Family & Kids Chatt Valley Jan 17

JANUARY 2017

Wise Choices for Moms & Families

© Jessica Mitchell Photography

CHATTAHOOCHEE VALLEY

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Wise Choices for You & Your Family

Dr. Cathy Cook

Gentle Dentistry for the Entire Family!

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Shy Kids

HOO’s PARENTING

If your child is shy, venturing into situations like a crowded birthday party can be challenging. Your child may not want to leave your side and perhaps just looks at people who try to have a conversation with him. For some kids, being shy is a personality trait and not a cause for worry. However, a child who acts shy but seems angry and unhappy may be hiding from others due to low self-esteem. Here are some tips to help your shy child successfully cope with new situations he will encounter as he grows and develops.

SHY BUT HAPPY CHILD If your child is shy but seems to be selfconfident and happy, he just needs your gentle coaching to help him cope with new social situations. It is part of his personality to be reserved when meeting others and to choose his friends carefully. A shy child who is happy and confident probably is very caring, kind and empathetic, and others enjoy being around him. There is no reason to try to change his personality but you can provide him with the coping skills he needs to ease into social situations that might be difficult for him.

LARGE FAMILY GATHERINGS If your shy child is attending a family gathering or a wedding that will be crowded with relatives he does not know, discuss the event with him ahead of time. Let him know that he does not have to have a long conversation when someone speaks to him but you at least expect him to be polite and offer responses. When you arrive at the wedding, set an example and model good social skills by being friendly to other guests you don’t know.

PLAYDATES If your shy child has difficulty interacting with his peers in large groups, help him work on his social skills by inviting one or two friends over for a playdate. Give him some positive feedback when you do notice him doing a

good job building new relationships with his peers, and if he does run into difficulty, gently give him some suggestions on how he could have approached the situation differently. Gradually add more kids to these planned gatherings and offer suggestions that may make him more comfortable about joining in. However, allow him to decide when he is ready to join in, instead of forcing him to participate.

SHY BUT ANGRY CHILD Some kids have low self-esteem and label themselves as shy to avoid having to interact with others. They are afraid others won’t like them. These kids are not just shy, they are angry and withdrawn. They seem to have a storm brewing inside of them, and won’t make eye contact when spoken to. If this is similar to your child, first try building up his self-esteem. Talk with your child to see what is causing his anger and dislike of himself.

Use positive methods of disciplining him, so that you don’t reinforce his anger and self-dislike and be sure to praise him when he does something well. Once you have increased his confidence, he may be willing to use his social skills. If you find you are at a standstill and are having difficulty resolving your child’s angry feelings, you may need to seek the help of a professional.

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Wise Choices for You & Your Family

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Tammy Usie Publisher

TheValley.com

Tammy@HooKnows

253-212-7270 Cell

Dear Parents of the Chattahoochee Valley, Welcome to our handy, parenting resource guide. I hope you will find lots of helpful choices on products and services for you and your family, along with some informative articles, handy resources and fun features.

If you like our magazine, then you’ll love our website, www.

HooKnowsTheValley.com. There you can read our magazine online, find other resources and use our SHOPPING DIRECTORY. This virtual buying guide provides our readers with a comprehensive list of local, family-friendly businesses. Plus with the ability for consumers to leave reviews on these businesses, it will help other parents make buying decisions. I invite you to go leave a few reviews to help us build this resource and share them with other parents like yourself.

AD DEADLINES

The 1st of the month for the next month’s issue

Tammy Usie

HOO KNOWS SPECIAL FEATURES Hoo’s crafty.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 23

HOO’S hungry.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 7

HOO’S Fun.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 18

hoo’s inspired.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 11

HOO’S healthy.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 9 & 13

hoo’s Parenting.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 3

hoo’s Helpful.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 29 HOO KNOWS® Community Digest does not assume responsibility for products and services listed in this magazine. Ads may not be reproduced, in any way, without written consent. HOO KNOWS® is a trademark of Cinah Media Group LLC. For information on operating your own digest, contact us at 1-888-HOO-5609.

Where to Find HOO? Publix: Columbus & Phenix City Chick fil-A: Columbus & Phenix City Family & Kids of the Chattahoochee Valley

PLUS: Check your local kid-friendly doctors & dentists, attractions, restaurants & retail shops.

Children attending FT Benning daycares, preschools & elementary schools each receive a copy, as well as elementary students at most all private schools in Columbus & Phenix City...plus all kids attending major daycares and preschools.

