South Jersey MOM by South Jersey MOM

JAN/FEB

2020

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STEPS IN BUYING A HOME

INDOOR FUN

GET THE KIDS THROUGH THE WINTER

See page 10

C AMP & EDUCATION EXPOS

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EDITOR exercise groove on for 2020. January is the time to start looking for your kid’s summer camp, be sure to read camp expert, Jess Michael’s article “Camp Touring and How to Find a Camp” (page 12). Each camp is different and has its own feel and culture, touring can help you to find the right camp for your child, so make the time to read all about it. When looking for something to do indoors this winter read our article “Things to Do Indoors” (page 10). The golf simulators, located at the Atlantic City Country Club and Scotland Run Golf Club, are fun for the entire family and a great way to celebrate a birthday or other milestone. Wishing you good health and happiness in 2020!

FAVES MINDFUL MINERALS MUD FACEWASH

Dead Sea mud ingredients have over 35 minerals and trace elements that naturally kill acne and rosacea bacteria, while acting as a great skin conditioner to hydrate dry skin. No parabens and synthetic fragrances. Such a gentle and light cleanser, leaves your skin feeling so fresh and smooth! Amazon.com; $33

Your friend & fellow MOM,

Photo credit JCPenney Portrait Studios

have never been one for New Year resolutions, they always tend be the same old thing and somehow highlight the negative. This year I decided to write out a list of friends and family to invest time and energy into on a regular basis. If you need ideas to plan your resolutions see “Trend Up, Friend up” (page 14) to get your

Karen Ognibene Executive Editor karen@superiorgx.com

Valentina is a smart and kind-hearted 5 year old little girl. Valentina loves to sing and has performed in Snow Queen. She takes ballet and swim lessons. Valentina speaks Greek fluently, and has traveled to Greece. She loves her big brother and amazes her family each and everyday!

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MY FIFTH AVENUE FRAGRANCE

An invigorating floral that blends citrus notes, musk and wood notes for a fragrant reminder of the sparkling scent of success. NEW Elizabeth Arden My Fifth Avenue. Embrace the possibilities. Macys.com; $52

AROMATHERAPY SLEEP LAVENDAR VANILLA BODY LOTION

The lavender vanilla aromatherapy lotion is a calming scent. Not only does it make my hands feel pampered, the scent helps me relax before falling asleep. Keep on the bedside table and pamper yourself for sweet dreams! Bathandbodyworks.com; $13.50

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South Jersey MOM

January/February 2020 CEO/Publisher Christopher Ognibene • (609) 670-1794 chris@superiorgx.com Executive Editor Karen Ognibene • (609) 230-6280 karen@superiorgx.com Marketing & Business Development Specialist Michelle Scianni • (856) 986-9606 michelle@superiorgx.com For General Advertising Inquiries Marissa Josephick • (856) 537-7089 ocrazyjane@gmail.com Production Manager Lisa Celfo lisasjmom@gmail.com

Karen Ognibene, MA, LPC Licensed Professional Counselor

Psychotherapy for Adults and Couples, Psychoanalysis and Trauma Treatment Specialties:

Depression • Anxiety Relationship Issues Eating Issues • Grief & Loss Low Self-Esteem PTSD and Trauma EMDR Psychodynamic Person Centered Therapy

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Writer Jennifer Peacock Editorial Assistant Julia Ognibene Cover Photographer JCPenney Portraits Teri Prudhomme www.southjerseymom.com Katelyn Shea • Web Designer allthatsdigital.com • (215) 366-3316

Superior Graphics Print Management LLC publishes South Jersey MOM™ monthly and distributes it throughout the region. The publication is available free of charge at select locations. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part is not permitted without the authorization of the publisher. Superior Graphics Print Management, LLC, Publisher of South Jersey MOM P.O. BOX 268 • Wenonah, NJ 08090 Main: (609) 670-1794 Fax: (856) 210-1524 All materials and services provided in this magazine are for informational or educational purposes only

Enter Your Child’s Photo to Be On Our Next Cover Every issue South Jersey MOM features a local child on the cover. If you think you have the “Cutest Kid in Town”, send a 4x6 photo to South Jersey MOM. P.O. Box 268, Wenonah, NJ 08090. On back of photo write child’s name and age along with guardian contact info.

