September 2017 by Peekaboo

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September 2017

*Northwest Health Physiciansâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Specialty Hospital is owned, in part, by physicians.

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2 September 2017

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welcome Blayne Battisto, D.O. acute care / adolescent care / ask the nurse / immunizations / walk-in clinic / newborn care / wellness care Schedule a wellness exam for your child with Dr. Battisto through your myMANA account or by calling 443-3471.

The

Family KIMBERLY ENDERLE Editor-in-Chief editor@peekaboonwa.com | 479-957-0532

JONATHON ENDERLE Creative Director jon@peekaboonwa.com | 479-586-3890

Kim and Jonathon with Ava, Holden, Gwen and Grant Enderle. PHOTO BY MAIN STREET STUDIOS

CONTRIBUTING WRITER/EDITOR Frances Wilson

DISTRIBUTION/ CIRCULATION Joyce Whitaker Judy Evans Marcedalia Salinas

Jeremy Whitaker Michelle Dodson

Peekaboo Publications PO Box 1036 Bentonville, Arkansas 72712

BEN LACY Dadâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s View

Columnist

VERONICA ZUCCA Story Design

Please send inquiries to: editor@peekaboonwa.com or call 479-957-0532 www.peekaboonwa.com Peekaboo may not be reproduced in whole or in part without written permission from the publisher. Views expressed herein are those of the authors and advertisers, and do not necessarily reflect the opinion of the magazine.

PEEKABOO Northwest Arkansas accepts writing contributions

6 September 2017

JENNIFER CRISTOFARO Events

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From the moment your baby is born through childhood and adolescence, your relationship with a skilled and caring pediatrician is crucial to the health and wellbeing of your child. That’s why it’s so important to find a pediatrician who makes you feel comfortable and confident every step of the way. At our Northwest Physicians practices, we focus on providing preventive care, such as routine checkups, sports and school physicals, immunizations, allergy care, and diagnosis and treatment of childhood illnesses.

WE’RE WITH YOU

EVERY INCH OF Northwest Pediatric Convenient Care

3057 Springdale Ave., Springdale, AR 72762 Mon.-Fri.: Noon-8 p.m., Sat.-Sun.: 8 a.m.-8 p.m.

479-751-2522

Susan Averitt, M.D. Staci Graber, APN

Best Start Pediatric Clinic

Megan Kumpe, APN

5501 Willow Creek Dr. Suite 104 Springdale, AR 72762 Mon.-Fri.: 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

479-575-9359

Mark Lovell, M.D.

The Children’s Clinic at Har-Ber Meadows 6636 W. Sunset Ave. Suite A Springdale, AR 72762 Mon.-Thur.: 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Fri.: 8 a.m.-Noon

479-306-4242

Laurie Anderson, M.D. Millicent Ford, M.D. April Durham, M.D.

The Children’s Clinic at Springdale 3057 Springdale Ave. Springdale, AR 72762 Mon.-Fri.: 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

479-751-2522

Members of the Medical Staff of Northwest Health and Allied Health Staff of Northwest Health.

8 September 2017

Ask about our same-day or next-day appointments. To learn more or find a location near you, visit NW-Physicians.com.

THE WAY.

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Inside

SEPT 2017

Also 22

Shine Solar: Installing Happiness by: Kendra Perkins

Dolls, Birthdays, & the Tooth Fairy by: Jennifer Barnett Reed

The Roeder Family

Kendra Thompson

BY: MALLORY ROEDER

BY: KENDRA THOMPSON

Dad's View with Ben Lacy

Same-Day Knee Replacement Now an Option

Hometown Hero with a Furred Flair

Childcare Aware of NWA

The Call: Unsung Heroes

The Journey of a Mother's Loss

BY: STEPHANIE LANEY

BY: GINA ALLGAIER

Babysitter Certifications a Growing Requirement by: Dwain Hebda

ON THE COVER

CMY

Outdoor Play in NWA BY: HEATHER FOITCH

NWA Experiences the 2017 Eclipse

Lilah, age 6, Selah, age 4, Elsah, age 3 and Axel, 8 months. Children of Dr. Chip and Mallory Roeder of Cave Springs.

Cover Sponsored by: Northwest Health www.northwesthealth.com 10 September 2017

Photos by Hannah McLeod of Ever After Portraiture. www.facebook.com/everafterportraiture

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www.siloamwomenscenter.com

Kyle Thompson, DO, FACOG

Chad Hill, MD, FACOG

Natalie Eiland, DO

Siloam Springs Women’s Center BOARD CERTIFIED OB - GYN SPECIALISTS SERVING SILOAM SPRINGS REGIONAL HOSPITAL

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• Comprehensive OB Care & Delivery • Gynecological and Laparoscopic Surgery • Female Incontinence • Pelvic Pain • Pelvic Reconstruction • Minimally Invasive Outpatient Hysterectomy • In-Ofﬁce Surgical Sterilization

Now Accepting New Patients Emily Goucher, APRN, WHNP-BC COMMERCIAL INSURANCE • MEDICARE • OKLAHOMA, ARKANSAS & MISSOURI MEDICAID

603-2 N. Progress Avenue, Suite 100, Siloam Springs 479.524.9312 Hours: Monday - Friday 8am to 5pm

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WHERE YOU START THE JOURNEY CAN MAKE ALL THE DIFFERENCE. Tour your local Goddard School and experience why it’s the best preparation for social and academic success. Goddard Systems, Inc.’s program is AdvancED Accredited.

NOW ENROLLING! | FAYETTEVILLE • 479-262-0970 LEARNING FOR FUN. LEARNING FOR LIFE.®

GoddardSchool.com

The Goddard Schools are operated by independent franchisees under a license agreement with Goddard Systems, Inc. Programs and ages may vary. Goddard Systems, Inc. program is AdvancED accredited. © Goddard Systems, Inc. 2017

A look ahead: If you have a story to share, or an idea for a story, email editor@ peekaboonwa.com and be a part of the Peekaboo family!

From the Editor

HERE IS A LOOK AHEAD! OCTOBER is our mother's of multiples issue! Do you have twins or triplets and want to see them featured and share your tale of life with multiples? Email to editor@ peekaboonwa.com by September 10th. NOVEMBER is our annual adoption issue! We want to feature as many families as possible. For details, email editor@peekaboonwa.com by September 30th.

ello, September! Fall is in the air, and I couldn't be happier. While I love summer, by the time the heat peaks in August, I am so ready to move on to the next season. When I find myself sweating (and even overheating) just walking my four little ducklings across the parking lot from the store to the car, I start craving the crisp, cool air only fall can bring. Regardless of the season, the crazy thing about having a baby is that time seems to both speed up and sit completely still at the same time. The day feels like it flies by, in some weird space/time continuum with pockets of absolute slowness. One minute you are waking up (sometimes for the 15th time, but this time it is because your alarm went off so you actually have to get out of bed)--then, in a blink, it is 3:30 in the afternoon and everyone is still in their pajamas, including you (and, most likely, your pajamas are from two days ago... because in this weird time warp, there is definitely no time for a shower.) Yet, through all this blinding dash of time, there is still plenty of time for you to get sucked into your own head. In there, the doubts and negativity move at a snail’s pace, to be sure you don’t miss a single one. At just 4 weeks postpartum, I was wondering why I hadn’t lost the weight yet, or why I hadn’t gotten into a routine, and I questioned how I would ever find the time to actually catch up on all this new laundry my newest tiny little person was creating. I wasn’t taking into consideration the adjustment period, or the reality of the change in both my body and the effect on my brain from the lost hours of sleep. After having four kids, I can say that, in fact, there is rarely any grace given to a new mother by her own "new mother" brain. Instead, I have been filled with a dreadful medley of doubt, angst, and self-imposed pressure to get back to the way things were before baby. The only difference is, now there is a sweet little baby who is relying on me fully. This lack of

compassion and leeway for one's self is not reserved for just new moms, as I can attest, but for women (and men) in all stages of life. When we think of bullying, we usually think of a situation involving at least two individuals, but I know from personal experience that many times the biggest bully can be yourself. Oftentimes, you are the cruelest bully, as well, since only you know all of your secrets. It is the voice inside your head that can be the most damaging to your self-esteem, never mind magazines, movie stars, or talking heads on TV. This voice asks for perfection, and often doesn't take the rational order of things into consideration. That voice is meant to motivate you to do your best (at least, that's what it tells you) but sometimes, and especially during times of lost sleep, like after a new baby, it goes into hyper drive and tries to push way too hard. It's okay to recognize that this is unrealistic! This month, I want to encourage you to be kind to yourself--to recognize when you aren’t being kind to yourself, and, when you are doubting yourself, take a moment to give yourself a pep talk. When you look in the mirror, instead of picking apart the things you don’t like (which sounds like what a bully might do) point out the parts you love. Extend to yourself the same love and tenderness and grace that you give to your children and your partner every day. You understand that they deserve it, and you need it just as much, too. I apologize for using this letter from the editor to jump on a personal soapbox, but this has been on my heart lately. We each only get one life, and should enjoy every moment instead of wasting precious time tearing each other down--especially ourselves! During each new phase, we always look back on the one before with fondness, after all... so why not just appreciate it while we are in it? Keep your rose-colored glasses on, for both yourself and the world.

Math & Language Therapy

Academic

READING • SPELLING HANDWRITING • MATH GRAMMAR

Multisensory Language Therapy “Take Flight” , a comprehensive intervention for students with dyslexia based on OrtonGillingham concepts. Reading • Spelling • Handwriting • Phonics Vocabulary • Fluency • Comprehension (classes available) Pre-Flight (Phonological Awareness) Multisensory Math • Counting and Numeration • Addition & Subtraction facts for instant recall • Multiplication & Division facts for instant recall • Fractions • Decimals & Percents • Integers & Algebra I & II Multisensory Grammar • Parts of Speech, Capitals, Punctuation … Verbal to Written Expression (thoughts on paper) Writing Treatment for Hyperlexia (can read, but does not understand what is read) Study Skills • Time Management • Notetaking • Memory Technique • Test Taking Strategies …

Visit us at www.amltherpy.com or call 479-253-3256

Bentley

Greeter

104 North 37th Street Suite B Rogers, AR 72756

Karen Sykes — Certified Academic Language Therapist (CALT) 29 years experience teaching

Lisa Lundeen — CALT, 6 years experience in Social Work, 6 years experience teaching

500 SE Plaza Avenue Bentonville, Arkansas

16 July September 2017 2017

YOUTH & FAMILY UPCOMING PROGRAMS

Preschool Art Class » Portrait Perfect (Ages 3 to 5 with an adult)

September 9, 16, & 23 | 10:30 am to noon Explore portraits in our permanent collection before creating portraits in our studio. $30/3 sessions ($24/Members) Register online or by calling Guest Services

Homeschool Friday Fun » Printmaking (Ages 5 to 8 and 9 to 12)

September 8, 15, & 22 | 2:00 to 3:30 pm Explore prints by Andy Warhol and others in our permanent collection. $45/3 sessions ($36/members) Register online or by calling Guest Services

Homeschool Tour & Art » Making Moves September 13 | 1:00 to 3:00 pm We’ll discover how to represent movement in our own art. FREE, register online or with Guest Services.

