July 2010
Issue 1
Obesity: A Growing Problem UTHealth Children’s Learning Institute programs Healthy Kitchen Makeover Green Living www.laredofamilytimemagazine.com
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s t n
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Departments
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Editor’s Note
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Healthy Living
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Kid Bits
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Down Home
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Parent-of-the-Month
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Spanish Bits
Features 16
Obesity: A Growing Problem
23 UTHealth Children’s Learning Institute programs bridge early childhood literacy gaps from Texas to Harlem
Resources
13 Camp, Clubs & Workshops 19 Green Living 26 Health Q&A 30 Weekend Trips
ABOUT THE COVER:
Children choosing a healthy snack during a school break.
Photo by Miguel Angel Varela.
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Girl Scouts of Greater South Texas
Girl Scouting Builds Girls of Courage, Confidence and Character to Make the World a Better Place. We are building tomorrow’s leaders…today!
Join the fun with Laredo Girl Scouts by calling 956-723-7251 or visit www.gsgst.org
Girl Scouts of Greater South Texas 701 N. Stone, Laredo, TX 5
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Dear Friends and Readers,
W
Edi
tor
’s N
ote
e are very excited to bring you this brand -new publication. It is our intention to become Laredo’s first and only family-focused magazine. Our monthly publication will be bringing you many topics and current issues that relate to families.
In this, our very first issue, we will address a growing problem that is childhood obesity. According to a new report by Trust for America’s Health and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, Texas has the 14th highest rate of adult obesity in the nation, at 27.9% and the 20th highest of overweight youths ages 10 to 17 at 32.2%. In Webb County, more than 70% of the population is considered to be obese. When you see these statistics you realize that as parents, we have to do something to break the cycle of obesity.
In this issue, we will focus on the how to determine if your child is obese, what factors contribute to childhood obesity, what are the health risks associated with overweight children and how we, as parents can help our kids or anyone to get active.
The perfect time to start a healthy lifestyle is now. It need not be a daily gym routine or a diet, the little changes we make in our daily lives is what will be the catalyst for change in the future.
We hope you enjoy this first issue as we tackle one of the most important topics plaguing our city and our children—obesity. All the best,
Claudia Perez Rivas Editor-in-Chief & Publisher editor@laredofamilytimemagazine.com 6
www.laredofamilytimemagazine.com
4205 Loop 20, Suite 2
Laredo, Tx 78043
(956) 712-8871 (956) 712-8839
Rimar Publishing Group was formed with a single idea in mind: To bring quality publications to Laredo. The group was established early in 2010. Its owners have lived in Laredo for many years and understand the need to bring something of value to the city. Being parents of small children, they realized there was a serious need to find those local resources for families that abound in other large cities. Through some digging, they found that Laredo has many hidden treasures, many local resources and many more organizations that are readily available for families. They also found that there was not a viable outlet for these organizations to announce their resources to Laredo families. Rimar Publishing Group has a goal in mind and that is to keep Laredoans informed of the richness of the city by offering quality publications. Laredo Family Time Magazine is the first publication that will be launched this year. Its focus is simply to become a positive force for Laredo and a useful tool for families everywhere. We invite you to become a part of this positive force for the Laredo and surrounding areas. Rimar Publishing Group 7
www.laredofamilytimemagazine.com
Publisher
Rimar Publishing Group
Editor-in-Chief
Claudia Perez Rivas
Marketing & Public Relations
Juan J. Martinez Jr.
Photographer
Miguel A. Varela
Calendar Editor Sales
calendar@laredofamilytimemagazine.com sales@laredofamilytimemagazine.com
Submissions & Letters
Laredo Family Time Magazine considers all submissions for publication. Please send us an e-mail with your ideas first. Articles may be edited for length and clarity. Include your contact information. For writer’s guidelines or to submit your ideas e-mail to: editor@laredofamilytimemagazine.com
Marketing & Advertising For advertising in Laredo Family Time Magazine or to request a media kit call: 956.286.1526 or sales@laredofamilytimemagazine.com
Laredo Family Time Magazine is published monthly by Rimar Publishing Group. 4205 Loop 20 Suite 2, Laredo, Texas 78043 www.laredofamilytimemagazine.com Contact us: 956.286.1526 or 956.285.8274
Copyright Š2010 by Rimar Publishing Group. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without written permission from the publisher. Laredo Family Time Magazine is not responsible for advertising claims.
The opinions and views expressed in the articles contained herein are those of the author and not necessarily those of Laredo Family Time Magazine.
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Family Features
A Healthy Kitchen
r e v o e Mak
Tackling neglected cleaning tasks? Cleaning out the attic or reorganizing
your bedroom might top your list. But don’t neglect your kitchen— give it a makeover by stocking it with great-tasting, healthy choices.
First, take a peek inside your refrigerator and pantry. Look at the expiration or best used by dates on food packages. Foods kept past their expiration dates can degrade in quality, and items such as butter and oils can go bad. What to Stock Up On Diets rich in high-fiber whole grains, fruits and vegetables and low in saturated fat, trans fat and cholesterol can lower your risk of cardiovascular disease. Whole Grains. Whole grains have essential vitamins and dietary fiber. Whole-grain foods high in fiber include oat bran, oatmeal, whole-wheat bread, rice and barley. How do you know if you’re getting what you need? Check the label. Whole grain should be the first ingredient. Fruits and Vegetables. Low in calories and full of vitamins, minerals and dietary fiber, fruits and veggies are nutritious, filling foods. Whether they’re fresh, frozen, canned or dried, they’re a delicious must-have for your diet. Leaner Is Better. Making lean choices will help you maintain a hearthealthy diet. Consider skinless chicken and turkey, fish, shellfish and lean cuts of beef such as round, sirloin, chuck and loin. Beans and soy products such as tofu are good meat substitutes. Healthier Fats. Fats play an important role in your diet, but it’s important to choose the right kinds. Choose oils high in monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, such as canola oil or olive oil, and use soft margarines with no trans fats. Try to steer clear of saturated and trans fats, which are often found in mayonnaise, chips, cookies, packaged muffins, snack cakes and crackers.
