Family & Kids Chatt Valley Sept 2016

SEPTEMBER 2016

Wise Choices for Moms & Families

© Jessica Fowler Photography

CHATTAHOOCHEE VALLEY

onsor Pg. 10 Cover Sp

Specializing in natural parenting items & solutions.

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Wise Choices for You & Your Family

Dr. Cathy Cook

Gentle Dentistry for the Entire Family!

ACCEPTING ALL MAJOR INSURANCES, CARE CREDIT AND OFFERING FINANCIAL OPTIONS

www.FamilyAndKidsDigest.com

HOO’s PARENTING

FROM CRIB TO BED

One of the largest steppingstones for your child as he transitions from babyhood to toddlerhood is the move from a crib to a bed. For some toddlers, safety concerns determine when this transition should occur. Most young toddlers become agile enough to climb out of the crib between the age of 18 and 24 months, but some may be nimble enough to scale over the crib rail before then. If

your toddler’s crib mattress is at its lowest setting and he is trying to climb out, you need to move him from the crib to the bed right away.

If your toddler seems comfortable in his crib past the age of 18 months and shows no interest in trying to climb out, it will be up to you to decide when to make the transition. Select a time when your toddler is not

going through any other big milestones, like potty training.

This will make the transition less stressful. In the instance that your toddler has a new sibling on the way and will need to vacate the crib, initiate the transition a couple of months before this new sibling is due.

This will give him some time to detach himself emotionally from the crib.

First, shop around for a sturdy toddler bed. They come in all sorts of fun designs, such as fire engines and princess castles. It should have rails and be low to the ground. Most toddler beds are designed to hold a crib mattress. Check to see that the mattress fits inside the bed frame snugly and there are no gaps. Also, choose a bed that doesn’t have any sharp edges, cutouts, or ornaments that could injure your child. Also, look for a sticker that indicates it’s certified by the Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association (JPMA).

Before setting up the new bed, start talking with your toddler about the transition and help him get excited about it. Read him books about moving to a big-kid bed, and involve him when you pick out some fun, colorful new bedding. Also, you may want to remove the crib from his room and put it in storage at the same time you set the new bed up. That way, you are not overwhelming your toddler with choosing between the two. This is especially important if the crib will be used by a new sibling in a few months and he needs to be fully transitioned to the new bed both physically and emotionally by then.

When setting up your toddler’s new bed in his room, choose a safe location for it. The headboard should be pushed up against the wall. Install a rail on the side of the bed that is against the wall to prevent your toddler from becoming trapped between the bed and the wall. Recheck the childproofing in the room to make sure it is safe. The bed should be in a place where your toddler cannot use it to get near blind cords, drapes or windows.

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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 12

HOO knew.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 7 & 8

HOO’S Fun.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 9 & 30

HOO’S hungry.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 31

HOO’S healthy.. . . . . . . . page 13, 19 & 23

HOO’S parenting.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 3

HOO’S Helpful.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 18

hoo’s Tips.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 21 & 30

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.

www.HooKnowsTheValley.com

www.FamilyAndKidsDigest.com

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

Emmett, 6 years Columbus

Berkley, 17 months Columbus

Carson, 7 years Columbus

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Wise Choices for You & Your Family

SHOPPING guide activities Academy Dance..................................20 Chattahoochee Valley Libraries.... 25 Clement Arts/ Studio Elevare........26 Elite Dance...........................................20 Jack-O-Lantern Lane........................ 15 Performance Dance Centre.............22 Prodigy Dance Centre....................... 21 The Columbus Museum................... 15

Childcare/ education Calvary Christian...............................28 East West AfterTELL SchoolTHEM Program..... 2 First Presbyterian Day.....................29 Grace Christian School....................28 Growing Room.................................... 10 SENT YOU! Kumon...................................................25 Lakewood Child Development ......29 Mathnasium........................................28 Night Owl Kids Care..........................26 St. Luke Schools.................................28 Sylvan Learning Center...................29 Westminster Christian.....................28

healthcare Care-Well Pediatrics......................... 18 Columbus Counseling...................... 18 Columbus Spine & Performance...26 Comprehensive Women’s Care........ 8 Cook Dental Care.................................. 2 Pediatric Dentistry of Columbus..... 7 Pediatrics at Brookstone Centre..... 8 Rivertown Pediatrics.......................... 5

Home/ Handy Mary Varner, Realtor......................... 13 Turfscapes Lawncare........................26 Warehouse World Mini Storage.....26

Shopping/ Retail Baby Elements.................................... 10 Columbus Kids Market..................... 13 Giggles And Grins Photography....26 Jessica Fowler Photography..........26 Mickayla’s Place - Resale................ 15 Once Upon A Child - Resale........... 19

food & beverage Chick-fil-A............................................ 10 Chill Yogurt Cafe................................ 31 Little Caesars....................................... 31 Stevi B’s Pizza Buffet........................ 10

TELL THEM

SENT YOU!

