~ÛÝÛLivingston Parent Journal ÝÛ¨ ©Û ¤~ ÛÝÛooo Canaf_klgfGYj]flAgmjfYd [geÛ
An Independent local publication.
MISSION STATEMENT: The mission of Livingston Parent Journal is to share worthwhile information with area parents by listing family-oriented events, educational opportunities for parents, and by providing feature articles and tips on topics relevant to raising children of all ages.
OCTOBER 2013 — EDITOR/ PUBLISHER — Rick & Terri McGarry —WRITERS— Jennya Hammack Nellie Sowash Ginger Page Meg Koenemann —PHOTOS— Cover Photo by Jenn Anibal jenanibal.com Prenatal Cover Photo by Angela Cox — GRAPHIC DESIGN/LAYOUT —
Mindy Simon The Livingston Parent Journal does not necessarily endorse the views of the authors or the products of the advertisers. Medical and health advice is not intended to replace the care of a physician. Member of
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866.806.1680 Š December 2012 All rights reserved.
In every issue... Off The Wall ..................................................................... 8 Events......................................................................... 11-13 Giveaways ....................................................................... 22
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Dear Friends, As you probably noticed, this issue is our Prenatal and Baby Guide, as promised and predicted. We hope the programs and services we describe are helpful to many parents in getting off to a great start on their parenting journey. As you peruse, you will probably also notice a huge section of Halloween events. To tell the truth, this magazine is pretty much bursting at the seams with all kinds of great local content that you just cannot get anywhere else.
In fact, there just weren’t enough pages in the end, and we need to apologize to the Livingston Chess Club, who submitted an article about how kids benefit from chess, and to Bob Sornson, Founder of the Early Learning Foundation in Brighton, who submitted an article about Parenting with empathy. Look for both of those articles, along with some great holiday content, in the November issue.
In other news, we reprinted Gina Coopersmith’s article about postpartum depression on our website to remind you about the help that her support group offers. They meet at the Howell Library every month. Check that out when you have time, along with all the other information we have available there. Tricks, treats or tornados, we’re all in this together.,
We are experimenting with an expanded giveaway section toward the back of the magazine, so if you like free stuff don’t put the magazine down until you get to that page.
October Happy Birthdays!
We are always looking for more sponsors for the Birthday Club. Email rick@livingstonparentjournal.com or call 866.806.1680 for details. Kids! Join our Birthday Club and we’ll send you a special treat and let everyone know it’s your special day! Send your child’s date of birth to birhtdays@livingstonparentjournal.com
01 Isabella Armbruster Joey Frelich 02 Alana Gemmill 03 Kayden Antieau Julia Armbruster Jace Hund Abigail Swanson 04 Avery Dobson 05 Bodey Sell 06 Cole Anthony Jones Caden Moe 07 Carter James Kolarchick 08 Nico Valenti 09 Lily Sidorski Carter Dzieciolowski 11 Gabriella Markowski Luke deBeauclair
109 West Grand River, Howell 517.579.2206
12 Caelynn Roy Gabriel Nowacki 13 Emma Roberts Emma Rose Warren 14 Serena Wilhelm 15 Tyler deBeauclair 16 Harper Yeagley Colin Wilson 17 Everett Sidorski 18 Alexandra De Cia 19 Leda Catherine Pantelas 20 Caelynn Roy Isabella Slawnyk 21 Katrina Gray Maryn Brodersen 22 Kaylyn Clemens
Homemade Chocolate 129 E. Grand River. Fowlerville 517.223.1322
23 Gunner Gagacki 25 Makayla Sapienza 26 Dante Somers Memphis Starr Oumedian Trevor Auer Jennifer Ann Curnalia 27 Zoey Lynn Barsegian Kasey Stamper 28 Alayna Gilbert Sophia Bell Griffin Brodersen Ian Litwin 29 Samuel Buesing Hayden Gamble Dillon Jacob Hetrick 30 Mikey Rittenberry Sabella Ruiz 31 Sienna Dietze
Howell Big Boy 10006 Highland Rd. Hartland 2222 E. Grand River. Howell 810.632.6932 517.548.1800
4 ÝÛLivingston Parent JournalÛÝÛ¨ ©Û ¤~ ÛÛÝÛooo Canaf_klgfGYj]flAgmjfYd [geÛÛ
Tricks and Treats
Exclusive Baby Registry Reception Join us for an exclusive, after-hours shopping and educational experience as you prepare to welcome a new little one into the world! Enjoy light refreshments as you browse and build your gift registry and meet local professionals offering services for expectant parents.
Get your FREE Ticket: Events.bloombabyandkids.com
Tuesday, October 22, 7-8:30pm BloomBabyandKids.com | Call/Text - 810-844-1031 |222 W. Grand River Ave., Brighton, MI
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n Halloween, I knew I was in labor, even though I was not due for another week, but someone who shall remain nameless convinced me that it was false labor and I didn’t need to go to the hospital because they would just send me right back home. So instead I did what any normal person would do and went trick or treating with our daughters. After about 30 minutes, I realized all the walking was making labor worse and I needed to get to hospital. Unfortunately, we couldn’t find anyone to take our kids because everyone was either trick or treating or not answering their phone. My husband, Chris, finally contacted his brother, who agreed to meet us at Dunkin Donuts to pick our kids up, after he finished preparing his frozen pizza. For lack of options, we ended up parked right in front of the window of Dunkin Donuts. The customers were literally standing at the window eating ice cream cones watching me kick the windshield and attempt to roll around in the car through my contractions. When we finally were on our way to the hospital, there was construction on 23, causing my husband to drive slower than I would have preferred. Of course I understand his logic now, but at the moment I confess I repeatedly issued unprintable threats in an attempt to get him to drive faster. We finally got to the hospital and since it was Halloween, Wonder Woman was working in triage. Her cape billowed behind her as Chris and I followed her to a room with nurses dressed in costume as well. In my wonderfully agitated state, I yelled something about wishing they would have dressed up as doctors. Oliver David Hammack was born 37 minutes after we got out of the car and when we posted pictures on Facebook no one believed us, because one hour before we had been trick or treating with a group of people and I didn’t tell any of them that I was in labor. Even my mother thought we broke into the nursery and took pictures of me holding someone else’s baby because I could not possibly have already given birth. Fortunately frozen pizza doesn’t take that long to cook, or I might have delivered my baby into a trick or treater’s candy bag on the corner of Third and Washington.
Jennya Hammack and her husband Chris own Hammack’s Catering in Brighton. hammackscatering.com
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Lessons From Pregnancy P
regnancy is the training ground for motherhood. Obviously it is a great time to plan and prepare for baby, but it is equally important to plan and prepare for becoming a mother! As I reflect on my pregnancies, there are three areas of motherhood that I learned about during my personal struggles of pregnancy.
Compassion
The most substantial area that I learned about was to have patience with myself. This is absolutely essential in the real world of mothering. So many times as mothers we will fail ourselves and our children. Having patience in those moments to learn and move on as better mothers is critical, not only for ourselves, but also as an example for our children.