Studio Squad » Pinhole Cameras

September 16 | 4:00 to 5:30 pm Create your own low-tech pinhole camera, and print the photos to take home! Sponsored by Rui J.P. de Figueirdo, Jr. and Natalia Ferretti, and Nickelodeon.

FREE, no registration required.

Art Classes at the Bentonville Community Center! Crystal Bridges has partnered with the City of Bentonville to offer art classes for ages 2-12 at the Bentonville Community Center. All classes, including My Grownup and Me, Preschool, Homeschool, and Afterschool Art, are taught by our talented art instructors and inspired by works that can be seen at the museum. To learn more and register, visit BentonvilleAr.com.

CRYSTALBRIDGES.ORG

BENTONVILLE, ARKANSAS

479.418.5700

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Roeder THE

F A M I LY

B Y Â M A L LO R Y RO E D E R P H OTO B Y E V E R A F T E R P O RT R A I T U R E 18 September 2017

“Have kids,” they say. “It’ll be fun,” they say. We’ve all heard it. While I love my kids more than anything in this world, nothing truly prepares you for the craziness that motherhood entails. Parenting is hard. Harder than even the actual act of childbirth that brought these tiny tornadoes into this world. The hardest thing I’ve ever done in my entire life type of hard. If someone had told my college self that I would have four kids in five and a half years, I would have laughed straight in their face and told them they were crazy. Now, here I am, a few years later, with four of the cutest little crazies I’ve ever seen who have given me my proudest title yet: Mom. With this title, I’ve also become the resident doctor, referee, chef, teacher, custodian and hiney wiper (because let’s face it… I’m pretty sure these kids are never going to learn how to wipe their own butts correctly). My husband and I joke all of the time that God has the best sense of humor. Before we had kids, I swore I would never be one of “those types of parents.” You know, the ones who let their kids go crazy in restaurants and throw the most ridiculous tantrums in public. Well, I’m currently eating those words every single day. Eating out is always an adventure. I’m not sure if it’s the four small kids or the tired eyes and totally disheveled, three, four, or five day dirty hair I’m usually sporting that draws the attention, but my crew rarely goes unnoticed. Whether it’s the multiple drink spills or loud fights over who gets what color crayon, we’ve received our fair share of dirty glances and snide remarks. However, God loves to use others to pour out His grace on my hot mess self when I least expect it or deserve it. Nothing is more humbling than being prayed over by two random strangers in a restaurant or receiving a gift card by an elderly man who thought you needed a little extra encouragement that day. Being a mom is downright rough sometimes. But motherhood is also more beautiful than I could have ever imagined. These kids are the reason I wake up in the morning and the reason I’m ready for bed at night. They are my greatest gifts from God and my constant blessing. They have seen me at my best. They have seen me at my absolute worst, and love me anyway. They are loyal, strong, and determined. They are my life. They are my children. And I am their biggest fan.

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Fast Lane Entertainment

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BY: K E N D R A P E R K I N S

erry and Elizabeth Miller sit on their living room floor playing with their one-year-old twins, Ashford and Finley. Toys are everywhere as the twins create havoc on the living room. Ashford plays with his cars, and looks for large items to tip over to see what would make the loudest noise. Finley wears her stylish necklace and sunglasses as she talks to her toys the entire time. Pacha, their dog, sits on the floor next to the twins, keeping a watchful eye on them and occasionally playing along. Kerry and Elizabeth met in December 2013 after connecting on Match.com. Their first date was meeting at a Thai restaurant in Fayetteville, and their second date was on New Year’s Eve. After dating for a little more than a year, Kerry proposed

to Elizabeth with the ring attached to their puppy’s collar and a sign that said “Will you marry Daddy?” (because who can say no to a puppy?) The two had an intimate and beautiful wedding in October in the backyard of their first home. They loved their first home with its huge backyard, but, when the time came, a year and a half ago, they moved into their current home. Shortly after, Ashford and Finley came into their lives, bringing happiness, laughs and lots of diapers. Life has become pretty hectic for the little family, so Kerry and Elizabeth have become obsessed about one of the constants that they have in their lives: the ownership of their energy.

HOW DO SOLAR PANELS WORK? As a homeowner or business owner who is considering the installation of solar panels, you may be wondering how solar works. After all, before you commit to energy ownership, you want to be sure you have a solid understanding of how solar works and how it can serve as a cost-effective option for you and your home or business.

22 September 2017

When Kerry had first introduced the idea of going solar to his wife, she was reluctant to look into the expensive investment. Kerry had grown up in a community with huge supporters of solar energy-his childhood home had even had solar panels on it! During that time, the technology with solar energy was still growing and developing. He watched as solar technology developed and became cheaper, so, when he saw an ad on Facebook for Shine Solar, he already had the idea of wanting to go solar. Elizabeth enjoyed the idea of solar energy, but couldn’t imagine how the numbers could work out and how they could afford such a change. She wanted to see a spreadsheet with numbers to prove solar would be worth it for her family. So, they decided to get a free analysis from Shine Solar to see if solar would even work for their home. (It was free after all, so why not try?) The numbers came back, and solar wasn’t just possible for them, but it would save them money! This was the final motivator for the couple to take the leap and begin the process to go solar.

GOING OFF OR STAYING ON THE GRID Most homeowners choose to stay “on the grid” after installing a solar panel system. When you stay on the grid, your home continues to be powered by the electric company. When your home makes solar energy, that energy is fed back to the grid and credited toward your account. In this way, you are guaranteed to have a constant flow of energy, even on days that are exceptionally cloudy, and also during the nighttime. If you choose to go “off the grid,” you will need to have batteries that are capable of storing power to be used during those times when your solar module cannot capture enough energy from the sun to fulfill your needs at the time.

After they flipped the switch and started watching their net meter go back, the Millers were already thinking of their next green project. They installed smart thermostats in their home so they could have greater control over their home’s air conditioning and lower their electrical bills. They also switched all their light bulbs to LED lightbulbs that are more environmentally friendly, and don’t put off heat, thus saving more energy by not increasing surrounding temperatures. Plans are already in the works for the Millers to further insulate their doors, so as to prevent drafts and keep the heat in the house during the wintertime. Turn the page …

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Since they took ownership of their energy, solar has become a part of every day for Elizabeth and Kerry. They will proudly tell you how much energy their solar panels are producing each day, as they check it regularly. As solar is spreading across northwest Arkansas, the Millers take notice of all the homes and businesses that are also producing their own energy. Many of the families in Kerry and Elizabeth’s neighborhood discuss the benefits of going solar, and how they would like to do it themselves. Kerry and Elizabeth’s response is always, “Go for it!” While installing solar might not work on every home, a free analysis can help families better educate themselves on the opportunities they have to go green.

While solar energy may be too much to teach their twins right now, the Millers are already working on teaching their son and daughter about the Earth. They often take the twins out into their garden, teaching them as they work out in the yard about how food is made. Kerry and Elizabeth love the outdoors and plan to take their kids out camping and canoeing often as they get older, and hope to someday build a family cabin that they can visit on the weekends. The Miller family have a great future ahead of them, with exciting outdoor adventures, clean energy and plenty of sunshine. Shine Solar, LLC provides clean energy as a leading full-service residential solar provider in the states of Arkansas and Missouri. Shine customers save money, increase the value of their property, and take advantage of significant tax advantages by purchasing solar arrays and generating their own electricity. “Installing happiness” is the Shine focus, and the company demonstrates that mission, both with its exceptional customer service, and the individualized attention given to each customer in each step, from design, engineering, permitting, monitoring and maintenance.

Shine Solar, LLC has offices in Bentonville, AR and Springfield, MO. To find out more, visit www.shinesolar.com, or call 844-80-SHINE. Follow us on Facebook @shinesolarpower.

COWBOY FALL I: SEPTEMBER 12 - OCTOBER 21 FALL II: OCTOBER 31 - DECEMBER 17

ACTING: CHARACTER | $100 | 3RD - 8TH SATURDAYS | 10:30 - 11:50 AM | SEPTEMBER 16 - OCTOBER 21

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FOR MORE INFORMATION & FULL CLASS SCHEDULE PLEASE CONTACT US AT 479.464.5084 OR VISIT US ONLINE AT TRIKETHEATRE.ORG

24 September 2017

Performances at ARTS CENTER OF THE OZARKS 214 MAIN ST, SPRINGDALE, AR 72764 FOR MORE INFORMATION & PERFORMANCE TIMES PLEASE VISIT TRIKETHEATRE.ORG PERFORMANCES COMING TO TRIKE THEATRE IN OCTOBER

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SEPTEMBER 19-29

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August/September My Sky Tonight: Moon Explorations (Families with children under age 6) Mornings of August 17, 24, 31 Family-led, developmentally appropriate learning No registration required. Fee included in paid daily admission or membership

Early Learner Programs @

STEAM Studio (Families with children under age 6) Sept 14, 21, 28 10am-12pm Family-led, STEAM themed developmentally appropriate learning No registration required. Fee included in paid daily admission or membership

Discovery Tots (18-36 mos + Caregiver) September 20 10-11 am $10 members/$15 non-members

Baby Buds (6-17 mos + Caregiver) September 13 10-11 am $10 members/$15 non-members

Great Pretenders (3-5 years + Caregiver) September 27 10-11 am $10 members/$15 non-members

1009 MUSEUM WAY â&#x20AC;˘ BENTONVILLE, AR AMAZEUM.ORG â&#x20AC;˘ 479-696-9280

Baby Buds, Discovery Tots, and Great Pretenders require advanced registration and payment: amazeum.org/events-and-programs/early-learners/ 26 September 2017

“ THE WAY TEACHERS TEACH YOU HERE IS

OUTSTANDING.” XAVIER LOVES THAT THE NEW SCHOOL GIVES HIM THE OPPORTUNITY TO TACKLE A TOUGH MATH EQUATION, PLAY PETER PAN IN THE SCHOOL PLAY AND SHOOT HOOPS WITH HIS FRIENDS. “The New School really expands your mindset and I want other kids to experience that.” THE NEW SCHOOL IS A SPECIAL PLACE where a welcoming environment is matched with a challenging curriculum. Teachers here are focused on classroom learning that leads to real world discovery. “My favorite subject is math because math is in everything. This building, math made it happen so it’s really awesome to know that math is in everything.” Our low student, teacher ratio and dynamic learning environments help students look at the world in a new way.