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HOO knew?

Animal Facts There are more pink, plastic flamingoes in the U.S., than there are actual flamingoes.

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l l l l l l Bald eagles make the biggest nests, and they can weigh up to a whopping 4,000 pounds.

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Owls can rotate their heads 360°, which is good, because they can’t move their eyes.

Squirrels plant thousands of new trees each year, simply by forgetting where they put their acorns.

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Food passes through a giant squid’s brain on the way to its stomach.

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Some hummingbirds weigh less than a penny.

Dogs’ nose prints are as unique to them as human fingerprints are to us, and can actually be used to identify them.

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Wise Choices for You & Your Family

We are expecting

Y ou!

Maria V. Gonzaga, MD OB/GYN

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

Why are personal banks shaped like

PIGS?

In ancient times, a lump of clay was called “pygg.�

Clay bowls were made from this and people would keep their money in them. So they became known as pygg bowl banks. The story goes that an order was placed for pygg bowls with a potter who was unfamiliar with the term. So he made them shaped like pigs. They became a big hit and later affectionately known as piggy banks.

HOO KNEW?

HOO’s Fun

9 9

Tug-of-War Fun

Hidden Pictures

shovel

f-War Fun Rocky Fuller Tug-of-War Fun

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screw heart

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ladder

banan ladder

shovel heart

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shovel ladle screw heart hamburger heart hamburger

ocky Fuller

ar Fun

heart

By Rocky Fuller

War Fun -War Fun y Fuller

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heart

By Rocky Fuller

ladle

screw

drinkin straw

tea bag tea bag

ladder heart

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Inscrew this big picture, ladlefind the heart, hamburger, shovel shovel, ladder, screw, tea bag, banana, ladle, mug, worm, drinking straw, wrench, and funnel.worm heart

hamburger

ladle screw hearttea bag hamburger ladle screw © Highlights for Children, Inc. This item from www.highlightsteachers.com is permitted to be used by a teacher free of charge for classroom ladder wrench use by printing or photocopying one copy for each student in the class. Highlights Fun with a Purpose drinking straw wrench tea bag drinking shovel tea bag straw mug banana funnel ®

ladder

ladder

screw shovel

ladle banana

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©Highlights

mug BONUS!

funnel

Wise Choices for You & Your Family

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All Natural Baby Boutique

~Natural skin care products

~Cloth diapers ~Baby Carriers ~Teething & Breastfeeding aids

10% OFF ith ad

purchase w

5828C Moon Rd, Columbus/ BabyElementsBoutique.com

706-507-5105

Bradley Park 706-660-8914 Macon Road 706-321-5880 Midland 706-561-6040 Phenix City 334-214-5599

Dining Deals

www.FamilyAndKidsDigest.com

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

MONDAY

thursday

Chick-fil-A, Phenix City

Captain D’s

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

Chick-fil-A, Wynnton Rd

Get 2 free kids’ meals with purchase of an adult entrée. Dine in only

Chill Yogurt Cafe & Pizzeria

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

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

MOE’s Southwest Grill

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.

sunday

Sweet Frog Yogurt

Steak & Shake

6-8pm. Buy one yogurt mix, get one 50% off

Free kid’s meal with every $8 purchase

Zaxby’s

Stevi B’s Pizza

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

Kids eat for $.99 after 4pm

Tuesday

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

Atlanta Bread Company

5pm-close: Free kid’s meal with an adult meal Chill Yogurt Cafe & Pizzeria 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.

Denny’s

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

Willy T’s

4-9pm: 1 free kid’s meal per regular meal purchase

Texas Roadhouse Willy T’s

11-5pm: 1 free kid’s meal per regular meal purchase

Monday-Friday 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

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

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 kids’ special not listed here, contact Tammy@HooKnowsTheValley.com.

Wise Choices for You & Your Family

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(radio for the whole family)

HOO’s CRAFTY popsicle stick

homemade plinko It’s amazing how much fun kids can have with something as simple as popsicle stick plinko, but this easy craft will have them guessing where the marble will land, for hours.