Simple Substitutions
Salt. Most of the sodium (salt) in our diet comes from prepared food. Eating too much salt increases your risk of developing high blood pressure (a risk factor for both heart disease and stroke) and raises it in those who have it. When buying prepared and prepackaged foods, be sure and read the labels first. Watch for the words soda and sodium in the ingredient statement and look for the symbol Na on labels. Choose lower sodium products. Aim for less than 2300 mg of sodium a day—that's about one teaspoon of table salt.
You can snack healthier just by making some simple changes.
To find heart-healthy foods in the grocery store, start by making your grocery list online. Visit heartcheckmark.org to build your list from approximately 800 products ranging from meat and dairy to vegetables and snacks, all certified by the American Heart Association to be low in saturated fat and cholesterol. Print your list or access it from your Web-enabled mobile phone or PDA.
Devil‟s food cake
Angel food cake
Ice cream bars
Frozen fruit bars
For more nutrition information, visit americanheart.org/nutrition.
Ice cream
Instead of
Enjoy
Regular potato or corn chips
Baked chips or soy crisps (reduced sodium)
Pudding made with whole milk Pudding made with fat-free or low-fat milk Sherbet, ice milk, or frozen, fat-free or (1%) low-fat yogurt
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Shop smart! Live well! Look for the heart-check mark! All products bearing the heart-check mark meet the American Heart Association's nutrition criteria per standard serving size to be: -Low in fat (3 grams or less) -Low in saturated fat (1 gram or less) -Zero* trans fat (less than .5 grams) -Low in cholesterol (20 milligrams or less) -Moderate in sodium, with 480 milligrams or less for individual foods In addition, they contain at least 10% of the Daily Value of one or more of these naturally occurring nutrients: protein, vitamin A, vitamin C, calcium, iron or dietary fiber. Also, seafood, game meat, meat and poultry, as well as whole-grain products, main dishes and meals must meet additional nutritional requirements. *Per U.S. Food and Drug Administration
Modern Tuna-Pasta Casserole Serves 4; 1 1/2 cups per serving 4
ounces dried whole-wheat rotini (about 1 1/2 cups)
Cooking spray 1
16-ounce bag frozen mixed vegetables, such as a carrot, broccoli and cauliflower blend, thawed
2
5.5-ounce cans low-sodium chunk light tuna, packed in water, flaked
1
10.75-ounce can low-fat condensed cream of chicken soup (lowest sodium available)
1/2
cup chopped bottled roasted red bell peppers, rinsed before chopping
1/2
cup fat-free half-and-half
1
teaspoon all-purpose seasoning blend
3/4
cup lightly crushed (about 1/4-inch pieces) low-sodium whole-grain crackers (about 34 squares)
1/4
cup shredded or grated Parmesan cheese
Prepare pasta using package directions, omitting salt and oil. Drain well in a colander. Transfer to a large bowl. Meanwhile, preheat oven to 350째F. Lightly spray a 2-quart glass casserole dish with cooking spray. Stir mixed vegetables, tuna, soup, roasted peppers, half-and-half and seasoning blend into pasta until combined. Transfer to casserole dish. Sprinkle with crackers and Parmesan. Bake, uncovered, for 25 to 30 minutes, or until casserole is warmed through and the topping is golden brown. Cook's Tip: With the variety of frozen mixed vegetable blends available to choose from, you can easily incorporate new tastes into this casserole. You can also change the flavor of the sauce by substituting low-fat condensed cream of mushroom or celery soup for the chicken soup, always choosing the lowest-sodium product available. Nutrition Analysis (per serving): Calories, 400; Total Fat, 7.0 g, Saturated Fat, 2.5 g, Trans Fat, 0.0 g, Polyunsaturated Fat, 2.0 g, Monounsaturated Fat, 2.0 g; Cholesterol, 30 mg; Sodium, 537 mg; Carbohydrates, 52 g; Fiber, 8 g; Sugars, 7 g; Protein, 32 g; Dietary Exchanges: 3 starch, 1 1/2 vegetable, 3 lean meat. This recipe is brought to you by the American Heart Association's Food Certification Program. Recipe copyright (c) 2008 American Heart Association. For more information heart-healthy grocery shopping, visit heartcheckmark.org. 11
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Why Getting Messy is Good Playing outside and getting messy may just seem like fun to kids, but playtime actually has an important role in child development. Research shows that various types of play and parental interaction are vital to the healthy development of children.
* Play expands kids' minds and neurological development. Self-initiated play improves skills such as problem solving and interpreting and is important to brain development and learning. * Play boosts children's creativity and imagination. Play gives children the chance to invent, build, expand, explore and develop a whole different part of the brain. * Play stretches our children's attention spans. Playing outdoors just 30 minutes a day increases child's ability to focus and pay attention. * Play boosts self-confidence and self-regulation. Kids learn to become masters of their own destiny without an adult directing, pushing, managing or scheduling * Play helps kids learn to enjoy just being in their own company, entertaining themselves and developing identity. Ease that guilt when your kid says, "I'm bored, Mom!" and wants to be amused by you. Visit www.all-laundry.com for more information and to download a coupon and go to www.facebook.com/ alllaundry to share your favorite messy moments.