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One New Heart Valve

SAVES TWO LIVES

The Trittens and members of their Virtua Health team (from left): Dr. Arthur Martella, Dr. Gregory Margolin, Dr. Jayesh Khatiwala, Elen and Taylor Tritten with baby Denver, Dr. Ibrahim Moussa, and Dr. Bassem Saad

lenilza Tritten developed heart problems as a child, and had her mitral valve replaced at age 18. Last year, her heart symptoms started to return, causing her to feel tired and breathless. Elen knew she might need another valve replacement. But this time, there was a major complication: The Mount Laurel woman, then 25 and newly married, had just discovered she was pregnant. “It was very scary,” said Elen. The pregnancy made treatment both riskier and more urgent, according to Ibrahim Moussa, DO, FACC, FSCAI, Elen’s interventional cardiologist at Virtua Health. “Elen would not be able to carry her baby to term or survive the stress of delivering a baby without correcting her valve disease,” said Dr. Moussa, medical director of the Structural Heart Program at Virtua Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital in Camden. The hospital is well known for its advanced cardiology services. TICKING CLOCK Dr. Moussa and cardiothoracic surgeon Arthur Martella, MD, led a team of experts from multiple disciplines across Virtua Health – including obstetrics, maternal-fetal medicine, anesthesiology, and intensive care – to create a plan for replacing Elen’s mitral valve. The team had to act quickly, as Elen’s body was continually producing more blood to cope with the growing demands of pregnancy. Without a new valve to handle the increased flow, the lives of the fetus and mother would be at risk.

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ning for Elen’s procedure. “They had so many different precautions, we felt safe.”

Elen Tritten, son Denver, and husband Taylor

“By the time she got to that third trimester, she would be in heart failure,” said Dr. Martella, chief of cardiothoracic surgery at the hospital. MEDICAL FIRST Last April, in Elen’s 16th week of pregnancy, the team’s plan came to fruition – and everyone involved made history. Elen is the first pregnant woman to receive a new mitral valve through a unique, minimally invasive procedure. The valve Elen received is commonly used in transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR), but is also approved for transcatheter mitral valve replacement (TMVR) — an option for people who cannot safely have open-heart surgery. The cardiac team threaded the valve through a thin tube (called a catheter) into Elen’s heart. Once in place inside the old valve, the new valve was expanded. It pushed aside the leaflets of the old valve and began to work immediately. “Everything went perfect,” said her husband Taylor, recalling the complex plan-

HIGH-RISK PREGNANCY WITHOUT PRECEDENT Even after the successful valve replacement, Elen still faced a risky pregnancy and delivery due to her heart issues. Elen’s heart surgeons and a team of Virtua OB/GYN and maternal fetal medicine physicians provided care and planning throughout her pregnancy to ensure a safe and healthy delivery for both mom and baby. Elen had a planned C-section to reduce the strain on her heart from giving birth, and to enable her to deliver her baby in a controlled situation. In fact, the delivery took place in an operating room that could also handle potential cardiac issues, with Elen’s same team of heart specialists and other experts on hand. “They’re kind of like an extended family because they care so much,” noted Taylor. Elen gave birth to son Denver on October 1, 2019, at Virtua Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital. Taylor was at her side to welcome their baby, who weighed 7 lbs., 13 oz. “I’m doing great; my son is super healthy,” said Elen, who is grateful for Virtua’s care. “It’s incredible what they did.” If you or someone you know needs to see a heart specialist, new patients see one of our cardiologists within 24 hours. Call 844932-8444.