Directions Grab an empty carboard box. We used an empty Amazon shipping box, but you could use shoe boxes, cereal boxes, etc. Our box was too shallow, so we cut it down and I used duct tape to cover the edges of it.

Now is the time to use a good, sharp pair of scissors to cut the sticks in half.

Older kids should be able to do this, but ‘littles’ will probably need your help.

supplies popsicle sticks

(we picked wide ones)

an empty box marbles

Finally it’s time to glue them in the box. You can help your ‘littles,’ or let them try. But, you want to make sure that they are staggered like they are in the picture, or the marble won’t Plinko well.

low temp glue gun

Give it a few minutes to dry, then cut some holes to drop the marbles through at the top. And get ready to hear lots of giggles and cheering, as the marbles make their descent to the bottom of your homemade Plinko board.

duct tape

hot glue sticks

www.FamilyAndKidsDigest.com

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HOO’s HEALTHY

Mediterranean Diet

Research has connected eating foods included in a traditional Mediterranean diet with many health benefits, including weight loss and prevention of heart disease. The diet is so named because it includes the foods traditionally eaten by inhabitants of Mediterranean countries.

Replace saturated fats like butter with olive oil when you cook or bake. Olive oil contains heart healthy monounsaturated fats and omega-3 fatty acids. Canola oil and walnut oil are also healthy alternatives.

Swap out red meat for fish or lean meats like skinless poultry. For some meals, go meatless and eat plant-based proteins like nuts, lentils, and beans. Also, reduce the amount of protein you eat by making whole grains, fruits, and vegetables the main focus of your meal. Eating too much animal protein has been linked to higher risks of cardiovascular disease and some forms of cancer.

Try to eat more whole grain like bread, pasta, and rice. Whole grain pasta, bread, and rice contain the healthy fiber and nutrients that are removed when grains are processed to make white bread, pasta, and rice. Whole grains have a pleasant, nutty flavor but they might take some getting used to. You can ease the transition by first introducing pasta and breads that are a mix of whole and refined grains.

At dessert time, replace those less healthy sweet treats with fruit for vitamins, antioxidants and fiber.

Choose a variety of fruit and keep it in a visible location, so it’s more likely you will reach for it when you need a sweet treat.

Proudly serving the families of Columbus. #1 Bradley Park Ct, Columbus 706.315.7075 Mary@MaryVarner.com l

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Wise Choices for You & Your Family

HOO’S at the Movies STORKS Rated PG | Ok for kids 6+

Storks deliver babies - or at least they used to. Now they deliver packages for global internet giant Cornerstore. Junior, the company’s top delivery stork, is about to be promoted when he accidentally activates the Baby Making Machine, producing an adorable and wholly unauthorized baby girl. Desperate to deliver this bundle of trouble before the boss gets wise, Junior and his friend Tulip, the only human on Stork Mountain, race to make their first-ever baby drop – in a wild and revealing journey that could make more than one family whole and restore the storks’ true mission in the world. This cute family movie features an all-star voice cast, including Andy Samberg, Kelsey Grammer, Ty Burrell and Jennifer Aniston.

MISS PEREGRINE’S HOME FOR PECULIAR CHILDREN PG | Ok for kids 10+

Directed by Tim Burton, this fantastical film is based on the best-selling novel by Ransom Riggs. When Jake discovers clues to a mystery that spans alternate realities and times, he uncovers a secret refuge known as Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children. As he learns about the residents and their unusual abilities, Jake realizes that safety is an illusion and danger lurks in the form of powerful, hidden enemies. Jake must figure out who is real, who can be trusted, and who he really is. Asa Butterfield, Eva Green, Allison Janney, Rupert Everett, Judi Dench and Samuel L. Jackson star.

THE EDGE OF SEVENTEEN Rated PG-13 | Ok for kids 13+

Reminiscent of “Sixteen Candles” and “The Breakfast Club,” this film offers an honest, candid look at what it’s like to grow up as a young woman in today’s modern world. Everyone knows that growing up is hard, and life is no easier for high school junior Nadine (Hailee Steinfeld), who is already at peak awkwardness when her all-star older brother Darian (Blake Jenner) starts dating her best friend Krista (Haley Lu Richardson). All at once, Nadine feels more alone than ever, until the unexpected friendship of a thoughtful boy (Hayden Szeto) gives her a glimmer of hope that things just might not be so terrible after all. Directed

by Kelly Fremon, this movie also stars Kyra Sedgwick as Nadine’s well-meaning but completely ineffective mother, and Woody Harrelson as Nadine’s History teacher, mentor and reluctant sounding board.