5 Free (or almost free) Family Dates 1.
Canâ€&#x;t afford to go camping? No problem. Grab some marshmallows a d sit around the grill or a fire pit. Tell ghost stories and enjoy sâ€&#x;mores.
2.
Why not get the family together and have a dance off like in Dancing with the Stars. Grandparents can show the kiddos the Electric Slide or Bunny Hop while the kids can show them the latest dance craze. Great fitness motivator!
3.
Teach the kiddos lost pastimes such as sewing, crocheting and knitting. These activities teach concentration and will also give everyone a sense of accomplishment after they complete a small project.
4.
Show your inner artist by having an art contest for the entire family. Get together one evening and have an artoff. Let the winner showcase their art for the week.
5.
Play the lost game of charades. This will get everyone involved and would be a great way to become more expressive.
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Camps, Clubs & Workshops
Laredo Parks & Leisure Public Pool Schedule
May 29 to August 22, 2010
All Pools Closed on Mondays Lamar Bruni Vergara Inner City Pool 202 W. Plum (956) 794-1765 Sat-Sun 2-7pm
Del Mar Pool 218 W. Del Mar Blvd. (956) 726-6940 Tue & Thur 3-9pm Wed-Fri-Sat-Sun 2-7pm
Civic Center Pool 2200 San Bernardo (956) 795-2376 Tue & Thu 3-9pm Wed-Fri-Sat-Sun 2-7pm
Thomas Pool 4410 Thomas St.
Freddy Benavides Pool 2201 Zacatecas St. (956) 795-3052 Tue-Sun 2-7pm Tue-Sun 2-7pm
For more information call (956) 794-1765 13
(956) 795-2378 Tue-Sun 2-7pm
Three Points Pool 2200 Cortez St. (956) 791-0443
Camps, Clubs & Workshops cont’d pg 25 www.laredofamilytimemagazine.com
Down Home
Easy Ways to Better Your Community Family Features
Small town, big city, the suburbs or the country - no matter where you live, you're part of a local community. Without realizing it, you can have a big impact on your community by the everyday choices that you make. And a thriving local community is good for everyone who lives there. Why You Should Go Local Local First, a Grand Rapids, Michigan based organization that encourages sustainable, locally-based economies, states that when you purchase at locally owned businesses rather than nationally owned, more money is kept in the community because locally-owned businesses often purchase from other local businesses, service providers and farms. Local First estimates that for every $100 you spend with local businesses, $73 remains in the community. Only $57 remains in the local economy when you buy from a national chain store. Most new jobs are provided by local businesses as well, and local business owners donate more to local charities than non-local owners. This means that your support of local businesses has a farther-reaching effect than you might realize. You're helping people find and keep jobs, and you're helping make it possible for charitable organizations to continue doing much-needed work. How You Can Go Local Start Subscribing. Get a subscription to your community newspapers and local magazines. Not only will they keep you informed about what's happening in your community, but you'll help support local business. Shop Locally. There are plenty of locally owned businesses and service providers in your neighborhood. One easy way to find them is through MerchantCircle.com, a social network of about 1 million local businesses. By signing up for a free account, you can easily search out and follow nearby businesses and service providers such as jewelers, plumbers, grocers, and accountants, to get coupons and find out about special events and offers. MerchantCircle's "Answers" lets you get expert advice from local businesses in your area and across the country on virtually any topic for free. Car mechanics, veterinarians and professionals in every industry will quickly respond, saving you time and often money. Get Involved. Many communities have volunteer advisory councils for local governments - everything from city planning committees to arts councils. Check out your town's web site to find out how you can impact the development and character of your community. Visit Local Attractions. Parks, arboretums, museums, parades, festivals, theatres - there plenty of ways to have a good time without leaving town. A staycation or weekend getaway at home is less expensive for you than heading out of town, and you get to enjoy local treasures. Volunteer. Local schools, community centers, libraries, museums and charities often need people like you. Check the local paper, community bulletin boards and web sites such as VolunteerMatch.org to find out what you can do to make your community stronger. 14
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For all your insurance needs
4205 Loop 20, Suite 2
(956) 712—8871
Laredo, Tx 78043
(956) 712—8839
Juan J. Martinez Jr. juan@martinez-insurance.com 15
Agent
www.martinez-insurance.com www.laredofamilytimemagazine.com
Fe at
Obesity: A growing problem By Claudia Perez Rivas
ure
Fast food, junk food, busy schedules, convenience, cheap, fast and downright tasty. We have fallen into a hole when it comes to nutrition and health and we have, unfortunately become a nation of overweight people. Why is it that we choose convenience over health? Thirty to 40 years ago there were less fast food places, more home-made meals, more family time and less speed in our lives. What happened? Technology? Busier schedules? Maybe. But one thing that is certain is that we lost focus and the consequences are all around us, in our children, our family and in ourselves. Obesity is prevalent in our country and in our community. The causes may be genetic but more often than not they are poor diet and lack of exercise. The White House Task Force on Childhood Obesity Report to the President stated: “The current generation may even be on track to have a shorter lifespan than their parents. One in every three children (31.7%) ages 2-19 is overweight or obese. Obesity is estimated to cause 112,000 deaths per year in the United States, and one third of all children born in the year 2000 are expected to develop diabetes during their lifetime.” These are overwhelming statistics for something that can be prevented and changed. “I think the simplest, yet most important step is education. It is important to educate peoPhoto by Miguel A. Varela ple on healthy eating and choices, portion control and moderation, as well as physical activity,” Cordelia Rodriguez, Coordinate School Health Specialist Curriculum & Instruction for the Laredo Independent School District said. Rodriguez also pointed out that School Health Advisory Councils and Coordinated School Health Programs are now required in all school districts in the state of Texas. Summer wellness camps throughout the city are targeting children, nutrition, and physical activity. “I think that the plans to build more city recreational spaces (or parks) and a farmer‟s market are also going to assist the city of Laredo in taking a proactive approach to combat obesity,” Rodriguez added. So we see that school districts, the city and other organizations are doing something to help combat this problem among children but what can we do once they are home? Lead by example. Children learn by watching a lot more than be listening. If a parent tells their child they should exercise and they see the parent sitting in front of the couch all afternoon or weekend then that‟s what they learn. Actions speak louder than words. So what can we do? Dr. Belinda Reininger, Associate Professor of behavioral sciences at The University of Texas School of Public Health Brownsville Regional Campus suggests the following:
Obtain the recommended 60 minutes of physical activity per day at least 5 days a week. Photo by Miguel A. Varela
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Photo by Miguel A. Varela
Have children engage in activities that they enjoy and that get them active - biking, skating, swimming, walking, etc... Physical activity can be fun for the whole family and helps all family members become healthier.