Xavier

8th grader

Learn how The New School can help your child discover more. Schedule a tour today by calling 479-521-7037 or visit thenewschool.org.

TheNewSchoolNWA

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NORTHWEST ARKANSAS’ PREMIER INDEPENDENT SCHOOL SERVING PRESCHOOL THROUGH HIGH SCHOOL

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Kendra' s story BY: KENDRA THOMPSON

Every person has a story. Some are happy. Some are sad. Some are joyous. Or some, like mine are a mixture. Recently, God has placed a need on my heart to share my story. Everyone faces adversity in varying degrees in life, and I pray that perhaps my story will provide hope for those that may face similar struggles. My story isn’t the easiest to tell nor is it the easiest to read. I have not had an easy life, but who has? My little sister and I grew up with a mom who married and divorced six different men. I never had the opportunity to meet my biological father because he abandoned us before I was born. The men that my mother married were not nice men. These men were alcoholics. They were abusers. They were porn addicts. They were wife beaters. My sixth step-father was the only man who didn’t treat me like a step-daughter. He never abused or mistreated us. I never considered him my step-father; he was my dad. The abuse that I endured from my mother’s boyfriend in between husband #4 and husband #5 was brutal. This man sexually molested me for four long years between the ages of 5 to 9. He told me that I was not allowed to tell anyone or he would kill my family and me. To ensure that I kept my silence, he held a loaded gun to my head every time that he abused me. Keeping this awful secret silent for four years, things finally got so bad I felt I had no other choice than to tell someone. When I finally broke my silence, the police arrested the man who was abusing me. My sister and I were placed in foster care until my mom could prove that she was a fit mother. After being examined and evaluated, the doctors found the damage to my body was so severe that I could never have children of my own. At the age of nine, hearing these words did not faze me; however, as I got older, the weight of these words grew heavier as I gave them more thought when considering my future. It’s funny how doctors have all this knowledge and the degrees to do the job they do, 28 September 2017

but God has His own plan. When my sister and I were in foster care and afterwards for years, we went to counseling weekly. So many emotions go through a person after enduring a life like this at such a young age. Anger, fear, insecurity, betrayal, abandonment, just to name a few. I was so angry with God. Why does He allow things like this to happen to people, to his children? I was one of his children. I was saved. I had done nothing wrong. Why did I have to go through this? The answers never came, but I did overcome all the emotions I felt. I am a much stronger person now and my husband asks me to this day how I am able to be so normal and strong after everything I lived through. I don’t know except that I had Jesus in my heart. He may not have the answers to give me right now as to why I endured all the pain at such a young age, but he was right there with me getting me through it. I can’t think of any other way to have survived it the way I did without Him.

Fast-forward a couple of years. Junior High was rough for everyone. Every school had that one bully. You know the one I am talking about. You may have even been the one that I am talking about. The boys were cruel and made fun of the girls who were under developed. The boys even made fun of the girls who were over developed. I was in the second category. One boy actually told me there was absolutely no way my breasts were as big as they actually were without being inflated with a bicycle pump. The name-calling that happened was horrid. Years later I learned that I was called Pumpkin Face behind my back. Wondering why I didn’t already know, one of my friends broke down and finally told me. Luckily, it is all a stage of life that we outgrow and eventually everyone forgets and moves on.

High school was even more memorable for me. Lasting friendships are made in high school. I still have a best friend from high school that I hang out with today. College experiences were pretty great for me too. I had the opportunity to attend the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville where I made some lasting friendships and memories while being a member of the Razorback Marching Turn the page …

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Band. Some of my best memories were at Razorback football games or on band trips or the practice field. After all, if I were not participating with the marching band, I would never have met my best friend. Alan was an alumni band member and we performed in the homecoming show together. By the summer of 2004, I was happily engaged to my best friend, Alan, with the plans to adopt children in the future. Sadly, the month before we were to marry, I was diagnosed with cervical cancer. We were both really scared of what was going to happen, but we decided to get married and kick cancer’s butt. In October 2004, we went to the doctor for further testing. Her nurse said that she would call us with the results. Where does one go while they are waiting for test results from their doctor? Walmart of course! We were in the check-out line when my phone rang and my heart sank to the pit of my stomach. What were they going to say? “I have good news and I have great news!” the nurse said when I answered my phone. “Ok. Give me the good news.” I replied. The nurse said, “Your lab tests show the cancer you

had in July is gone. You are cancer free!” With tears streaming down my face, I asked her, “What can be better than not having cancer? That’s the best news you could give me!” She sounded as if she might be a little emotional as well and replied, “That news is certainly something to celebrate, but this news is even better! You’re pregnant!” Alan and I could not believe it. We were in shock and could not believe we were going to have a baby. We were in denial for days. We called and told our parents. They were excited, but it just wasn’t real for us yet. Four days after speaking with the nurse on the phone, I woke up with morning sickness and for the next eight months, I never stopped being sick. It was definitely real. The birth of my daughter was not easy. I had a headache and just did not feel good all day. My blood pressure was climbing and my headache would not go away. My diagnosis was HELLP syndrome. HELLP syndrome stands for hemolysis elevated liver enzyme and low platelet count. It is a life-threatening pregnancy complication usually considered to be a variant of preeclampsia. (preecampsia.org) Miss Hannah Marie was born by emergency cesarean section. She was our precious little miracle and a whopping five pounds thirteen ounces. After believing for years that I could not have children, we felt so blessed to have this baby. Trying not to be selfish after having one miracle, I cautiously asked my obstetrician what the chances of conceiving again were. She said, “Go for it!” Twenty-three months later, after being closely monitored for signs of preeclampsia, our second daughter, Olivia Maye, was born. She was six weeks early and weighed only five pounds and one ounce. Our family was complete.

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Around

Town Show Off Your Talent Green-Star Talent, is a new talent agency and they are looking for kids ages 6m-12 years for modeling and acting jobs! September 16th from 10am -2pm at Rollie Pollie in Downtown Bentonville! Two lucky kids will be chosen by Rollie Pollie and be featured in teh store's holiday ad campagin!

Providence 11th Annual Scholarship Classic

Don't miss the 11th Annual Providence Classical Christian Academy's Scholarship Golf Classic Monday, September 11th at the Shadow Valley Golf Course! Help raise money for the Providence scholarship fund while enjoying 18 holes of golf on one of NWA's favorite courses.$125/per player 4 man teams. For more information visit: www.providence-academy.com/golf

PEEKABOO Alerts We are excited to now offer Peekaboo Alerts! Now you don't have to wait until the next issue is released to hear from us! If we hear of a new event, updated details, or important information you need to know we can now send you an alert on your cell phone! Just text 'Peekaboo' to (479) 7772177 to sign up. Now you can be an "In the Know" mom all month long!

Celebration of Heroes Event The Celebration of Heroes breakfast will be held Thursday, September 21st, at the Embassy Suites, Rogers. Celebration program starts at 7:30 a.m. -8:30 a.m. with the program featuring keynote speaker Al Dominguez –Walmart Executive and amazing leader. You will also hear inspiring stories of selflessness and preparation when select residents of the Northwest Arkansas community are recognized for their response to lifesaving situations. Opportunities are still available to support Celebration of Heroes event and 100 Years of

32 September 2017

American Red Cross services and community support in Northwest Arkansas! To learn about more ways that you could attend the annual fund raising event or sponsor your local community please contact us at American Red Cross Serving Northwest Arkansas, 1200 W. Walnut, Suite 2310, Rogers. 479-633-8330, x206 www.redcross.org/ Arkansas

NWA Mom Deals NWA Mom Deals is a daily text with local deals that make mom life a bit easier and more fun. Text "DEALS" to 479-777-0905 to get exclusive daily deals texted right to your phone! Things like pedicures, family activities, discounts at local restaurants, and more! Tell your friends to sign up - the more moms, the better the deal!

Mondays at Bliss

Kids eat FREE every Monday at Bliss! Kids 10 and under get a free Mini, frosting shot, or pretzel rod with purchase of a regular cupcake all day!! Bliss Cupcake Cafe www.blisscupcakecafe.com

SHE Conference 2017 First ever She Conference at KeyPoint Church. It is the gathering of everday women under one roof to love God, our communities, and of course, each other. A weekend of fun and laughter and lasting memories. Special guest speakers Korie Robertson and Sadie Robertson. www.keypointchurch.com/she/

Hands Full Consignment Sale Northwest Arkansas Moms of Multiples Fall sale dates announced: Thursday October 12th Saturday, October 14th. First Security Bank Annex Building, 125 N. Main St. Springdale.

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Dolls, Birthdays and the Tooth Fairy: T hanks to You, Chemo Can’t Stop Childhood

Photos are by Beth Hall: Story credit: Jennifer Barnett Reed

here’s no worse way to get the news that your child has cancer than in an emergency room, hours from home, in the middle of the night.

That was the beginning of Addison Alford’s family’s story with Arkansas Children’s Hospital — but, thanks to generous people like you, it wasn’t the end. Since that awful night in January 2015, Addison, who lives in Northwest Arkansas with her mom, stepdad and five brothers, has gotten the treatment she needs to fight her illness. Just as importantly, her entire family has gotten the caring support they needed to get them through some unimaginably tough times. “Those nurses are like big sisters and brothers and Sunday school teachers and nurses and friends all in one person,” Addison’s mom, Robby Funk, says. Robby knew something was seriously wrong when Addison began fainting at school in early 2015. Her pediatrician couldn’t find an obvious cause at first, but eventually ordered a full blood workup. One night, Addison’s doctor called with the results: Addison’s white blood cell count was six times higher than normal. She told Robby to take her daughter to Arkansas Children’s Hospital right away. After the three-hour drive to Little Rock, Addison was seen in the emergency department at ACH and diagnosed with high risk b-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia. She started chemotherapy treatments immediately. For the next year, Addison and her family traveled to Little Rock frequently. Her chemo treatments were working, but she often had complications requiring overnight stays in the hospital. “Through it all,” Robby says, “the nurses and other 34 September 2017

staff at ACH ensured Addison got to enjoy her childhood as much as possible.” For Addison’s 9th birthday, the ACH Child Life team arranged a small party in a meeting room. When she lost a tooth during one stay, the Tooth Fairy pulled out all the stops: a handwritten card, glitter and a hefty reward. When Addison’s best friend brought her a doll, one of the nurses helped Addison rig up a doll-sized chemo port and IVs, just like hers. “They never let you know if they’re having a busy night,” Robby says of the nurses who cared for her daughter. “You think your child is their only patient and that this is all they have to do.” Addison is doing great now. She’s in 5th grade, has graduated to oral maintenance chemotherapy and still visits ACH monthly for chemotherapy in her port and spine. Addison has turned her focus toward helping other children. She loves holding fundraisers like bake sales and lemonade stands to raise money for research into childhood cancers. Addison has served as an Arkansas Children’s Ambassador this year, and she’s hoping this will help that effort. “She just wants to be very helpful and do everything possible to bring awareness about the new children’s hospital in Springdale,” Robby says of Arkansas Children’s Northwest. “We all do. We’ve become very passionate about it.” September is pediatric cancer awareness month and Arkansas Children’s treat 90% of all pediatric cancer in Arkansas. You can help kids like Addison by giving today at www.giving.archildrens.org

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September 7th

Free Basketball Clinic at Heritage High School (Grades K-7)

September 2nd Trifest for MS

5:30am Melvin Ford Pool, Memorial Park, Bentonville Featuring three triathlon distances, including a Trifesta Challenge, a 5k, and a day dedicated to a kidsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; triathlon.