Patience
During my first pregnancy I had a peculiar condition of constant fainting that left me very limited in my physical abilities for six months. It was a time in my life that I had to stop doing almost everything. I was a hard working, go-getter and during that time I often had to literally stop and sit down. I was not able to drive, work, or stand up for more than ten minutes at a time. However, as long as the doctors reported that the baby was healthy, I tried to be patient and actually I was happy.
Personal Sacrifice
When the condition left me, my impatience returned. Things are left undone at the end of each day, my precious schedule gets altered and interrupted, and I have to say no to more things than I like. But my kids are happy and growing, and that makes me happy, so I keep battling to be patient. During pregnancy, when you have to walk slower and take naps just to get through the day, my advice is to treat it as personal motherhood training. And remember that the patience for yourself shouldn’t stop when the baby is born. My second pregnancy I experienced constant physical pain, but not many people knew. It was a time when I learned compassion and patience for others who may be experiencing something that is not that apparent. Because of this experience, instead of cavalierly tossing aside the tears of my children, I try to dig deeper and better understand the issues inside each of them. These things are often not known from casually observing, but only from deeply investing in the relationship. Our relationship with our kid is worth this investment and pays off as they get older. Taking the time to truly understand your child is one of the greatest gifts that you can give him or her. When my third pregnancy started, I felt like I had mastered pregnancy issues. Then came gestational diabetes. It was a hard four months, requiring a lot of personal sacrifice. I have never been more disciplined about what I ate (or didn’t eat), what time I checked my sugars, writing down my numbers, and working with doctors to try to make it all better. I sat through dozens of non-stress tests, and additional ultrasounds because I failed the non-stress tests. Our modified birth plan was not my first choice. However, I loved my baby and wanted to give her everything that I could to help her. Motherhood requires more personal sacrifice than most people without children can imagine, and it all starts when you find out you are expecting.
Photo by Janel Moon janelmoonphotography.com
Finally, three very different pregnancies taught me that each baby is different, so one type of mothering won’t suit them all. Ironically, I can’t treat them all equally by treating them all the same. In fact, each day is different from the last and what works today might not work next week. We have to be patient with ourselves, give our kids an extra dose of compassion, and remember that everything we are doing is a noble sacrifice that is 100% worth it. Nellie Sowash is a mother of three and owner of Bloom Baby and Kids in Brighton. bloombabyandkids.com Nellie and her husband John invite all expectant parents to the Bloom Baby Shower on October 22 to discuss cool parenting gear and more importantly to meet area professionals and other parents who can join you in your parenting journey. 810.844.1031
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Fun Fruit For Kids Some children enjoy eating fruit, but others may struggle to include it as part of their daily diets. As a mom to four grown children, I was fortunate that my kids liked eating a variety of fruit. However, I learned along the way that a little creativity can help in the journey to ensure children maintain a healthy and balanced diet with fruit as part of it. Breakfast is an excellent way for parents to get their children off to a healthy start. Parents can easily add thinly sliced bananas to their child’s cereal. Bananas are a great source of potassium and magnesium. On special occasions, parents can add fruit such as blueberries, raspberries or strawberries to pancakes or waffles. When my children were little, I would make a smiley face out of blueberries on their pancakes, which they loved! Berries are good because they have antioxidants. Smoothies are another easy, yet healthy breakfast choice. Parents can blend pineapple, mango and Greek yogurt, for example, as a tasty breakfast option. (Check out our recipe for Pina Colada pancakes with coconut milk and pineapples at LivingstonParentJournal.com.) Incidentally, parents have an incredible opportunity to introduce their children to a wide-variety of seasonal fresh fruit. However, they may not realize that seasonal fresh fruit in abundance is more affordable. Now is an ideal time for parents to introduce their children to fruit such as mango, melons and kiwi. Moreover, parents can bring their children with them to the grocery store or a local farmer’s market. They can ask their child to select one fruit they haven’t tasted yet. They can engage the child by having them carry the fruit in a separate bag to the car. Next, as a parent washes and cuts the fruit, the child can help by placing the fruit on a plate. The parent and child can sample the fruit together at the kitchen table, in the family room, or, if the weather is nice, in the backyard on a picnic table.
Consider cutting up a variety of fresh fruit to have on hand for children as a quick snack after school. Parents can keep small containers of fresh fruit in the refrigerator for children to access. Fresh fruit in small containers are great to pack with a child’s lunch as well. Apples are a popular fruit choice for children. Fall is an ideal time for parents to introduce their children to the different varieties of apples. The child can choose a different type of apple each week and compare the taste to help determine their favorite. Fresh fruit is a wonderful dessert option. My children really enjoyed fruit kabobs that I made with strawberries, bananas and apples. It is a fun and cool way to present dessert to kids. (At Edible Arrangements, pineapple pops can be purchased individually in different shapes such as daisy, sun or heart, to name a few). In any case, parents can always make a point of keeping fresh fruit visible to their children by placing it in a bowl on a kitchen counter. It can be a healthy reminder to children to grab an apple or orange instead of a cookie or candy bar. Ginger Page earned an Associate’s degree in Nutrition and Food Service Management from the University of Detroit Mercy. She and her husband Scot own Edible Arrangements in Brighton, at 533 West Grand River Avenue. Their in-store fruit designers can create a variety of fresh fruit arrangements for any occasion. 810.220.3200
IS YOUR CHILD BEING BULLIED? PARENTS OFTEN NEVER KNOW Dear Fellow Parents, Bullying can range from severe physical abuse to very mild “silent treatment” or exclusion by friends. Both can have long lasting and devastating affects on children. Many parents never know about the mild and moderate bullying of their child. According to the book Bullies and Victims in Schools; 96% of children will be bullied at least once in their lifetime. 46% of those children will suffer poor grades or will abstain from extra curricular activities because of the bullying. 2% of those children will commit suicide because of constant harassment from classmates. Is your child being bullied? Look for these signs in your child: 1. Bruises, cuts, scratches, torn clothing than cannot be explained and complaints about not feeling well. 2. Reluctance to go to school or requests to change school. 3. Books, money, lunch or belongings stolen, damaged, scattered around or “lost”. 4. Excuses to avoid going to school, or insistence that you take him/her to school even though you live close by. 5. Insomnia or bed-wetting.
In addition, family outings to the apple orchard and strawberry picking, for example, are fun ways to engage children and excite them about fruit. In June, I would take my kids to pick strawberries. They even helped me make strawberry preserves! In the fall, we would go apple picking. I showed them how to make apple crisp, applesauce, and apple cake. (Today, all four of my kids know how to cook and one of my sons is a professional chef!)
6. Frequent requests for money. 7. A sudden, unexplained deterioration in class work, and/or homework. 8. Lack of participation in school activities, staying near the teacher during breaks. 9. Anxiety, insecurity, distress, unhappiness, secretiveness, mood changes and anger.
