, Tuesday, November 2nd, 2021, 7PM. The performance will take place at Elmendorf Lake Park in San Antonio, Texas. Carnaval de los Muertos is a magical spectacle of motion, imagery, sound, and color. The dancers in their costumes of embedded lights and the glowing banners personalized with photos, proceed in an illuminated procession that evokes floating spirits passing through our city. It is a dreamlike vision of overlapping dancers and drummers moving in slow motion like the galaxies in the eternity of space. Elmendorf Lake Park: 3700 W Commerce St, San Antonio, TX 78207 Muertitos Fest 2021: Artes Curativas: Día de los Muertos is an annual tradition that allows us to celebrate life and honor our departed loved ones. Like so many over the past year, SAY Sí has experienced our own cycles of change in many ways. For this Day of the Dead celebration, hosted on Tuesday, November 2, 2021, we will honor those we’ve lost, the healing wisdom ancestors have left us, and the hope before us for a brighter future. Free and open to the public. 3 to 9 p.m. SAY Sí @ Brazos. 1310 South Brazos Street, San Antonio, TX 78207. 210-2128666. http://saysi.org/muertitos-fest/

November 3 Virtual Playdates: Artful Harvest: Cultivate, nurture, and inspire creativity in toddlers through stories, gallery activities, hands-on art, movement, and music. Come “meet” the SAMA staff in a virtual Zoom room and check our Facebook events for pre-Playdates preparation suggestions. Registration closes at 10 p.m. the day before the event, and registration is limited to caregivers and toddlers aged 2 to 4 years. Zoom link is sent to the email used upon registration. 10 to 1-:45 a.m. San Antonio Museum of Art, 200 West Jones Ave. https://www. samuseum.org/ To Advertise Call 305-4181

November 5

Be the first to hear about special offers and fun events for kids of all ages!

November 6

Diwali Festival 2021: Celebrating Indian culture and traditions this event is the largest and most significant event organized by the Indian community in San Antonio. There will be live entertainment, food and handicrafts for sale, 2,000 floating diyas to be released and a DJ area for dancing the night away. The event concludes with a spectacular fireworks display. Free. 6 to 10 p.m. Hemisfair, 434 S. Alamo St. San Antonio. https://www.anujasa.com/diwali-sa/

FOR ALL THE FUN DETAILS, VISIT ROLLINGOAKSMALL.COM/KIDX

ADVENTURE

Outdoor Movie Series - Soul: This season, enjoy FREE movies at Mission Marquee Plaza and brought to you by the City of San Antonio World Heritage Office! Bring your blankets, lawn chairs, snacks and picnics for an unforgettable outdoor experience. Or, purchase snacks from our onsite food trucks. Venue opens at 7 p.m. and movies begin approximately 15 minutes after dusk. Pets are welcome and parking is available onsite. Face coverings and social ne distancing are recommended. For event updates, visit theMagazi Mission Marquee Plaza Facebook page. https://www.facebook.com/MissionMarqueePlaza

2022 Cover kids contest Magazine FREE The Go-To

50th Annual Veterans Day Parade: The 50th Annual Universal City Veterans Parade is the oldest continuous Veterans Parade in the San Antonio area and the City is proud to honor veterans of all United States wars. This Magazine parade has been host to more than 40 groups participating in the parade, including various military groups, police & fire departments, schools, and local businesses and organizations. The viewing stand will be located located in the Randolph Plaza Shopping Center parking lot but spectators are welcome to gather all along the Pat Booker Road route agazine to enjoy the parade. The City is looking forward to another M successful event next year, so please make plans to come out and celebrate with us. Free. Parade starts at 10:30 a.m. http://www.universalcitytexas.com/586/Veterans-Parade

