April/May 2008
Gardening Tips for Toddlers and Teens Family Expo 08
On Being a Mother...
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FREE UBSCRIPTION S www.poconoparent.com
The Foundation that lasts a lifetime… • Early Childhood Education certified staff • Licensed Nurse on premises • On-site professional kitchen & dining area serving nutritious meals & snacks daily • Infants ( 6weeks-12 months) • Toddler I (1-2 years) • Toddler II (2-3 years) • Pre- Kindergarten (3-5 years) • Full Day Kindergarten ( PA Department of Education Licensed) • Kid’s Club ( Before and after school enrichment program for 5-10 y years)) • Spectacular outside & indoor play areas designed with safety & fun as na s our primary goals. Open Monday through gh Friday Frid day 5AM to 7PM e 209 209 Convenient Route Marshall’s Creek Location oca ation n
For more information, to schedule a tour, or to register your child, call (570) 223-2217
Stroller and Family Friendly
2008
Saturday May 3 , 2008 11am to 4pm
Pocono Mountain East High School Gym
Free Admission
FRE Kits E Child ID a Value vaila b d at $ 29.9le!
You Demanded, We Expanded!
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We have quadrupled our space giving families and exhibitors a much more comfortable and enjoyable experience.
• Get your FREE picture taken with Special Characters • FREE SUMMER CAMP INFORMATION and ONSITE REGISTRATION • FREE Face Painting • FREE Tattoos • Be on the cover of PoconoParent Magazine! • Win Prizes just by attending Get free information on local area resources including Children’s Toys, Financial Planning, Home Improvements, Insurance, Childcare, Dance, Music, Crafts, Medical, Builders, Art, Education, Entertainment, Fitness, Leisure, Pools & Spas, Summer Camps, Child Safety, Government Programs and much more.……100 local vendors.
for more information visit
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PoconoParent
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The Pocono’s Family Resource
Table of Contents
CAMP LISTING08 pg
20 Feature Articles pg
8
Gardening Tips for Toddlers and Teens pg
18
Power Teaching Submitted by Rachal Edwards Project Manager, PA Power Teaching Initiative
30 On Being a Mother…
pg
By Bonnie Kraeutler, Preschool Director Family Expo 08. ................................3 The Playroom
Family Finance
Family Travel Tip
Roadmap to Tomarrow..........................16 Reader’s Talkback..........................23 Are Your Kids Crooked...............24
Restaurant Review
Support of Children with Disabilities..26
Rainy Day Family Fun.............................7 “A Day of Thanks, A Lifetime of Love..10 Dansbury Depot....................................13
How Busy Parents and Schools can Stay in Touch...........................14
Family Practice Corner Ask Dr Waters
It’s May Again, Do you Know Where your Waters Been?.................................28
Kids Korner......................................34 Teen & Tween...................................35 Health & Medical Resources... 36 Marketplace. ....................................37 Pet Tails. .............................................38
Publisher
On The Cover
David O’Brien
Special Thanks To International Gymnastics School.
Editor
Teri O’Brien
Graphic Design
Photographer: Michael Straub Photography
Edward Fader Jennifer Goodall Karen Klinger Michael Dombrowski
Account Executive
From the Editor’s Desk
Jennifer Haines
T
here is something about chirping birds, budding trees and warmer weather that makes my heart “sing”! Springtime is a time of newness and rebirth and with that comes hope and the promise of summer days that lie ahead. As I continue to age, I appreciate the beauty of nature more and more. I remember stargazing, going barefoot in the grass, and just watching the clouds float by when I was a child, with such wonder and excitement. This spring, I am promising to revisit my youth. I will dance in the rain, I will splash in puddles, I will plant a garden with my children by my side, and I will delight in the fact that I am “exactly where I am meant to be”. I challenge you to do the same! Here at PoconoParent Magazine, we are gearing up for our 3rd Annual Family Expo. We are very excited to be able to provide this free event for families, and an affordable venue for local businesses to showcase their products and services to the parent market. Our expansion and new location promise to provide comfort and enjoyment for Pocono families and vendors alike. Please be sure to mark May 3rd on your calendar, and stop by for a day of fun at Family Expo 2008! I look forward to seeing you there! Kindest regards,
Teri O’Brien Editor-in-Chief © 2007 by Pocono Parent, LLC. All rights reserved. Published bimonthly. No portion of PoconoParent Magazine may be reproduced without written permission. Address subscription inquiries and address changes to Pocono Parent, LLC P.O. Box 291 Analomink, PA. 18320. The acceptance of advertising by PoconoParent Magazine does not constitute an endorsement of the product or services offered. Reader correspondence are welcome. PoconoParent Magazine assumes no financial responsibility for errors in advertisements. PoconoParent Magazine is a registered trademark of Pocono Parent, LLC.
Photography:
John DeSantis, IIP Studious Photography by Jeanine Photography by Louisa T & R Productions Tara Hyland Photography Michael Straub
Contributing Writers: Bonnie Kraeutler David O’Brien Dr. Brettney Ramsour Dr. Waters Erin Baehr Jennifer Munson Kate, Tween Kayla, Teen Rebecca L. Young Susan Mehler-Bostic
MISSION STATEMENT The PoconoParent Magazine is a reliable printed family resource committed to providing its’ readers with useful information and professional area contacts. It is our priority to assist in connecting parents with appropriate resources in order to ensure a pleasurable experience living and raising children in the Pocono Mountains!
www.poconoparent.com
www.campfriendshipmaine.com
Afford your Child a New & Exciting Environment this Summer
• Residential Coed Camp • 55 Acre Island, Wild Reserve • Hands on Challenging Activities & Excursions at Sea • 4 Week Session July 1st to July 29th
Camp Friendship - Maine
For more Information or to schedule your at home Interview
Call John Duda (570) 426-7083
April / May 2008 • www.PoconoParent Magazine.com
“From the Mountains... to the Sea”
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www.PoconoParent Magazine.com • April / May 2008
Rainy Day Family Fun!
I
t’s finally the weekend, and the kids are ready for some fun after a grueling week at school. Mom and Dad could use a break from the hectic work week too, but the rain is coming down REALLY hard! What to do for some family fun? Before you decide to pull the covers over your head, and sleep the weekend away, try a few of these tried and true rainy day remedies. For starters, if the climate is mild enough, put on your rain gear and take the kids for a puddle splashing adventure! Turn on some music indoors, and dance in the rain outdoors whenever possible. It’s so much fun and can make you laugh until you cry. If those two scenarios don’t appeal to you, and you’d rather stay indoors, the possibilities are endless. What child doesn’t like to play with Playdoh, or paints? Join in the fun and experience the joy of becoming an artist or sculptor for the day. Encourage
your child’s creativity. Get out the glitter, glue, construction paper, paints, etc, and spend the afternoon making a “mess” at the kitchen table. Your child will be delighted! Building with blocks or Legos can take you on adventures that you never dreamed of before, and will prove to be quite the learning experience for you and your son. Play dress up with your daughter, have a puppet show, or a tea party. You will relish in her excitement and joy. Playing family board games is always an excellent way to stay connected, and makes memories at the same time! My own kids never forget the way I act out certain words or phases in “Charades”, and we laugh about it all of the time. My artistic abilities in the game “Pictionary” provide another reason for hysterical laughing amongst my “brood”. In any event, whether it is “Candyland” or “Monopoly, the time spent together as a family is precious to me.
hat t d e r su Be as no need is there iny day a for a r pen the to dam f your o spirits ily. fam
If movies are your “thing”, children of all ages enjoy going to the movie theater or renting a movie to stay at home on a rainy day. Just remember to bend the rules a bit and let them eat popcorn in your bed if you’re viewing at home- it makes the time together that much more special! Family projects, like painting a room, or moving furniture can provide hours of entertainment and engagement for all! Just be sure to plan ahead for “adventures” like this! There’s almost always someone in the family who has a different idea or perspective when the process begins. Be assured that there is no need for a rainy day to dampen the spirits of your family. Decide on what activities you will embark upon, and leave the rest to happenstance!