10. Claims of “I’m okay” when questioned about obvious unhappiness. 11. Low self-esteem. 12. Unhappiness at the end of weekends or school vacations. 13. Few friends or no friends in class and is not invited to birthday parties or other social activities. 14. Teasing or being laughed at by his/her peer group. Bullying is a very difficult problem to stop. Our mission at Ohana Karate is to ensure every child has the right to feel safe and develop to their full potential. I feel that it is our responsibility to be a community leader and center for the fight against bullying. Can this crisis be stopped? First, we must develop an ethos in which bullying is always unacceptable and will not be tolerated. Second, it takes a whole community to save our children. We must arm the victim, bully, bystander, parents, schools and community with the antibullying tools and systems. Please contact us if we can help you or your family. Yours partner in the fight against bullying,
Sam Larioza For more information go to www.ohanakarate.com Ohana Karate 517-586-1001
P.S. If you think we might be able to help your family visit our website or call me at 517-586-1001. You do not have to be a current student to get our help. P.P.S. Remember to ask about our free karate uniform, to the first 25 callers in the month of October!
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Paper Bag Pumpkins Crafting with Kids: Paper Bag Pumpkins and Jack-o’-Lanterns According to my six-year-old daughter, Mia, the best thing about Halloween is “trick-or-treating and putting on costumes!” I, however, find that October is the perfect time to make seasonal crafts. The cooler weather lends itself to more indoor activities. One of my favorites is paper bag jack-o’-lanterns, and you probably already have most of what you need. Ê UÊ À Ü Ê Õ V ÊL>}ÃʣʫiÀÊ«Õ « ® Ê UÊ iÜë>«iÀ Ê UÊ "À> }iÊVÀ>Þ Ã Ê UÊ >V ÊV ÃÌÀÕVÌ Ê«>«iÀ Ê UÊ *i V Ê «Ì > ®Ê Ê UÊ -V Ãà ÀÃ Ê UÊ 7 ÌiÊ} ÕiÊ ÀÊ} ÕiÊÃÌ V ® Ê UÊ Àii ÊVÕÀ }ÊÀ LL This craft is relatively mess-free. However, if you are concerned you might wish to protect kids’ clothing and work surfaces with old shirts and newspapers UÊ ÀÃÌÊ >ÛiÊÞ ÕÀÊV `ÊV ÀÊÌ iÊ«>«iÀÊL>}ÊÜ Ì Ê> Ê À> }iÊVÀ>Þ ]Ê leaving the top 2-3 inches plain brown. (This will become the stem, but if you forget, that is okay, too. Mia just ended up going back over it with a brown crayon.) They don’t need to color the flat bottom of the bag, but I do suggest unfolding it so that kids can color the sides of the bag. (Tip: Removing the paper from the crayon allows kids to
Brighton Montessori UÊÊ Yi>ÀÊÀ Õ `Ê ÌiÃÃ À Êi`ÕV>Ì ]Ê Ê ÃÕ iÀÊi À V i ÌÊEÊV `V>Ài Call ab UÊÊ -«iV > â }Ê Ê ÌiÃÃ À Ê `ÕV>Ì o our inf ut Ê v ÀÊÓ°xÊÌ ÊÊÈÊÞi>ÀÃÊ `ÊV `Ài and to ant UÊÊ Õ Ì >}i`ÊV >ÃÃiÃÊ iiÌÊ `>ÞÊ dd progra ler Ê Ì À Õ} Ê À `>Þ m! UÊÊ iv ÀiÊEÊ vÌiÀÊ-V ÊV `V>ÀiÊ>Û> >L i ÊÊ
Call to learn about our quality Montessori education and arrange an individualized tour.
Now enrolling for the 2013 - 2014 school year 5291 Ethel, Brighton, MI 48116 www.brightonmontessori.com
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color with the flat side and make this step go a bit faster. Mia didn’t like that idea, but it’s just a thought.) UÊ >ÛiÊÞ ÕÀÊV `ÊVÀÕ « iÊÕ«ÊÃ iÊ newspaper and place it inside the bag to make the pumpkin nice and plump. Mia noted, “It’s fun crumpling the paper and stuffing it into the bag – except when it tears.” Occasionally, the bag will rip, so you may want to help younger children with the stuffing stage. UÊ i«i ` }Ê ÊÌ iÊ>}iÊ vÊÞ ÕÀÊ `Ã]Ê you may need to help with this step. Twist the top brown section of the bag to close it and then add a length of green curling ribbon. Tie the ribbon to secure it. You can then use your scissors to curl the ribbon, making a green vine topper. If you only want to make a simple pumpkin, then you are done. You can make a whole patch of them to display throughout your home. However, if you want something more challenging, you can add a face to make a jack-o’-lantern with a bit more personality than your average pumpkin. UÊ vÊ ` }Ê Ì ÃÊ VÀ>vÌÊ Ü Ì Ê Ì `` iÀÃÊ ÀÊ «ÀiÃV Ê >}iÊ V `Ài ]Ê Ê ÀiV mend cutting some black construction paper into basic shapes -- circles, squares, triangles, and larger half-circles for mouths – in advance so that your child can select what he wants and simply glue them onto the pumpkin. You can always adjust shapes as needed according to their wishes, too. For example, if he wants teeth in the mouth, you can cut those out of the half-circle before gluing it on. Of course, as the parent, you will use your best judgment as to your child’s scissor skills. Older kids can cut out their own facial features as Mia did. She opted to draw her eyes and mouth onto the paper using a pencil prior to getting out the safety scissors. The only thing she needed help with was cutting out the tiny teeth that she had drawn. (Tip: I also found that pre-cutting shapes was helpful when I did this craft with Mia’s kindergarten class last year during their Halloween party.) UÊ1ÃiÊÜ ÌiÊ} ÕiÊ ÀÊ>Ê} ÕiÊÃÌ V ÊÌ Ê>ÌÌ>V ÊÌ iÊL >V Ê«>«iÀÊVÕÌ ÕÌÃÊÌ ÊÞ ÕÀÊ pumpkin, arranging them as desired. Mia preferred using white glue for better sticking power. However, if you are worried about the mess factor, glue sticks are ideal, especially if you are crafting with a large group (like I did with the kindergarten class). Choose what you prefer, or simply what you have at hand. That’s all there is to it! You now have a perfect pumpkin to display just in time for Halloween. Crafting with children is always full of surprises. Generally speaking, my kids like to do projects. However, on this particular day my three-yearold son Logan was less than enthusiastic. When I asked him why, he replied, matter-of-factly, “Because I don’t want to.” Then he placed the bag over his head, asked for another one, and colored for a few moments before becoming annoyed with me for only offering various shades of orange when his favorite color is red. He soon dashed off to play, leaving me with just one crafting companion for the afternoon. Who knows? Perhaps if I had been more flexible and agreed that red was an acceptable color for a pumpkin, he would have happily produced one. Former teacher Meg Koenemann enjoys being a stay-at-home mom of two. For more kids’ crafts and other family fun, visit her blog, Because I Said So (and Other Mommyisms). becauseisaidsoandothermommyisms.blogspot.com Visit livingstonparentjournal.com to get directions from Meg on how to make a jack-olantern pizza
~ ÛÝÛLivingston Parent Journal ÝÛ¨ ©Û ¤~ ÛÝÛooo Canaf_klgfGYj]flAgmjfYd [geÛ
FARMERS MARKETS Brighton Saturdays 8am-1pm 200 North 1st Street 810.955.1471 brightoncoc.org
Hartland Saturdays 9am-1pm Old Hartland High School 810.632.1030
Howell Sundays 9am-2pm Downtown Courthouse Lawn 517.546.3920
hartland.market@hotmail.com
howell.org
Green Oak Sundays 10am-3pm Green Oak Village Place Mall 313.590.1960 greenoakmarket@gmail.com