SULLY PG-13 | Ok for kids 14+

On January 15, 2009, the world witnessed the “Miracle on the Hudson” when Captain “Sully” Sullenberger (Tom Hanks) glided his disabled plane onto the frigid waters of the Hudson River, saving the lives of all 155 aboard. However, even as Sully was being heralded by the public and the media for his unprecedented feat of aviation skill, an investigation was unfolding that threatened to destroy his reputation and career. Clint Eastwood directs from a screenplay by Todd Komarnicki, based on the book “Highest Duty: My Search for What Really Matters,” by Sullenberger and Jeffrey Zaslow. Also stars Aaron Eckhart and Laura Linney.

THE WILD LIFE PG | Ok for kids 6+

From the exuberant parrot Tuesday to the snack-obsessed tapir Rosie, things are larger-than-life on a tropical island that is a paradise for wild animals in this CG-animated family movie directed by Vincent Kesteloot. When Robinson Crusoe, a marooned human, arrives in the midst of a furious storm, their lives are forever changed by this bewildering new “creature.” No matter their differences, castaway human and quirky animals embark on a hilarious adventure to build a tree-house and survive together. But when two conniving members of the animal kingdom - savage cats Mal and May - pounce into a battle for control of the island, Crusoe and his animal posse must uncover the true power of friendship.

www.FamilyAndKidsDigest.com

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© GIGGLES AND GRINS PHOTOGRAPHY

from one child to another (sizes newborn to 16)

Buying Days Mon - Thurs 10 AM - 5 PM Drop off any day

Store Hours Mon - Fri: 9 AM - 7 PM Saturday: 10 AM - 6 PM Sunday: Closed

a children’s resale shop

706-221-1154 I 2401 Whittlesey Rd I Columbus, GA 31909

September 10

Join us to design and create wooden plaques representing your family.

Then, go on a scavenger hunt to learnhow wood is used in artwork at the Museum.

The Bi-City Woodturners will be onsite to provide demonstrations!

Story time: 11 A.M.

SEPTEMBER

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provided in partnership with:

1 Pinkalicious: The Musical.

10am & 7:30pm. $TBA. Riverside Theatre Complex; 706-507-8444 or theatre. columbusstate.edu

2-4 Sky High Hot Air Bal-

loon Festival. Fri 10am, Sat & Sun 6am. Callaway Gardens, Pine Mountain, GA; callawaygardens.com

3 Home Depot Kids Work-

shop. 9am-Noon. Ages 5-6.

Columbus 706-322-9240, Phenix City 334-297-2045

4

Pinkalicious: The Musical.

2pm. $TBA. Riverside Theatre Complex; 706-507-8444 or theatre.columbusstate.edu

5

Labor Day Mini Camp.

9am-1pm. $10. Ages 5-11.

National Infantry Museum; 706-653-9234 ext. 5849 or nationinfantrymuseum.org

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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Labor Day Fair. 10am. Old Seal Russell County Courthouse, AL 706-573-0620

6 Scavenger Hunt. All day.

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Junior League Character Breakfast. 8:30am & 10:30am. $18; jlcolumbus.com

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Mildred L. Terry Public Library; cvlga.org/events/kids

Second Saturday. 10am.

Free. Columbus Museum; columbusmuseum.com

9 Family Fun: Grandpar-

14 La Leche League monthly

9-10 Family Theatre pres-

16-17 Family Theatre

9-11

16-17 Harris Co PRCA Pro-

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17 Live Healthy Columbus

ents Day Celebration. 1pm.

Mildred Terry Public Library; cvlga.org/events/kids ents Arsenic and Old Lace.

7:30pm. $8-$12. 2100 Hamilton Rd, Columbus; 706-3667196 or familytheatre.org “Southern Lovin’ Junkin’ Show.” All Day. $5.