Excellence Meets Convenience Dino C. Morello, MD • Same Day Appointments Available • Open Monday Through Friday • Conveniently Located Off Route 209, Brodheadsville • Adult Diagnostics, Physicals & Screenings Offered • Comprehensive, Yet Individualized Care • Supported by Extensive, Excellence-Driven Network of Local Providers
Family Medicine Chestnut Hill Professional Center Rt. 209, Brodheadsville
www.PoconoParent Magazine.com • April / May 2008
570.420.6300
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Gardening Tips for Toddlers and Teens W
hether or not you have a green thumb, gardening can be one of the most fun and rewarding experiences that you enjoy with your toddler or teen. Just keep it simple!
Parties and Classes for Children & Adults
Garden Beadin’ of
Parties include Cake, Paper Products, Balloons, Soft Drinks or Juice and Favors. Beading activities feature a special charm for the birthday child. Classes and parties include all basic supplies and the use of tools. Just bring your camera to capture the fun!
50 Route 611, Bartonsville, PA
570-426-9168
So here is the complete text with changes: " The graphics and color look great! Very eye-catching! Thanks. cherie
• Ask your toddler or teen what type of flowers, plants, vegetables, etc. are their favorites • Research the plants’ viability in our local environment together; choose only viable sources • Go to a local nursery together and purchase the seeds or plants for the garden you’ve planned together • Set aside a time and date that you will spend “exclusively outdoors” with your child to do the planting • Be sure to have gardening tools for yourself and your helper; smaller hands will need smaller gardening tools; teens can share yours • Stay side by side with your child while planting; explaining the planting, fertilizing, and watering process • Delegate responsibility to your child for tending the garden • Reap the rewards with your child by picking the flowers or vegetables together You will find the gardening experience to be an opportunity to share special time with your child, and unexpected conversations will keep you feeling connected with your toddler or teen!
April / May 2008 • www.PoconoParent Magazine.com
Route 115 Brodheadsville (570) 992-1614
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“A Day of Thanks, a Lifetime of Love” By Susan Mehler-Bostick, Travel Consultant
This is it. You have only one day in the year to try and pay “Mom” back for a lifetime’s worth of love, education, patience and endless “giving” that only a Mom is capable of. It is an impossible task. I recently read an article that included this quote “Mothers and housewives are the only workers who do not have regular time off, they are the great vacationless class”! I had to read and re-read it. I thought to myself, how true this statement is. To a degree, we bring it upon ourselves. Could we actually give ourselves the day off? Could the household run with out us? Who would take care of the multitude of daily tasks and chores that we as the women of the house realize only we can take care of properly? Well, I am here to tell you to give yourself
the day off! Children and husbands, insist that your own mothers’ and wife give themselves a much deserved and “needed” break. There are a number of wonderful travel options. Escape for the day, a long weekend or better yet the entire week! The following destinations are sure to relax, rejuvenate, refresh and awaken the soul… A destination Spa Resort like The Lodge at Woodloch, is located on 75 acres of woodlands. This private lake retreat offers a 40,000 square foot Spa, four fitness studios, soaking pools and hydro massage water walls. This lodge’s philosophy is that of “awakening”, hoping to teach each guest to listen to their own “inner wisdom” through fitness classes,
healthy cuisine, meditation and the beauty of nature. Along with the fabulous Spa, they offer hiking, kayaking, golfing and watercolor classes. A Victorian Tea Salon is available at The Inn at Irving Place, and is tucked in the heart of New York’s historic Gramercy Park. This elegant landmark townhouse offers Lady Mendl’s Tea Salon. This luxurious hideaway evokes a bygone era of gracious living with guest rooms and suites filled with exquisite antiques, yet all the modern comforts. A wonderful and refined respite from the hustle and bustle of the city, yet close enough to enjoy all the vibrancy New York has to offer. Enjoy afternoon high tea after a day of shopping and before dinner a Cosmopolitan in their famous Martini Bar!
www.PoconoParent Magazine.com • April / May 2008
Friends Forever Getaway at Beaches Turks and Caicos, allow you to plunge into fabulous crystal clear turquoise
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Escape for the day, a long weekend or better yet the entire week!
waters with your best girl friends. Relax Caribbean style, bubbles and bows cocktail party, seaside Yoga and Pilates, sunset catamaran tours and beach bonfire pajama party… what more could a girl want!!! Savannah Style and Charleston Charm are all about southern comfort. This “women only” tour explores two wonderful southern icons; Savannah and Charleston. Your stay in Charleston will include a plantation visit and plenty of time for shopping and dining. Savannah’s large oaks draped in Spanish moss, beautiful Victorian homes and gardens, museums and monuments will have you falling in love with its entire Southern ambiance. Enjoy a special performance at Savannah’s Theatre, and dinner at Paula Deen’s Lady and Son’s Restaurant round out this fabulous tour. Under the Tuscan Sun, calls you to immerse yourself in all that is Tuscany. Tour the Tuscan countryside while staying at the world-renowned spa town of Montecatini. Daily excursions will visit the hills around Siena and San Gimignano, Cinque Terre in Liguria and of course Florence. Highlights will also include a visit to a wine and virgin olive oil farm, sightseeing in Florence, Spa treatments and the Tuscan villas in Lucca. There is no other way to describe this except, magnifico! So let’s treat “Mom” to a wonderful get-away! And ladies, try to be good to “you”. If you’re happy and healthy, you’ll be at your best to take care of those you love.
Briganti Family Studio of
Beginne Throughr Advance d
Com pe Danctitive Com e pany
For More Information Call Direct Paula Briganti McCormick All classes are paid for on a monthly basis
570-992-2875
Professional Instruction by Paula Briganti McCormick & Shirley Briganti
Irish Pub
&Restaurant
Complete Dinner Special! Monday night
all Siamsa Specialties $10 Tuesday Pasta night $10 variety of dishes to choose from.
Wednesday-
Prime Rib night $14.95.
• Private Party Room Available Various Menus To Choose From
• Smoke Free Family Dining All Day Every Day
• Now Serving Sunday Brunch Call to make reservations or for more information
570-421-8434 See Our Website for Specials www.siamsairishpub.com Open: Monday -Saturday 11-2 • Sunday 11-2 Happy Hour: 5-7 Monday - Friday
636 Main Street Rt 80 Exit 307 Stroudsburg, PA 18360
Pronounce it - "sheem-sa"
April / May 2008 • www.PoconoParent Magazine.com
Age-s 3 Adult
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Certified • Licensed • Insured
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• Mold Testing & Inspections • Indoor Allergy Testing • Thermal Imaging • Full Remediations • Remediation Estimates • Clearance Testing
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Appointments: Days/Evenings/Weekends
Main Office (570) 476-4757 Toll Free (886) 319-MOLD Fax (570) 476-7752 Kiesling Enterprises L.L.C. “Family Business” NY PA
Serving the Tri-State Area
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570-629-6600 Fountain Court, Rt. 611, Suite 21 Bartonsville, PA 18321 sylvanmc@ptd.net
Dansbury Depot’s Pub
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y wife and I dine at The Dansbury Depot Restaurant and Pub frequently with our boys. We love the “family atmosphere”, the food is consistently good, the staff is friendly and courteous, and the boys love the trains! However, the Pub at the “Depot, is a great place for date night. Just recently, my wife and I checked out the new “live entertainment” on our weekly outing, and were pleasantly surprised to find not only great musicians that played “our generation’s” music, but an atmosphere reminiscent of “Cheers, where everybody knows your name”. The pub food is excellent and very affordable. I ordered Buffalo wings and the “Bar Steak”, and my wife had
Calamari and Grilled Chicken Breast. We both thoroughly enjoyed our meals, drinks and time spent there. The restaurant and pub are open Monday through Saturday from 11AM to 10PM, and Sundays from11AM until 9PM; the pub stays open later. No reservations at the restaurant are required, but they are accepted. To inquire about the scheduled live entertainment at the pub, call (570) 476-0500.