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www.HooKnowsTheValley.com

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SHOPPING GUIDE activities Academy Dance.................................. 13 Chattahoochee Valley Libraries.... 19 Clement Arts/ Studio Elevare........ 25 CORTA Tennis.....................................20 Elite Dance........................................... 19 iCON Wrestling...................................22 Painting with a Twist......................... 8 Kids Camp & Summer Fun Fair....... 7 Performance Dance Centre..............11 Prodigy Dance Centre....................... 14 RiverCenter..........................................32 The Columbus Museum...................25

TELL THEM Childcare/ education Brookstone School............................. 31 SENT YOU! Calvary Christian...............................30 East West Carlson Gracie Team....... 2 Emanuel Prep School.......................28 First Presbyterian Day School....... 31 Glenwood School...............................28 Grace Christian School....................28 Growing Room....................................27 Kumon...................................................26 Lakewood Child Development ......27 Mathnasium........................................26 Night Owl Kids Care............................ 7 St. Luke Schools.................................30 Sylvan Learning Center...................26 Westminster Christian.....................28

Food & Beverage Chick-fil-A.............................................. 5 Chill Yogurt Cafe................................ 19

healthcare Columbus Counseling......................22 Columbus Spine & Performance...22 Comprehensive Women’s Care...... 25 Cook Dental Care.................................. 2 Dr. Alberto Lugo, DMD......................22 Family Counseling of Columbus.... 11 Pediatric Dentistry of Columbus... 14 Pediatrics at Brookstone Centre..... 8 Rivertown Pediatrics........................20

Home/ Handy Mary Varner, Realtor.........................20 Turfscapes Lawncare........................22 Warehouse World Mini Storage.....22

Shopping/ Retail Jessica Fowler Photography..........22 Mickayla’s Place - Resale.................. 5 Once Upon A Child - Resale...........23

VENDOR BOOTHS NOW ON SALE! 7th Annual Kids Camp & Summer Fun Fair y March 12 - National Infantry Museum Call2T1a2m-7m270 Powered by: Family & Kids and MuscogeeMoms.com

253-

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HOO’s HUNGRY ELSA’S FAVORITE

HOT CHOCOLATE

This recipe is simple, delicious, and the amazing color makes it almost too beautiful to drink. I can’t wait to make it on our next movie night.

DIRECTIONS In a small pot over med/low heat...heat the milk and white chocolate chips. Bring to a simmer, stirring the whole time. Do not bring to a boil.

Stir until all the chocolate chips have fully melted. Remove from the heat.

Stir in vanilla and 3 drops of food coloring.

Serve in a clear fancy glass, so your littles can enjoy the beautiful blue color, top with whipped cream and finally garnish with sprinkles and maybe a fancy straw.

Best if enjoyed with your favorite winter movies!

INGREDIENTS • 1/2 Cup White Chocolate Chips • 1 3/4 Cup Milk • 1/4 TSP Vanilla Extract • Neon Blue Food Coloring • Whipped Cream • Frozen Inspired Sprinkles

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Wise Choices for You & Your Family

HOO’S PLUGGED IN WWW.HoOKNOWSTHEVALLEY.COM Visit our website to get plugged in, join our HOOsLetter list, read our online issue, and enter contests.

starting in march Issue

Camp & Activities Guide 20 1 7 advertising deadline

FEb. 1

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HOO’s HEALTHY

tips for preparing for multiples The number of U.S. parents expecting twins and triplets has reached an all-time high according to the National Center for Health Statistics. Multiple births make up a small portion of births in general, but since 1980, multiples numbers have been on the rise. The number of twins born in the U.S. has increased the most. Along with twice the cuteness comes twice the workload. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) offers parents of multiples some handy preparation tips: Keep in mind that “multiples” are often born early and tend to be smaller than the average newborn.

The AAP says parents may need to visit with their pediatrician more often than usual and reach out for help with feeding concerns or strategies.

And then there are the diapers- lots and lots of diapers! Go ahead and start purchasing your diapers ahead of time. The more you have stocked away before your little ones are born, the less worries you’ll have about running out when you need them most. Also, you’ll be able to gage about how many you’ll need when you start shopping again.

Having multiples also means fitting more safety seats into the car, more clothing, more food and possibly even a larger home! Check out how well your home is going to work for a larger family and plan accordingly.

One of the most important things for parents to consider is making sure that each child has their own identity. Multiples may share everything, but they are individuals and should be raised as such.

Identical twins, in particular, may seem like a duo, and parents might be tempted to give them the same things and the same amount of attention. But even genetically identical children have different personalities, thoughts and emotions. The AAP urges parents to acknowledge and support their

The

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Kids

Doctor

Sue Hubbard, MD kidsdr.com

differences to help them become happy and secure individuals.