Fowlerville Fridays 3-7pm City Parking Lot on Grand River 517.375.5132
Whitmore Lake Thursdays 4-8pm 75 Barker Street 810.623.8131 Pinckney Saturdays 9am-1pm Towne Square Park 734.660.4639 tbest9778@charter.net
fowlerville.org
LIST YOUR EVENT FOR FREE LivingstonParentJournal.com
OCTOBER Cloth Diapering Workshop Explore how modern cloth diapering can work for your family. Bloom Baby and Kids 6:307:30pm FREE 810.844.1031 events. bloombabyandkids.com
Saturday 5
Monday 7
Saturday Night Lights Starting at 6pm, families are invited to join in classic backyard games like bocce ball, ladder golf, and corn hole. At 8pm watch a movie on the big screen. Page Field $5 517.546.0693 x 0 howellrecreation.org
Identifying Hearing Loss in Children U of M Sound Support’s Angelique Boerst discusses the importance of detecting hearing loss at an early age, and how it can impact speech and language development. Cromaine Library 6:30pm FREE 810.632.5200 cromaine.org
Mom 2 Mom Sale and Home Based Business Expo 9am-1pm Scranton Middle School $1 810.299.4130 brightoncommunityed.com
LAPOM Mom to Mom Sale Shop department store style with boys and girls clothes organized by size from preemie to 14/16. There is also toys, footwear, bedding, strollers, outdoor wear, Halloween costumes, books and games. Early Bird entry at 8:30am for $3. Strollers are welcome. Knights of Columbus Hall 9am-1pm $1 517.618.1672 lapom.org
Fire Rescue Plane Hands-on workshop for children ages 5-12. Free workshop apron, commemorative pin and certificate of achievement. Home Depot 9am-Noon 517.548.3742
An Evening with Mark Twain Presented by the Livingston Players at the CoBACH Center 7:30pm $5 810.229.2784
Fitness & Wellness Expo Free classes include Yoga, Drums Alive, Hooping, Cycling, Circuit, Strength Training, and Deep and Shallow Water Workouts. Nutritional information and recipes, homeopathic treatments, massage therapy, workout options, and motivational tools. Howell Aquatic Center 10am-1pm FREE 517.540.8355 mpowers@howellrecreation.org
Zip Line and Climbing Tower 500’ zip line over a pond. Tallest outdoor tower in Michigan. Howell Nature Center $15 Reservations are required. Howell Nature Center 517.546.0249 howellnaturecenter.org
Shakespeare’s Life, Times and Work Expert Jim Glenn richly portrays the Bard’s boyhood in Stratford, the theater scene of the English Renaissance, and the Bard himself. Cromaine Library 6:30pm FREE 810.632.5200 cromaine.org
Sanchin-Ryu Family Karate Physical techniques, drills and exercises. Thursdays through 12/5 Barnard Community Center 7-8pm $104/family 517.546.0693
Friday 4
Tuesday 1
Wednesday 9
Thursday 10
LivPlayers.org
Sat & Sun 5 & 6
Brighton Library Book Sale $5/bag on Saturday, free books on Sunday. Wed & Thur 10am-9pm, Fri & Sat 10am-5pm, Sun 1-4pm Brightonlibrary.info
Caine’s Arcade and Global Cardboard Challenge invites kids around the world to design and build awesome creations using cardboard, recycled materials and imagination. Cromaine Library 10amNoon FREE 810.632.5200 cromaine.org
Friday & Saturday 4 & 5
Comedy Basketball Show Harlem Ambassadors vs Habitat Hoopsters in a game featuring high-flying slam dunks to benefit the Livingston County Habitat for Humanity. Brighton High 7pm $10 810.220.9986 livingstonhabitat.org
Wed-Sun 9-13
howellrecreation.org
Star Wars Reads Day is a celebration of literacy, Jedi, Sith and Wookiees, featuring Ring of Steel Action Theatre Jedi Masters from 1:30-2:30 pm performing live action light saber duels. Barnes and Noble 1-3pm FREE 810.225.4670 crm2251@bn.com
Friday 11 Calling All Owls Join an interpreter and separate fact from fiction, followed by an attempt to locate resident screech owls. For ages 6 years and older. Kensington 7:30 pm $5 810.227.8910 metroparks.com
Sunday 6 Fall Canoe Color Tour Enjoy the fall colors with your family at Heavner’s newest location in Kensington Park. Bring your camera and a lunch. Beverages will be provided.4-7pm selcra.com
Car entry fee.
Sat & Sun 12 & 13 Zip Line and Climbing Tower see October 5 & 6
Reservations required. Please call ahead.
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Saturday 12
Thursday 17
Friday 25
Hamburg Library Art Fair 9am-4pm 810.231.1771
Strengthening the Parenting Relationship Parents will learn how to use praise, reflection, imitation, description, and enthusiasm to build self-esteem, increase appropriate behavior and decrease problematic behavior. Bloom Baby and Kids 7-8pm FREE events.bloombabyandkids.com
Celtic Bonfire U of M-Flint History Department brings a re-enactment of a Celtic Bonfire complete with retelling of folk customs and rituals, the Flint Scottish Pipe Band, Celtic Music performance, and a pig roast and meal from Great Lakes Meats. Cromaine Library 6pm FREE 810.632.5200 cromaine.org
Sat & Sun 19 & 20
Sunday 27
Zip Line and Climbing Tower see October 5 & 6
Rosco and the Raptors There will be a book sale, insect exhibit, live birds of prey, and Rosco the Clown and his magic shows. Kensington Noon-4pm 810.227.8910
hamburglibrary.org
Fall Canoe Color Tour Canoe upstream to Proud Lake’s beautiful waterfall, then take a short hike to view the vivid colors. Bring your camera and a lunch. Beverages will be provided. Heavner Nature Center 10am-Noon selcra.com
Saturday 19 Mom2mom Sale Livingston Christian School 9amNoon $1 dndlindsay@gmail.com
Tuesday 22 Bring Your Own Tools Tear things apart. Put them back together. Build robots. Cromaine Library 6:30-8:00pm FREE 810.632.5200 cromaine.org
Wednesday 23
metroparks.com
Tuesday 29 Saving for College Financial planner Miguel Gironza shares options for dealing with the rising cost of college Cromaine Library 6:30pm FREE 810.632.5200 cromaine.org
MORE EVENT INFORMATION
James Spalink (of An Dro) Performs the Irish Bard Irish harp and Renaissance lute music with bits of Shakespeare along the way. Cromaine Library 6:30pm FREE 810.632.5200 cromaine.org
LivingstonParentJournal.com
Baby Carrier Workshop Learn which style and brand of carrier is right for you. Discuss benefits of baby carriers and look at the features of different types. Babies are welcome Bloom Baby and Kids 11:45am FREE 810.844.1031 events.bloombabyandkids.com
Babywearing Meetup Learn about babywearing, carrier sizing, and new carriers. Group offers a baby carrier lending library. Bloom Baby and Kids 2-4pm FREE 810.844.1031 events.bloombabyandkids.com Cloth Diapering Workshop Explore how modern cloth diapering can work for your family. Bloom Baby and Kids 11:15am FREE 810.844.1031 events.bloombabyandkids.com
Monday 14 Vision Therapy Dr. Doud will explain why it’s not always memory, attention span or intelligence that can cause children problems in school. Cromaine Library 6:30pm FREE 810.632.5200 cromaine.org
Tuesday 15 Sanchin-Ryu Family Karate Tuesdays through 12/3 see October 10
Car entry fee. Reservations required. Please call ahead.