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What to Know About Breastfeeding at

INSPIRA HEALTH

By Deborah Frye, RN, BSN, International Board Certified Lactation Consultant, Inspira Medical Center Mullica Hill

here are many decisions you’ll be faced with throughout your pregnancy and shortly after. One important decision is whether or not you should consider breastfeeding. We understand that breastfeeding isn’t always easy or possible for all women, but if you’re able to—even for a short time—there are great benefits to your newborn and to you. At Inspira Health, we’re here to help you make the best choice for you and your baby. With expert opinions and education resources, Inspira Health can guide you through the ins and outs of breastfeeding and provide you with the answers to any questions you may have. Education and support are critical for all moms who have a breastfeeding goal, especially for women who do not have the support of a close family member or friend with a positive breastfeeding experience. BREASTFEEDING IS A JOURNEY At Inspira, the breastfeeding journey can start at your doctor’s or midwife’s office. Our team provides expecting mothers with the necessary information and resources right from the start—ranging from educational booklets to videos—thus allowing you to explore all options before your baby’s arrival. Inspira Health encourages asking questions, so that early on, you and your doctor can immediately identify any concerns, or dispel any misconceptions. In addition to the videos and educational materials, every month Inspira Health hosts at least one breastfeeding prep course open to all expecting mothers! And, you can join Inspira Health’s weekly support group for moms! A SUPPORT SYSTEM YOU CAN RELY ON It’s true what they say, breastfeeding can be challenging, so it’s important to have a support system. Your breastfeeding support team should include your significant partner or a close companion and your Inspira lactation consultant. You

6 | January/February 2020

may also want to include someone you can depend on who has personal breastfeeding experience. Our maternity team provides experienced, certified lactation consultants dedicated to supporting mothers. You can trust our team! For expecting mothers who did not speak with a lactation consultant prior to going into labor, and decide they want to try breastfeeding – it is not too late. At Inspira Health, once your baby is born, a lactation consultant will visit new moms and offer on-site breastfeeding support. With Inspira, a lactation consultant is only a phone call away. Warmline, Inspira Health’s breastfeeding support hotline, offers help to mothers through an individual service. WHY BREASTFEED? At Inspira, we understand the importance of breastfeeding for families and the health of their children. In fact, breastfeeding has been shown to provide significant health benefits for both the mom and baby. For babies, breast milk is the most complete form of nutrition for growth and development. For moms, it helps the uterus get back to its original size and lessens bleeding after birth, as well as lowering the risk of breast and ovarian cancers. Time and effort put into breastfeeding can pay dividends. Fully-breastfed infants typically need fewer sick care visits, prescriptions, and hospitalizations compared to never-breastfed infants. You can even protect the environment from formula cans, bottle supplies trash, and plastic waste. And as a bonus, you can save the money you would typically spend purchasing formula. Whether you choose to breastfeed or not, we want to equip you with the education and resources to make a comfortable decision – guilt and worry free. To learn more about breastfeeding, and to speak with a lactation consultant at Inspira Health, please call 1-888-31-BIRTH.

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The EVERYTHING GUIDE to Buying Your First Home must be agreed upon by both parties, such as giving you the ability to do a home inspection and request repairs.

ow to find exactly what you want, and how to work with the experts who'll help you get it. So you're thinking about buying your first home. Your very own house (and mortgage). A place to call -- and make -- your own. It's a big move, literally and figuratively. Buying a house requires a serious amount of money and time. The journey isn't always easy. It isn't always intuitive. But when you get the keys to your new home -- that, friend, can be one of the most rewarding feelings pretty much ever. The key to getting there? Knowing the home-buying journey. Knowing what tools are at your disposal. And most importantly? Creating relationships with experts who can help you get the job done. That's where this guide comes in. We'll show you not only the major steps you'll take during the home-buying process, but also explain the relationships and experts you'll need along the way. We've even made a handy infographic that outlines the home-buying process from start to finish You ready to live the dream? Here we go. DO YOUR HOMEWORK Oh sure, everybody wants to jump right into open houses. But before you even set foot into a foyer, you should identify your list of "musts" and "wants." This list is an inventory of priorities for your search. And there's so much to decide: Price, housing type, neighborhood, and school district -- just to name a few. START SHOPPING Once you know what you're looking for, the next step is to start looking at listings and housing information online. (This part? You're going to crush it.) FIND A GREAT AGENT Your relationship with your real estate agent is the foundation of the home-buying process. www.southjerseymom.com