November 7 Touch-Free Family Day: Día de los Muertos: Decorate a traditional sugar skull and craft tissue paper cempasuchil (marigolds). Explore the Latin American galleries with a bilingual self-paced scavenger hunt in Spanish or English and learn more about Día de los Muertos with a link to a bilingual story time video. Participate in our interactive Día de los Muertos installation. Link for art activity video demonstrations, virtual story time, and self-guided gallery walk available in the art kit. Art kits are first come, first served. Free for SAISD students and families. Limited art kits available. 11:00 AM–3:00 PM in the Great Hall, Ticket Price: Free with Museum admission. San Antonio Museum of Art, 200 West Jones Ave. https://www.samuseum.org/ Free Family Day: The Sweet Life: Serving up an afternoon of sweet family fun. Enjoy art activities, performances, a search-and-find, and more throughout the Museum and outdoors while celebrating the completion of the Landscape Master Plan and the exhibition Wayne Thiebaud 100: Paintings, Prints, and Drawings. 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm McNay Art Museum 6000 N New Braunfels Ave. San Antonio, TX 78209

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Parents, don’t forget to take a picture of your child in costume this Halloween for a chance to be on the cover of Our Kids Magazine next year. Send photos to rudy@ourkidsmagazine.com by 12p.m. November 10, 2021 November / December 2021 | OurKidsMagazine.com

permitted on site. Gather your blankets and flashlights, and come on out for a fun family movie night under the stars! Free Parking. Restrooms available on site. NO PETS OR ALCOHOL. Schertz Super Duper Con: Traders Village is proud to sponsor the Schertz Super Duper Con headed up by “Rick & Morty” Artist – David Angelo Roman. This event will be held November 13-14, 2021 at the Schertz Civic Center in Schertz, TX. [NOT Held at Traders Village] Schertz Super Duper Con is an amazing comic and anime show set in the beautiful city of Schertz, Texas! Schertz Civic Center 1400 Schertz Pkwy, Schertz, TX 78154 Movie in the Park - Elf: Grab a blanket and enjoy a screening of “ELF” under the stars. Free. Movie will start at sunset. Tower of the Americas, 739 E Cesar Chavez. https://www.toweroftheamericas. com Ford Holiday River Parade on November 26 at 6 p.m.

November 12

Miss Anastasia’s Wild and Wacky Pre-Weekend Twiglet Storytime: Miss Anastasia combines story time and a delightful craft each Friday. Free. 10:30 a.m. to noon. Twig Book Shop in the Can Plant Building, 306 Pearl Parkway Ste. 106. 210-8266411. http://www.thetwig.com/miss-anastasia Family Program: Storytime Flow: Move and flow along through a story time that pairs movement with children’s stories and books. Stick around afterwards for an outdoor sculpture tour. Registration required. Limited spots available. Free for children under 12 years, member adults, and recipients of WIC/ SNAP/ MAP courtesy of Museum for All. $15 not-yet member adult, $10 teens. Registration and payments can be made ahead online. Registration closes morning of event unless sold out. No programs on bad weather days. 10:00 to 11:00 am McNay Art Museum 6000 N New Braunfels Ave. San Antonio, TX 78209

November 13

Luminaria Contemporary Arts Festival : Be a part of this nighttime celebration of the arts created with the ingenuity of its vibrant artistic community. The Luminaria Contemporary Arts Festival will feature 50 artists from across Texas, including music, fine arts, fashion, film, digital art, dance, theatre, poetry, lasers, lights, and large-scale art installations.This festival is free and open to the public and it will be held downtown with plenty of outdoor space to socially distance and enjoy the art. 6:00 pm to 12:00. Downtown San Antonio, at Hemisfair, Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center, and the San Antonio Riverwalk Free and open to the public. www.LuminariaSA.org Home Alone -FREE Family Friendly Outdoor Movie Night: Gather your family and come enjoy the inaugural Movie on the Range, sponsored by First Tee – Greater San Antonio in partnership with the City of San Antonio Parks and Recreation Department. This FREE community event, featuring the holiday classic movie, “Home Alone” (rated PG) will take place Saturday, Nov. 13 at First Tee – Greater San Antonio’s driving range at 915 E. Mulberry Ave. The outdoor event kicks off at 5 p.m. with child-friendly activities; the movie begins at 6 p.m. A popular food truck will be on site with kid-friendly food and beverages available to purchase. Families are welcome to bring in their own food and beverages, but NO ALCOHOL will be