Ensure that children eat the recommended 5 fruits and vegetables each day. This allows children to obtain necessary nutrients and fiber (which will help to fill them up - and decrease chances of filling up on junk food).
Eat dinner at home as a family - we tend to eat healthier foods and smaller portions - it is also a cost savings compared to eating out.
Go for family walks to ensure that all members get exercise (evenings can be cooler and a time to wrap up the day).
Avoid sodas and sports drinks - Water is a great option and is important in our hot summers.
Limit TV / Computer time - Some studies have shown that too much screen time / sedentary time also influences obesity rates. In fact pediatricians recommend that children under 2 should not be watching television at all.
Following these simple steps we may be able to counteract the effects of obesity in children and in ourselves. Dr. Reininger adds: “...when families come together and increase their physical activity and change the food they eat then all members benefit. Slow, steady weight loss is the best. Youth don't need to be thrown on radical diets. This only serves as a short-term fix to a much larger problem. The family and whole communities need to change the environment so that there are more options for purchasing healthy foods, and places to go to obtain physical activity.”
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Name: Catalina Zaragoza Occupation: Enrollment Growth Manager, Molina Healthcare of Texas Parenting Glimpse: 1. How many members in your family? Myself and my 3 Sons, Isaac (almost 8), Alexis (almost 6) and Joaquin (almost 3)...Single mom. 2.
How would you describe your family? Our family is close and loving. We like to have fun together.
3.
What makes you a great parent? I make sure to get involved with my children's activities. Right now, my oldest is involved in Scout ing and I bring the middle child and sometimes the baby to the meetings and events so they all share in the activity and learn how to conduct themselves in a group setting. I am also active I in Scouting and will be Isaac's Bear Den Leader next year (Borchers Pack 615). But perhaps the most important aspect of good parenting is to teach your children to be themselves and find alter natives when they get stuck"...it can't always go "their" way and finding the silver lining in life is a very good habit to develop into adulthood.
4.
What do you enjoy best about being a parent? Seeing and enjoying the "firsts" in life through their eyes.
5.
What do you love best about your children? I love when they haven’t seen each other for an extended period of time and when they see each other again, they run to each other and hug.
6.
What do you find irritating in other parents? When they don’t pay attention to their children when they are trying to talk to them or tell them a story that is so interesting to them....when they don’t acknowledge their children. They sometimes are wiser and more insightful than we are and we should show that we take interest in what they have to say.
7.
What is the biggest parenting mistake you've ever made? Dropping ear drops in Isaac's eye instead of the eye drops on accident, of course....BAD MOMMY!
8.
What is your wish for your children? I pray that they live for and accept God's will for their lives, in good times and in bad. And I don’t want them to sweat the small stuff. Enjoy and learn from life.
9.
How would you like your children to remember you? I would like for them to remember that I live to love them and love to live. I hope they see that although I am their "Mommy", I am also my own individ ual person with likes and passions and I want them to develop themselves individually and cont inue to develop themselves so when they find a "partner" they will bring more to the relationship a and still be comfortable in their own skin if they don't.
10.
What is your advice to other parents? GET INVOLVED! Their childhood will breeze by and you want to be there to create long-lasting memories for them. Oh yes, and don’t be afraid to be SILLY. They love that!