(And your agent = your rock.) He or she is the first expert you'll meet on your journey, and the one you'll rely on most. That's why it's important to interview agents and find the agent who's right for your specific needs. CHOOSE A LENDER Once you've found your agent (AKA, your new best friend), ask him or her to recommend at least three mortgage lenders that meet your financial needs. This is another big step, as you'll be working with your lender closely throughout the home-buying process. PICK A LOAN (IT'S NOT SO BAD) Once you've decided on a lender (or mortgage broker), you'll work with your loan agent to determine which mortgage is right for you. You'll consider the percentage of your income you want to spend on your new house, and you'll provide the lender with paperwork showing proof of income, employment status, and other important financials. If all goes well (fingers crossed) you'll be pre-approved for a loan at a certain amount. (Sweet.) VISIT OPEN HOUSES, AND LOOK AROUND Now that you have both an agent who knows your housing preferences and a budget -- and a lender to finance a house within that budget -- it's time to get serious about viewing homes. Your agent will provide listings you may like based on your parameters (price range, ZIP codes, features), and will also help you determine the quality of listings you find online. Then comes the fun part: Open houses and private showings, which give you the unique opportunity to evaluate properties in a way you can't online.

NEGOTIATE, NEGOTIATE, NEGOTIATE Making an offer can feel like an emotional precipice, almost like asking someone out on a date. Do they like me? Am I good enough? Will they say yes? It's stressful! Some home sellers simply accept the best offer they receive, but many sellers make a counteroffer. If that happens, it's up to you to decide whether you want your agent to negotiate with the seller or walk away. This is an area where your agent can provide real value by using their expert negotiating skills to haggle on your behalf and nab you the best deal. GET THE PLACE INSPECTED If your offer is accepted, then you'll sign a contract. Most sales contracts include a home inspection contingency, which means you'll hire a licensed or certified home inspector to inspect the home for needed repairs, and then ask the seller to have those repairs made. This mitigates your risk of buying a house that has major issues lurking beneath the surface, like mold or cracks in the foundation. (No one wants that.) Here's what to expect. ACE THE APPRAISAL When you offer to buy a home, your lender will need to have the home appraised to make sure the property value is enough to cover the mortgage. If the home appraises close to the agreed-upon purchase price, you're one step closer to settlement -- but a low appraisal can add a wrinkle. Not one you can't deal with. Here's how to prepare. CLOSE THE DEAL The last stage of the home-buying process is settlement, or closing. This is when you sign the final ownership and insurance paperwork and make this whole thing official. There's some prep work you have to take care of first. When it's all said and done -- break out the ros?. You'll have the keys to your new home! Article From HouseLogic.com

MAKE AN OFFER Once you find the home you want to buy, you'll work with your agent to craft an offer that not only specifies the price you're willing to pay but also the proposed settlement date and contingencies -- other conditions that

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Live, Laugh and Love on

Valentine’s Day By Dolores Hoffman

alentine’s Day was originally held to celebrate St.Valentine who sent the first known love letter to his beloved. Although Valentine’s Day is full of romance, it’s also a celebration of love and has become a time for families to celebrate together. Below are some creative ways to enjoy Valentine’s Day as a family. DECORATE Remember when you made those paper doilies with the heart in the middle when you were little? Kids love crafts. Use materials found around the house like egg cartons, crayons, boxes, etc., to create your own valentine-themed masterpieces. Place them around the house, and decorate the table with candy conversation hearts and confetti. A friend of mine has a scavenger hunt each year. She hides hearts around the house with clues to the next heart, leading to a Valentine’s surprise for the kids. VALENTINE’S DINNER Involve the whole family in the meal preparation from setting the table to baking the dessert. Don’t think you’re limited to just the evening meal. Heart-shaped pancakes and strawberry-flavored milk can set the tone for the day. For dinner, you can buy heart-shaped ravioli or pizza and combine kid-friendly foods like curly fries with ketchup. The children can make red Jell-o and chocolate-covered strawberries for dessert. Kids love to help in the kitchen! It’s a great way to spend more time together as a family and a great way to create lasting memories. VALENTINE’S EVE PARTY Valentine’s Day isn’t over after the dinner. You can play board games, make popcorn and watch a favorite family movie together or go out to