new “live entertainment”
“Creating Lasting Impressions for God”
• Serving the community for the past 12 years • Preschool Program Ages 2-5 years Part Time & Full Time Available • Vacation Bible School ages 3 to Grade 5
• • • •
Summer Camp Program ages 3-5 Tours Available Indoor and Outdoor Play Areas Convenient Stroudsburg Location
For More Information or to Register Call Becky or Sheryl @ 570-420-0706
April / May 2008 • www.PoconoParent Magazine.com
located at the Stroudsburg Weslyean Church
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How Busy Parents and Schools Can Stay In Touch By Jennifer Munson, Learning Center Director
Research indicates children whose parents are involved in the educational process outperform children whose parents are not. Whether your child is performing above average, at an average level or needs extra assistance, he or she can benefit from parental involvement. Staying in touch with the school is not easy, especially for single and working parents. According to a PTA/Dodge National Survey of household heads with at least one child in school, 92 percent of parents say they talk to their children about school, yet only 17 percent talk to their children’s teachers. For parents with children at risk of failure or dropping out of school, it is especially important to stay in touch with teachers. It is important to establish communication with teachers early in the year and maintain relationships throughout the academic year. Make it a priority to attend a parent-teacher conference at school,
m
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Friday and Saturdays from 9 to Midnight In the Original 1856 Train Station
H E EA AT
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Grownup entertainment with music from 70's thru today www.PoconoParent Magazine.com • April / May 2008
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We are the Poconos’ First 100% Smoke Free Establishment
50 Crystal Street • East Stroudsburg
570.476.0500
www.thedansburydepot.com Visit our website for the months complete lineup of live entertainment.
even if you cannot make it to regular PTA meetings. Find out each teacher’s classroom schedule and determine a convenient time for her to receive phone calls or schedule meetings. Many teachers will provide a home phone number to parents who have busy schedules. At the beginning of the school year, introduce yourself to your child’s teacher(s). Explain your expectations. Tell the teacher you want to be kept informed of progress and, more importantly, tell her that you want to be alerted when there is a problem or a concern about your child’s school performance. If you can find the time, schedule a meeting with your child’s teacher before the first quarter report cards are issued. Let your employer know that you have a quarterly meeting with your child’s teachers, and that it is important to attend. Remind your employer the week before and the day before your meeting. Some parents may prefer a check-up to a formal meeting with a teacher. Send a form with a stamped, self-addressed envelope to each teacher, requesting grade averages, test scores, number of absences, tardies and any “special comments.” Also, ask if the teacher recommends enrichment or remediation in any areas.
Allergies – Chronic Ear Infections Colic – Headaches – Asthma – ADHD The Ramsour Family Chiropractic offices are premiere family health centers for those who want to take charge of their health and empower themselves to live a higher quality of life. We focus on the integration of nutrition, lifestyle enhancement, chiropractic and rehabilitation. These facilities were created in 1998 and have provided natural healthcare services for the entire family. Our team is trained to work on family members from the new born to the elderly. “My son, Anthony, suffered from chronic allergies for years. We were tired of using antibiotics and other medications with no relief AND many side effects. After going to Ramsour Family Chiropractic my child feels great and is drug free!” – LC
Whether your child is performing above average, at an average level or needs extra assistance, he or she can benefit from parental involvement.
Call by 1-31-08 for your FREE consultation
SAFE, AFFORDABLE, DRUG-FREE HEALTHCARE
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Roadmap to Tomorrow By Erin Baehr, Financial Advisor
H
ow am I doing? Are we on track, or are we way behind? These are the questions I’m asked most frequently. Almost from the time we start working for a living we want to know when we can stop. We look forward to that time when we no longer work for our money but it works for us—financial independence. So how do we know if we’re progressing as we should? Fellow Cambridge advisors and I use the Cambridge Financial Life Cycle™ as a benchmark to measure your progress. The first stages in the Life Cycle are the Childhood stages. In Early Childhood, from ages 0-5, we have no concept of money and believe that money is something to be eaten. Who hasn’t stopped her child from putting that dirty money in his mouth? Maybe you know some adults who are stuck in this stage…. eating, drinking, smoking, or just frittering away whatever money comes into
their hands. Pretty soon children discover that money is too valuable to eat—it can be used for something much more important—toys!! At this Childhood stage, ages 6-12, we need to teach our children the three main money concepts: Delayed gratification: the idea that saving money for something special is better than spending it on junk that won’t last. This will allow your child to start to enjoy the satisfaction of saving for later. Convertibility: the concept that money has no inherent value of its own, but its value lies in its ability to be converted to other property or uses. Help your children keep money in proper perspective. Relative value: somewhere along the line you learned that the tiny dime was worth more than the bigger
penny or the heavier nickel. Along with learning the relative value of each piece of money, your children need to learn the relative value of the items they wish to purchase. During the Teenage stage, ages 13-19, your kids learn the concepts of budgeting (hopefully), earning income, and that their hard earned money is a whole lot more difficult to part with than Mom and Dad’s! The more time you’ve spent on the earlier stages, the easier this one will be. And as always, your own money behaviors will mean more than your words. Let’s switch gears now to the adult stages, to see where we fall in the lifecycle. The first of the adult stages is called Building the Foundation, typically from age 20-30. In this stage, you have your first job, are self-supporting, and your net worth is less than your annual income. The emphasis should be on following the Five Fundamentals of Fiscal Fitness: saving 10% of your income, having an adequate emergency fund,
Brielle Nicole
www.PoconoParent Magazine.com • April / May 2008
Take Time to Pamper Yourself!
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• Haircuts, Color, Waxing • Sculptured Nails • Aveda Products Sold • Holiday gift Certificates • Wine & Cheese Served
To Schedule an Appointment
Call 570-629-3455 Tannersville
• Great Food and Ice Cream • Play Area • Outdoor Eating • Daily Specials
ery t a E & m a e r C e Ic
Great Food & Ice Cream Daily Specials Outdoor Seating & Play Area Nice Place to Celebrate a Birthday Perfect Place to Meet for a Playdate Rt 209 at corner of Neyharts, Snydersville
570-992-6955
Open 7 Days a Week 11am to 10pm March through October
fully funding retirement accounts, purchasing the right size home and mortgage, and having no credit card debt. This stage starts the process of building a net worth. Your main goal should be to build a stable financial foundation, which is easiest to do now, before you have too many responsibilities. As your net worth grows to exceed your income, you are moving to the Early Accumulation phase (typically age 30-40). Your net worth is about 1-3 times your annual income, and you most likely have acquired a home by now. You have also identified that there is a purpose to saving; you have a more long term view of life. You will want to diversify your assets into stocks and bonds for greater growth. Many people get stuck in this phase.
prime opportunity to save as much as you can. People in this phase are usually between 40 and 55, or older depending on when they had their children. Tax efficiency and goal setting are critical during this phase, to make the most of your increasing
are typically between 55 and 70, still young and healthy enough to enjoy their newfound freedom (and grandchildren), but supplementing their lifestyle with earnings. The emphasis in this stage is to take just the right amount of risk, and continue to take advantage of tax deferral.