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Keep your living environment green this summer g
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At one time it wasn't easy being green, but these days, consumers are finding a variety of ways to green their lives by recycling and buying products from environmentally conscious companies. From simple home maintenance to daily purchases, greening your lifestyle can translate into a healthier home environment for you and your family. Refrigerator Greening Because your refrigerator is where you store your perishable foods, it is important it stays cold which takes a lot of energy. There are a few simple steps you can take to make sure your refrigerator is running efficiently. Cover your food to prevent extra moisture inside. Clean your compressor coils annually by moving it away from the wall, unplugging it, and vacuuming the coils so they are free of dust. Make sure your refrigerator is set at the correct temperature by consulting your owner's manual as temperatures can vary based on the model. Check the seal on the door. If you can remove a piece of paper without tearing it or opening the door, you should consider replacing the seal. And last but not least, make sure your refrigerator is not placed in direct sunlight in your kitchen. AC check In anticipation of the hot summer months, some basic checks and maintenance will keep you cool all summer. Have your air conditioner inspected by a certified technician. If your AC unit is outside, make sure it is clear of debris. Change your air filters, and if your air conditioner is older than 10 years, consider purchasing a more energy efficient unit that is Energy Star compliant. Recycle Cleaning out the closet to make way for new summer styles? Donating old clothing to Goodwill, the Salvation Army or your local church rummage sale is a great way to recycle. Take time to recycle household materials such as paper, glass, aluminum and plastic. If your town or city does not have a recycling program in place, inquire about starting one or find a recycling company that will accept your items. Various retailers also offer incentives for those who participate in their take back and recycling programs. Environmentally responsible products Everyday kitchen items such as vinegar, baking soda, and hot water can be used in a variety of ways that result in a natural clean, or if you prefer to buy products, purchase ones that are manufactured by companies who take the environment into consideration - not only in production but in consumer use as well. Products in today's market include household all purpose cleaners, animal stain and odor removers and car wash products that are biodegradable, not-toxic, and non-flammable and made with a non-abrasive formula. For an all purpose lubricant for indoor and outside uses, try Royal Purple's Maxfilm. It is a synthetic aerosol lubricant that has been engineered to be environmentally friendly by using a Toxic Substance Control Act-listed CO2 propellant. The solvent biodegrades to leave only small quantities of calcium carbonate and calcium sulfate, that are both naturally occurring minerals. Maxfilm is recommended for loosening stuck parts such as nuts, bolts, locks, hinges, etc. and lubricating power tools, hinges, chains, rollers, open gears, equipment and more. Keeping green household habits throughout the year can result in a healthier family and easier spring cleaning next year. Courtesy of ARAcontent 19
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Si va a viajar por carretera este verano, siga estas cinco prácticas de conducción seguras
is n a p
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La buena música, la buena compañía y los fantásticos paisajes son ingredientes de un exitoso viaje por carretera. Pero aunque la diversión es el objetivo de un viaje de este tipo, la permanencia prolongada en la vía equivale a grandes posibilidades de que algo salga mal. La seguridad es algo que no puede pasar por alto cuando recorra el país en auto. Si sigue estos consejos, garantizará que su viaje por carretera termine felizmente. 1. Asegúrese de que su auto está tan listo para el viaje como usted. No hay mejor momento para realizar una inspección a fondo del vehículo que cuando está a punto de hacer un viaje por carretera. Compruebe que sus neumáticos tengan la presión de aire adecuada, y que no muestren señales de desgaste. E incluso si están en buenas condiciones, lleve uno de repuesto para estar preparado en caso de un reventón. Compruebe los líquidos del motor, y si se avecina un cambio de aceite, hágalo antes iniciar su viaje. 2. Lleve un equipo de primeros auxilios en el auto. Además de componentes vitales como refrigerante del motor, líquido para los limpiaparabrisas, señales lumínicas de carretera y un gato para levantar el auto, lleve agua y comida adicional como prevención en caso de una rotura en un lugar apartado. Lleve además sábanas y abrigos, por si le ocurre esta situación en un sitio sometido a bajas temperaturas. Además, no olvide el equipo de primeros auxilios para el tratamiento de lesiones menores. 3. Asegúrese de llevar los documentos adecuados de su vehículo, tales como la prueba de seguro de auto y el permiso de circulación. Si usted es miembro de la Triple A (AAA) u otro proveedor de auxilio en la carretera, lleve su tarjeta de identificación. Si conduce un coche alquilado o ajeno, asegúrese de que esté amparado por su seguro de coche en caso de que ocurra algún accidente. 4. Adopte siempre prácticas de conducción seguras. Cuando viajamos cientos de millas y vemos muchos paisajes hermosos, es fácil distraerse tras el timón. Deje que los pasajeros se encarguen de tareas ajenas a la conducción, como cambiar la estación de radio o el disco de música, o repartir la merienda. Si siente que su nivel de atención disminuye, o comienza a sentirse fatigado, deje que conduzca otra persona o deténgase a descansar. 5. Mantenga el rumbo. Lleve un atlas o mapas de los estados o provincias por los que va a transitar. Incluso si cuenta con un Sistema de Posicionamiento Global (GPS), es buena idea llevar mapas impresos como respaldo, en caso de que se produzca un error o un defecto en el sistema. Lleve además un teléfono celular y manténgalo cargado, en caso de que se extravíe o tenga que enfrentar alguna emergencia. Para obtener más información acerca de prácticas de conducción seguras, o de seguros de auto, visite el sitio Web Allstate.com. Cortesía de ARAcontent 20
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Vínculos entre la diabetes y los problemas de la vista La nutrición adecuada puede ejercer un efecto de largo alcance en la salud y el bienestar físico de las personas que padecen de diabetes. Es importante destacar que los problemas con la glucosa en sangre y la presión arterial pueden dañar los ojos. Dos asociaciones nacionales de salud, la Asociación Dietética Americana (American Dietetic Association, ADA) y la Asociación Americana de Optometría (American Optometric Association, AOA), están colaborando para concientizar al público acerca de la importancia del trabajo de los optómetras y dietistas certificados, como parte del equipo de cuidados de la salud. "El ojo ofrece la oportunidad única de ver los vasos sanguíneos sin recurrir a la cirugía", afirma el Dr. Leo Semes, O.D., vocero de la AOA. "Desde este punto de observación, los optómetras como proveedores primarios del cuidado de la salud visual pueden realizar pruebas de detección y dar seguimiento a los casos de pacientes diabéticos. Mediante un examen ocular con la pupila dilatada, los optómetras pueden evaluar los cambios provocados por la diabetes en los pacientes que la padecen, así como detectar alteraciones de los vasos sanguíneos en pacientes que corren riesgo de diabetes, o que no se les ha diagnosticado". La diabetes es un trastorno que afecta la manera en que el organismo usa la energía que extrae de los alimentos en forma de glucosa. Los diabéticos deben mantener sus niveles de azúcar en sangre dentro de un rango saludable. Los niveles de azúcar en sangre se controlan mediante opciones de alimentación saludable, actividad física, y, en algunas personas, con medicamentos por vía oral o inyecciones de insulina. Según la AOA, los diabéticos pueden correr mayores riesgos de padecer los siguientes trastornos: * Glaucoma * Cataratas * Retinopatía diabética "Si se sigue un plan de alimentación saludable elaborado en colaboración con un dietista, se pueden evitar estos problemas", asegura Malena Perdomo, dietista certificada y