If you have other children, remember they need special attention too. It’s easy to overlook the older kids when the new kids on the block are demanding so much attention.

As multiples grow, they may form exclusive bonds and may even communicate in a way only they can understand. Sometimes, they become unwilling to seek out other friendships. Giving multiples some time apart can help them develop friendships and ensure that other siblings aren’t left out, the academy says. And efforts to encourage multiples to spend time apart should start early to head off resistance. Most elementary schools place multiples in separate classes, the news release noted. Parents who are concerned about preventing separation anxiety can turn to their pediatrician for advice.

Don’t be afraid to ask for help! Multiples demand a lot of attention. If your budget allows, hire someone to clean the house a few days a week. Grandparents, uncles and aunts, or brothers and sisters may be willing to pitch in and give you some much needed down time or date time. Don’t forget about your friends – while you may think it’s too much of an imposition, they may love being able to spend some quality time with your children – then turn them back over to you!

Take turns getting up at night for feedings and changings. Giving your spouse a few hours of uninterrupted sleep will do wonders for your relationship.

There’s a lot to prepare for when multiples are involved but the rewards are great. It may feel a little overwhelming at first, but eventually you will figure out a routine that works for everyone.

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Wise Choices for You & Your Family

HOO’S at the Movies 10

MONSTER TRUCKS PG | Ok for kids 7+ Tripp (Lucas Till), a high school senior, builds a Monster Truck from bits and pieces of scrapped cars. After an accident at an oil-drilling site displaces a strange creature with a taste for speed, Tripp may have just found a most unlikely friend. Melding cutting edge visual effects and CGI, Monster Trucks is an action-filled adventure that will keep you on the edge of your seat and touch your heart. Directed by Chris Wedge, starring Lucas Till, Danny Glover, Rob Lowe and Amy Ryan.

A dog’s purpose PG | Ok for kids 8+ Based on the beloved bestselling novel by W. Bruce Cameron, “A Dog’s Purpose,” from director Lasse Hallström (“The Cider House Rules,” “Dear John,” “The 100-Foot Journey”), shares the soulful and surprising story of one devoted dog (voiced by Josh Gad) who finds the meaning of his own existence through the lives of the humans he teaches to laugh and love. This family film told from the dog’s perspective also stars Dennis Quaid, Britt Robertson and Peggy Lipton.

hidden figures PG | Ok for kids 9+ Directed by Theodore Melfi, “Hidden Figures” is the incredible untold story of Katherine G. Johnson (Taraji P. Henson), Dorothy Vaughan (Octavia Spencer) and Mary Jackson (Janelle Monáe).

These brilliant African-American women working at NASA served as the brains behind one of the greatest operations in history: the launch of astronaut John Glenn into orbit. This achievement restored the nation’s confidence, turned around the Space Race, and galvanized the world. Also stars Kevin Costner, Kirsten Dunst, Jim Parsons, Mahershala Ali, Aldis Hodge and Glen Powell.

NEW ON DVD | BLU-RAY: harry and snowman NR | Ok for kids 13+ Follows the story of Dutch immigrant Harry deLeyer and his relationship with a broken down Amish plow horse –named Snowman – that he rescued off a truck bound for the glue factory. In less than two years, Harry and Snowman would go on to win the triple crown of show jumping, beating the nation’s blue bloods and traveling the world together as they became the media darlings of the 1950s and 60s. Their chance meeting at a Pennsylvania horse auction saved them both and crafted a friendship that would last a lifetime, as told by 86-year-old Harry firsthand.

i’m not ashamed PG-13 | Ok for kids 14+ Columbine High School student Rachel Joy Scott grew up knowing the love of God but wasn’t always ready to receive it. At times her faith is strong, but at other times, she finds that it’s at odds with her daily life. After a difficult breakup with her non-believing boyfriend, Rachel finds inspiration from a formerly homeless teen, and her renewed commitment to Christ plays out powerfully at her high school and around the world. Based on a true story.

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HOO’s INSPIRED

Grandparents KEEPING IN TOUCH WITH

There's no arguing grandparents have special relationships with their grandchildren. But as with all relationships, they only grow stronger by the efforts you make to keep them. Here are a few ideas to help you keep in better touch.

PLAY GAMES ONLINE TOGETHER Technology can be a wonderful way for different generations to connect long-distance. Beyond phone and video calls, schedule time for grandkids and grandparents to play virtually. There are numerous programs that let players in different locations challenge each other to cards, checkers, chess, interactive sketching and more.