Free Home Depot Kids Workshop- Pencil Box 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM Home Depot 1701 S 46th St Rogers Best for ages 5-12 & their parents/caregiver Join our hands-on Kids Workshop and you and your child can build a handy pencil case just in time for back to school. Once the pencil box is built, your child can decorate it with paint and stickers. All kids get to keep their project, receive a certificate of achievement, a Workshop Apron, and a commemorative pin while supplies last.

Sugar Creek Days 11am-8pm Downtown Bentonville Downtown Bentonville is transformed into the Wild West. Watch a reenactment of a famous 1893 bank robbery by American outlaw Henry Starr.

September 4th

Run for Child's Hunger Pinnacle Hills Promenade, Rogers 7:30am Come join us on Labor Day for the best race of the season. Free breakfast, race photos, racers tech shirt, and family zone. Letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s race together to fight childhood hunger!

Family Fest at Northwest Assembly in Bentonville 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM Northwest Assembly, 301 SW Unity Blvd. Bentonville Family Fest is an opportunity for those living in NWA to enjoy food, carnival rides, inflatables, a petting zoo, and even helicopter rides. Bring your family for a day of fun!

KIDS EAT FREE EVERY MONDAY AT BLISS! Kids 10 and under get a free Mini, frosting shot, or pretzel rod with purchase of a regular cupcake all day!!

BLISS CUPCAKE CAFE 637 E Joyce Blvd Suite 112 FAYETTEVILLE 4204 W Green Acres Rd

(Promenade Blvd across from Taco Bell)

ROGERS www.blisscupcakecafe.com 36 September 2017

6-7pm

September 9th

MOTHER NATURE STORYTIME/ CRAFT @ HOBBS STATE PARK 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM Hobbs State Park-Conservation Area Visitor Center 20201 E .Hwy 12/ Just east of the Hwy 12/ War Eagle intersection

Storytime at the Museum of Native American History 10:30am-11am Museum of Native American History, Bentonville Storytimes are geared towards preschoolers, but are great for all ages.

September 10th

Terra Studio's Fall Music and Art Festival 12:00 PM - 6:00 PM 12103 Hazel Valley Rd. Fayetteville Suggested Donations of $10/Person benefit upkeep of the Art Park, along with NEW Projects to continue our Vision of Creating A Better World Through Art!

September 11th

19th Annual Golf Classic (Northwest Arkansas Children's Shelter) Springdale Country Club, Springdale http://nwacs.org/golf Morning Flight: Check-in at 7 AM; Shotgun starts at 8 AM | Afternoon Flight: Check-in at 12 PM; Shotgun starts at 1 PM

September 12th

Bentonville Wrestling Free Open Gym Nights Northwest Arkansas Classical Academy 5:30 - 7:30pm This FREE 12 session "open gym" is for girls and boys ages 4-15 (8th grade)! This is an open gym style practice showing the basic introduction to wrestling fundamentals and sport.

September 14th

Preschool Playdate at Crystal Bridges Museum - Architecture 11:30 AM - 2:00 PM 600 Museum Way Bentonville Get ready to bend, twist, and build as we celebrate architecture at Crystal Bridges with art projects, storytime, and creative play. Playdate begins with an 11:30 performance in the Great Hall. Free.

SEPTEMBER 2017 September 15th

Family Access Night at Crystal Bridges Museum Art Carnival (for families impacted by disability) 6-8pm 600 Museum Way Bentonville This event is for families impacted by disability. Join us for a carnival-themed night of art and fun with Family Access Night at Crystal Bridges! Family Access Night is a fun night out at the museum for families impacted by disability. All family members can participate in engaging activities throughout the evening, including gallery tours, studio art projects, and games. The event is free, and pre-registration is encouraged. access@crystalbridges.org.

September 16th

Take off for Kids (Tailwind Aviation Foundation) http://www.take-off-for-kids.com/ 8am - 2pm Rogers Municipal Airport Take Off for Kids (TOFK) is an annual fundraising event created in 2011 to support charitable organizations focusing on children in Northwest Arkansas. If the student meets their goal and passes the curriculum they are rewarded with a Flyday. At the Flydays, each graduate gets about a 30 minute flight and the chance to fly the airplane. They do not just get a ride; they will take the controls as they would in a typical â&#x20AC;&#x153;discovery flight.â&#x20AC;? After the flight, each student gets a picture of themselves and the pilot in front of the airplane, as well as a Wright Flight T-shirt.

World Champion Squirrel Cook Off 8th Street Market, Bentonville 8am The 6th annual World champion squirrel cook off, as seen on TV. This years event will be the biggest ever with more Music, cold beer, and gourmet squirrel. www.squirrelcookoff.com

September 17th

2017 NWA Hispanic Heritage Festival Fayetteville Square 1-5PM Block, Mountain, East & Center Streets Free

Library Story Times: Bentonville Public Library: bentonvillelibrary.org Fayetteville Public Library: faylib.org Springdale Public Library: springdalelibrary.org Rogers Public Library: rogerspubliclibrary.org Siloam Springs Library: siloamsprings.com

September 23rd

Nash Back at Ya September Cruise Night Frisco Station Mall 4-8pm 100 N Dixieland Rogers 100% of proceeds from donations, concessions, and our silent auction goes to the Humane Society for Animals in Rogers, AR. Our local no kill shelter. Cruise night hosted for the 10th year by the Nash Back at Ya Club. We have games for kids and adults, 50/50 pot, trivia, our live Nash Rat Shack DJ playing all evening long. Our events are always family friendly, pet friendly, and open to the general public as well. And we are there helping to raise awareness for the Humane Society for Animals. www. nashbackatya.com

September 30th

Fall Demolition Derby Parsons Stadium, Springdale 6pm Join for a fun family night where drivers will compete for cash prizes and bragging rights.

2nd Annual Gentry Bicycle Glow Ride 6-8PM Gentry City Park 611 W Main St. Gentry FREE Shine the spotlight on Gentry! Dust off your bicycle, grab some glow lights and take a spin around town in the dark! Free glow sticks, no entry fee, prizes for best decorated. Meet at 6 at Gentry City Park. Ride starts at 7.

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N W O D R E POW Dad's view with

Ben Lacy

ack, reporting to you from 35,000 feet above the big blue marble. Gotta tell you, for reasons unknown to me, flying seems to enhance my creative writing generator. Maybe it’s the stale air, the cramped seats or the happy, happy, happy people that surround me. Maybe it’s the “mild” turbulence that is currently shaking my crowns loose, and I’m hoping to get my mind focused on this article instead of the possibility of dropping from the sky like the duck on the old “Duck Hunt” video game. Anyway, the flight attendant added an interesting comment at the end of the safety briefing today that made me ponder a few things. After going through the intricate details of how to properly prepare for a water landing – while we travel through the lower Midwest that last I checked was devoid of

oceans, seas and large lakes – the attendant added “We know your work is important to you; however, please power down your laptops until after we reach a safe cruising altitude.” Ah yes, my work is very important to me since, you know, I’m very important! For those of you that are new to this page – welcome! – and know that when I’m not writing articles on very old and rickety American Airlines planes, I sell watches to Walmart. Yep, I’m a supplier, a vendor, a collaborative partner. Yep, just like the thousands of other "vendor villains" like me; I’m important, just ask me. One more note... if you are new to the Dad’s View corner of Peekaboo - I’m also wildly, wickedly and woefully sarcastic. Truth is, even though the flight attendant thinks my work is important, it is not. Don’t get me

NORTHWEST ARKANSAS

SC IE N CE EN RI CH M EN T School Assemblies & Workshops • Special Events & Camps Corporate/Non-Proﬁt Presentations • Awesome Party Concept

www.super-sci.com • 479-444-0303

38 September 2017

wrong, I like the paycheck because I also like to eat. But it’s not so important that I can’t, on occasion, power down. That’s hard in this day and age. The pressure to perform around these parts is probably at the highest level since the cave men. You see, cave men only ate what they killed, a feeling that many of us can relate to today. Pretty significant pressure! But back to powering down. Funny that many of us, myself very much included, like to worry and wonder if our kids are getting too much “screen time.” You know, way too much time playing Call of Duty, watching Pokémon videos, binging on Netflix and constantly Snapchatting. I also wonder if our kids feel parents are getting too much screen time. You know, way too much time playing like our job is too important, watching endless Retail Link reports, binging on work dinners and constantly chatting with colleagues while at home. Seems like powering down is not an age-specific concern. The company that thankfully employs me is owned and operated by an Orthodox Jewish family. One of their religious practices is to not use any electronics during their Sabbath (that runs from sundown Friday to sundown Saturday). Recently, I’ve tried to assimilate that into my schedule by not using my phone on Sundays (my Sabbath of choice). It started as somewhat of a sacrifice; something I didn’t want to do, but felt was important to lessen the focus and importance of work and strengthen the focus and importance of family. It would be tough, since I couldn’t respond to calls or texts, check social media, keep up on work emails, yadda, yadda, yadda. But, a funny thing happened after a few Sundays... I began to look forward to powering down each week. It went from something I dreaded to something I looked forward to. Now, this is the point in the story where I say something profoundly paternal like “I decided to do this to be a good example to my kids and show them that I don’t need my phone so they don’t need theirs either.” Nope. Once again, I took the advice of my friendly flight attendant, who said during

the always-concerning drop-down-oxygen-mask portion of the safety briefing to “put your mask on before helping others.” Meaning, help yourself before attempting to help anyone else; especially your kids. So, have a great month and hope to see you back here again. I have to go, as the captain just told me to put my seatback back in its full and upright position, discontinue working and power down my electronics. Good advice, cap.