vocera de la ADA. "El dietista colaborará con el paciente y el equipo médico para lograr un equilibrio adecuado entre el plan de alimentación y los medicamentos indicados". Si a usted le han diagnosticado diabetes, solicite la asesoría experta de un dietista certificado, quien le ayudará a controlar la enfermedad, garantizando al mismo tiempo que ingiera los nutrientes que necesita su organismo. Numerosos planes de salud como el programa Medicare Parte B del gobierno, le dan cobertura a la terapia médica de nutrición proporcionada por un dietista certificado. Vaya a "Find a Registered Dietitian" en el sitio Web www.eatright.org para ubicar un dietista certificado en su localidad. La detección precoz de los problemas de la vista es vital para mantener una visión saludable. Si experimenta problemas de visión borrosa, dificultades para leer letreros o libros, de diplopía o visión doble; y si siente presión en los ojos, no ve claramente las líneas rectas, o si su visión lateral es limitada, no demore en consultar a un optómetra. Las personas que corren riesgo de padecer diabetes deben someterse regularmente a pruebas con la pupila dilatada; y los diabéticos también deben hacerse pruebas de ese tipo todos los años. Vaya a "Find an Optometrist" en el sitio Web www.aoa.org para ubicar a un optómetra en su localidad. Cortesía de ARAcontent 21
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UTHealth Children’s Learning Institute programs bridge early childhood literacy gaps from Texas to Harlem
Fea t
ure
By Alice Adams It was a wake-up call. In 2002, a national newspaper listing of “All-American Cities” ranked Laredo, Texas, dead last in literacy. Not only was this revelation stunning, but to Laredo‟s community leaders, the low literacy rate was unacceptable. Laredo's State Sen. Judith Zaffirini met with community leaders to seek solutions, and as a result authored Senate Bill (S.B.) 76, which passed in 2003. The bill required early childhood programs in local communities to implement evidence-driven approaches toward achieving lasting school readiness outcomes for children. It created the Texas Early Education Model (TEEM), now known as the Texas School Ready! (TSR!) Project. "Higher education begins with early childhood," Zaffirini said, "and I believe the TEEM model will ultimately decrease the number of high school drop-outs because children now begin school on a level playing field." John Gasko, Ph.D., director of statewide initiatives for the Children‟s Learning Institute at The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (UTHealth), said S.B. 76 has been a win-win for Texas. “It encouraged partnerships among private childcare programs, government Head Start programs and school district-based programs. Now, 7 years later, Laredo remains a major partner in these efforts along with more than 30 other communities across the state.” Susan H. Landry, Ph.D., founder and director of CLI, applauded the ongoing success of the Texas School Ready! Project in Laredo. “The unique strength in the border areas is the community spirit,” she said, “and when we visit Laredo, it seems the entire community is aware of the program‟s value. Many people - the mayor, the superintendent, the president of the bank – will stop and say, „We love the program. It‟s changed our children‟s ability to succeed.‟” Currently, Laredo boasts more than 360 TSR!-certified classrooms – among the highest in the state. As word of Laredo‟s success with pre-schoolers spread, other Texas border towns began adopting the TSR! approach. Early adopters saw it as important in preparing pre-schoolers for kindergarten and for success throughout their K-12 experience, said Mary Capello, chief executive officer of Teaching and Mentoring Communities, the original lead agent for Laredo's program. “By having the same tools, approaches and the same level of professional development and mentoring for the teachers, every child in the community has access to a high-quality education. (continued pg 24) 23
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UTHealth Children’s Learning Institute ...cont’d “The overall strengths lie in the integration model, where partners share resources and work together," Capello continued. "This assures not only quality educational experiences but also potentially enhanced access to quality programs. If a school district doesn‟t have the facilities to serve the need and a private daycare or Head Start has room but lacks crucial resources, the integration model eliminates barriers and extends the community‟s capacity to serve children in high-quality ways. This saves dollars for all stakeholders and gives every child the opportunity to succeed.” Patti Flores-Cantu, a technical assistance specialist for the Children‟s Learning Institute who oversees TSR! projects from Brownsville to El Paso, said before TSR!, little professional development was available for pre-K teachers, and there were limited tools to monitor a child‟s progress. “We knew there was a crisis but we had no data to determine whether children were ready for school. The children were entering kindergarten programs but no one knew if they were prepared. We did know that high-quality pre-K was a necessary foundation, so when TEEM came along, Brownsville became a pilot site.” “From a parent‟s standpoint, it‟s about educating the family and raising expectations,” she continued, "so we educated parents about what a successful pre-K classroom looks like, what questions they should ask and what activities they should see.” Brownsville's tracking of its TSR! Project graduates found more students going into Gifted and Talented programs, and there is also an increase in literacy scores in both Spanish and English. “Before TEEM and TSR!, when these kids reached kindergarten, some couldn‟t write or even read their names,” said Sandra Morales, assistant director of Migrant and Seasonal Head Start for Teaching and Mentoring Communities. “Kindergarten teachers called them „raw beginners.‟ Capello said, "Now our children don‟t want to go home, and they're so motivated to come to school in the morning. Their parents tell us, the minute they go into public kindergarten or first grade, teachers say, 'My goodness, your child is so advanced!'" One TSR! Project teacher in Brownsville, Cindy Santos, said she now teaches her pre-K students what she once taught kindergartners. “The TSR! Project makes them extremely school ready,” she said. “My first group of children is now finishing elementary school,” Santos continued. “They‟re passing their TAKS, they‟re A&B honor roll students and they have a big advantage. I let my parents know – your child is not here to play and take naps. We don‟t have time for that. From Day 1, they get going – and I‟m in awe.” Gasko said, "What started in Laredo and 10 other communities in 2005 is now reaching more than 60,000 children in Texas, and it's also earning significant national attention." More than 1,700 miles away from Laredo, for example, in New York City‟s Harlem Children‟s Zone (HCZ) – Children‟s Learning Institute programs are making a difference. "After hearing a group from Harvard present some of the latest research on brain development, we wanted to find ways to improve the lives of the children we serve and needed a partner to help us," said Shana Broadnax, senior manager for HCZ's early childhood programs. (continued pg 28) 24
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Camps, Clubs & Workshops cont’d
Camps, Clubs & Workshops cont’d pg 28 25
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What causes obesity in children? The most common causes are genetic factors, lack of physical activity, unhealthy eating patterns or a combination of these factors. What diseases are obese children at risk for? They are at risk for a number of conditions, including; high cholesterol, high blood pressure, early heart disease, diabetes, bone problems and skin conditions such as heat rash, fungal infections and acne. How do I know if my child is overweight? Your doctor is the best person to tell you if your child is overweight. How can I help my overweight child? Above all be very supportive. Children‟s feelings about themselves are often based on their parent‟s feelings about them and if you accept your children at any weight they will be more likely to feel good about themselves. Parents should not focus on setting their overweight child apart but rather focus on gradually changing their family‟s physical activity and eating habits. How can I involve my family in healthful habits?