8 | January/February 2020

see a movie. Most family-themed movies have a healthy dose of romance in them, and the theater is less likely to be busy because most couples stay at home or go to restaurants for Valentine’s Day. START A TRADITION Every Easter, my grandmother would give us bathing suits as a gift. Why not start a Valentine’s gift tradition like buying new pajamas or a small gift for the kids? The tradition is what matters the most. Don’t forget the tiny heart-shaped box of chocolates; the day wouldn’t be complete without them! SHARE YOUR LOVE STORY What better time than Valentine’s Day to tell your children your story as a couple — how you met and fell in love. Keep it sweet and age-appropriate. Your kids might roll their eyes but inwardly, they’ll love hearing their parents say nice things about each other. Kiss each other on the cheek, and watch them wrinkle their noses! KEEP YOUR DATE A good way to celebrate Valentine’s Day is to keep one night that week reserved for just you and your spouse. Making time for “Date Night” is always a challenge, but it’s important for a healthy marriage which benefits the children. So whether it’s a late night alone, time together or a dinner out, be sure to add this in around Valentine’s Day. Whether you’re married or a single parent, Valentine’s Day is an important reminder to share the wonder of love with your children, and even if you’re planning on doing something with your significant other this Valentine’s Day, remember to spend time as a family, too.

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THINGS TO DO INDOORS

a drink while their children play. I know a martini or glass of wine is just the thing that some of us moms need!” Weir said. Don’t feel like golf? No problem. The simulators offer a range of game options like Home Run Derby, High Heat Pitching, Quarterback Challenge, Field Goal Kicking, Basketball Shoot Out and Bocce Ball. For the kids, or kids at heart, there’s also Zombie Dodgeball. The Sim Rooms at Atlantic City Country Club and Scotland Run are great ways to pass a cold winter’s day, and an even better way to celebrate a birthday or other milestone. “Personally, I had my son’s birthday party in November in our simulator room, and it was perfect. The stairs that separate the main level and lower level create the perfect atmosphere for parents and children to have a great time together,” Weir shared. “It’s a great time. Perfect balance of child play and relaxation for adults. The games do not just include golf but offer basketball, soccer, hockey, dodgeball, and more!”

To Get You And Your Kids Through Winter

he weather outside may be frightful, but that won’t stop families from enjoying a delightful time hitting the virtual links and more at two of Ottinger Golf Group’s exclusive properties: Atlantic City Country Club in Northfield and Scotland Run Country Club in Williamstown. Ottinger Golf Group promises it’s always sunny and 70 inside its state-of-the-art golf simulator rooms. Guests can escape winter’s worst in the Club 1897 Virtual Golf & Sport room at the Atlantic City Country Club and play the best of 84 golf courses from around the world. That, along with Simulator Fun at Scotland Run, offer courses like Pebble Beach, Oakmont, and Torrey Pines. No detail has been overlooked, with the simulators giving players the real feel of every tree, bunker and patch of grass unique to each course. They were installed a year ago and have been a hit with guests. “The simulator rooms are something different to your normal indoor activities. I mean we have all been to the same places time and time again, I am sure of as a mother. The same places get old and feel repetitive,” Ashley Weir, restaurant manager at the Atlantic City Country Club, said. “These rooms are different and very enjoyable for mom as well as children.”

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The room marries luxury and fun. Upon entering, guests see nice high-top tables and a bar. They walk down some steps into an area with couches and tables perched around the simulators. Each simulator can accommodate up to four players. (There are three simulators at the Atlantic City location.) Novice and master alike can receive advice on how to use the simulator from a pro before their first “fore!” The simulators work using high-speed cameras and infrared radar, making them the most accurate on the market to deliver a realistic golfing experience.