SCHEDULE WEEKLY PHONE CALLS Making a weekly phone date ensures everyone stays in touch, and gives both parties a connection time to look forward to all week.

READ A BOOK TOGETHER The written word has a way of bringing people together. Pull up video calling for the whole family to read a goodnight story together. Older kids can select a series of interest with their grandparents and read at the same time, meeting each week via a video/ phone for a discussion. Perhaps family members can take turns selecting books to share.

PEN PAL EXCHANGES In a digital world, it's rare to receive letters. However, kids love to get mail, so why not start a pen pal exchange?

Small kids can color pictures while big kids can practice penmanship and writing skills. Everyone will love receiving fun surprises in the mail from each other. Strive to send items on a regular basis.

VIDEO PERFORMANCES If you cannot connect in-person, send a video performance! Whether it's the year's dance recital choreography, practicing a new tune on the piano, or acting out a fun play, kids will enjoy showing off and grandparents will feel extra loved.

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Wise Choices for You & Your Family

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HOO’s CUTE

CONTEST Visit our website to enter: w w w. h o o k n o w s t h e v a l l e y. c o m

Charline, 11 months Phenix City

Cooper, 1 year Columbus

Everett, 10 months Columbus

Roll with it.

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HOO’s HEALTHY Kids in the age range of 9 to 12 years old have a little more freedom to make choices about what they eat and about their daily routine. Here are some tips to remember when coaching your tween on making lifestyle choices that will keep them healthy and happy.

Keep communication open. First, make an effort to keep communication between you and your tween open.

Try not to lecture or preach. Especially avoid negative comments about her weight or body type.

Teach your child healthy skin care and oral hygiene habits, like washing her face and brushing her teeth twice a day. If her skin is oily and she is prone to breakouts, help her find the right cleanser for preventing acne.

Keep healthy food in the house.

Leave the sweet treats for special occasions and keep the kitchen

TWEEN BODY HEALTH

stocked with plenty of fresh fruit, veggies, and other healthy snacks.

You don’t need to put your tween on a diet. Just teach her to eat right.

However, remember that begins by setting a good example by eating right yourself.

Get your child involved in sports.

A combination of watching what your family eats and keeping your family moving helps ensure your tween stays at a healthy weight. If your child does not enjoy team sports, try an activity like swimming or running.

If your child is overweight despite efforts to eat right and exercise,

speak with your child’s health care provider. Your child may be scheduled for an obesity evolution and tested for any conditions that accompany obesity, such as high blood pressure and type 2 diabetes.

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Wise Choices for You & Your Family

Dining Deals

www.HooKnowsTheValley.com

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With deals this good, save the mess and dine out!

MONDAY Chick-fil-A, Phenix City

5-7:30p: Free kid’s meal with regular priced combo

wednesday Applebee’s

Chick-fil-A, Wynnton Rd

Kids’ meals are half off with the purchase of an adult entrée. Limit: 4 kids per adult

Chill Yogurt Cafe & Pizzeria

thursday

5-7:30p: $.99 kid’s meal with regular priced combo Kids 12 & under eat free (1 topping 8” pizza & drink) with purchase of adult entrée (11” pizza and a drink). Limit 1 per adult. Dine in only.

Zaxby’s 5-8pm: Free kid’s meal with adult entrée

Tuesday

MOE’s Southwest Grill

5-9pm: Free kid’s meal per $5 minimum adult entrée

sunday Steak & Shake

Free kid’s meal with every $8 purchase

Atlanta Bread Company

Stevi B’s Pizza

Chill Yogurt Cafe & Pizzeria

Texas Roadhouse

Denny’s

Monday-Friday

5pm-close: Free kid’s meal with an adult meal Buy one regular 11” pizza, get one of equal or less value at 50% off with valid school ID. Limit 1 per customer, with ID only.

4-10pm: Up to two free kids’ entrées with adult entrée. For kids 10 and under

Ruby Tuesday

5-10pm: 2 kids under 13 eat free with adult entrée

TGI Friday’s

3-10pm: Kids under 13 eat free with adult entrée

Kids eat for $.99 after 4pm Sundays: Kids 12 & under get Jr. Kids Meal for $1.99 with adult entrée (certain holidays are excluded)

Steak & Shake Happy Hour, 1/2 price shakes or drinks from 2-5pm

every day Golden Corral

Kids 3 & under eat free with adult meal purchase

Hartz Chicken Buffet

Children 3 & under eat free with purchase of an adult entrée. Kids ages 5-7 get discounted prices

All locations are Columbus, GA unless noted. Specials are subject to change without notice.