Lead by example.
Plan family activities that provide everyone with exercise such as walking, biking or swimming.
Be sensitive to your child‟s needs.
Watch less TV, play less video games and spend less time on the computer.
What foods are recommended to improve my family’s health?
Choose fruits and vegetables. Convenience foods, such as cookies, crackers and prepared meals, are often high in fat and sugar. Always have healthy snacks available and never use food as a reward or punishment.
Limit sweetened beverages, including those containing fruit juice. These drinks provide little nutritional value in exchange for their high calories. They also make your child feel too full to eat healthier foods.
Sit down together for family meals. Discourage eating in front of a TV, computer or video game. This leads to fast eating and lowered awareness of how much food is eaten.
Limit the number of times you eat out, especially at fast-food restaurants. Many of the menu options are high in fat and calories.
**The information provided is taken from a variety of sources including the Centers for Disease Control and WebMd.
Helpful Links: www.children.webmd.com/obesity-children
www.cdc.gov/obesity/childhood
www.letsmove.gov
www.actionforhealthykids.org
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g
n
e e r G
in Liv
Being green doesn't have to break
the bank
Everyone knows "being green" helps save the environment. However, many Americans have a misconception that it's impossible to protect the planet and save money, too. In fact, in a recent study conducted by Earth911, more than 35 percent of Americans stated "money" was the one thing holding them back from being green. Whether it's turning off the water while brushing your teeth, unplugging electronics when they're not in use or turning off the lights when you leave the room, adopting an environmentally friendly lifestyle on a budget is easier than you think. Below are a few simple ideas from Walmart to make green living a part of your lifestyle. *Consider buying locally grown food to reduce the carbon emissions produced by long-distance transport. *Install water filters on your tap-water faucets. This reduces plastic bottle waste and may save you money in the long run. *Use rechargeable batteries and recycle your disposable ones to keep them out of landfills. *Pack lunches to cut down on takeout containers. Bringing lunch rather than buying takeout at work or school will also save your family money. *Recycle your old eyeglasses by donating them to charity. Your eye doctor may even accept used glasses, as many practices now have their own programs. Like budget-conscious moms, leading retailers are finding that simple measures can mean big savings - both for the environment and consumers' pocketbooks. Walmart reduces waste, energy and fuel consumption, and overall costs - which provides another avenue for offering the lowest prices possible to consumers on everything from organic produce to electronics. For example, Walmart offers families its Marketside organic lettuce at the same price as regular lettuce by buying in bulk, fully loading its trucks directly at farms and cutting down on transportation costs. "Whether it's increasing our own energy efficiency or eliminating 100 million miles from our truck fleet, Walmart is constantly looking for innovative ideas to help protect the environment," says Matt Kistler, senior vice president of sustainability at Walmart. "Our sustainable business practices add up to millions of dollars in cost savings, which helps us offer thousands of new product Rollbacks throughout the store. In addition to saving customers money at the register, we are also working to carry products that save our customers money through lower utility bills." Other examples of Walmart's focus on the environment include: *Leveraging sunshine to help reduce energy costs by installing clean, efficient solar panels at some of its facilities. *Using less cardboard on its cereal box shipping cartons, saving over 3,000 tons of wood and more than $1 million annually. *Saving more than 900,000 pounds of plastic last year through a new design on its Great Value cutlery. For more environmentally-friendly tips or information on the many ways Walmart works to deliver everyday low prices to its customers, visit www.walmart.com/green. Courtesy of ARAcontent
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UTHealth Children’s Learning Institute ...cont’d "We canvassed institutes and universities across the country and we were repeatedly referred to Dr. Landry and CLI, so we called her and began the conversation," Broadnax said. "As a result, CLI provided Play and Learning Strategies (PALS) training to coaches who work with parents who graduate from Baby College. They trained HCZ teachers on facilitating observation using the Teacher Behavior Rating Scale, which was developed at CLI to measure the quality of teaching in pre-school, kindergarten and first grade. They also offered early literacy training for teachers and will provide training on an ongoing basis." Broadnax said HCZ believes it is never too late to make a difference in the life of a child. "This training and information allows us to lift up our teachers and the quality of our services to families," she said. The Harlem Children‟s Zone strives for its students to have successes similar to those witnessed in TSR! Project classrooms along the Texas border. Maria Guardiola, Laredo ISD's Early Childhood dean, said kindergarten teachers are seeing a big difference in children who graduate from TSR! Project classrooms. "Some are already reading and they are all ready to succeed in school.”. As for positive impact? "During Laredo's recent Day of the Child celebration, one company provided books in bags for each child," Guardiola recalled. "Unfortunately, they ran out of books for the last three classes and substituted pencils and other supplies in the bags. "One child from a TSR! classroom came back and said, 'I didn't get a book.' The person distributing the bags pointed out, 'But we've given you pencils.' "'I know,' the 4-year-old insisted, 'but I would rather have a book because I can learn from a book.' Guardiola said the child made an impression. "A few weeks later, the book company went to that 4-year-old's school and presented every pre-K and kindergarten student with books. I think that incident says it all about the success of TEEM/TSR! Project in Laredo."