“The Sim Rooms at Atlantic City Country Club and Scotland Run are great ways to pass a cold winter’s day, and an even better way to celebrate a birthday or other milestone” While enjoying a round of golf, guests can also quench their thirst and indulge their cravings with everything from bar food to gourmet cuisine from the club’s onsite restaurants. “Well, for mom and dad they are more than welcome to utilize our bar and enjoy

Prices, times and availability vary by location. Special discounts are available for club members. Weir suggests booking at least a week in advance. For more information about booking your child’s next party or an afternoon with friends at the Club 1897 Virtual Golf & Sport room at the Atlantic City Country Club, call 609-236-4400. To book at Scotland Run, call 856-863-3737. The Atlantic City Country Club, the “Birthplace of the Birdie,” is located at One Leo Fraser Drive in Northfield. For more information, visit accountryclub.com. Scotland Run Country Club is located just 20 minutes outside Philadelphia at 2626 Fries Mill Road in Williamstown. Visit them at scotlandrun.com. Ottinger Golf Group’s third exclusive property, Ballamor Golf Club, is located at 6071 English Creek Ave. in Egg Harbor Township. Visit them at ballamor.com.

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An Open Letter to the Tooth Fairy: Tips to Help You in 2020! By Samantha Gill

Dear Tooth Fairy, I thought I would write you this letter to help give you some tips. I know that you’ve been in this business for a LONG time; however, I also know that once you’ve been doing something for a while things can get stale. I know, I know… it’s not easy being the Tooth Fairy. The Elf on the Shelf only has to appear for a month and a half. Santa and the Easter Bunny only ONE night! The Tooth Fairy has to work 365 days a year! Quite a gig! So here are some 2020 ideas to help you be the best Tooth Fairy you can be! MAKE IT SPARKLE! You know those cans of glitter hairspray you see at the store, and you think to yourself, “Why in the WORLD would anyone want to use that on their hair?!” Well, instead, you can save on glitter, and spray all of your magical Tooth Fairy money with it. When you put a glittery dollar or two in place of a tooth, that’s pretty “fairy-like” and almost magical. LEAVE A RECEIPT: Wouldn’t hurt in this day and age to leave a receipt -- after all, our kids are pretty savvy. It could even have a bar code at the bottom and say “customer copy”… very cute…. .COM: I’m sure you’re already aware, but our generation is all about proof and computers… our kids are smart. Did you know you can prove to them that you REALLY DID arrive!? I know… so crazy... but true… There’s this website: toothfairy.capturethemagic.com, and it will provide the kids with a picture of you putting the tooth under their pillow! It’s almost like fairy-surveillance! DON’T HURT YOURSELF: When I was a kid, my tooth was put in a handkerchief and put under my pillow. I’m sure this was incredibly inconvenient. I mean it’s completely reasonable to hang a tooth fairy pillow on the end of their bed or placed on their bedside table to help not disturb any children while they’re sleeping… Almost like a drive-through… PERSONALIZE: With all of that technology and speediness being said, it’s still nice to add a bit of personalization to it…A note with something very specific (and sprayed with glitter, too) is awesome. “Dear Elizabeth, I can’t believe your tooth came out while eating a waffle! You love waffles! So do I! You’re such a good listener for your Mommy -- keep up the good work. xo The Tooth Fairy.” And just remember, no matter what, it’s the magic that counts. The thought that you’re believed in and that the kids are excited…that’s all that matters!