Halloween Events Starting on Page 14
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October 2 & 9 Teens Using Drugs: What To Know and What To Do Helpful practical information for parents and caretakers of teens. St. Joseph Mercy Hospital Education Center in Ypsilanti 7:30-9:00pm FREE 734.485.8725 teensusingdrugs.org
October 6, 2013–January 5, 2014 Watch Me Move: The Animation Show is the most extensive animation show ever mounted, featuring both iconic moments and lesser-known masterpieces from the last 150 years. The exhibition includes animation’s great inventors, innovators and artists, from Georges Méliès and Chuck Jones to William Kentridge and Tim Burton, as well as animation studios such as Walt Disney, Aardman, Studio Ghibli and Pixar. Detroit Institute of Arts $20 dia.org More information and ticket giveaway at livingstonparentjournal.com
October 12
October 17-18
Gifted Education Conference for parents and educators with activities for kids K-5. Offering speakers on challenging kids in the classroom, perfectionism and testing and assessment. Schools and vendors offer educational options. Baker College, Auburn Hills. Migiftedchild.org/conference
The Ugly Duckling Hans Christian Andersen’s tale of a homely little bird born in a barnyard who is looked down on by everyone around him until, much to his delight (and to the surprise of others), he matures into a beautiful swan, the most beautiful bird of all. Towsley Auditorium $12 734.995.0530 wildswantheater.org
October 13
October 18-November 3
Pioneer Day The celebration of late 19th century farm life includes tours of the Farm Museum and Dewey School, live music, and demonstrations of crafts, trades, and traditional cooking methods. There will demonstrations of butter making in the Spring House, hearth cooking in the Log House, brick-oven baking in the Bake House, and blacksmithing in the workshop. Waterloo Farm Museum Noon-5pm $5 517.596.2254
The Miracle Worker Trapped in a secret, lonely world, young Helen Keller lashes out with violence and fury, until Annie Sullivan finds a way to rescue her brilliant mind from its dark and tortured silence. Presented by Flint Youth Theatre. $16 810.237.1530 thefim.org
waterloofarmmuseum.org
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Pick Your Pumpkin Hayrides Kensington Metropark 248.684.8632 metroparks.com
Northfork Farms Fall Festival
Tractor-drawn hayrides. Pumpkins are priced according to size. Weekdays in October 10am-2pm $5+Car Entry Fee
3637 Morrice Rd Webberville 517.881.9142 northforkoutback.com
Horse-drawn Hayrides
Hay Ride to Indian Village Panning for Gold Drink and Snack in Kids’ Saloon Play Forts Scavenger Hunts Tipi for Stories Archery Horse Rides Bucking, Roping and Milking Station Alamo Maze Spooky Forest and Headless Horseman Petting Zoo Kids’ Train Pumpkin and Decorations
Kensington Metropark 248.684.8632 metroparks.com
October 5, 12, 19 & 26 $18 per Child, $8 per Adult
Pumpkins are priced according to size. Weekends in October Noon-4pm
Dash of the Dead 5k Brighton Recreation Area 810.229.6566 Come out dressed in your scariest zombie attire or your human attire and run for your life in this 5k fun run. The run begins at 4:15pm. Celebrate your survival or your zombie transformation at the Dance of the Dead After Party (5-9pm) with a DJ, refreshments, crafts and activities for the family. October 5 3:30pm $25 + Car Entry Fee
Haunted Hartland History Tour 810.632.5200 cromaine.org Take a walk through the village for some spooky treats and learn where the haunted places are. Children must have a parent present at all times. Wear walking shoes. Reservations required October 18 & 19 6pm
Phantom of the Opera Hartland Music Hall 810.632.5200 cromaine.org
$5 +Car Entry Fee
Fall Festival
Master organist John Lauter returns with the original silent film “Phantom of the Opera” and his unique score. Families welcome, but film may not be suitable for children under 10. Donations for Big Read 2014 will be accepted. Reservations required.
Kensington Metropark 810.227.8910 metroparks.com Tour the farm and view traditional demonstrations, visit with food and craft vendors, be entertained by Rosco the Clown, carve a pumpkin and have your face painted. Take a hayride to and from the pumpkin patch to select the perfect Jack-O-Lantern.
October 18 at 7:30 pm
October 5 & 6 Noon-4pm
Harvest Moon Dance Mayhew’s Tree Farm 517.373.2420 DJ Benjamin Kitchen will be spinning tunes. Other activities include hayrides through haunted grounds, a kids moon-bounce and petting zoo. October 5 6:30-9:30pm $7
Spooky Stacker Game Lowe’s 517.548.3475 lowesbuildandgrow.com
Northfork Farms Fall Festival
Zombie Walk for Gleaners 810.632.5200 cromaine.org
Build a Spooky Stacker Game at Lowe’s Build and Grow Clinic
Come dressed as your favorite zombie and bring a nonperishable food item to donate to Gleaners Food Bank. Meet on the south lawn of Cromaine Library. All ages are welcome. Reservations required.
October 12 10am
October 19 Noon
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Party at the Pumpkin Patch Miller Intergenerational Center 810.299.4130 brightoncommunityed.com “Pumpkin” hunting, goodie gobbling and spooky fun. Bring a flashlight to help you hunt and a bag to hold all your goodies. Come dressed in your favorite costume and join the DJ for some monster mashing. Reservations required.
Dr. Adiska as the tooth fairy, hygienist Sarah as a ladybug and receptionist Kelly as a firefighter
October 19 5:30-7:00pm $15
Halloween Camp
Hope for Heroes Halloween Party 517.546.2534 lwray2@comcast.net Face painting, trick or treat bags to decorate, cupcakes to decorate, hot dogs & chips. Kids make a card to send to their military loved one. October 19
Pumpkin Party Bennett Rec Center 517.546.0693 x0 howellrecreation.org
Camp Copneconic 810.629.9622 campcopneconic.org
Monster Splash
Campers entering 3rd through 11th grade can check in Friday evening for a Halloween campfire. Saturday is full of theme activities and traditional camp favorites. The Haunted Treasure Trail is complete with prizes and friendly frighteners. Campers fend off ghosts and goblins attempting to scare campers away from their treasured finds.