We look forward to that time when we no longer work for our money but it works for us—financial independence
During Conservation, at ages 70 to 80, you live off your investment earnings, pensions, and Social Security. Your net worth is 10 to 15 times your living expenses. You will need to decide, how much is enough? Is the goal to keep building a bigger pile, or a bigger purpose? What kind of legacy do you want to leave your family, not just with your finances but your values as well? And when you know you have more than you need, you are in the Distribution stage, and are blessed to be in the position to give away the excess. Finally, there is Sunset, which ideally would come just as you spent or gave away your last dollar.
net worth and get you to the next If you are investing more wisely stop… Independence. lease remove "Coming Spring 2008 toyour Its A Kidz WorldFinancial Preschool for age 4-6" and taking on appropriate risk, You’ll know you’ve reached investment earnings should begin to Financial Independence when your exceed your annual savings activity, investment earnings equal 50% or and your net worth grow to 3-7 more of lifestyle expenses, and your times your annual income. You have investment portfolio is 7 to 10 times graduated to the Rapid Accumulation your annual living expenses. This phase, which tends to coincide with is a transition stage, when you can the children getting older and leaving start doing what you really like to home (coincidence? I think not!). do—maybe start a business, semiPerhaps a parent who has stayed retire, or travel around the world. home has gone back to work, or People in financial independence your career is at its peak. This is the
Specializing in Children’s Themed Parties
Fear Factor Pirates Character Visits American Idol
• • • • •
Magic Show Spy Princess Arts & Crafts Luauʼs
• • • • •
Pajama Parties Fashion Shows Stuff an Animal Pirate Parties for Girls Face Painting
• • • •
Disco Dances Karaoke Indoor Playground Clue
Coming to Its A Kidz World - "Keeping it Simple Parties" - check our website for all the information. Its A Kidz World does Birthday Parties 7 days a week, so you can pick the best time to celebrate your child's birthday!
For more Information Call
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Check our website for all the details www.itsakidzworldinc.com All Birthday Parties are Private and closed to the Public during your child's event at no additional charge. Our two private party rooms are over 1500 square feet each.
April / May 2008 • www.PoconoParent Magazine.com
• • • •
Well, how did you do? If you’re on target,or ahead of the benchmarks, congratulations. If you are stuck or are behind, don’t be discouraged; life is challenging and unexpected things happen that set us back. The key is to shake the dust off and keep going. Progress not perfection!
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Power Teaching Submitted by Rachal Edwards Project Manager, PA Power Teaching Initiative
Developed by the Success for All Foundation, PowerTeaching provides teachers with the tools necessary to deliver rich, powerful lessons that connect Pennsylvania’s Standards-Based Alignment System to the Curriculum Focal Points developed by the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics. The PowerTeaching framework is designed to guide students through a cycle of instruction that includes effective concept presentations involving minute-to-minute assessments, structured team practice to promote opportunities for mastery by every student, individual assessment to monitor student learning, and feedback on team and individual progress to increase team interdependence and motivation. What is PowerTeaching? The Pennsylvania PowerTeaching Initiative is an intervention strategy offered by the Success for All Foundation to energize mathematics instruction throughout the Commonwealth. The PowerTeaching workshops are designed to provide teachers with the tools necessary to deliver rich, powerful lessons that connect Pennsylvania’s standards-based alignment to cooperative learning techniques that have been proven in 30 years of research to improve student achievement. Supplemental materials, which include both video-based media lessons and sample lessons aligned to participant’s math curriculum, will be provided. Teachers who participate in the PowerTeaching initiative:
1. Participate in the initial two-day workshop and six subsequent one-day workshops; 2. Use the instructional guidelines and materials in their classrooms; 3. Work with onsite or district colleagues to plan lessons, monitor and analyze student data indicating the effectiveness of the PowerTeaching framework. 4. Complete interim assignments between workshops; 5. Prepare their classroom samples and data results to share at the next workshop. Recent reviews of research on mathematics programs by Slavin & Lake (2006, 2007) find that the most effective way to enhance mathematics outcomes in elementary schools is not to change textbooks or curriculum materials, but to provide professional development to teachers to help them use proven practices, such as cooperative learning and effective classroom management and motivation strategies.
Kidsu Men
Take Avail Out able Weekly Lunch Specials
Mama’s Authentic Mexican Kitchen 5224 Milford Rd East Stroudsburg, PA 18302
Tel: 570-588-3129 Fax: 570-588-3149
The Future of PowerTeaching… Currently, PowerTeaching is in grades 3-5 in the Stroudsburg Area School District and next year it will be offered for grades 3-8. We are looking to expand throughout the Commonwealth and expand the usage of it in districts who are currently piloting the program. For more information on Power Teaching in your child’s school district, please contact Rachel Edwards from the Success for All Foundation at 410-616-2354.
TUMBLEBEES
Classes 6 months to 5 years. Advance your child’s mobility and coodination through our music movement and gym programs
Tumblebees Gym
Advance your child’s physical potential. Enhance their balance, coordination, and strength. Climb a mountain, flip on a trampoline, tumble and roll all over our equipment packed facility
Tumblebees Music
Explore your child’s musical potential and stimulate their natural creativity. Shake the tambourines, play the drums, dance, bounce and wiggle to the rhythm.
Tumblebees Preschool & Pre-K Programs
Preschool - Tuesday & Thursday 9am to 12 noon Pre-K Program - Tuesday, Wednesday &Thursday 1pm to 4pm
Tumblebees Gymnastics Classes
Ages5 to 11 years
Under Neiw Call for a Schedule Today Ownersh p 570-619-7655 Located in Fountain Springs, East Shopping Plaza Rt 611 Tannersville, PA
April / May 2008 • www.PoconoParent Magazine.com
GYM
Focused on Development.
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Brainerd Presbyterian Center 570-992-4127 Snydersville , PA http://www.lehighpresbytery.org/ Summer Camp Camp Big Wheel 570-424-5499 East Stroudsburg, PA http://www.bigwheelskating.com/camp.html Summer Camp Program; Who: Boys & Girls ages 212, When: 6:30 A.M till 6:30 P.M.,Where: Big Wheel’s Awesome 30,000 sq. ft. facility, Why: Because it’s fun Camp Canadensis 570-595-7461 Canadensis, PA www.canadensis.com A 7-week, coeducational residential camp for children between the ages of 7 and 16 CAMP CAYUGA 570-253-3133 Honesdale, NJ www.campcayuga.com/Index.htm A Coed Residential Summer Camp with an ACTION-PACKED program for ages 5 to 15 (entering 10th grade). Camp Hope 908-459-4435 Hope, NJ http://camphope.org/ A year-round camp, conference and retreat center offering summer camp for Performing Arts, Swimming and Fishing grades 3-12 Camp Invention 800-968-4332 40+ sites in local PA schools, NJ www.campmason.org A hands-on science and creativity camp that makes learning fun! Take apart old appliances, build new inventions, escape from an alien planet, crash test cars and skateboards, design unique vehicles, solve a crime. A program of the National Inventors Hall of Fame® Foundation, for children entering grades 1-6. M-F, 9:00-3:30. Camp JCC Allentown 610-435-3571 Center Valley, PA www.allentownjcc.org Our main focus is to build a camp community through activities that encourage healthy play, teamwork, and respect for self and others.
Camp Ladore 570-488-6129 Waymart, PA http://www.ladore.org/Weeklong camp experiences are offered for children between the ages of 7 – 12, with specialized wilderness programs for 13 – 17 year olds.
Camp William Penn 215-683-3605 Marshalls Creek , PA www.phila.gov/recreation In operation for over 50 years, and recognized as one of camps most successfully working with diverse populations in the state
Camp Lindenmere 888-220-4773 Henryville, PA www.camplindenmere.com/ Located in the heart of the Pocono Mountains, Lindenmere’s individualized programming provides every camper with their own unique summer experience. Our activities which include Horseback Riding, Ropes Course, Circus, Ice Hockey, Figure Skating, Fine Arts and an array of Team and Individual Sports.
Delaware Aerospace Academy 302-738-7749 Delaware, PA www.dasef.org Throughout the week, girls and boys in grades 2 - 10 are continually challenged to think, create, solve, build, and work cooperatively. All academies are designed to integrate the study of science, technol– ogy, engineering, and mathematics using Earth and Space Education as the uni–fying framework.