Our Kids Magazine | November / December 2021

November 19

Touch-Free Art Crawl: How We Work and Play: Museum experiences for 0-24 months and caregivers with art selections that enhance caregiver-child interactions. Includes a self-guided gallery activity with single-use, multisensory, interactive baby swag bag to be picked up at the Museum on the second Tuesday of the month. First come, first served. Baby swag limited to 20 per time slot. 4 to 6 p.m. in the Great Hall, Ticket Price: Free with Museum admission. San Antonio Museum of Art, 200 West Jones Ave. https://www. samuseum.org/ Miss Anastasia’s Wild and Wacky Pre-Weekend Twiglet Storytime: Miss Anastasia combines story time and a delightful craft each Friday. Free. 10:30 a.m. to noon. Twig Book Shop in the Can Plant Building, 306 Pearl Parkway Ste. 106. 210-8266411. http://www.thetwig.com/miss-anastasia Rotary Ice Rink at Travis Park: The Rotary Ice Rink at Travis Park provides a fun and festive recreational activity for the whole family throughout the holiday season – and beyond! November 19, 2021, through January 17, 2022. Cost is $14 and all times are subject to change and weather permitting. Please visit http://rotaryicerink.com/ for updates.

November 25

2021 Turkey Trot 5K: Turkey Trot is the San Antonio Food Bank’s annual 5K walk/run that raises funds to help feed families during the holidays. It will start and end in front of the Commander’s House at H-E-B’s Arsenal campus, with the route going through downtown and the Historic King William Neighborhood. This year, we will also be offering virtual 5K experience, which means there will be an unlimited number of participants from anywhere in the U.S.A. Register fee vary. 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. Commander’s House at H-E-B’s Arsenal Campus, 622 South Flores.https://safoodbank.org/turkeytrot2021/

November 26 Miss Anastasia’s Wild and Wacky Pre-Weekend Twiglet Storytime: Miss Anastasia combines story time and a delightful craft each Friday. Free. 10:30 a.m. to noon. Twig Book Shop in the Can Plant Building, 306 Pearl Parkway Ste. 106. 210-8266411. http://www.thetwig.com/miss-anastasia Ford Holiday River Parade: Ring in the holidays with this iconic night parade filled with lights, costumed float riders & music. Ticket prices vary by location. 6 to 9 p.m. The San Antonio River To Advertise Call 305-4181

Walk. https://www.thesanantonioriverwalk.com

December 2 - 4 Sights & Sounds of Christmas: Celebrate the holiday season with thousands of lights, photos with Santa, ice skating, a petting zoo, carnival rides, shopping, food and much more. One day admission is $5 or an 8 day pass will be available for $15. Admission for children 12 and under is always free! See website for adults 5K and children’s 1K details. 5:30 to 11 p.m. San Marcos Plaza Park, 401 E. Hopkins St., San Marcos. http:// sights-n-sounds.org/