Specializing in: Early Gender Determinations 2D, 3D/4D Fetal Realistic View Ultrasounds

4D Ultrasound Studio 3810 N. Front Street, Suite 2 Fayetteville, AR 72703 479-438-0728 or 479-214-1188 Hello Baby 4D Ultrasound of NWA peekaboonwa.com

40 September 2017

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UNSUNG HEROES

By Stephanie Laney

"A true hero isn’t measured by the size of his strengths, but by the strength of his heart." - Hercules

ave you ever started something assuming you knew what you would be doing and what you would get out of it, and then, to your surprise, you learned so much more, and took away more blessings than you ever could have imagined? That is how I would describe my family’s journey as a foster family here in Northwest Arkansas. No one could have prepared me for what we would learn, the people we would meet, all the many services we would become aware of, and, most importantly, all the unseen heroes that we, unfortunately, had never given much thought to. You may not know it, but there are so many amazing men and women working with “at risk” families in our area. These men and women are the caseworkers working hand-in-hand with children and families through the Department of Human Services. Today, in Arkansas, there are 5,104 children in DHS custody, and every one of those children is assigned a caseworker that advocates and speaks on their behalf. Though often overlooked, no one can wear a superhero cape more deservedly than these men and women.

The first time I met our caseworker was the night we took our first kiddo. That night will always be one of my most endearing memories. I’m not sure what I expected, but the cute little blondeheaded boy with his honor roll ribbon pinned to his shirt wasn’t it. His little world had been completely shaken that day. He was scared, angry, and had no idea what was happening, where he was going, or what to expect. Thankfully, he had a great caseworker! She was there in that scary moment when he was taken from his family--she was a smiling face, and a warm hug. She reassured him that he was safe. She brought him to my home and walked alongside him, his siblings, his family, and our family for months and months until his case was complete and a safe resolve for his family was reached. That one case would keep a single caseworker busy, but this superhero had 15+ cases happening much like it at the same time. When someone asks me who my heroes are, at the very top of my list are caseworkers. They fight on the frontlines for families. They are often hated, disrespected, and mistreated because, in their job, they have to do hard things daily. They care deeply and are genuine. They believe in second chances and that people can change and rise up when they are given hope and support. They fight and advocate for the children who often have no voice. They start work early, leave work late and take frequent on-call hours at night and on the weekends. When a family needs them, someone is available. I was curious what the best part of a caseworker's job is, so I asked Benton County caseworkers

family is THE BEST.” The kids they work with become their kids. They worry about them, they pray for them, they lose sleep thinking about their case and their families. These kids all have pieces of their heart and I’ve seen firsthand how hard they work to help these kids and families have healthy and happy lives. I’ve seen them rejoice when things turn out well and families are reunited, I’ve seen them be heartbroken when they don’t.

Maria Taylor and Sarah Harper what they thought. Sarah said, “Getting to be part of helping families, working for reunification and seeing successful reunification.” Maria said, “Seeing a family reunified. Seeing parents successfully battle their demons, do HARD work and completely change their lives and become a better, happier, healthier

Maya Angelou said, “I think a hero is any person really intent on making this a better place for all people.” This perfectly describes every caseworker I have ever met. Even though it often seems impossible, like there is no way to get it all done and complete everything that needs to be completed, they work hard day in and day out to see it through. They give families hope! Casework isn’t just a job-it’s about helping restore the broken, holding hands with those fighting the fight of their life, and being the person whose lifting them up, encouraging them, and cheering them on. Casework isn’t just a job--it’s a life changing career calling. If you happen to know one, give them a big hug and say THANK YOU! They are truly unsung heroes in our society and here in Northwest Arkansas we are blessed with some of the best!

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PlayStron

is...

a pediatric therapy group who specializes in speech, occupational and physical therapy. We also recognize there is a need for more education and activities for all children who don't always need individual therapy, but will benefit greatly from enrichment activities.

OFFERING CLASSES AND BIRTHDAY PARTIES! BABY AND ME CLASS • MOMMY AND ME CLASS TODDLER • PRE-K • GYM KIDS • STRONG KIDS SENSORY ART • BIRTHDAY PARTY PACKAGES

PHYSICAL THERAPY Physical therapy focuses on gross motor skills including learning to walk, run and jump. Gross motor skills play an important role in peer play and the organization of the child's developing neuromuscular system. Serial Casting Kinesio Taping Toe Walking Orthotic Management Torticollis Theratogs Gross Motor Delays

44 September 2017

OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY Occupational therapy helps the child to learn activities of daily living such as dressing, brushing teeth and shoe tying. Our therapists can also intervene with children with sensory processing disorders or handwriting difficulties. Sensory Processing Theraputic Listening Sensory Diets Self-care/ADL Handwriting Fine Motor Delays

SPEECH THERAPY Speech therapy aids the child in acquiring and understanding language, working on word articulation and problem solving. In addition, our speech therapists have training for feeding problems and social difficulties. Speech Delay Apraxia Tongue Thrust Stuttering Feeding

MEET THOMAS Thomas was diagnosed with a rare, aggressive seizure disorder at 4 months old, that left him developmentally delayed. Before attending Playstrong, Thomas had low muscle tone and a regression in milestones. At 5 months old, Thomas started attending Playstrong Pediatric Therapy appointments. During his first few months at Playstrong, Thomas made great strides during his therapy sessions towards reaching his developmental milestones again. Unfortunately, Thomas had a stroke at 8 months old that made him have yet another set back in development. After the stroke hospital stay, one thing we did not have to worry about afterwards, was where Thomas would attend all the therapy that he desperately needed. We knew right where we were going to go - back to Playstrong. Thomas attends Physical, Occupational and Speech therapy at Playstrong and he would not be doing as well as he is today, without their loving and caring staff. On top of taking great care of Thomas through their trained therapists, Playstrong has helped us every step of the way to get the equipment that Thomas needs in order to thrive. If you need a therapist in Northwest Arkansas, we'd highly recommend Playstrong Pediatric Therapy! -Natalie & Joseph Wilson

PEDIATRIC OCCUPATIONAL , PHYSICAL AND SPEECH THERAPY

3625 W. Chestnut St, Rogers | 479-246-0101

playstrongtherapy.com

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Same Day Knee Replacement Now an Option

magine going to the hospital for a total knee replacement and leaving for the comfort of your own home the same day. This is exactly what Ronnie Rogers recently experienced.

Rogers decided it was time to have his left knee replaced after several years of conservative treatments for arthritis. This past June, he became the first person to have a total knee replacement in an outpatient setting at Northwest Health Physicians’ Specialty Hospital in Fayetteville.

Patients are more satisfied because of the increased convenience, shorter recovery time, and reduced risk of infection. However, outpatient total joints are only suitable for a select patient population.

Rogers, who is 63 years old, has always been an active man with lots of interests. He has played baseball and softball since he was a child and recently played on a softball team with his daughter. He is also a fire marshal in Fort Smith who, in his free time, remodels houses. Total knee arthroplasty (TKA), also referred to as total knee replacement, has traditionally been considered an inpatient surgical procedure. Recent innovative advances have enabled physicians at Northwest Health Physicians’ Specialty Hospital to perform them on an outpatient basis.

“We have been able to accelerate this process by modifying our surgical and anesthesia technique, improving pain management, and performing aggressive physical therapy that starts an hour after surgery,” Dr. Christopher Arnold, orthopedic surgeon at Advanced Orthopaedic Specialists, said. Same-day total joints are becoming the trend across the country for patients who meet presurgical screening criteria. “As a hospital with a large population of orthopedic patients, it is important to remain on the leading edge of these trends to ensure our patients have the most advanced surgical options to get back to their lives as quickly as possible,” Dr. Arnold said. 46 September 2017

“Candidates for these procedures are those who are in good overall health, have an ideal body weight, good home support and are able to meet all of their goals while in the hospital,” Dr. Arnold said.

Rogers said his recovery went well at home. In addition to exercises, he used a continuous passive motion (CPM) machine six hours a day for 26 days. CPM is a way of providing regular movement to the knee using a machine. “I think that really made a difference,” he said. Three days after his surgery, Rogers could bend his leg at a 90 degree angle. After three weeks, he could bend his leg at a 120 degree angle. “It’s doing a lot better,” he said, seven weeks after the surgery. “The biggest thing is keep it moving, and keep ice on it” Rogers said that if he needed another knee replacement, he would want to do it the exact same way.

To learn more or find a Northwest Health orthopedic specialist, call 877-HOG-DOCS or visit NorthwestHealth.com.

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Thaden School offers small classes where students discover joy in learning and cultivate their potential under the guidance of masterful educators. Contact us or visit our website today to find out how a Thaden School education prepares students to succeed in college and inspires them to lead lives of integrity, purpose, and responsible global citizenship.

610 SW B Street in Bentonville

479-268-5321 | info@thadenschool.org

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48 September 2017

HOMETOWN

HERO

with a

Furred Flair

have known Marsha Wyatt for several years. She is one of my best friends. We share a love of animals, the downtrodden of our world and our veterans. I met her when I needed somewhere to board my horses, and found her boarding facility to be the perfect fit for them. What I wasn't expecting was to also find a best friend and a new personal hero. She is a hero to me because of her tireless devotion to animals and people in need She spent fifteen years taking care of animals as that is always above and before her own needs. a humane society shelter manager and cruelty The great Indian thinker Osho said, "Come out of investigator in both California and Arkansas. the masses. Stand alone like a Lion and live your Listening to the stories she tells about the life according to your own light." Marsha always harrowing rescues she witnessed, where some comes to mind when I think about that quote. person visited unfathomable cruelty upon helpless She carries a light within her that shines bright, animals, I am always amazed how she still can have steady and strong. Sometimes it's a gentle guiding such faith in humanity. They are stories that leave light and sometimes it's a brilliant beacon to the my heart hurting, and I didn't even experience lost. Marsha has lived a life rich with experiences them. It takes a heroic act of strength to face that and accomplishments that are almost entirely of every day without it crushing your soul or leaving service to her fellow companions on earth, beast you with no hope in your fellow man. Marsha did and man. Her greatest accomplishment is the it for fifteen years, yet she still is always looking out heroic pairing she helps create between dogs and for creatures and people needing assistance. She veterans. The story of how she got there involved tries to understand the problem and figure out a a few pit stops before she found her own highest way to help if she can, without judgment. calling, her brightest light. Turn the page …

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organization called Service Dogs of Distinction in 2015. They train and place service dogs with veterans who suffer from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and Traumatic Brain Injury.

These dogs, these veterans, these horses, these at-risk children... they are all part of the extended family Marsha watches out over.