Camp Nejeda Foundation- for children with diabetes 973-383-2611 Stillwater, NJ www.campnejeda.org Multiple options are offered for campers, including a one-week session for younger campers, three twoweek sessions for older campers, and two family camps each season. Camp Pocono Ridge (732)521-4796 http://www.poconoridge.com/index.php Have you ever experienced a place where life’s’ lessons are achieved in the simplest of activities? Camp should not be seen as simply sending your child on a vacation. Camp, when done correctly, is truly an educational experience and one that helps mold your child’s future; it’s just disguised as fun! 2-Week Sessions - $1850.00 4-Week Sessions - $3650.00 6-Week Sessions - $5450.00 8-Week Sessions - $7200.00 We believe in security for our campers in all forms, so for driving directions to camp, places to stay, etc... please contact the winter office at (732)521-4796 and we will be happy to assist you. Camp Speers Eljabar YMCA 570-828-2329 Dingmans Ferry, PA www.campspeersymca.org Traditional camp programs for campers ages 12 - 16 as well as our Specialty Camp,
Discovery Science Camps at Da Vinci Science Center 484-664-1002 Allentown , PA www.davinci-center.org The series of week-long day camps provide youngsters with fun, interactive experiences during which they become scientists, conduct experiments, solve mysteries, and discover the fascinating world around them. Some activities will include insect investigations, outdoor scavenger hunts, weather experiments, and exploring outer space. ESNJ Camp Merry Heart 908-852-3896 Hackettstown, NJ www.eastersealsnj.org Our dedicated staff provides campers with wonderful experiences, allows parents, guardians and others a well-deserved respite, and helps to promote campers’ independence. Golden Slipper Camp 610-660-0520 http://www.goldenslippercamp.org/ Bala Cynwyd, PA For a countless number of kids who’ve spent their summers with us, Golden Slipper Camp evokes happy memories. For nearly 60 years, thousands of children and teenagers have experienced firsthand the warmth, traditions, spirit, and fun that make Golden Slipper Camp...well, Golden Slipper Camp. And no wonder. Golden Slipper is a safe, nurturing environment where the milestones called “growing up” take place. Nestled in the breath-taking Pocono Mountains, Golden Slipper Camp feels special the moment you walk in. With charming cabins clustered in villages and nestled in the woods, you get a sense that lifechanging experiences take place here. And they do.
CAMP 8 0 LISTING
Happiness Is Camping 908-362-6733 Blairstown, NJ www.happinessiscamping.org We’re a regular sleepaway camp for normal kids; girls and boys who just happen to have cancer. The camp is free to all, supported by donations and volunteer staff members. International Gymnastics Camp 570-629-0244 Stroudsburg, PA www.international-gym-camp.com At International, we combine a great camping experience with the best gymnastics training anywhere.
New Jersey Camp Jaycee 732-246-2525 Effort, PA www.campjaycee.org The camp is a traditional camp program serving campers with special needs. Activities include arts & crafts, dance & movement, boating, swimming, nature, sports & games, evening activities & more. Ages 7- adult+. Residential Sessions beginning June 24 and ending August 18. $1,250/two wk session (residential); Day Camp Weeks beginning July 23 and ending August 17. $350/wk (day camp)
The Summer Enrichment Program at The Quaker School at Horsham 215-674-2875 Horsham, PA www.quakerschool.org The Summer Enrichment Program is a 5 week program with academics in the morning and recreation in the afternoon. Our program allows children to retain skills taught throughout the school over the summer.
Tillinghast Golf Academy Jr. Camps 570-424-4000 x1408 PEEC Summer Nature Study Day Shawnee on Delaware, Pennsylvania (570) 828-2319 www.shawneeinn.com/juniorgolfcamps.aspx Dingmans Ferry, PA An overnight golf instruction camp for boys and peec@ptd.net girls ages 10 to 18. Introduce your children to the International Sports Training Throughout the week, girls and boys in grades 2 - 10 legendary game of golf at the historic Shawnee Inn 570-620-2267 are continually challenged to think, create, solve, and Golf Resort. The Tillinghast Golf Academy Stroudsburg, PA build, and work cooperatively. All academies are located at the Resort, is led by Jim Miller, PGA Golf www.international-sports.com designed to integrate the study of science, technol– Professional and his exceptional staff. In addition Our All Sports Program is for the adventuresome ogy, engineering, and mathematics using Earth and to top-notch daily golf lessons of 5:1 camper/teacher athlete who wants an overall sports camp Space Education as the uni–fying framework. ratio, other activities include swimming, river trips, experience! prizes and more. All meals provided at the resort. Pinemere Camp Camp dates: July 20th through July 24th and August Johnsonburg Presbyterian Ctr 215-925-8000 10th - 14th. Junior Resident Fee: $1,050. Commuter 908-852-2349 Philadelphia, PA rates are also available. Johnsonburg, NJ www.pinemere.com http://www.campjburg.org/ Pinemere is dedicated to offering children a chance Twin Pines Camp - Conference - Retreat Center We have lots of new options this summer, including to enjoy a summer camp experience in a majority 570-629-2411 day camp, overnighters (a one night introduction to Jewish setting where they can grow socially, Stroudsburg , PA camp), and some 10 day units. Register soon to make emotionally and spiritually. Pinemere offers boys http://twinpines.gospelcom.net/ sure you get your first option! and girls, ages 6 to 14, a choice of 7, 4 and 3-week Twin Pines is committed to providing quality, camp sessions. Christ-centered, creative educational experiences in Kirkwood Camp and Conference Center a natural environment significantly contributing to 570.421.8625 Pocono Plateau Camp & Retreat the mental, physical, social and spiritual growth of Stroudsburg, PA 570-676-3665 our campers. www.kirkwoodCamp.org Cresco, PA Are your kids searching for something new and www.poconoplateau.org URJ Camp Harlam exciting for the summer? A variety of camping Pocono Plateau has 1-week camping opportunities 570-629-1390 experiences for a variety of ages - from 2nd grade for children and youth throughout the summer. Kunkletown, PA through senior high. Interested in music, art or Each camp is for a specific age group with different www.campharlam.org drama? Try “Joy of Creation” camp! themes and activities every week. Activities include: Camp Harlam provides the finest in recreational swimming, hiking, ballfield games, Bible studies, and educational activities for Reform Jewish youth Lake Greeley Camp singing, campfires, 4-square, basketball, volleyball, 3rd - 12th grades 570-685-7196 group building games, crafts, and archery Greeley, PA YMCA Camp Ken-Etiwa-Pec www.lakegreeley.com/index.htm Pocono Family YMCA 908-362-8217 Whether your child is a First Time Camper or an Camp Village People (VP) for kids Post K-3rd grade, Hardwick, NJ Experienced Camper, with our mature, caring staff, Summer Fun Camp (SF) for kids Post K-3rd grade www.campmason.org exciting trips, special events, great evening activities and Camp Hidden Lake (HL) for kids Post 4th grade Our modern facilities are spread over 650 acres of and daily program, your child is guaranteed a - 6th grade. scenic mountain woodlands which guarantees fun in summer to remember. 570-421-2525 a safe welcoming place. Ages 5-16. Multiple Locations, PA Miss Margaret’s Summer Camp www.poconoymca.org YMCA Camp Mason Children’s Dance CampBoys and Girls ages 3-11, Camp Director: Wes Supper Beginner to Advanced and Children’s Musical Princeton Blairstown Center (908) 362-8217 Theater Camp Boys and Girls ages 5-14, Beginner to 908-362-6765 Hardwick, NJ 07825 Advanced. Princeton, NJ www.campMason.org 570-424-2266 http://web.princeton.edu/sites/pbcenter/About/ information@campmason.org Stroudsburg, PA Location.shtml ACA Accredited Many of our programs take place on-site at the YMCA Camp Mason has been building character Mont Lawn Camp Princeton-Blairstown Center, still known to many of since 1900 with a unique blend of adventure and 570-588-6618 the locals as the “Princeton Summer Camp” from its traditional summer camp emphasizing the values of Bushkill, PA first usage in the 1930s. caring, honesty, respect and responsibility in a safe www.kidswithapromise.org welcoming environment. We are located adjacent Campers splash in a crystal-clear pool, row across a Spruce Lake Wilderness Camp to the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation lake, hike through the woods and unwind from the 800-882-7505 Area in Northwestern New Jersey, situated on stress of city life. They sing, perform drama, try their Canadensis, PA over 600 acres of scenic mountain woodlands. hand at crafts and develop healthy friendships with slwildernesscamp.org Mason features modernized facilities, and a huge peers and adults they can trust. Christian camp and expeditions program for ages 7- variety of activities! Activities include: Basketball, 18 … “Using Wilderness Adventures to Point Young archery, swimming, skate boarding, soccer, pottery, New Image Camp at Pocono Trail People Toward Christ” drama production, jewelry making, tipi overnights, 800-365-0556 horseback riding, mountain biking, river canoeing, Reeders, PA SUSC/AC PERUGIA USA PA Northeastern rock climbing, volleyball, boating, fishing, and so www.newimagecamp.com/10camps_1.html Premier Soccer much more! Camper choose many of their activities, Camp Pocono Trails is the finest weight loss camp 1888-28GALEX allowing the freedom to customize their experience. in the country. 350 private acres is the setting where Entire North East , PA Or try: The Ranch Camp for western horsemanship children can realize their goals, while enjoying the www.acperugiausa.com or Adventure Bound Treks for exciting week long best activities program... bar none. Scuola Calcio (Soccer School) Camps offer players outdoor adventures. Camp Mason offers two and a new way to learn skills in a safe and humanistic four week sessions for boys and girls ages 7-16, camp environment, utilizing the soccer instructors starting at $1195. Our camp population includes from around the world. campers and staff from all over the world.