Please verify them directly before dining. If you know of a kid’s special not listed here, contact Tammy@HooKnowsTheValley.com.

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JANUARY PROVIDED IN PARTNERSHIP WITH:

1

First Day Hike. 1pm. $5 parking. Ages 8+. F. D. Roosevelt State Park; gastateparks.com/ FDRoosevelt

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Public Ice Skating. 2-7pm.

Columbus Ice Rink; columbusicerink.org

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Disney Character Party.

10:30pm. Mildred Terry Library; cvlga.org

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Minecraft Monday. 4pm. Free.

North Columbus Public Library; cvlga.org

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Fantasy in Lights. 6pm. Callaway Gardens, Pine Mountain; callawaygardens.com

La Leche League meeting.

10am. Columbus Library, 3000 Macon Rd; lllofga.org/columbus.html

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Family Fun Day. 10:30amNoon. Peachtree Mall

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LEGO Skyline London and Chicago event. 7pm. Barnes & Noble, 5555 Whittlesey Blvd.

706-653-7880

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Columbus Cottonmouths game. 7:30pm. $9-$30. Columbus Civic Center; columbusciviccenter.com

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Home Depot Kids Workshop.

9am-Noon. Free. Ages 5-12.

Columbus store; 706-3229240. Phenix City store; 334297-2045

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Puppy Tales. 10:30am. North Columbus Library; cvlga.org

I Saw the Sign: ASL Storytime.

4pm. North Columbus Library; cvlga.org

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Lightning Thief. 7pm. RiverCenter; rivercenter.org

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Second Saturday. 10amNoon. Columbus Museum; columbusmuseum.com

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Columbus Cottonmouths game. 7:30pm. $9-$30. Columbus Civic Center; www. columbusciviccenter.com

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Columbus Cottonmouths game. 4pm. $9-$30. Columbus Civic Center; www.columbusciviccenter.com

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Martin Luther King Day Hike.

1-4pm. $5 parking. Ages 8+.

FDR State Park; gastateparks. com/FDRoosevelt

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MOPS meeting.

9:3011:30am. Wynnbrook Baptist Church, 500 River Knoll Way; 706-323-4374 or wynnbrookbaptist.com

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Black History Trivia Challenge for Kids. 3pm. South Columbus Library; cvlga.org

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Face 2 Face Teen Support Group. 6pm. Free. Ages 1318. Columbus Counseling Assoc; ccacolumbus.com/

20-22

Fiddler on the Roof. 7:30pm.

Sun. 2pm. CSU Riverside Theatre, 901 Front Ave; 706507-8444 or theatre.columbusstate.edu

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I Saw the Sign: ASL Storytime.

4pm. North Columbus Library; cvlga.org

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Family Night at Your Library.

6:30pm. Mildred Terry Library; cvlga.org

Y EVENTS

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Wild Kratts - Live! 6:30pm. $29+. RiverCenter; www.rivercenter.org

26-28

Fiddler on the Roof. 7:30pm.

CSU Riverside Theatre, 901 Front Avenue; 706-507-8444 or theatre.columbusstate.edu

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Friday Family Flicks: The Jungle Book (PG). 3pm. South Columbus Library; cvlga.org

27-28

Columbus Cottonmouths game. 7:30pm. $9-$30. Columbus Civic Center; columbusciviccenter.com

28

Young Eagles Day at Flightways Columbus.

8:3011:30am. Free. Ages 8-17.

Columbus Airport; 706-3236565 or youngeagles.com/ flightplan/flight.asp

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Family Storytime. 11:30pm.

Columbus Library; cvlga.org

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S’MORES Concert for Kids.

12:30-3:30pm $3-$5. RiverCenter; 706-256-3640 or csoga.org/smores

WEEKLY EVENTS WEDNESDAY

Creative Crawlers. 10:30am.

A drop-in social hour that encourages children to learn through play and art. Columbus Public Library; cvlga.org MOPS & MOPS NEXT. 6-8pm.

Philadelphia Baptist Church, 7807 Lee Road 246, Smith Station; 303-374-4912 or pbcministry.com

Kids Night Out. $10. 6pm practice. 7pm competition.

Ages 5-18. Bows not provided. Archery Connection; 334480-9997 or archeryconnection.net

SATURDAY

Michael’s Kids Club Meeting.

10am-Noon. Ages 3+. See store for details.

Saturday Storytimes at Barnes & Noble. 11am. 5555 Whittlesey Blvd. 706-653-7880

SUNDAY

THURSDAY

Toddler Time. 10am-Noon.