December 3

Elf movie in the park on November 13 at the Tower fo the Americas 27th Annual Mariachi Vargas Extravaganza National Mariachi Group Competition at 2:30 pm - 9:00 pm: T Tecalitlán during the competitions held at the Lila Cockrell The 27th Annual Mariachi Vargas Extravaganza is a weeklong Theatre on Friday, December 3rd and at the National High mariachi music festival that serves host to the largest and School Group Finals on Saturday, December 4th. Wristbands are longest-running mariachi group competitions in the world. required to attend this unique family-oriented cultural event Widely considered as the toughest national mariachi competiheld as part of the 27th Annual Mariachi Vargas Extravaganza. tion to take place anywhere, these competitions are often Wristbands may be purchased online until November 27th referred to as the Super Bowl of Mariachi Music where the best mariachi groups in the nation go head-to-head for a chance to at mariachimusic.com or at the door on the day of competiopen for the world-renowned Mariachi Vargas de Tecalitlán in tion. This wristband grants access to the National Mariachi concert. First, second and third place winners are selected by Group Competition on December 4th and the National Vocal members of Mariachi Vargas de Tecalitlán during the competiCompetition and High School Group Finals on December 3rd. tions held at the Lila Cockrell Theatre on Friday, December 3rd and at the National High School Group Finals on Saturday, December 4th. Wristbands are required to attend this unique December 7 family-oriented cultural event held as part of the 27th Annual Mariachi Vargas Extravaganza. Wristbands may be purchased Charlie and the Chocolate Factory: Roald Dahl’s CHARLIE AND online until November 27th at mariachimusic.com or at the THE CHOCOLATE FACTORY amazing tale is now the Alamo door on the day of competition. This wristband grants access city’s golden ticket! It’s the perfect recipe for a delectable treat: to the National Mariachi Group Competition on December 4th songs from the original film, including “Pure Imagination,” and the National Vocal Competition and High School Group “The Candy Man,” and “I’ve Got a Golden Ticket,” alongside a Finals on December 3rd. toe-tapping and ear-tickling new score from the songwriters of Hairspray. Get ready for Oompa-Loompas, incredible inventions, The Nutcracker 2021: The holidays aren’t complete until you the great glass elevator, and more, more, more at this everlastexperience the magic of Ballet San Antonio’s The Nutcracker, ing showstopper! www.majesticempire.com originally commissioned by Ballet San Antonio and choreographed by Easton and Haley Smith. With live music performed by the San Antonio Symphony and a children’s cast of over December 9 100 children, Ballet San Antonio’s The Nutcrackeris a magical tradition for the community of San Antonio and their famiSights & Sounds of Christmas: Celebrate the holiday season lies! Times and ticket prices vary. 115 Auditorium Circle. www. with thousands of lights, photos with Santa, ice skating, a pettobincenter.org ting zoo, carnival rides, shopping, food and much more. One day admission is $5 or an 8 day pass will be available for $15. Admission for children 12 and under is always free! See website December 4 for adults 5K and children’s 1K details. 5:30 to 11 p.m. San 27th Annual Mariachi Vargas Extravaganza National Vocal Marcos Plaza Park, 401 E. Hopkins St., San Marcos. http://sightsCompetition at 9:00 am - 1:00 pm: T The 27th Annual Mariachi n-sounds.org/ Vargas Extravaganza is a weeklong mariachi music festival that serves host to the largest and longest-running mariachi group competitions in the world. Widely considered as the toughest national mariachi competition to take place anywhere, December 11 these competitions are often referred to as the Super Bowl of Movie in the Park - Elf: Grab a blanket and enjoy a screening of Mariachi Music where the best mariachi groups in the nation “ELF” under the stars. Free. Movie will start at sunset. Tower of go head-to-head for a chance to open for the world-renowned the Americas, 739 E Cesar Chavez. https://www.toweroftheamMariachi Vargas de Tecalitlán in concert. First, second and third place winners are selected by members of Mariachi Vargas de ericas.com November / December 2021 | OurKidsMagazine.com

Holiday Gift Ideas ABBY+FINN

Is there anything cuter than a baby crawling around in diapers, seriously? ABBY&FINN has made a name for itself with super soft, toxin-free premium diapers delivered to doorsteps at an affordable price. Now, the brand introduces two new designs (Safari and Daydream) that are simply adorable. Baby’s bottoms will swagger in style! Snag diapers, add in essentials such as hand sanitizer and baby wipes to your subscription, and voila! Create a custom home delivery bundle that’s dropped off at your home for the ultimate in convenience and safety. Parents nationwide are saying “sign me up!”

Power Pony

Imagined by Kids for Kids and built to ride like a real horse. Your handcrafted Power Pony is powered by our patent pending ZüME engine. It is iOS connected, fully interactive, and guaranteed to provide fun, smiles and laughter on many exciting riding adventures. Price: Varies. https://powerpony.com/

Good Timer Clock Makers Creation

Developed for kids ages 3-10, this five-time award-winning product is all about encouraging kids to do their best every day! Goodtimer is an interactive and friendly clock-like companion that glows with soothing green lights and encouraging sounds that motivate kids to learn healthy habits that last.