To be Listed in next year’s Camp Directory please email the editor@poconoparent.com
• Ages 6 months and up • Weekdays and Saturdays
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Dear Editor,
When my daughter brought home a copy of PoconoParent Magazine from school, I was so excited. We have just relocated to the area, and there was so much useful information for my family. I have already contacted some of the places that advertise with you. I have a need for so many services now that I am living in the Poconos. Thank you for this wonderful magazine. I am looking forward to the next one.
Sincerely, Barbara, Bushkill Hi Teri,
I really enjoy seeing your publication each month. I particularly enjoy reading what the editor has to say. Last issue you mentioned your “heart” and how you need to care for it with some form of exercise. Well, I would love to invite you to come take a yoga class. The practice that I share is extremely healing, and has my beneficial qualities regarding the heart. The class is 90 minutes and is appropriate for anyone (beginners, or advanced practitioners). Have a wonderful day, and take care of that beautiful heart! Namaste ,
Michaelynn,, Mt.Pocono Hi Teri-
By the way, we took the kids to”Los Tres Amigos” last week based on the review in PoconoParent. It was the best Mexican we have had around here. When we lived in Tennessee, there was a restaurant that was owned and operated by Mexicans that was great- and we miss it! This was the closest we have had since being here.
Thanks, Anthony, East Stroudsburg
Dear PoconoParent Magazine,
I am so happy that you took the time to read my feedback from the Expo last year. I look forward to attending the Expo on May 3rd!!! The preliminary floor plan looks wonderful!!! I feel that the vendors and the attendees will be very happy with this set up! I really appreciate you taking the time to send this email to me. It shows me that your magazine really does care about their readers and is dedicated to providing the best for the “PoconoParent”!!!
Thank you, Christina, Henryville
ing h t e m o s o D " you love, and you will never er work anoth day in your life." • Having a successful business from home is not just a fantasy but a reality. • Work with people whose company you enjoy, have flexibility with your time and family and earn what you deserve. • Build a business based on tremendous products that you will enjoy using yourself. • Ask me how! Deann Klein, Independent Consultant Regional Vice President, Arbonne International Member, Women Business Owners Association
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April / May 2008 • www.PoconoParent Magazine.com
It is included!
23
Are Your Kids Crooked?
By Dr. Brettney Ramsour, Chiropractor
H
ave you ever taken a close look at your child’s posture? Most people don’t generally spend much time thinking about posture until the day arrives when standing up straight hurts. Standing up straight is not supposed to hurt. In fact, it’s easy when the muscles and joints that determine posture are healthy and aligned. Why then does it become difficult and painful for so many people to have good posture all through their lives?
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Good posture depends on lifelong balance and integrity of the spinal column and postural muscles. Many children and young adults participate in activities that are physically stressful to their developing bones, muscles and joints.
Good posture depends on lifelong balance and integrity of the spinal column and postural muscles Cheerleading, gymnastics, dance, theatre arts, music, art classes, sports camps and other physical activities require certain bones and muscles to move repetitively. The joints and muscles of the spinal column which protect the central nervous system have the greatest impact on posture. The central nervous system, which includes the brain and spinal cord, controls, regulates, and coordinates every cell and muscle of the body. Repetitive motion of the spine and postural muscles can lead to joint restrictions, scar tissue and postural imbalances, ultimately resulting in not so perfect posture and decreased performance. Although active children are seemingly healthy in comparison to their TV watching, internet surfing, video game playing peers, it is important to consider how the
physical activity affects their spines. If good posture is not maintained when one is young, postural imbalances will become habitual over time until one day, correct posture feels like work.
encourage them to maintain healthy spines and practice good posture while they are young, better health will await them as adults.
How can we make it easy for our kids to have good posture? Visit your chiropractor to make sure your child’s spine is properly aligned and that his or her central nervous system has no restrictions. It is important that your child follow basic guidelines to maintain good posture. These guidelines include postural stretches and exercises and sitting up straight while at a desk or computer. Proper alignment and weight of backpacks is important. Your chiropractor can give you many helpful hints regarding good spinal hygiene and proper posture. As parents we need to make sure our kids are not crooked. Spinal hygiene is the furthest thing from their minds while they are playing, competing or performing. If we
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Visit our Website at www.PoconoParent.com for our contact information. Send Associated us your Feedback, Tell us about your favoriteLibrarieS Pet for Pet Tails, of Monroe County or Show off your Resident Artist with our Kids Korner. Contact Us and you could see your name in PoconoParent Magazine
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25
Support of Children with Disabilities By Rebecca L. Young, Attorney
I
f a child is unable to support himself upon completion of high school, his parents may be responsible to continue supporting him. As in cases involving nondisabled children, the support obligation may always be modified upon a substantial change of circumstances. The reasons for the child’s disability, and the age at which the disability occurred are considered along with the parent’s ability to pay for the child’s needs in determining the adult child support obligation. The child may be only temporarily disabled due to a significant injury, and the parent’s obligation will end when the child’s health is restored. In other cases, the child may require a period of training or rehabilitation to become
self-sufficient that extends beyond graduation from high school. The obligation to support an adult child has been challenged many times. However, the courts have consistently upheld the parent’s obligation to support a dependent adult child. The circumstances of these cases have included payment for placement in a juvenile detention facility where the child’s crime occurred before reaching age 18. Another case involved a student with a physical disability who required assistance with activities of daily living while continuing to pursue his education. The opinion in that case contemplated termination of parental support upon the child obtaining a job that would pay a sustaining wage.