Howell Aquatic Center 517/540-8355 howellrecreation.org
October 25 7pm-October 27 2pm $130
Wear your costume to the pool and be entered in a raffle contest to win prizes. Graveyard cupcake walk will be from 7-8pm. Hop in the pool for the Walk the Plank Cannon Ball Contest (off the 1 meter diving board), splash n’ dash swim races, and diving for the pirates’ lost gold. Underwater pictures will be available for purchase from Treasured Images Photography. Reservations required.
The Legend of Sleepy Howell 517.546.0693 sleepyhowell.com Trick or treating, human and pet costume contests, live music, hay rides, the viewing of the classic Disney film “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow”, creepy campfires and storytelling, ghostly graveyard, inflatables for kids and teens, broom ball and food and street vendors.
Paint pumpkins, decorate cookies, listen to haunted tales, and dance the monster mash. A prize will be awarded for the best costume. Reservations required.
Eerie Experiments
October 22 Noon
Mix up some fizzing, color changing potions, make glow in the dark monster hands, and build an obnoxious sounding ghost caller. Pizza and pop will be served. For families with kids ages 8 and up. Reservations required.
Halloween Storytime with Corduroy
October 25 6pm
Children may come dressed up in their HalOctober 26 7:30pm loween costumes for a story and fun craft. Bring your camera and get your photo with $30 Corduroy.
$3
Teen Craft Hauntingly Fun Accessory Brighton Library 810.229.6571 brightonlibrary.info Laura Fawcett is back to help create a festive felt pins or hair accessories. No experience is required and all materials are supplied. Ages 11-18. Reservations required. October 23 6:30-7:30pm
Longway Planetarium 810.237.3409 sloanlongway.org
$12
Pinckney Spooktacular Downtown Pinckney 734.878.6206 treasurer@villageofpinckney.org
October 26 5-9pm
October 25 7:00-8:30pm $4
Barnes and Noble 810.225.4670
Headless Horseman 5K/10K Downtown Howell 517.546.0693 x0 howellrecreation.org Runners are encouraged to dress up in costume.
October 26 11am
October 25 6-8pm
Dr. Kellogg and the staff of Kellogg Dental at Legend of Sleepy Howell
Halloween Camp at Camp Copneconic
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Trick or Treat on Barnard Street
29 Drawing Monsters Brighton Library 810.229.6571 brightonlibrary.info
All Night Laser Tag
Learn some ghoulish techniques and get lost in your imagination. Ages 7-11. Reservations required.
Brighton Zap Zone (Next to Rollerama) 248-798-0185 zap-zone.com
October 29 6:30-8:00pm
Unlimited laser tag including specialty games such as Capture the Bases, Protect the President and Defend the Towers. Tickets must be purchased in advance.
Brighton Library 810.229.6571 brightonlibrary.info
October 26th 11:45pm-October 27 6:00am $35
Trick or Treat Along the Trail Kensington Metropark 810.227.8910 metroparks.com Costume-clad little ones will experience interpretive stops along the Nature Tails with a Halloween theme. Upon their return to the Nature Center, they will enjoy cider, donuts, and Rosco the Clown. Program is geared toward small children. October 26 Call for times. $6 per child, $3 per adult
Teen Pumpkin Party Brighton Library 810.229.6571 brightonlibrary.info 7th Annual Teen Pumpkin Carving Contest. Most creative design wins a $25 Target gift card. Pumpkins and carving tools will be supplied. Reservations required. 11-18. October 29 6-8pm
Great Costume Parade
Bloom Baby and Kids Halloween Party 810.844.1031 bloombabyandkids.com Dress up your little one for some fall fun. Preschool-friendly Halloween-themed day including games, crafts, and treats for little ones. October 31 10:30am-Noon Free
Stories, songs, and crafts for children ages 2-5 and their caregivers. Free ticket available 15 minutes before the program. Space is limited to 75 participants.
Tridge-or-Treat
October 30 10:30am-Noon
Kids will follow a decorated route along the tridge and past the spooky cemetery to collect candy from their favorite characters like Dora, Diego, Elmo and Winnie the Pooh. Candy bags will be provided.
Villain Appreciation Day Hartland Library 810.632.5200 cromaine.org Celebrate the most evil villains. Come prepared with your most evil cackle, learn how to become the best villain you can and enjoy some diabolical snacks. Grades 7-12 Reservations required. October 30 3pm
Fun on the Farm Halloween Party Kensington Metropark 810.227.8910 metroparks.com This program is especially for the little ones. It will begin with story time, and then it’s time for toddlers to “trick or treat,” followed by a special fall party that includes a hayride and an animal parade. Costumes are encouraged. Reservations are required. October 31 10am $5 +Car Entry Fee
Brighton Millpond selcra.com
Barnard Community Center 517.546.0693 x0 howellrecreation.org Cider, donuts and spin the Wacky Witch’s Wheel for a Halloween prize. October 31 6-8pm
Young Frankenstein Howell Freshman Campus 517.545.1290 cththeatre.org Community Theatre of Howell presents “The Transylvania Mania,” “He Vas My Boyfriend” and “Puttin’ On The Ritz,” and a singing and dancing laboratory experiment in the largest tuxedo ever made. November 1-10 $18
After Tridge-or-Treat come to the Brighton Fire Department for their annual Costume Party. Prizes for the funniest, prettiest most original and best overall costumes. Pizza and beverages provided. October 31 5:30-8:00pm FREE
More Halloween Event information, including haunted houses and Trick or Treat times, at livingstonparentjournal.com
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St. Joseph Mercy Brighton Childbirth Education 800.231.2211 Labor and delivery preparation class for expectant mothers and their labor support coach. Information regarding natural childbirth techniques, relaxation exercises, medical intervention and Caesarean births is included. Please bring two pillows (or more), something suitable to use on the oor during breathing exercises, and your labor coach. Bring drinks/snacks if desired. Register online at stjoeshealth.org $75 per couple. Reimbursed by some health insurance plans.
101 Answers for New Parents St. Joseph Mercy Primary Care Pediatrics, Howell 517.545.6600 A free one-hour question and answer session with a board certiďŹ ed pediatrician. Common topics include but are not limited to fussiness, colic, fevers, breastfeeding, digestive concerns, sleep positions, cold symptoms and infant breathing patterns. Register online at stjoeshealth.org FREE
Center for the Childbearing Year 722 Brooks St., Ann Arbor, MI 48103 734.663.1523 center4cby.com patty@center4cby.com Center for the Childbearing Year is a thriving community center where expectant parents prepare for birth and new parents gather with their babies. They offer a variety of interactive childbirth preparation programs at their cozy Ann Arbor center, as well as online childbirth classes hosted by Patty Brennan.