Launch Trampoline Park; launchcolumbus.com

Toddler Tales at Barnes & Noble. 10am. 5555 Whittlesey Blvd. 706-653-7880

Please call ahead to confirm event dates, times and age appropriateness, in case changes were made after the info was obtained. For more info, visit www.Muscogeemoms.com

MOPS meeting. 9am-Noon.

First Presbyterian Church, 1100 First Ave, Columbus; columbusfpc.org/mops

Family Craft Night. 6:45pm.

Columbus Library; cvlga.org

FRIDAY

MOPS meeting.

9:1511:30am. Wynnbrook Baptist Church, 500 River Knoll Way; 706-323-4374 (1st & 3rd Friday) Toddler Time. 10am-Noon.

Launch Trampoline Park; launchcolumbus.com

LIBRARY ACTIVITIES

Chattahoochee Valley www.CVLGA.org 706-243-2669

Phenix City-Russell County 1501 17th Avenue, Phenix City www.phenixcitylibrary.com 334-297-1139

Troup-Harris

706-628-4685 www.thclibrary.net

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HOO’s Fun

Wise Choices for You & Your Family

Winter Word Search

www.HooKnowsTheValley.com

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Wise Choices for You & Your Family

Junior & Adult TennisPrograms Register Now For Spring Programs!

Opportunities for any age and skill level

Use promo code "Hoo Knows� when you register to receive a free gift.

corta_tennis @CORTAtennis CORTA Tennis Columbus Regional Tennis Association - CORTA

WISHING EVERYONE A

2017!

FROM THE PHYSICIANS AND STAFF OF RIVERTOWN PEDIATRICS

LIGHT UP THE TOY BOX!

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Because the human eye naturally seeks out contrast between light and dark, lights are understandably popular additions that inject extra flash into playtime. Adding glowin-the-dark features to toys and games that also motivate a degree of assembly double down on honing kids’ attention to play. Cultivate a child’s focus with the following illuminating choices that command attention as they brighten up the play landscape.

Sands Alive Glow Super Set (Sands Alive)

Sand castle construction rises to a new level with the Sands Alive Glow Super Set. Featuring three pounds of sand that not only glows under black light, but also holds light and designs ‘drawn’ with a UV pen (included), the possibilities for creative sand design are endless.

The set comes with a large play tray to minimize mess and includes shape molds, rollers, and special UV glasses so young sand sculptors can review their glowing handiwork in real time. Glow-in-the-dark technology, creativity and traditional sand play combine in an all-inone great play set for kids who like to sink their hands into a good time.

Glow-in-the-Dark Connectagons (Hearthsong)

This Glow-in-the-Dark Celestial Connectagon set includes 157-piece interlocking pieces that feature moon phases, constellations and galaxies rendered in glowing paint. How the parts connect is at the command of the builder – tall and towering, broad and expansive – the universe is theirs to illuminate. The longer the structure is exposed to light, the brighter the features will glow. Just like the universe, the Celestial Connectagon Set is an expanding exploration that punctuates the dark with magical points of light.

Laser Pegs 12-in-1 Race Car Set (Laser Pegs)

Building a car is just one of the possibilities with the Laser Pegs 12-in-1 Race Car Building Set. With eighty-four tinted construction elements and twenty laser pegs, young modelers can craft a rocket, a robot, a submarine and more glowing marvels. Once the models are complete, they easily connect to the battery-operated power base and come to life with hypnotically beautiful illumination. Supporting creative reasoning alongside directed design, this set lights up the modeling landscape with its versatility and bright vision learning.

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Wise Choices for You & Your Family

Moms’ Marketplace Feature your business here, starting at only $69. Call 253-212-7270

LOVE ON YOUR LAWN

Turfscapes

LAWN MAINTENANCE & LANDSCAPING COMPANY

COMMERCIAL . RESIDENTIAL . LICENSED . INSURED

DWTURFSCAPES@BELLSOUTH.NET

706-587-4666

1/2 OFF

1ST MONTH WITH NEW ANNUAL CONTRACT

You could reach over 15,000 moms in this space for only $70.

Call 253-212-7270

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WEEKEND COZY Warm essentials for your kids and cash for their style.

Located in The Landings at exit 8 off I-185 | 2521 Airport Thruway, Columbus, GA 31904 706.507.3737 | onceuponachildcolumbusga.com |

/onceuponachildcolumbusga

HOO’s CRAFTY

SIMPLY STIPPLED

DISH TOWELS

These cute little dish towels are a fun, indoor project to do when it’s too cold for the kids to go outside. They can be kept to admire or gifted to friends and family far or near.