Presents Wiley’s Birthday Party Program For Kids Come Party at the Wolf! The Great Wo Wolf olff L Lodge odge od ge - P Poc Pocono o on n o Mounta Mountains taa ins i n s is i a ffantastic a taa st an stic ic p place lace to celebr celebrate r ate a t e an anyy occasion—but utt chi children’s hild ldre ren’ n’ss birthday b rt bi rthd d ay parties parti t es e s are a re our ou specialty! spe peci cialty! Wiley’s B Birthday i r thd t hd hday ayy Packagess include Pa i nc n c lu lud dee all-day all ll-d -day ay admission ad d mis dm m i si sion to o Be Bear ear ar T Track ra ck Lan Landing n di ding n Indoor Wa Waterpark a t e rpar a k including exclusive rental of a party room for a four (4) hour period, plus several different food and decoration packages, specially presented by the Great Wolf Lodge catering staff.
www.PoconoParent Magazine.com • April / May 2008
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Note: for more information, contact Great Wolf Lodge - Pocono Mountains directly as this program is not available through Great Wolf Resorts Central Reservations Department.
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G R E AT W O L F. C O M
26 Pocono Parents_Wiley's BD AD_Feb08.indd 1
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The courts will not consider the child’s assets or sources of income in determining the parent’s obligation to provide support. Some disabled children will be eligible to receive Supplemental Security Income and Medicaid. Despite this, the parents must also continue to support the child. These governmental programs are designed to provide for the child’s basic needs, and parental support is intended to provide for additional needs and services commensurate with the family’s resources. Similarly, if a trust has been established for the benefit of a disabled child, the parents must continue to support the child. This is true whether the trust was established by a family member, or through a settlement award. The trust is intended to provide income to fund the child’s supplemental needs, without disqualifying him from public assistance to meet his basic needs. If the parents’ support obligation is terminated, the trust will be depleted needlessly, thus denying the child the intended supplemental services over time.
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As in cases Associated LibrarieS of Monroe County inv7 olving no ndisabled chil dren, the support obligation m ay always be mo Piense LadBiblioteca ified upon aAssociated s u bstantial LibrarieS of Monroe County ch ange of circumstance s Associated LibrarieS of Monroe County Polk
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ASK DR. WATERS
www.PoconoParent Magazine.com • April / May 2008
It’s May Again, Do You Know Where Your Waters Been?
28
A
nnual testing of your private well for bacteria is a great way to ensure your family’s good health. The young, the old, those pregnant and those with a weakened immune system are the most susceptible to bacteria contamination in their drinking water. Most states have strict construction standards for well drilling and operators are required to have a license, however, Pennsylvania has no requirements for well drillers and a license is not needed. If you own a private well then water quality testing should be important to you and your loved ones. There are contaminates in drinking water that have been linked to cancer and toxicity which of course poses a health threat to humans. In most cases contaminants have no taste, odor, or color. You can only find these pollutants by laboratory testing. It’s entirely up to you to know the quality of your water, there are no state requirements regarding the testing of private wells. When you have time, check out our website www.drwaters.org under “It’s May Again” to find out how easy it is to test your drinking water. The cost is around $25 to test for bacteria which is recommended at least annually. More extensive tests are available for an additional fee. Results will reveal the level at which any of the tested substances were found in your water sample. The mere presence of contaminants in well water does not necessarily imply that there is a problem. However, when levels exceed state or federal health standards, you should take steps to correct the situation. All water issues
are correctable but accurate testing is required first. One of the major benefits of regular well water testing is that one can observe changes in water quality over time. Ideally each home would have a “well log” showing water test results over time. A well log is especially appealing to home buyers. It is impractical and unnecessary to test for all possible contaminants. There are local commercial testing labs in the Poconos and they are a good source of information about predominant local water issues. Regular well testing over time can identify problems before they negatively affect your drinking water supply. In the Poconos, people should feel confident that their well water is safe for drinking. Those savvy enough to perform regular testing gives you the assurance that your drinking water does not contain unacceptable levels of any contaminant. If any contaminants are found it does not automatically mean that your water is unacceptable to drink. Public water companies are legally required to meet MCL’s or maximum contaminant levels. Private well owners should use MCL’s as
guidelines for their own water. The testing facility you choose can help you interpret your results. If contaminants are found in your private well water at levels below these standards it
In the Poconos, people should feel confident that their well water is safe for drinking. is unlikely you will experience any harmful health effects. Groundwater initially fell to the earth as rain or snow and then percolated through the soil. It became trapped in underground layers called aquifers, which consist of sand, gravel and rock. Some of the aquifers are located near the surface, and others are far underground. They are irregular in
shape, and wells drilled a few hundred feet apart may reach different aquifers. There may be several aquifers under a particular site, and wells may be drilled into any of these. How does a well become contaminated? Some factors that come into play include the well design and the well location on the property. Infectious microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, and protozoa are all found in human and animal waste. It’s important to have a properly constructed well placed a safe distance from the nearest septic system. Bacteria can be found on a newly installed well pump so if you ever have your well pump replaced be sure to test for bacteria soon after. As always, your drinking water is important. If you want a more extensive water test done, most laboratories offer sensible testing packages which are a good idea to have done every few years. Annual water testing is a good family activity and be sure to keep a record or file somewhere to compare your results. If you have any additional questions you can always e-mail me at drwaters@ptd.net.
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On Being a Mother… B
eing a mother is a blessing and a curse. If you ask my kids they will say that HAVING me as a mother can also be both curse and blessing! We become mothers the moment that we are handed our children. No matter how they come to us, birth, adoption, or being dropped on our doorstep by the stork, we love them with a depth that borders on obsession. From the first time that we look into their eyes, we begin to mourn the time that they will grow up and leave us. First steps cause us pride and pain. First words bring triumph and tears. The first day of school is filled with joy and panic. I see the moms in my hallway on those first days of preschool. They hope that their children will go happily into school, but, when they do, a wee voice in their head says, “See, he doesn’t need you-anymore”. This feeling of being left behind is what causes the most heartbreaking tears in my hallway. Our children’s growth into adulthood is often so slow and steady that we don’t see it as it is happening. Suddenly, our “baby” is eighteen and six feet tall! How in the world did that happen? Looking back it can be hard to find a defining moment when child became adult. A few weeks ago, Bruce and I had the terrible task of watching our sixteen year old; Kate, go from child to adult in the space of an evening. In a few short hours Kate left childhood behind and was forced to look at life with adult eyes. My heart is broken for her. She is such a joyful, contented soul and we wished that life could have remained simple for a while longer. Instead, she has seen a harsher side, which we could not protect her from. So, for now we will watch and wait and pray that she will grow from fledgling adult into the beautiful woman that we know she can be.
On the other hand, sometimes it seems that our kids are growing overnight. You put a toddler to bed and a teenager gets up in the morning! What mother hasn’t seen her child in a pair of too short pants and groaned, “I just bought those last month!”? It feels that if you just listen closely enough you can HEAR them growing. These are the times when your eyes are open to the bittersweet moments of growing up. To watching the “lasts”…last night in the crib, last day of preschool, last ride in the car seat. I was reading in bed one early evening this winter. Our bedroom has French doors opening onto our porch. The porch lights were on and I could see that the snow was falling in those big, fluffy flakes. You know the ones that look like down feathers. The porch light lit up a circle of our front yard as it reflected off the snow. It was so pretty and peaceful that I was having a hard time concentrating on my book. Then I saw them. Sami and her puppy Molly had gone out to play. I couldn’t hear them; only see them in the pool of light from the porch. So the whole scene was played out in silence. She was dancing with her dog. They were twirling and swaying and jumping. She was holding the puppy’s paws and they were waltzing together on the lawn as the snow fell.
From the first time that we look into their eyes, we begin to mourn the time that they will grow up and leave us
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April / May 2008 • www.PoconoParent Magazine.com
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Sun exposure damages the eyes as well as the skin. According to most dermatologists, people experience 80 percent of sun exposure in the first 18 years of life. Purchase sunglasses with labels ensuring that they provide 100% UV protection.