Marsha moved on from that career to focus on another service calling, her work with atrisk children and individuals with emotional and physical issues through Equine Assisted Psychotherapy. She founded and runs a program called HOOFBEATS (Horse Offering Opportunities For Bettering Every Aspect Of Our True Selves), which she operates out of her boarding and lessons facility, Windsong Ranch, in Fayetteville. This organization is a natural fit for her, as she is an accomplished equestrian and trainer. I know how excellent she is with horses, because I still board my horses there and train with her. Equine therapy allows her to work with and help both man and beast, since many of the horses she uses were one-time rescues from cruelty or neglect cases. It is not a career that will make her rich or famous, but I have seen how it enriches the lives of her clients and the horses. If you asked, she would tell you how blessed and humbled she is to be able to do the work. Work is exactly what Marsha does, with a work ethic that inspires, and sometimes tires, me. Yet, just when she is nearing an age when she could rest a little on the laurels of her considerable accomplishments, Marsha has struck out on her greatest endeavor to date. Since 2014, Marsha has devoted her energy, time, finances and heart to our veterans in need. She co-founded a 501c

Our veterans are one of our greatest treasures as a country, and our obligation to them is equally great. They are certainly heroes for all of us. It is not news to most that we lose 22 a day to suicide. It certainly isn't news to Marsha. While she cannot save them all, she is determined to help as many as she can. She was inspired to take up this challenge several years ago, after being introduced to the wonderful assistance that service dogs can be to veterans. Since its beginning in late 2015, Services Dogs of Distinction has placed 16 dogs with veterans here in Northwest and Central Arkansas. These are veterans who have struggled with unemployment, anxiety, depression and other issues common to a PTSD diagnosis. There are also several dogs in training waiting to be paired with veterans in the program. The dogs and the training program the veterans go through, both before and after placement of the dogs, is 100% free to the veterans. Service Dogs of Distinction focuses on training the veteran and dog simultaneously; consequently they are able to place dogs with veterans within a few months. This alternative approach is vital to veterans who are in the grips of PTSD and its symptomology. Typically, service dog organizations require a veteran to be on a waiting list for up to two years. These things are possible due in large part to Marsha's work ethic and devotion. She never has less than two service dog trainees living with her and her own personal dogs, as does the other cofounder, Don Gardner. Marsha spends hundreds

of hours with these dogs to instill training that will get them to a point where they can be paired successfully with their veteran. Not only is there the investment of time, there is an investment of money as well. The dogs need to be vetted, fed, etc. Service Dogs of Distinction is a 501c and Marsha draws no salary. In fact she and her training partner spend money in addition to time in this endeavor. She gives both without complaint, instead seeing it as a gift and a blessing to be able to make a difference to help, no matter he cost. Why? Because she can, and because it's the right thing to do. In keeping with Marsha's devotion to doing the right thing, and as a nod to her previous career, many of the service dogs are rescue dogs or come from local shelters. Service Dogs of Distinction often actually helps save two lives when pairing

veteran and dog. For instance, there was Maddie, plucked up from a state highway where she was running in traffic; now, she helps her veteran navigate stores, college and doctor appointments. There is Max, pulled from the Fayetteville Animal Shelter, who is now learning basic obedience at Marsha's until he is ready to be paired with his veteran. And we can’t overlook Jonah, who was adopted from Springdale Animal Services and now has given a veteran his life and family back. 11 of the 19 total dogs in the program are rescue or shelter dogs. These dogs, these veterans, these horses, these at-risk children... they are all part of the extended family Marsha watches out over. I am so grateful and honored to be able to spend some time in her light. Like any good hero, she inspires all of us to be better, to be more, to shine.

BENTONVILLE

“I BUILT A CIRCUIT BOARD AT SCHOOL. ” As Evie’s eyes twinkle and she gives a big thumbs up, she can tell you why SHE LOVES SCHOOL.

Evie’s school day in prekindergarten may begin with singing in music, creating art and end with creating in the tinkering studio. “We get to build stuff, and we BUILT A CIRCUIT BOARD! And we go to Art Studio every day!” With a curriculum focused on science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics (STEAM), our students learn from integration of these dynamic areas at an early age.

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See what The New School experience can mean for your child.

To be a part of our monthly guide to childcare

Schedule a tour today by calling 479-521-7037 or visit email editor@peekaboonwa.com thenewschool.org.

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THE NEW SCHOOL 2514 N New School Pl (479) 521-7037 thenewschool.org A coeducational, independent school serving students from toddler age through high school. The school community is dedicated to inspiring a love of learning and empowering students to reach their potential for academic achievement, creativity and citizenship. With a low student-to-faculty ratio, our students are known and cared for by an excellent faculty in an encouraging atmosphere.

THE GODDARD SCHOOL 3916 N. Bellafont Boulevard (479) 262-0970 www.goddardschool.com

We are excited to be opening The Goddard School in Fayetteville. We are committed to providing the highest quality preschool experience for the children in our community. Our unique nurturing approach will give your child the opportunity to develop into a joyful, confident learner who is prepared for success in school and in life.

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MARY'S LITTLE LAMB 506 SE Moberly Ln Ste 6 (479) 273-1011 mllpreschool.com Mary’s Little Lambs Preschool is a licensed private preschool early education program dedicated to serve our community and provide quality care and education for children of all ethnic, religious, social, and developmental backgrounds. We offer early educational experiences in a safe, inspiring, and nurturing environment that will help children to reach their fullest potential.

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FIRST FRIENDS PRESCHOOL 906 S 12th Place (479) 636-3338 First friends is a teacherfacilitated environment that enables cognitive and social skill development through childdirected play. The instructional environment is flexible enough to allow each child to learn at his or her pace in an age-appropriate way. Arkansas Better Beginnings Accredited Level 3 - the highest Better Beginnings Level!

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HAPPY KIDS LEARNING ACADEMY Central Rogers Academy 2808 W. Walnut St (479) 621-6126 North Rogers Academy 2204 N. 12th St (479) 202-5691 abchappykids.com Our Learning Academy offers a wide range of programs for a variety of ages - from infants to toddlers, and two year olds to preschoolers. Our curriculum is tailored to each age group and is based on sound child developmental principles regarding how children ideally grow and learn.

SILOAM SPRINGS

WOODLAND ACADEMY 2701 W New Hope Suite B 479) 621-1060 Discover the differences in education and care of your child here at Woodland Academy. We offer high quality child care and education for children 6 weeks to 5 years old. Our mission is to provide an inspiring Reggio Emilia setting where your child will grow spiritually, physically, academically and socially in a compassionate, Christ-centered, and child-led environment.

LOWELL FRIENDSHIP PEDIATRIC SERVICES 212 South Lincoln Street (479)770-0744 fccare.org FCC prepares children for success in integrated and therapeutic classroom settings, so that they have the skills they need to continue growing with strength and independence throughout Kindergarten and grade school – and into awesome grown-ups

FRIENDSHIP COMMUNITY CARE 918 South Mount Olive (479)524-2456 fccare.org Developmental Preschool: Friendship Community Care’s Developmental Preschools are learning hubs for children aged six weeks to five years with developmental disabilities or delays + children who qualify for the Arkansas Better Chance program. FCC prepares children for success in integrated and therapeutic classroom settings, so that they have the skills they need to continue growing with strength and independence throughout kindergarten and grade school – and into awesome grown-ups.

The Journey of In our case, we lost one child four days after birth, and the other child at age 21. I have two children that live in heaven and two that live here on earth. I am thankful for all four of them and the lessons each has taught me. How do we cope? How do we get up and move forward with our lives? The answer for me lies in three key pillars: strong faith, family and friends. Our oldest son, Tristan, just recently died from a drug overdose. He was 21 years old. He also suffered from Bipolar 2 disorder. He had been using drugs for over four years when he lost the battle. What caused him to go down that path after being raised in a “good family” as a clean cut, respectful, athletic kid who grew up in the church? Life happened. When Tristan was three and a half years old I became pregnant with twin boys, Jake and Drue. Today, Jake is a healthy 18-year-old who is entering college this fall. Drue lives in heaven. He was born with a severe heart defect called hypo plastic left heart syndrome. The left side of his heart was extremely underdeveloped and there was not enough for him to sustain life. Drue left for heaven four days after he was born. We were heartbroken. I did not understand why God would give me two babies, only to take one away. And the impact of the loss had a traumatic effect on all of us, including Tristan.

by Gina Allgaier

hen our babies are born, we naturally assume they will outlive us, but that is not always the case. Sometimes we lose our children in utero, other times it’s shortly after birth, and in some cases it happens years later. Regardless of when we lose them, it is devastating. The death of a child is a heartbreaking, life-changing loss. 54 September 2017

Eleven months after Drue’s death, I was diagnosed with a brain tumor which, thankfully, was benign and removed, but this was yet another traumatic experience for all of us within a very short period of time. For me, the good that came out of the experience was that when I was diagnosed, the doctor from a world-renowned hospital in Houston, TX told me that the twin pregnancy had saved my life. The massive hormone surge caused the tumor to grow at a more rapid rate than normal, and I began having symptoms that enabled the doctors to locate and remove it before it did too much damage or killed me. In my mind, Drue and Jake saved my life. Drue lived out his purpose by preparing me for what was to come. Because I was so busy with motherhood, work and normal life responsibilities, I rationalized this loss away and did not fully work through the grieving process in those early years. It took me about ten years to fully grieve Drue’s death. Tristan never got over the loss.

a motherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s loss Life progressed from there, including the birth of our fourth son, Koby, a move from our home state of Texas to Arkansas, divorce, the loss of a grandparent, normal stresses of school and sports and the influence of friends in the teenage years. We experienced lots of change in those years and a lot of loss, but also great joy. It is said that we cannot know true joy unless we have experienced true loss. Tristan experienced joy. He had an adventurous spirit, loved life, traveling, sports and his friends and family. He grew up playing basketball, mountain biking, wakeboarding and snowboarding. He attended church camp in the summers and youth programs during the school year. We

went on vacations all over the country and in other parts of the world. Tristan worked as a bike mechanic during high school, attended a year of college at the UofA and then fulfilled his dream of moving out west to Seattle for a few years. He had the ability and resources to do or become whatever he wanted. So what happened? When he was 17 years old, Tristan and a few of his high school friends started smoking marijuana. From there, he quickly moved to purchasing Adderall from a friend. He started using street quality Xanax and finally cocaine. He knew that the street quality drugs were being laced with a Turn the page â&#x20AC;Ś