They have over 30 years’ experience helping expectant parents make informed choices and realize their own best vision for their baby’s birth. If you don’t know that you HAVE CHOICES THEN YOU MAY AS WELL NOT HAVE ANY
This prenatal class is for women expecting their ďŹ rst baby. You will learn lots of practical information on caring for yourself, and adjusting to life with a new baby. New mother “survivorsâ€? with their babies will share successful strategies. This class is offered at the same time and location as Boot Camp for New Dads. Register online at stjoeshealth. org $25
Boot Camp for New Dads 800.231.2211 This unique threehour orientation workshop is for the ďŹ rst time father. Taught by Boot Camp Veterans (along with their babies) under the direction of a trained coach, this program enables new fathers to step up to the challenge of being dad and feel conďŹ dent bringing their new baby home. Register online at stjoeshealth.org $25
Livingston OB/Gyn Associates 524 Byron Road, Howell 517.545.6618
guiding, educating and inspiring expectant parents ‌
Online classes allow you to ‌ s %NJOY THE CONVENIENCE OF SELF PACED LEARNING s #USTOMIZE YOUR EDUCATION CHOOSING ONLY TOPICS RELEVANT to your needs. s ,EARN CURRENT EVIDENCE BASED INFORMATION AND STRATEGIES from a trustworthy source. s 2EVIEW INFORMATION AND PRACTICE TECHNIQUES ANY TIME AS needed. Classes will help you to ‌ s )NCREASE YOUR CHANCES OF HAVING A HEALTHY BABY s /VERCOME YOUR FEARS s -ASTER NATURAL APPROACHES TO PAIN MANAGEMENT s 0RACTICE COMFORT TECHNIQUES TO SUPPORT YOUR PARTNER s -AKE INFORMED CHOICES s 0LAN FOR A BIRTH WITHOUT TRAUMA AVOID UNNECESSARY CESAREANS s )NTEGRATE HOLISTIC APPROACHES INTO YOUR CARE s "REASTFEED WITH CONlDENCE s ,EARN THE BASICS OF CARING FOR YOUR NEWBORN s +NOW WHAT TO EXPECT IN THE EARLY WEEKS POSTPARTUM
Survival Skills for New Moms 800.231.2211
Taking exceptional care of women, across their life span, is the focus of the St. Joseph Mercy Livingston obstetrical and gynecologic practices. Our provider group includes board-certiďŹ ed obstetricians and gynecologists, and certiďŹ ed nurse practitioners. Our nurse practitioners are especially skilled to provide personalized care to women, from adolescence through menopause. stjoesannarbor.org/livingston-obgyn-associates
Breastfeeding Preparation St. Joseph Mercy Brighton 800.231.2211 Happiest Baby on the Block 811.231.2211 Sleepless nights, crying baby, parent stress? Learn an extraordinary approach to calm your baby in the Happiest Baby on the Block class. New parents will learn step by step how to help babies sleep longer and how to soothe even the fussiest babies in minutes. Class fee includes parent kit: Happiest Baby on the Block DVD and Soothing sounds CD. Register online at stjoeshealth.org $30 per couple Infant Care 800.231.2211 Class for expectant mothers and their partners to learn about normal newborn characteristics and care, both in the hospital and at home. The class includes information on feeding, burping, bonding, diapering, bathing, infant safety and much more. Register online at stjoeshealth.org $25 per couple
This class is taught by certiďŹ ed lactation consultants and offers expectant mothers and their partners (optional) instruction on breast-feeding techniques to help you and your baby to get off to a good start. Register online at stjoeshealth.org $25 per couple.
Pet Preparation before the baby comes St. Joseph Mercy Livingston Hospital 800.231.2211 These days, many couples make the ďŹ rst “childâ€? in their household one with four legs. When a human child enters the picture, even the most well mannered pets can develop behavior problems. This class will educate dog and cat owners about common behavior problems that occur and strategies to prevent these issues. Register online at stjoeshealth.org $20 per couple
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Baby Envision 4D Ultrasound Studio 455 E. Grand River Avenue, Ste 201A Brighton, MI 810.229.9899
Bloom Baby and Kids 222 W. Grand River Avenue, Brighton 810.844.1031 Cloth Diaper Workshops Join this free hands-on workshop to learn about the different types of cloth diapers, washing and use, and what you need to build your diaper stash. You will leave feeling confident to use cloth with your baby. These free workshops are on the first Tuesday and the second Saturday of every month.
Baby Carrier Workshops Find out all of the reasons why you would want to invest in a baby carrier. You will have the chance to try on lots of different carriers to find the best fit. You can be expecting or currently have a baby or toddler of any age to join us for this class. Babies are welcome. Bring a friend to this free workshop on the second Saturday of every month at 11:45am.
Babywearing meetup
Baby Envision welcomes you to come to their relaxed and family-friendly studio so that you may experience your little miracle through 3D 4D ultrasound technology. They are a non-medical, elective ultrasound studio that takes extra time to provide clients with a unique bonding experience while providing superior quality and satisfaction. The ultrasound studio invites you and your family and friends to experience your baby’s yawn, hiccups and smiles with our 3D 4D ultrasound imaging. If you haven’t yet experienced 4D, it’s unlike the standard 2D black and white imaging used most widely throughout the years. Through 3D ultrasound, the outside of the baby is viewed rather than layers and 4D imaging is 3D set in motion. This form of imaging is the closest type produced to a real photograph of the fetus. Baby Envision can capture these moments on DVD and in 3D photographs so that you can treasure them forever. They offer gift certificates, a monthly 4D sweepstakes, specials and military discounts. Baby Envision 4D with offices in Brighton and Troy/Rochester Hills, is a non-medical facility and only offers non-diagnostic ultrasounds for entertainment purposes. Women must already have prenatal care in place before seeking an elective ultrasound with us. See website for specific details, or to get package and pricing information. Prices vary, please see website or call for current up to date specials and pricing on the various packages. babyenvision.com
Tot Spot 850 Spencer Road, Brighton 810.299.3819 Tot Spot’s award winning Preschool, Childcare and Friendship Centers care for and educate children ages 6 weeks through 6th grade. The program provides children with a variety of experiences and activities focused on their development. Children are also provided the opportunity to interact socially with children their own age to help them grow more independent and confident. Tot Spot’s teachers are experienced, talented leaders and positive role models who encourage young imaginations to flourish and grow in a safe environment. Tot Spot is part of Brighton Community Education which is part of Brighton Area Schools. Tot Spot’s Preschool and Childcare are located at the Miller Intergenerational Center at 850 Spencer Road in Brighton. All of our Friendship Centers are located at the child’s elementary school and/ or Maltby Intermediate School. Hours are 7am-6pm, Monday through Friday. For tours or for more information, please call.