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It is the toughest job you’ll ever love! Occasionally, Sam stopped to catch a snowflake on her tongue. I thought about getting up and joining them, but I was too fascinated by watching this fey child and her dog dance in the snow. By the time I gathered myself to go out, their dance was over. I thought about it all that night. Why did “snow dancing” affect me so much? I have often seen the children play with the dogs. I have concluded that I was watching a child teetering on the edge of becoming a teen. How many more times will she dance in
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www.PoconoParent Magazine.com • April / May 2008
present
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at the Great Wolf Lodge in Scotrun
May 5 thru June 13
(excluding Memorial Day weekend, May 24-26)
$30 per ticket (Children under 2 free) Purchase passes for a full day of family fun at Bear Track Landing Indoor Waterpark. Waterslides, wave/swimming pools, interactive fort, lazy river, toddler area and more!
RJM Services • Tree Removal • Leaf Blowing • Firewood • Lawn Care • Yard & Property Clean Up
570-656-2429
Proceeds to benefit United Way of Monroe County, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital and Pocono Environmental Education Center. Waterpark bracelets required for admission. Lockers are available. (No food or drink may be brought in from outside.)
Tickets can be purchased online @
www.unitedwaymonroe.org OR @ the United Way office, Great Wolf Lodge, or P.E.E.C. For more details call (570) 629-5657
the snow? I just may have been privileged enough to see that “last dance”. It is beautiful and bitter. Being a mother is like being in the Army. It is the toughest job you’ll ever love! Some days you are the drill sergeant. Some days you would cheerfully go AWOL. Some days you swear that you can not do another minute of KP or MP duty! But, it is the love that makes the nonsense tolerable. We all have moments when being a mother overwhelms us. It is these moments that make the sweet ones so achingly beautiful. Our job IS tough. Jackie Kennedy once said that being a mother is the only job that you can not afford to “bungle”. We won’t bungle our job, because we care too much and work too hard. And one day, if we are really lucky, 1 our children will rise up and call us blessed. 6
LL
ook to your ocal Day! Library Happy Mother’s LibrarieS Barrett
Coolbaugh
Tobyhanna
2
Mount Pocono
Price
Paradise
4
Jackson
Polk
Middle Smithfield
Pocono
Tunkhannock
Chestnuthill
7
Ross
5
Stroud
3
Smithfield
East Stroundsburg Stroundsburg Delaware Water Gap
Hamilton
Associated
of Monroe County
Eldred
Think Library Piense La Biblioteca Piense La Biblioteca Associated LibrarieS of Monroe County
?
CONSIDER
ADOPTION
because every child needs to be loved
There are over 1, 200 children in PA waiting for their forever family. Consider being an adoptive or foster family. All these children want is to be loved. For more information about Adoption, please contact Children Service Center at
1-877-433-5112 www.adoption-familiesforalifetime.org
Children’s Service Center 335 S. Franklin Street Wilkes-Barre, PA 18702 www.cscwv.org
Associated LibrarieS of Monroe County
Read to your Kids
Associated LibrarieS of Monroe County
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April / May 2008 • www.PoconoParent Magazine.com
LL
ook to your ocal Library
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Korner PoconoParent Magazine would like to give a special thanks to our wonderful artists and writers that submitted their work to be published. We are very proud to display your talents and encourage you to keep up the good work!
FALL BALL I see the red laces and the white wrap of the ball coming straight at me. I hear the crack of the bat and see the ball go right over the fence. I feel the soft grip and the soft fabric of my pants. I smell the hot dogs and soft pretzels from the concession stand. I taste the salty flavor of sunflower seeds.
Kevin ,10
Paul Jillian
If you have an aspiring young writer or artist in your family, e-mail your submissions to editor@poconoparent.com to be considered for future issues of PoconoParent Magazine
Tween Teen The ability to persevere requires self discipline and motivation. Perseverance reveals the integrity of a teen’s personality. It is very easy to give up when things aren’t going our way, but to persevere takes patience, and the ability to see beyond our current situation or circumstance. You have probably heard of the saying “when the going gets tough, the tough get going”. That’s what it means to persevere; to keep on going and trying even through the hard times. Over the past couple of years, I have noticed that I am more determined to persevere, than when I was younger. When I want to accomplish something badly enough, nothing will stop me. I will work harder if I have to, change my plan of action, or try different alternatives and solutions. Almost always, perseverance helps me accomplish what I set out to do. There is something to be said for never giving up, and I challenge all teens to persevere through the trying times ahead!
Perseverance is a major part of a tween’s life. I feel that anything can be accomplished if we keep pushing forward no matter what. This is something that I constantly keep in the back of my head in everything that I do. We show perseverance in many ways. At school, problems always have the opportunity to arise. For example, when we do school projects there are often roadblocks and difficulties. When this occurs, we take charge and try our best to fix the situation so we can continue. If, despite our attempts, the problem remains, we still try to make it right. Another way we show perseverance in school is our work ethic. For me, when I am home, instead of watching television I will do my homework. If I have a test, I will go to bed early and study rather than hanging out with my friends. I am sure this is the same for some other kids. Normally, I get good grades, but if for some reason my grade is below my capabilities, I do everything in my power to raise it. At school, many people are in the band. This often requires you to miss a class and practice a lot. When a lesson occurs, you have to make up work. Some of us try very hard to get this done the day it is due and occasionally maybe even get it done the day before. We put a lot of time into practicing. Teachers tell us if something is not right the first time, or it shows to be a little more difficult, practice it extra so that the mistake will not occur again. Tweens don’t only show perseverance in school. I am sure that at home many of your parents have said “no” to you about something that you asked them for. For many tweens they don’t stop there. For example, if you want a sleep over and your mom says “no”, you will keep asking. This may not be the best way to show perseverance but it is often done. In conclusion, tweens show perseverance in many ways. It is an important part of their lives and it is part of the reason for some teen’s success.
Teen
Perseverance
Tween & Kayla, 18
Teen Tween Kate, 12
Please feel free to email us at
teen@poconoparent.com • tween@poconoparent.com
Health& Medical Resources Chiropractic
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Andrea Argeson, M.D., F.A.A.P. Elvira Aronzon, P.A.-C Barbara Davies, P.A.-C
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175 E. Brown St, Suite 103 • E. Stroudsburg
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Pet Tails
www.PoconoParent Magazine.com • April / May 2008
pettails@poconoparent.com
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She is the best dog ever!!! Polly (That’s our pet’s name) is sooo adorable!!! and she is always looking for love. She is so much fun to be with and her favorite game is to play tag around the house.No matter what we say she always listens and we know she can keep a secret specially when we do something we are not suppose to. We simply can ‘t imagine living without her. Matthew, Tommy, Marcus and Nico and our beautiful dog Polly
Is your Pet Special? Tell Us your Tale
Send your tale in 75 words or less with your pets name and color photograph to
pettails@poconoparent.com
A Music TogetherÂŽ Class is: A community of families sharing songs, instrument play, rhythm chants, and movement activities in a relaxed, playful, non-performance-oriented setting. Music learned through developmental appropriate activities that support and respect the unique learning styles of very young children. Infants, toddlers, and preschoolers participating at their own levels in family-style classes of mixed ages. Parents and caregivers contributing to the enrichment of their child's music environment regardless of their own musical abilities. A new song collection every semester for three years, featuring great arrangements of original and traditional songs in a wide variety of tonalities, meters, and cultural styles.
45 minutes of PURE FUN with your child every week! Spring Semester Begins April
REGISTER TODAY! (570) 629-0808
www.mmdmta.com
What if We Could Make a Difference? Miss Margaret’s Dance, Music & Theatre Arts STUDIO 3 STUDIO 4
Computer Learning WORK OF ART
(Learn to draw/paint)
(Computer Room) Each child will have their own computer.
STUDIO 5
Commuication Connection (Learn to sign & sing)
For more information call (570) 629-0808 or visit our website
www.mmdmta.com
Now Accepting Enrollment Ages 3-5 Tannersville Studio
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www.PoconoParent Magazine.com • April / May 2008