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highly addictive and deadly synthetic drug called Fetanyl, and still he used. In the end, that is what killed him. In October of 2016, Tristan had a crisis situation from taking a synthetic drug he had ordered over the internet, a â&#x20AC;&#x153;boutiqueâ&#x20AC;? drug that caused a psychotic condition. His dangerous behavior allowed me to get him into a hospital for evaluation under an involuntary hold. That was the beginning of the end for him. After that episode, he did not even act or look like the son I knew. His usage evidently dramatically increased over the next seven or eight months. Based on an in-depth psychological evaluation that Tristan took in June before his death, it appears that during that time he was experiencing the manifestation of Bipolar 2 disorder, which explains some of his behavior, why he was self-medicating and the sudden dramatic increase in the drug usage. Looking back through Tristanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s phone, computer and older social media posts from 2011 through 2014, I can see there were signs that, in hindsight, indicated potential mental health issues. Listening to one song in particular that Tristan loved and shared with his girlfriend when he was 17 years old feels like foreshadowing of what was to come. Maybe, on some level, he knew that one day this would be how his life would play out. After his death I found a picture Tristan

56 September 2017

had drawn in 2015 about his brother which spoke to the traumatic effect losing Drue had on him. Occasionally, through the years, Tristan would mention sleep issues, strange dreams, not feeling good. When he was 17 and 18 years old, we took him to counseling with a former addict to learn about the dangers of drug use and addiction. When he was twenty and living in Seattle, he began having more issues with these symptoms, so I encouraged him to see a psychiatrist. I made him an appointment, but he did not go. Just before his 21st birthday, when he had the crisis situation, he was evaluated in a mental health hospital and released with a diagnosis of mild anxiety and sent to a treatment center outside of Seattle, which could have helped, even if he later relapsed and had to go back for additional treatment. It would have been a starting point, but Tristan broke the rules there and got kicked

out. He refused to go to the intensive outpatient program that I found for him near his home in Seattle. It’s likely that the combination of addiction and mental health issues kept him from wanting or being able to receive help and unfortunately our judicial system did not enable me to easily, as his parent, get him the help he needed. On June 18, 2017, Tristan overdosed and died from a mix of illicit drugs that were, unknowingly to him, laced with Fetanyl. He leaves behind his parents and brothers, stepparents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, many friends and a girl that he wanted to eventually marry. So, we are here, missing him and hurting without him. But, each day, we move through this life looking to find a way to go on with purpose and intention. Looking back over my fifty years, I see that the losses have shaped me in profound ways, honed my priorities and propelled me to places I never would have known. The joy in life that I feel is rooted in the deep pain I have experienced and the thankfulness for all of the goodness this life has to offer. I would not trade the experience of losing Drue because it blessed my life, made me wiser and gave me a stronger sense of self and purpose than I had previously known. I would not give up the experience of being Tristan’s mother for 21 and half years, even though the pain can be almost unbearable at times. Tristan made me a mom, was the leader of the tribe for his brothers, and he taught us so much about how to live as we loved, laughed, dreamed and shared a life that was

rich and full. As one of his friends posted recently, Tristan’s life was a blessing and his memories are a treasure. I will carry those memories and wait for the day we are reunited in the Lord’s heavenly kingdom. Before his death Tristan was the voice that got a close friend of his to go into treatment. He talked with a few others about their substance abuse issues and encouraged them to stop using and get help. He also spent time educating me about the drug world, where product was coming from, the types of drugs kids are using today and how easy it is for them to get the drugs. Maybe that was part of Tristan’s purpose in life. So we tell his story in the hopes that we can bring awareness and education to our community, to let others know that if this can happen to our child, who was like so many others here in NWA, then, sadly, it can happen to yours. We don’t want another young life to be lost to drug abuse. Parents need education and a toolkit readily available so that they know what to do if their child begins to show signs of addiction. We would like to see this area provide resources and quality support for those who need it with a dual diagnosis treatment center that is inspiring and affordable so people can get the help they need. We encourage law enforcement, along with trying to stop the source of the problem, to begin treating this substance abuse crisis as a disease that takes over the brain and needs to be treated, Turn the page … peekaboonwa.com

The Journey of a motherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s loss versus just arrested â&#x20AC;&#x201C; to provide more healing than handcuffs â&#x20AC;&#x201C; provide education, treatment and recovery. As part of the fight against the growing opiod epidemic, attorney General Rutledge recently announced that new online educational resources called #Prescription4life are being made available to our schools this fall where students can experience interactive simulations to learn about the dangers of drug use. Hopefully tools will be made available to parents as well. According to some statistics released from the Arkansas Department of Health and other resources, 80% of our youth are experimenting with or using drugs. One in ten will become addicted. Nine percent of those using marijuana will become addicted. One in five Americans has a substance abuse or mental health issue. Overdoses are occurring in our country at epidemic levels with over 52,000 people annually dying from overdoses which is now the number one cause of deaths in the U.S. for people under the age of 50. In Benton County, over 400 people a year die from overdose. Tristan lost six of his peers to overdose before he died. Each loss had an emotional effect on him, and

58 September 2017

yet he continued to use, because his brain needed to feed the addiction that ultimately claimed his life. My understanding is that Tristan was the fourth from his graduating class of 2014 to die from drugs and/or alcohol, and one of at least two who also had an underlying co-occurring mental health disorder. He told me seven months before his death that his senior class was disappearing, and now he has disappeared. So, how do I cope? With strong faith, family and friends, by trying to make his life and death mean something through raising awareness and providing education about the severity of the problem here in NWA--and by believing that he is now at peace and whole... that one day we will be re-united with Drue and Tristan again. Until then, while I am waiting, I will strive to help others so that no other parent has to experience this devastating heartbreak. If you would like to learn more and be a part of the solution, you can join my Facebook page at Speakup About Drugs (@SADnwa), where I regularly share articles and updates on what is happening with this crisis, how we can all make a positive difference, and what signs to look for in our own loved ones.

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OUTDOOR PLAY iN NWA

by: Heather Foitek

chool has started. The weather is getting more pleasant, and fall is starting to settle into Northwest Arkansas. Recently, I had the opportunity to read Balanced and Barefoot: How Unrestricted Outdoor Play Makes for Strong, Confident and Capable Children by Angela J Hanscom for a book club. Since then, I have been searching for ways to spend as much time as possible outside with my family. In the book, Hanscom details the benefits of allowing kids to explore outdoors and play creatively and independently in that space. This led me to think about the best ways to spend an entire day outdoors in NWA. What are the best parks? Where are the family friendliest restaurants with patios? Where are our areas hidden gems? I made it our personal mission to answer these questions. 60 September 2017

The first thing I realized on this journey is that you need to have a decent level of preparation to spend an entire day outside! Pack a lunch, snacks and water. Pack an extra set of clothes and shoes and mentally prepare for your kids to get dirty, especially if this is out of your comfort zone! Okay, you are ready... here we go! Start your day on the Crystal Bridges Trails. If you have younger children, you can “Go on a Bear Hunt” walk. When you are arrive, read We’re Going on a Bear Hunt together and have a little fun along the trail spotting the bronze statues and observing the plants and animals along

the way. If you have a plush bear, bring it with you and hide it for the kids to find! If you have older children, jump on your bikes and explore - taking time to stop, notice and appreciate your surroundings. Be sure to stop at the outdoor Chihuly exhibit while you are here (In the Forest ends November 13th). It is quite the treasure that we have in northwest Arkansas. Even if you have seen it before, see it again. You always catch new things when looking at art. All along the way, keep a look out for Bentonville Rocks Next up, lunch. If you packed your lunch, find a nice spot, spread out your blanket and enjoy your lunch as a family. If you didn’t, it’s off to one of the family friendly patios or food trucks around NWA. A few favorites – BENTONVILLE: Pedaler’sPub, Priato Pizzeria, Crepes Paulette; Rogers: Chuy’s, Mellow Mushroom; Springdale: The Steam; Fayetteville: JBGB After lunch, it is time for more play. NWA has a ton of great parks and green space, some with features that are rarely talked about! I’ve highlighted several so that you can choose whichever direction is best for you. BELLA VISTA: Kingsdale Playground (located at 61 Riordan Rd) has several activities in one place. The park has a full mini golf course that is free to use with your own clubs; club rental also available (during Riordan Hall open hours). The completely shaded playground area is expansive, with slides, swings and climbing structures. There are tennis and basketball courts. There is also a pool onsite for an additional charge. Tanyard Creek Nature Trail (Lancashire Blvd/Westford Ln) is a great short hike along creeks, bluffs and an easily accessible WATERFALL. BENTONVILLE: Austin-Baggett Park (601 SE D St) is an often-quiet park that is a hidden gem.

There is a great play structure for children ages 2-5 with slides and climbing components. There is also a larger climbing structure that older kids would find challenging and exciting. Austin-Baggett is equipped with a modern day merry-go-round ride, which helps teach coordination and teamwork. Gilmore Park (503 SW D St) is a great park and a short bike ride from Downtown Bentonville and Pedaler’s Pub. With three different play structures and swings, there is something for everyone at this park. There is also a large green space for a little catch or soccer while you are there. Park Springs Park (301 NW 10th St) has a huge climbing rock that kids of all ages enjoy. It is also adjacent to a creek with a developed walking trail that is ripe for exploration.

ROGERS: Horsebarn Park (423 S. Horsebarn Road) is my favorite park in all of NWA. There are several play structures for kids of all ages, including an exercise station and multiple swings. The park connects to the trail system, so it’s a great place to start or end if you want to go for a walk or bike ride. There is also a great creek for the kids to explore, splash or skip rocks. Lake Atalanta (500 E. Walnut) has something for everyone and is close to downtown Rogers. There is a natural playground with two climbing areas, slides, a net swing and a tree house. Adjacent to that is a traditional playground area with slides, swings and play structure. The lake itself is a great location for fishing or kayaking. FAYETTEVILLE: Gully Park (1850 E Township St) is a great all-encompassing park. There is a large trail within the park, perfect for walking, jogging or biking. In the playground area, there are three play structures, a large play-in train, swings and a very large sandbox. There is also expansive green space for a picnic or general play. All in all, finding and exploring nature in the Natural State is pretty easy and very rewarding. After a long day of outdoor play, my kids were ready for a bath and a great night of sleep. After all, isn’t that the basic dream of every parent, an easy and stress-free bedtime? I hope this helps you get out and enjoy some of what NWA has to offer, when it comes to trails, outdoor eateries and parks! peekaboonwa.com

nly half of the US population is confident in the government’s ability to meet the unique needs of children in a disaster according to a 2016 report from the National Center for Disaster Preparedness. And yet, only 35 percent have a solid emergency plan in place. One of the reasons parents don’t do more to prepare their families is that they fear the very act of discussing emergencies could scare or harm their children. Nothing could be further from the truth. Yes, parents should discuss risks in age-appropriate ways. But when children know their parents are taking action to keep them safe – and when they feel part of the process – they don’t feel threatened by the conversation. They feel safer. Furthermore, when children practice drills and exercise family plans before disaster strikes, they are less likely to panic in the event of an actual disaster. Children will be equipped to follow directions and will look to adults to lead them out of harm’s way. That’s why it’s so important for parents and other caregivers to be prepared themselves. Unfortunately, adults are way behind. Many efforts across the Nation have tried to inspire family preparedness for years. But this needle is very slow to move. So what can we do to change this? Here in NW Arkansas, the Resilient Children/ Resilient Communities Initiative is working with leaders across Washington County to ensure that the entire county is planning for children in a disaster. This project, led by the National Center for Disaster Preparedness at Columbia University and Save the Children, funded by a grant from GSK, brings together a wide variety of local leaders like Child Care Aware of NW Arkansas, Washington County Emergency Management, the Boys and Girls Club of Fayetteville, first responders, schools,