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summer camp guide

Camp Touring and How to Find a Camp

By Jess Michaels

CAMP FAIRS Camp fairs are free events that take place on weekends and bring dozens of camps straight to parents, allowing them to have one-onone conversations with many camp directors all within a few hours of time. Both day and sleepaway camps are represented for campers ages 3–17. Camp fairs give families an opportunity to ask the director key questions about their summer camp program.

f you’re considering day or sleepaway camp for your child next summer, a good way for parents and children to get a feel for a camp is to tour this summer. Scheduling camp tours before sending your child to camp gives the future camper and family a chance to see camps in session which helps you understand the camp’s culture and program. During camp tours, families can observe children taking part in all the fun activities the camp offers, see the bunks and get a layout of the camp. Tours also give parents a chance to ask the camp director questions while in the camp environment. It’s essential for parents to make sure they click with the camp director and ask key questions about the camp. If it’s not possible to tour the camp during the summer, schedule a tour in the offseason so you can see the facilities and still get a feel for the camp environment. There are many summer camps to choose from and touring can help families narrow down the options while also giving a child the feeling that he/ she is part of the process of choosing the camp. The more involved a child feels in the decision making, the more successful the camp experience will be. An alternative to the camp tour are Rookie Days or Rookie Weekends. Various camps call these days something different; however, these days are intended to give future campers a chance to experience the camp in session. During Rookie Days, future

12 | January/February 2020

HOME VISITS Oftentimes, the camp director will come to your home to meet with you and your child. Ask the camp director about the camps’ mission statement and what type of child is successful at their camp. The more open families are with camp directors, the better informed they’ll be when it comes to making a decision. A director can help guide you and determine the most appropriate fit.

OPEN HOUSES Many camps have open houses that offer families a chance to see the camp facilities and get a feel for the camp. These events are a good opportunity for families to get to know the camp director and ask questions about the camp philosophy and program while in the camp setting. Check with the camps you’re interested in to see if they’ll host any open houses.

“ Each camp is

different and has its own feel and culture ”

campers take part in the camp activities, and sometimes stay over in a bunk. While children enjoy the camp activities, parents are taken on a tour of the camp. This experience helps kids get a real feel for a day in the life of a camper and can be a great way for a child and parents to get a sense of what the camp is like to determine if the camp is the right fit for them. “Each camp is different and has its own feel and culture,” says Renee Flax, Director of Camper Placement for the American Camp Association, NY and NJ. “Touring during the summer allows families to observe a camp in action and get a good sense of whether the camp is the right fit for their child.” If you can’t fit summer camp tours into your summer schedule, don’t worry. There are other ways to find out about a camp program and what camp environment will be a good fit for your child. TALK TO THE CAMP DIRECTOR Call the camp director and ask some key questions to find out about a camp’s philosophy and if it matches your own. Get to know the camp director through phone calls and correspondence.

LOOK AT WEBSITE, VIDEO AND BROCHURES Parents and campers can look over a camp’s website, brochure and video. They’ll give families a sense of what a particular camp is like. Most camp websites have photo slide shows, videos, virtual tours and maps which will give parents and children a glimpse of the camp and the camp program. Many camps also include a sample daily schedule so families can see what a typical day at camp is like. Camps will also send you a DVD upon request so you and your child can view the camp and see campers and counselors engaged in camp activities. Contact the American Camp Association, NY and NJ for Free Advice. Are you not sure where to begin your camp search? You may contact the American Camp Association, NY and NJ’s Director of Camper Placement, Renee Flax, for free, one-on-one advice in finding the right camp for your child. Renee can help you narrow down the choices based on your child’s interests and your family’s needs. You can contact Renee Flax at 1-800777-CAMP (2267).

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IGNITING CREATIVITY KINDNESS & CONFIDENCE!

OVERNIGHT CAMP AGES 7-17 • CO-ED Transformative Arts & Learning

I am incredibly

grateful to have been

given the seed of expression here that will

grow into a beautiful

me-tree!” — Levi

AppelFarmArtsCamp.org

STEM BASED

SUMMER CAMPS For Girls & Boys!

• Robotics Club • After School Programs • Competition Teams • Programming & Coding Young Engineers 6-8 years old

INCREASE ENROLLMENT IN YOUR SUMMER CAMP! When it comes to reaching moms in the area, South Jersey MOM has the recipe for success. Advertising your camp to our readers will win you more high quality leads, higher sales conversion and increased enrollment...which means, increased profits!