Join the Livingston baby-wearing group for their monthly support meeting on the second Saturday of every month from 2-4pm. Parents gather together to learn about babywearing, carrier sizing, and new carriers. Group offers a baby carrier lending library. bloombabyandkids.com
Yoga Center for Healthy Living, LLC 4437 Old US-23, Brighton 810.225.1288 Baby & Parent Yoga (birth until 9months) 2 for the price of 1, $65 for 5 classes, or $15 per class Wednesdays ~ 11:40am-12:40pm Toddler & Parent Yoga (crawling until 2 1/2 yearrs) 2 for the price of 1, $65 for 5 classes, or $15 per class Mondays ~ 11:35am Prenatal Yoga $65 for 5 classes, or $15 per class Wednesdays ~ 6:10-7:10pm yogacenterbrighton.com
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Great Start Livingston
NOCIRC of Michigan
1425 W. Grand River Ave, Howell 517.540.6829
248.642.5703
Great Start Livingston is involved with Kindergarten Readiness activities, Livingston Promise preschool scholarship program, Backpacks for Kids/Connect for Kids and many other community activities that support early child development. Great Start Livingston Collaborative: This Collaborative of parents and professionals is working to build a comprehensive support system for children 0-5 and their families in the five key areas of child care & early education, pediatric & family health, social & emotional health, family support and parent leadership. The goal is to provide a great start for every child in Livingston County to help them succeed in school and life. Great Start Livingston Parent Coalition: This Coalition provides parents and caregivers a chance to have a voice in a truly “grassroots” effort to advocate for the children of Livingston County. Parents have access to training in leadership and advocacy to empower them to speak out on behalf of Livingston County’s children, as well as providing them with a supportive network of friends and the opportunity to have fun and make a difference in our community. The coalition is open to all parents/caregivers in Livingston County with children ages birth to 12 who are committed to ensuring a great start for every child. There are many different ways to get involved with the parent coalition, and all are kid friendly! Attend one of their monthly meetings or activities and find out how you can be a part of advancing our community by making children to be safe, healthy, and eager to succeed in school and life. They can be contacted through www. GreatStartLivingston.org
Child Connect for Family Success 2710 East Grand River, Suite 6 Howell 517.548.9112 Child Connect for Family Success, is a private nonprofit incorporated in 1993 as a 501c3. They serve as the Southeast Michigan Great Start Resource Center Hub for Genesee and Livingston counties. Child Connect works to enhance the quality of child care through training, consultation, technical assistance, assessments and early childhood personnel support services. Helping children have a great start to succeed in school and life. Free services include child care referrals, including enhanced referrals for families having children with special needs and military families. They have an onsite lending library including activity backpacks and learning kits for children, books, brochures, cassettes, videos, booklets and handouts about early childhood education, parenting, and child development. They provide support and consultation services for children exhibiting challenging behaviors in child care.
Pregnancy Help Clinic 7743 W Grand River, Suite 101 Brighton 810.494.5433
Half of all American parents now choose to keep their sons intact (not circumcised). NOCIRC of Michigan can assist parents in understanding the risks of circumcision. NOCIRC is internationally recognized as the center of expertise on circumcision. The American Academy of Pediatrics and the American Medical Association have both declined to recommend routine infant circumcision, but much misinformation still exists. Since 1994, NOCIRC has been a clearinghouse offering the latest information on routine infant circumcision. They inform parents and healthcare providers in Michigan about the impact of circumcision on children and about the proper care of intact genitals. They protect consumers from fraudulent medical claims. They promote the benefits of normal genitals. Call for their FREE FACT Kit. Find out what your doctor may not tell you—but your baby boy would sure like you to know. NOCIRC also offers free pamphlets and article reprints to health care providers. nocircofmi.org
Dedicated to supporting women in crisis situations, PH provides free pregnancy and STD testing, ultrasound, and nurse consultations. The free Earn While You Learn program combines parenting education, mentoring, and free baby supplies. Clients meet with mentor and progress through an individualized parenting and relationship curriculum while earning “baby buck” coupons good for free clothing, diapers, wipes, and all the baby supplies you need. The Dad’s Team offers a men’s Earn While You Learn program, providing a mentor and the opportunity for men to earn the supplies every infant needs. Dad’s Baby Care Boot Camp meets 2nd and 4th Tuesday of the month.
Dad’s Baby Care Boot Camp 810.494.5433 Rookie dads are matched with veteran dads in this fun and interactive program designed to prepare men for safe and nurturing baby care. Dads will learn the football hold, the burrito wrap and more; and practice with stunt babies in two sessions of training camp. Other topics include diapering, dressing, calming baby, bath time, play time, & feeding. Nov 11 & 25, 7-8:30pm. Call to reserve a spot. 810.494.5433. Registration required. Mon 10am-5pm, Tue 10am-7pm, Wed 10am-4pm, Thurs 10am-7pm, 2nd & 4th Sat 10am-2pm pregnancyhelpclinic.com
Fee based services include American Heart CPR/First Aid Training to parents, child care providers, or company employees; parent education opportunities and laminating services to the public. They offer on going early childhood education training for providers and parents. In November they host the annual “Community Sharing for Healthy Caring “Regional Early Childhood conference, for anyone interested in the welfare of young children. childconnectmi.org
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LPJ
The
Giveaways!
A place for all things free.
Sidekick is the first and only full-size diaper bag with a built in child carrier. Features adjustable strap that allows you to carry baby at either hip, spacious compartments and pockets for all of baby’s and mom’s things, and baby-friendly fabric that easily wipes clean.
Retails for $129 at gogobabyz.com Email rick@livingstonparentjournal.com for a chance to get yours for free.
The 7 titles in the Spookley book series, written by Joe Troiano,have sold over 2 million copies. The animated television special aired on Nick, Jr. and on Playhouse Disney. The eBook launched in 2010 and peaked as the #9 eBook bestseller. DVD features 16 song CD sing-along and 5 video picture books. Livingston Parent Journal will be giving away 6 copies on Facebook.
Epic Blu-ray Combo includes DVD and DigitalHD Voice cast includes Colin Farrell, Christopher Waltz, Steven Tyler and Beyonce. Storybook Builder app allows kids to create and share their own epic story. Look for a giveaway at LivingstonParentJournal.com
Unreal Candy
is made without chemicals, artificial colors, corn syrup, and excess sugar. Candy Coated Chocolates, Chocolate Caramel Nougat, Candy Coated Chocolate Peanuts, Chocolate Caramel Peanuts Nougat and Peanut Butter Cups. Look for a giveaway at LivingstonParentJournal.com
The Trash Pack Junk Truck Crank up the Crane and Grab the Garbage, and throw it into the Trash Compactor and squish ‘em up! Comes with two exclusive Trashies.
trashpack.com Watch for a giveaway on Livingston Parent Journal’s Facebook
IMUSA’s Non-Stick
Dutch Oven
is perfect for cooking up rice, beans, or soup. Cast aluminum is lighter and easier to cook with than cast iron. Features rounded sides, tight-fitting lid, and superior heat distribution. 100% oven safe.
$29.99 at Target Email rick@livingstonparentjournal.com for a chance to get yours for free.
Zap Zone Laser Tag Now open next to Rollerama in Brighton, featuring a multi-level, state of the art laser tag arena, party rooms, and video and arcade games. We are celebrating by giving away a Zap Zone Birthday Party for 10 people at LivingstonParentJournal.com.
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