62 September 2017

and community-based organizations. This new coalition, called the Community Resilience Coalition (CRC) is working to help spread the word about the importance of preparedness, and the role that all of us can play in making a difference in the resilience of Washington County. September marks the start of National Preparedness Month, and around the country, preparedness advocates are coming together behind a common cause that could finally tip the balance. More than 60 organizations that have affirmed the National Strategy on Youth Preparedness Education, led by FEMA, have joined forces to bet on children as the ultimate change makers. After all, who but children have more influence with that tough audience – parents – that we’re all trying to reach? By the end of this month, these organizations will have led tens of thousands of children around the country in dancing “The Prep Step,” a catchy song that introduces preparedness messages in a fun and accessible way. The hope is that kids won’t just remember the prep steps, but they’ll go home and ask their parents to complete them. But please, parents, don’t feel you need to wait until your children call you out for being unprepared.

Take the three most important prep steps for families now. They are: • Make sure kids know their “ICE” or In-Case-ofEmergency contacts. Make an ICE contact card for each child’s school bag or wallet. One of the three contacts should be out-of-state, in case local communications are down. • Create a family emergency plan and practice it together. • Gather supplies to keep your family safe and nourished in case of an emergency. These should include a go-bag for each child with hygiene items, medicines, favorite activities and a comfort item.

Be part of the solution!

Find out more about the Washington County coalition: Call Child Care Aware of NWA: (479)751-3463 www.nwachildcare.org/resilient-children-resilient-communities.html

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Eclipse 2017

Babysitter certification a growing requirement for parents

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one are the days when you leave the baby with their older brother or sister and don’t think twice about it. Today, parents are more cautious about whom they leave their children with, and many prefer leaving the kids with a person who has taken a babysitter certification course or has comparable experience.

here was a time when a teenager only needed to be free on the appropriate night of the week to be in high demand as a babysitter. Not so anymore, say experts; these days, parents are insisting that their sitters come with education credentials. “Hiring a babysitter is an important decision for parents,” wrote Martha Scully, child care expert, on Sitter.com. “You want someone who not only gets along with the kids but has experience and credentials. Babysitting certifications help prove a sitter’s credentials. “Gone are the days when you leave the baby with their older brother or sister and don’t think twice about it. Today, parents are more cautious about whom they leave their children with, and many prefer leaving the kids with a person who has taken a babysitter certification course or has comparable experience.” Scully said certification is a beneficial two-way street, providing peace of mind for parents and marketability for sitters of all ages. “Knowing that your kids are in good hands when you are away from them is paramount,” Scully writes. “The last thing you want to be worrying about during date night or at a work function is whether or not the kids are safe and with the right person. This is why hiring a sitter who has babysitting certifications is so important. “From a sitter’s perspective, taking a babysitting

66 September 2017

certification course ensures that you know how to handle common and uncommon babysitting situations. It also makes it easier for parents to trust you, something that can lead to a regular babysitting gig.” As demand for certified sitters has grown, the range and number of certification courses has grown right along with it. Scully mentioned in particular the course offered by the Red Cross as one of the best, an opinion seconded by Rebecca Brumley, disaster program specialist with the Red Cross’ Northwest Arkansas Territory. Not only does Brumley work for the Red Cross itself, she completed the babysitting certification course as a teenager. “(The course) is geared mostly toward that late pre-teen/teenage age bracket, which is typical of who is getting involved in babysitting,” she said. “But it could be applicable to anyone wanting to get further insight and practical training, as well as safety practices to best help them in that job.” She said even though she grew up in a family with a lot of younger children, the course was a useful affirmation of skills she’d picked up along the way. “As someone who grew up with a lot of siblings, you just kind of do things and it’s second nature,” she said. “I think it’s really a kind of affirmation, as well as a way to give people who are looking at babysitting the confidence to go and do a great job. I think people forget that it is a really big responsibility to care for someone else’s child while they’re away, and this just empowers people to do that in a safe manner.”

by Dwain Hebda

The Red Cross babysitting course focuses on two levels. Babysitting Basics is geared toward youth 11 and older and is conducted online. The course includes proper care of infants and children, safety, what to do in an emergency, choosing age-appropriate activities and how to handle a variety of behaviors. As a bonus, it also provides a section on how to start a babysitting business. A second online course, Advanced Child Care Training, takes things a step further. Topics include training in leadership, child behavior and discipline, plus professionalism, safety and basic childcare. Participants experience virtual environments where characters respond according to learner choices made in a given situation. While not intended as a state licensure certification, the course does teach the knowledge and skills required to care for children and infants inside and outside of the home. Brumley said leaders should also consider tacking on additional coursework such as CPR training, First Aid, and water safety (some of which is available through the Red Cross) to augment their knowledge and prepare them for a wider range of emergency situations. She said the most useful part of the course for her was learning the parameters of the babysitter’s responsibility, including job requirements. “I think it helps you navigate what your role is as a babysitter,” she said. “It can help you rule out some additional roles that parents might ask you to do that might not be the best option for a babysitter. It walks you through what it’s like to do that, and what your role is as a babysitter. “That’s really helpful because I think when you’re young and just starting working, you’re really excited about it. It helps reassure you--like, if you’re getting asked to clean the entire house when you’re really there to make sure a child is safe and taken care of, that might be reaching a little too far.” For More Information: www.redcross.org

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At a

Glance ARTS and MUSIC

Amazeum (Pg. 26) (479) 696-9280 Crystal Bridges (Pg. 17) (479) 418-5700 crystalbridges.org Trike Theatre (Pg. 24) (479) 464-5084 triketheatre.org Walton Arts Center (Pg. 21) (479) 443-5600

BANKS First Security (Pg. 32) www.fsbank.com; www.onlyinark.com

CHILDCARE/NANNY SERVICES ABC Happy Kids Learning Academy (Pg. 63) (479) 202-5691 abchappykids.com Better Beginnings (Pg. 25) (800) 445-3316 arbetterbeginnings.com First Friends Preschool (Pg. 59) 479-636-3338 Maryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Little Lambs Preschool (Pg. 71) (479) 273-1011

CHURCH Keypoint Church Conference (Pg. 23) she.keypointchurch.com

CLOTHING Peek-a-Bootique (Pg. 33) (479) 323-7070 104 Main St, Gravette

DANCE Taglioni Academy of Performing Arts (Pg. 53) (479) 372-6418

DENTIST Pediatric Dental Associates (Pg. 58) (479) 582-0600

DERMATOLOGY / SKIN CARE Advanced Dermatology / Skin Care Center (479) 268-3555 (Pg. 56) Arkansas Laser Solutions (Pg. 29) arkansaslasersolutions.com NWA Center for Plastic Surgery (Pg. 2) (479) 571-3100 nwacenterforplasticsurgery.com

EDUCATION/TRAINING

Academic Math & Language Therapy (Pg. 15) (479) 253-3256 Aloha (Pg. 47) alohamindmath.com

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Bright Horizons Early Learning Center (Pg. 67) (479) 466-1583 George Elementary Event (Pg. 30) 2878 S. Powell St Springdate, AR Goddard School (Pg. 13) (479) 262-0970 GoddardSchool.com Larson's Language Center (Pg. 49) (479) 633-9900 The New School (Pg. 27) thenewschool.org (479) 521-7037 Super Science (Pg. 38) (479) 444-0303 www.super-sci.com Thaden School (Pg. 48) (479) 268-5321 Woodland Academy (Pg. 4) (479) 621-1060 Young Chef's Academy (Pg. 41) (479) 401-2006

FAMILY FUN / ENTERTAINMENT Crystal Bridges (Pg. 17) (479) 418-5700 Farmland Adventures (Pg. 48) (479)799-5033 Fast Lane Entertainment (Pg. 20) (479) 659-0999 www.fastlanebowl.com Starlight Skatium (Pg. 31) (479) 444-STAR Super Science (Pg. 38) (479) 444-0303 www.super-sci.com Walton Arts Center (Pg. 21) (479) 443-5600

FOOD / DRINK TCBY (Pg. 3) (479) 636-8229 (TCBY)

HEALTH AND WELLNESS Best Start (Pg. 19) (479) 575-9359 Friendship Pediatric Services (Pg. 35) fccare.org Northwest Primary Care (Pg. 8-9) nw-physicians.com NWA Health Solutions (Pg. 11) (479) 636-1324

HOME Carpet Smart (Pg. 69) (877) 653-5576

JEWELRY AND GIFTS David Adams (Pg. 64) davidadams.com (479) 444-7778

LEARNING CENTER Academic Math and Language Therapy (Pg. 15) (479) 253-3256 www.amltherapy.com ABC Happy Kids Learning Academy (Pg. 63) (479) 202-5691 abchappykids.com

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First Friends Preschool (Pg. 59) 479-636-3338 Maryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Little Lamb Preschool (Pg. 71) (479) 273-1011

PEDIATRICIAN Northwest Pediatric Convenient Care (Pg. 7) (479) 751-2522 NWA Pediatrics (Pg. 5) nwapediatrics.com Ozark Pediatrics (Pg. 55) (479) 544-9432

PHOTOGRAPHY Main Street Studios (Pg. 40) (479) 524-2004

REAL ESTATE Limbird (Pg. 68) (855) 755-SOLD

THERAPY Academic Math and Language Therapy (Pg. 15) (479) 253-3256 www.amltherapy.com

Friendship Pediatric Services (Pg. 35) (479) 524-2456 Playstrong (Pg. 44-5) (479) 246-0101 playstrongtherapy.com

ULTRASOUND Baby Face & More (Pg. 51) (479) 270-7391 Hello, Baby! (Pg. 39) (479) 438-0728 Oh Baby (Pg. 37) ohbabynwa.com

WOMEN'S HEALTH Lifespring (Pg. 43) (479) 271-0005 Parkhill (Pg. 31) Parkhillclinic.com Siloam Springs Women's Center (Pg. 12) (479) 524-9312 Women's Health Associates (Pg. 16) whanwa.com

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