Call today for details! 609.670.1794 or email chris@superiorgx.com

LIBERTY LAKE SUMMER DAY CAMP Liberty Lake Day Camp is a transformative experience, teaching life skills to inspire young people to change the world. Campers enjoy 60 magnificent shady acres -OUTDOORS & SCREEN-FREE. Kids can customize their day with the “Freedom of Choice” elective program - 60+ activities. Open Houses: Jan. 26, Feb. 9, March 1 & 22, April 5 & 26, May 17. www.libertylakedaycamp.com

Camp runs weekly starting in July For more information call 856.424.2777 or email contact@njres.org LEGO Robotics 9-12 years old

VEX Robotics 12 years and up

ROBOTECH Educational Services Inc. 3815 Church Road, Suite 7 • Mt. Laurel, NJ 08054

856.424.2777 • www.njres.org www.southjerseymom.com

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TREND UP, FRIEND UP By Matthew Brenner and Rochelle Gilken

ooking to start a new workout and want to step into the trends of 2020? We’re not talking about goat yoga here. (It’s a real thing.) To keep up with the focused fitness industry trends of 2020, it’s not about fad. It’s simply: Get tech and tell your friends. We always have the same goals: eat better, lose weight, exercise more often. But every year we grow and evolve and prefer different methods to reach those goals. The trend now is all about sharing your fitness journey, whether it’s in person through dynamic group classes with accountability or the latest technology apps. Group classes are growing. A class structure that’s gaining in popularity is one that allows participants to interact with other people in it. Having a partner workout or engaging fitness helps increase accountability and maintain interest for a longer period of time. Soul Cycle, Zumba and those traditional step classes (who remembers those?) are group classes with an instructor who teaches everyone at the same time, but each person does an individual workout. With innovative classes, students work together to complete goals and motivate each other. CrossFit gyms incorporate aspects of teamwork and competition into the workout. A bonus trend for parents is fitness classes that provide parents and children the chance to participate together. This is a trend with popular fitness programs such as yoga as well as martial arts because they provide a safe and challenging environment for all ages.

14 | January/February 2020

Rather than parents dropping off their kids for an activity or sitting in the waiting area, parents maximize their time by joining their child’s class. Parents don’t want to give up on their goals anymore, but still prioritize their children. This trend accomplishes both. The American College of Sports Medicine Worldwide Survey of Fitness Trends for 2020 placed HIIT training at the top of the list for trends, replacing wearable technology, which dropped to the third spot. HIIT training is high intensity bursts of training for short periods of time. Fitness professionals will write the workout on a whiteboard with quick intense challenges. Technology continues to transform how we workout. The FitBit is a trend from the past few years that continues to be extremely popular. But it’s not simply about collecting your steps like a pedometer of the past. It’s about having the opportunity to share it, to set a goal and track it over time with technology. Apps such as MyFitnessPal and Nike+ Training take the sharing to friends who can help to provide encouragement and affirmation. There are even apps such as Step Bet in which you can bet on your weight loss, providing a financial incentive for meeting your goal. What’s next in technology? Fitness games such as Wii are clearing the way for new Virtual Reality workout adventures. Look for those to keep setting a new technology wave. Whether you try it or not, you can make sure your ideal body is a reality if you commit to any of these fitness trends.

When calling advertisers, please say you saw it in SJMOM!

www.southjerseymom.com

NEW ALLERGY AND ASTHMA SERVICES STARTING JANUARY 2020 SHASHANK S. SHETH , MD ALLERGY & ASTHMA DOCTOR Dr. Shashank Sheth is a board certified allergist and immunologist and has over 15 years experience in adult and pediatric allergy and asthma care. He was voted Philadelphia Magazineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Top Doc in Allergy & Immunology in 2018 and 2019. Dr. Sheth evaluates and treats all types of allergies (environmental, food, drug, insect) and specializes in asthma, chronic cough, recurrent infections, and allergic eczema.

(856) 602-4000

OUR LOCATIONS

advancedent.com Haddonfield Mansfield

SAME DAY APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE!

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