DIRECTIONS

SUPPLIES

Choose a cookie cutter shape and trace it on the back of the contact paper, then cut out the shape.

white dish towels

Peel the back off the contact paper and stick your shape to the bottom end of the dish towel, leaving room for your stippling.

contact paper

Place your towel over a piece of cardboard, then use a pencil eraser to stipple paint around your shapes.

new pencils

Then, just let the paint dry and peel off the contact paper to let your little ones see the beautiful towels they’ve created!

cookie cutters fabric paint scissors cardboard

A Page In A Book

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Recommending the Best Books for Children and Teens By Gerry P. Smith

Books for When the Mood Strikes

As adults, we have a lifetime to cultivate various coping strategies and ways to minimize the effect our grumpy moments have on those around us. But kids are still new to bad moods and struggling with management of same.

Learning ways to keep the peace and resolve issues that bring them down is an important part of growing up. The following titles share lighthearted insights that can help kids work around those times that morph our moods for the worse.

Field Guide to the Grumpasaurus

By Edward Hemingway (Clarion / Houghton Mifflin Harcourt)

The unexpected appearance of the Grumpasaurus can be startling. Its arrival can be triggered by something as simple as a broken toy, but once Badmoodicus Grumpasouricus is on the scene, a savvy observer can spot tell-tale signs that will help them survive in its presence. Sulking may be an early warning sign of pending outbursts (and the repercussions that may follow).

Caution is advised when approaching these creatures until they can be calmed. Using this charming field guide, young readers can explore the evolution of a bad mood and recognize the tools that may help send an unwelcome Grumpasaurus on its way.

Meanie Head

By Bruce Eric Kaplan (Simon & Schuster)

When Eve and Henry both reach for the same toy at the same time, their simple disagreement quickly escalates into a sibling conflict of epic proportions. The fighting expands and the coveted toy is thrown, breaking their mother’s lamp. Their feud spreads out of their home, into the neighborhood, and beyond. Fires, bulldozers and opposing football teams enter the fray. Only cool heads can reel in the anger before it goes too far.

Uncomplicated illustrations tame the whimsically terrifying effects that can result when a Meanie Head gets the better of us.

How Do Dinosaurs Stay Friends?

By Jane Yolen and Mark Teague (Scholastic)

These larger-than-life young dinosaurs are perfect partners to highlight common conflict behaviors that kids struggle with.

When these dinosaurs get moody with their friends, the following scowls, shoves and tantrums are comically rendered in super-sized living color. And after the dust settles, solutions and redemption for dinosaur friends are likewise illustrated in adorably helpful ways.

By nudging kids to recognize behaviors that affect themselves and others in a negative way, this title gently serves up solutions that can turn bad mood moments around and keep friends, friendly!

www.HooKnowsTheValley.com

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January 14

1o A.M.-Noon | FREE! Guest artist: Paige Hutchinson Featured book: Look! Look! Look! at Sculpture by Nancy Elizabeth Wallace Explore sculpture and design your own unique animal sculpture.

Story time: 11 a.m.

• Dance • Music • Art • Spring 2017 registration now open: www.clement-arts.org

Classes help support adoption and foster care.

We are expecting

Y ou!

Maria V. Gonzaga, MD OB/GYN

1900 10th Ave. Suite 300 Columbus, GA (706) 341-3311 | comprehensivewomenscare.com

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Wise Choices for You & Your Family

EDUCATION DIRECTORY If you would like to feature your school or child care option, call Tammy at 253-212-7270.

Schedule a Parent Orientation today!

Kumon Math & Reading Center of

COLUMBUS - NORTH

1290 Double Churches Rd., Ste. K

706.257.6963

kumon.com/columbus-north

©2015 Kumon North America, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

WE MAKE YOUR SMART KID EVEN SMARTER!

www.HooKnowsTheValley.com EDUCATION DIRECTORY

Learning can take you everywhere!

FREE !

PreK

Our children experience a stimulating environment, are treated with dignity and respect, enjoy clean and safe surroundings and participate in daily educational experiences to form a life long foundation for success!

Growing Room - 706-596-1234 1200 Manchester Expressway M-F 5:30am - 6:30 pm Growing Room Too - 706-653-0088 6110 Bradley Park Drive M-F 6:30am - 6:30pm GR Christian Academy - 706-221-3248 7572 Kayne Blvd.

M-F 6:30am - 6:30pm

www.growingroomusa.com

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Wise Choices for You & Your Family EDUCATION DIRECTORY

Early Enrollment Discounts through Jan. 31

“After teaching for more than 20 years, Westminster allows the freedom to train the whole child – academically, socially, physically and spiritually in a Christian environment.”