k r o W &
bs u l C s , p s o p sh ’d m a C t n o c
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SeaWorld -San Antonio Kids Stay and Play Free ! With this special package, kids play free at SeaWorld and stay free at participating San Antonio hotel and resorts. Experience all the wonders of SeaWorld and relax at the end of the day at a hotel destination perfect for your family. Kids 0-9 are eligible for this offer. www.seaworld.com
Schlitterbahn Water Parks New Braunfels- Schlitterbahn Waterpark Resort in New Braunfels has over 3 miles of tubing adventures, 7 children‟s water playgrounds,17 water slides, the world‟s first surfing machine, and 3 uphill water coasters spread over 65 acres of fun! Book Now and Save 20% on Waterpark Tickets! South Padre Island- Schlitterbahn Beach Waterpark on beautiful South Padre Island is the tropical destination for family fun! With interconnecting water rides and slides, a huge 5-story tall Sandcastle, thrilling uphill water coasters, a man-made surfing wave, and direct access to the Gulf of Mexico, Schlitterbahn Beach has all the ingredients for a great summer getaway! www.schlitterbahn.com
Tubing down the river in New Braunfels,Texas is an experience that is fun for the entire family. In fact, there is not just one river to tube in New Braunfels, but two. You can float through The beautiful Hill Country scenery on both the Comal and Guadalupe river. www.texastubes.com www.Riversportstubes.com
Six Flags Fiesta Texas offers a full compliment of live entertainment, including shows, parades and concerts. From May 27 - Aug. 13, Fiesta Texas features a nightly fireworks and laser show beginning at 9 p.m. A 2010 Season Pass is your ticket to More Flags, More Fun all season. Six Flags Fiesta Texas has more ways to save. Introducing the new Play Pass for $59.99, with unlimited visits at all Six Flags Theme Parks. Or for just $10 more, you can have a Season Pass with all of the Play Pass benefits, plus FREE tickets for friends on select days and a Passholder Value Book with $300 in park discounts. www.sixflags.com/fiestaTexas
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Kid
Boost Your Child’s Brainpower this Summer
Bits
Family Features
When that last school bell rings, kids celebrate the end of classes and the beginning of a long, lazy summer. But for many kids, the end of the school year also marks the beginning of summer brain drain - and it could do them more harm than you think. According to the National ciation, all students experithey don't engage in educasummer months.
Summer Learning Assoence learning losses when tional activities during the
Students typically score tests at the end of sumat the beginning of the
lower on standardized mer vacation than they do summer.
Most students lose algrade-level equivalency tion skills over the sum-
most three months of in mathematical computamer months.
Photo by Miguel A. Varela also lose more than two Low-income students months in reading achievement. So what's a parent or guardian to do to help kids avoid summer brain drain? As part of its ongoing commitment to education and to inspiring parents and caring adults to nurture a child's love of learning, Target is partnering with the renowned Search Institute to offer a summer-long series of tips that help parents keep their kids active and engaged while the weather's warm. Here are a few ways to help you and your child make summer vacation fun and educational:
Start the summer off "write" - Kids who write well tend to read well and vice versa, which can be a powerful combination that gives them a big boost in school. According to the National Association for the Education of Young Children, exercises like writing, which requires reflection, are actually a big deal for little minds. By teaching young children to remember and evaluate their experiences each day, you're developing their decision-making and problem-solving skills. An added bonus? You're helping them (and you!) identify some of the activities they love most. What to Do: Work with your children on various projects such as scrapbooking, writing a neighborhood newsletter, or making a picture book. Get out, get active - We all know that sports and outdoor activities can help your kids stay healthy and fit, but did you also know that they can boost brain power? Children's advocate Richard Louv says that today's kids are suffering from NDD - Nature Deficit Disorder - because they're spending so much time indoors. Outdoor play stimulates kids' creativity. Plus, it's been shown to improve their stress levels, their confidence, and their learning and social skills. What to Do: Take a nature hike, grow a backyard garden or sign your children up for organized sports leagues or camp. Fun in the sun . . . with books - Kids who read throughout the summer perform better in school, no matter where, when or what they read. Studies also show that when kids read for fun (and especially when they read books that match their reading level and interests), they become better readers and are less likely to forget all the good stuff they learned during the school year. Kids who read frequently and have easy access to books also are more competent and resilient in risky situations. What to Do: Start the summer with a trip to your local library; read outside by the light of the moon; or turn bits of nature into one-of-a kind bookmarks. To explore all the fun, educational summer activity ideas, visit Facebook.com/Target and click on the 'Play + Learn' tab and be sure to check back each week for new tips. 31
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