Chirpwood Shadows Multi-Canvas Art Kit: Flowers

Everything paintby-numbers is and everything paint-bynumbers isn’t. Art kits include everything you need to paint your version of this beautiful licensed original work of art. Include six canvas “shadows,” 24 tubes of acrylic paint and three brushes in a $45 retail kit, along with art-teacher-created written and video instructions. https://chirpwood.com

Sync Hoverboard

You’ll be sure to turn heads with this light up hoverboard equipped with a Bluetooth speaker to enhance your ride. It contains a top speed of 10 MPH and has a range of up to 8 Miles. Exclusive to Target

Moonlite - Special Edition Eric Carle Gift Pack

our child’s favorite Eric Carle tales come alive with Moonlite, an easy-to-use storybook projector! This small device clips onto your smartphone (not included) and uses the device’s flashlight to project vibrant storybook images from classics like The Very Hungry Caterpillar!

Make-A-Fort Explorer Kit

Build and play inside incredible forts, mazes, tunnels, and more. Get kids off screens and engaged in creative real-world play. Spend quality time building and playing with the whole family. Endless play building and playing inside really big forts. Made from a heavy duty corrugated cardboard that is strong, durable, and eco-friendly.

Our Kids Magazine | November / December 2021

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Cow Pie Catapults

Fit4 Adapt 4-in-1 Convertible Car Seat - Ember

The 4-Stage FitKit™ System makes it easy to secure your child correctly and comfortably from birth to big kid through multi-staged construction and easy-to-remove, breathable mesh layers. Combined with a 10-position Easy-Extend Headrest System, Fit4® Adapt offers room to grow through each unique stage, all the way up to 57” tall.

Hedbanz Blast Off

Race against the clock AND the other team. Try to figure out the card on your head, but don’t take too much time -- the card will BLAST OFF and you’ll start over. ncludes 2 Blastoff Timer Headbands, 100 Picture Cards, 25 Bonus Cards, 6 Sample Question Cards, and Instructions.

Beat the Parents

Kids vs parents in a fun-filled, action-packed showdown of trivia and challenges. Kids and parents live in different worlds, so each generation gets their own set of questions. Parents, do you know what your kids know? Kids, just how smart are your parents? For 2 to 6 players, ages 6 and up.

Merriam-Webster’s 150 First Words

The first-word board book offers a fun, interactive approach to successful language learning for your toddler. The colorful book presents daily activities familiar to babies such as waking up, dressing, mealtime, playtime, bath time and dinner time, giving babies opportunities to learn essential words and phrases. $10.99

The poo flippin’, cow tippin’ battle of the barnyard! Arrange your cows on your side of the barnyard, load up the catapults, and let the fun begin! On 3-2-1 poo is launched through the air and lands with splendid splats. First player to knock over all the opponent’s cows is the winner! Ages 6+

Not It! ™

A fast and frenzied fun for everyone! When the 3 dice tumble from the dice tower, you must find a card in your hand that does not match any of the 3 attributes on each dice! Be the fasted to correctly get rid of your cards to WIN! Spot the card that does NOT match! Do it fast . . . Do NOT be last! Ages 6+

Jumanji Deluxe Board Game

Your goal is to reach Jumanji (the center) and call out its name, but beware: if any of your group runs out of Life Tokens, everyone loses! On each turn, roll dice and move along the path, using the electronic Green Dome to reveal a captivating riddle or perilous event.

Merriam-Webster’s Word of the Day

This book builds knowledge one day at a time with 366 masterful words. Each unique word includes a definition, pronunciation, and a nonfiction fact as an example sentence. At the end of each month, readers will find a story that contains all the words introduced that month, with an audio version so kids can hear it spoken aloud as they go.

SideKick Plus 3-in-1 Hip Seat Carrier - Titanium The unique, two-piece system offers a variety of healthy sitting positions for convenient carrying from infant through toddler. The infant carrier includes padded, ergonomic shoulder straps and a lumbar pad for parent comfort. An easy-to-reach pocket holds on-thego essentials and soft, machine washable shoulder strap covers make for easy cleanup.