– Sue Moore, K4 Teacher

westminsterchristianschool.org

2303 Double Churches Rd. • 706-323-4441

Preparing Young Men to Excel.

A boys prep school for advanced learning in math and science.

K4 and Kindergarten | Fall 2017 Limited slots available for qualified boys.

10107 Veterans Pkwy, Midland, GA 31820 info@emanuelprep.com | emanuelprep.com Call to schedule a private tour. | 706.327.1978

www.HooKnowsTheValley.com EDUCATION DIRECTORY

NUT-FREE Hoo’s helpful

YOUR CHILD’S SCHOOL IS NUT-FREE. NOW WHAT?

This can be frustrating for all parents, especially with all those confusing food labels and dealing with finicky eaters of your own.

These banned foods are, after all, inexpensive, nutritious and shelfstable proteins perfect for the lunch box.

surfaces at school can transfer particles that can trigger a mild reaction in allergy sufferers, such as itchy skin. If your child eats peanut butter toast for breakfast at home, for example, be sure hands are washed thoroughly before leaving for school.

However, the statistics are clear, the number of children suffering from food allergies is rising, growing 50 percent between 1997 and 2011, according to a 2013 study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. But no one is sure as to what is causing this increase. The CDC estimates that 4 to 6 percent of U.S. children have some form of food allergy, and 90 percent of food allergies are caused by one of these eight foods: milk, eggs, fish, shellfish, wheat, soy, peanuts and tree nuts (such as pecans, walnuts, pine nuts).

Use some creativity to pack their lunch, even looking on Pinterest for ideas can be helpful. Some kids might enjoy hummus and fresh veggies on bread or a tortilla.

Or pack fun separates so kids can assemble their own meal, such as small soft tortillas with taco toppings, such as cheese, diced chicken breast and lettuce.

Leftovers may be your surprise noontime hit, especially if they include fare like pasta, pizza and homemade soup and chili.

Ultimately, we need to remember that the bigger picture is to keep allergens out of the school to save lives - and spare your child the trauma of witnessing a classmate suffer from a severe reaction. Here are five ways to navigate in-school food allergies.

PRACTICE SAFE HYGIENE: In some cases, touching shared

LUNCH ALTERNATIVES:

READ LABELS LIKE A PRO: It may seem like common sense can steer you clear from danger, but allergens can be found in many not-so-obvious foods, especially breads and baked goods, so read all labels very carefully. Food manufacturers are required by the Food and Drug Administration to list the presence of any of the eight most common allergens at the bottom of an ingredients list,

making it easier for all parents.

Packaged food may also include a voluntary advisory that reads, “manufactured in a facility that also processes peanuts,” or “may contain tree nuts.”

SNACK SAFELY: Some food companies make it a practice to keep certain allergens, like tree nuts and peanuts, out of their facilities and will label this on the package to assure their customers.

Sending safe and shareable treats that are easy to identify takes the burden off your child’s busy teacher, and the kids with food allergies will feel included on treat day.

HAVE THE NO-BULLYING TALK:

The nut ban can seem like a challenge when sending your child off to school, but don’t share your frustrations with your child. In fact, this is a great opportunity to talk about how important it is that everyone feels safe. Food allergies are not a joke, yet one-third of students with a food allergy report they were bullied because of their allergies, according to Food Allergy Research and Education. Have a talk with your child about what’s safe and appropriate and what isn’t.

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Wise Choices for You & Your Family EDUCATION DIRECTORY

Teaching the

in the Heart of Columbus.

Join us for an Open House Sunday, January 29

• See our website for details • Openings in select grade levels

school.stlukeum.com

CALVARY CHRISTIAN SCHOOL K3-12TH NOW ENROLLING FOR THE 2017-18 SCHOOL YEAR!

CalvaryKnights.com

Stop by Open House, Thursdays, 9A to 1P; Call Admissions at 706.323.0467, ext. 204; or Visit us Online at CalvaryKnights.com.

706.323.0467

A Ministry of Calvary Baptist Church

www.HooKnowsTheValley.com EDUCATION DIRECTORY

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ENTERTAINMENT

FOR THE ENTIRE FAMILY UPCOMING PERFORMANCES

FEB. 2

• 7:00 PM

Matinees Feb. 2 at 9:30 AM |11:30 AM

presented by

FEB. 26 • 2:30 PM Matinees Feb. 27 at 9:30 AM |11:30 AM

JUNE 21-22 • 7:30 PM &

900 BROADWAY, COLUMBUS, GA | 706.256.3641 | best pricing only at rivercenter.org