November / December 2021 | OurKidsMagazine.com

Dr. Seuss The Grinch MagnaTiles

All the Who’s down in Whoville loved Christmas a lot… But the Grinch, who lived just north, DID NOT! Who doesn’t love this timeless story of Dr. Seuss’s ®The Grinch and what better way than to bring this story to life, but with Magna-Tiles®. Our interactive story time Magna-tile® Structure Set will surely please all your kiddos while reading and putting together the tiles to find out how the Who’s end up. $44.95 Ages 3+ https://createon.com/product/the-grinch/

What On Earth Books Amazing Treasures

Ages 7+, $18.64 . Discover 100 of the world’s most remarkable artifacts, most stunning artworks and most intriguing ruins in this beautifully illustrated book about Earth’s treasures. Treasures both natural and manmade make an appearance in a tour which stretches across thousands of years and all around the globe. Discover sunken wrecks loaded with pirate gold and the abandoned tombs of the world’s most powerful rulers. https://www.amazon.com/

Super Monkey Ball Banana Mania

the ultimate Super Monkey Ball adventure for fans of all ages. Join the all-star monkey gang of AiAi, MeeMee, GonGon, Baby, YanYan and Doctor as you bounce, tilt, and roll your way across hundreds of delightfully crafted levels and mazes in your quest to save your beloved bananas! Immersive comic book-style storytelling and a delightful cast of playable characters including beloved duo Sonic the Hedgehog and Miles “Tails” Prower rekindle the magic of the iconic Super Monkey Ball classics for a new generation of banana maniacs. Publisher: SEGA of America. Platform: Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and PC via Steam

Our Kids Magazine | November / December 2021

Christmas Tree Ornaments

selection of mouth-blown glass, hand painted Christmas ornaments! Each of our over 1,500 ornaments comes with a unique story about the ornament. https:// oldworldchristmas.com

What On Earth Books FACTopia

Ages 8-12, $14.99. Did you know that a squid has a brain shaped like a doughnut? Or that some butterflies drink turtle tears? Welcome to FACTopia, a world of perfectly amazing facts, all of which are

verified by Encyclopaedia Britannica! Every fact in the book is connected to the next in an ingenious trail of information. Hop from topic to topic in unexpected and hilarious ways, and discover extraordinary facts. https:// www.whatonearthbooks.com

Marvel’s Guardians of the Galaxy

Fire up Star-Lord’s jet boots for a wild ride across the cosmos in this third-person action-adventure game, a fresh take on Marvel’s Guardians of the Galaxy. With the unpredictable Guardians at your side, blast your way from one explosive situation to another, with original and iconic Marvel characters caught in a struggle for the fate of the universe. Publisher: Square Enix, Platform: PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, PC, GeForce NOW, Nintendo Switch

KeyFit 35 Zip ClearTex Infant Car Seat - Ash This Infant Car Seat offers more headrest height and legroom for extended use. Features a machine washable, quick-remove seat pad for easy cleanup with no added chemicals and the breathable canopy features a zip-open, full-coverage privacy shield.

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AN ALL-NEW GAYLORD HOTELS® ORIGINAL EXPERIENCE

s in g e b n io s is m The th 9 1 r e Novemb

Follow Buddy the Elf on his journey to muster enough Christmas cheer to power Santa’s sleigh and save the holiday by completing challenges inspired by the iconic film in this all-new, multisensory experience.

50% OFF CODE: KIDS

NOV. 19 - JAN. 2 | WELCOME TO MORE ChristmasAtGaylordTexan.com

Offer valid between 11/22-11/25, 11/29-12/2, 12/6-12/9, 12/13-12/16, 12/20-12/23, 12/27-12/30, 1/1-1/2. Offer valid for listed dates only. Not valid with any other discounts or offers. Tickets must be purchased online. Limit of 10 tickets per purchaser. Not retroactive. Other restrictions may apply. Discount based on 50% off GENERAL ADMISSION ticket pricing and valid for all dates mentioned in the promotion. Limited number of tickets available on select dates.

November / December 2021 | OurKidsMagazine.com