Columbus Convention and Trade Center; uptowncolumbusga.com Lowe’s Build & Grow Clinic. 10-11am. Free. 1st-5th grades. 6750 Veterans Pkwy, Columbus; 706-320-9292

10 Puppy Tales. 2pm. Columbus Public Library; cvlga.org/ events/kids

meeting. 10am. Free. Columbus Public Library; lllofga.org/ columbus.html presents Arsenic and Old Lace. 7:30pm. $8-$12. 2100 Hamilton Rd, Columbus; 706366-7196 or familytheatre.org

Rodeo. 6pm gates open. 8pm rodeo begins. Mike Tracey Arena, Hwy 116, Hamilton; hccaonline.com in Uptown Day. 9am-1pm. livehealthycolumbus.com

17 S’MORES Concert for

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

ER EVENTS 17 Columbus Children’s Book 24 Festival. 10am-4pm. Free.

Columbus Public Library; cvlga.org

17-24 Just 4 Kidz Consignment sale. Stars and Strikes. just4kidzconsign.com

20 Scrabble & Board

Games. 5:30pm. Mildred L. Terry; cvlga.org/events/kids

22-23 Family Theatre

presents Arsenic and Old Lace. 7:30pm. $8-$12. 2100 Hamilton Rd, Columbus; 706366-7196 or familytheatre.org

22-24 Springer Presents “Sister Act” (PG), 2:30 & 7:30pm. Springer; springeroperahouse.com

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Fall Flea Market & Post Wide Yard Sale. 8am-2pm. Ft Benning; benningmwr.com

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Young Eagles Day at Flightways Columbus. 8:3011:30am. Free. Ages 8-17.

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

Historic Westville at Market Days. 9am-Noon. Free. 1000 block of Broadway, Columbus; uptowncolumbusga.com

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Autism Support Group Meeting. 6:30pm. Columbus Regional Conference Center, 710 Center St; 706-604-6333 or autismhopecenter.com

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Family Night. 6:30pm.

Mildred L. Terry Public Library; cvlga.org/events/kids

29-30 Springer Presents “Sister Act” (PG), 2:30 & 7:30pm. Springer; springeroperahouse.com

WEEKLY EVENTS thursday

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

FRIday

Make & Take Craft. 4pm. Free.

Phenix City-Russell Co Library; phenixcitylibrary.com

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SATURday

Market Days on Broadway.

9am-noon. Different activities each week. 900, 1000, & 1100 blocks of Broadway, Columbus; 706-596-0111 or uptowncolumbusga.com 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 Family Story Time at Phenix City Public Library. 11am.

1501 17th Avenue, Phenix City; 334-297-1139 Please call ahead to confirm event dates, times and age appropriateness, in case changes were made after the info was obtained. For more, visit MuscogeeMoms.com.

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Wise Choices for You & Your Family

1546-A 10th Avenue cor. 16th Street, Cols. GA 31901 Tel. No.: (706) 322-5526 • www.carewellpediatrics.com

Se Habla Espanol | Longest Clinic Hours (8am - 6pm; No Lunch Breaks) Your most competent, caring & friendly Child Care Specialists

Lirio E. Palmos, M.D., F.A.A.P. Shilpa Vernekar, M.D., F.A.A.P. Priscila T. Neil, PA-C

Now Accepting Amerigroup, Alabama Medicaid, Tricare, Georgia Medicaid and All Private Insurance.

Hoo’s helpful

sleep training Infants who are over the age of four months and have trouble falling asleep and staying asleep at night may benefit from sleep training. Many parents avoid sleeptraining out of fear that allowing baby to cry himself to sleep might cause emotional harm. However, a recently published study shows that infants who were sleep trained using two different sleep training methods, 'fading' and 'graduated extinction', showed improvements in their sleep patterns but were not negatively affected emotionally by the sleep training.

'Fading' is a method that makes it easier for baby to fall asleep by pushing the bedtime back a few minutes every night. The parents stay in the room until baby falls asleep.

'Graduated extinction', also referred to as the 'cry it out' method, involves gradually increasing the amount of time it takes to go into the baby's room to soothe him when he starts to cry at bedtime and during the night. Typically,

parents start at a 2-minute interval and slowly increase it.

In the study, one group of parents used 'fading', another used 'graduated extinction', and another group was the control group. Parents in the control group used no sleep training.

The study showed that both sleep training methods helped babies fall asleep faster than babies who were not sleep trained and they woke up fewer times during the night. The good news is that the sleep training did not take an extended period of time. Many babies in the study were sleeping better after just a week of sleep training.

In addition, the study found no signs of emotional or developmental harm to the babies who were sleep trained. Also, a year after sleep training occurred, the sleep trained infants did not show any increased signs of behavioral issues or seem less attached to their parents than babies in the control group.

www.FamilyAndKidsDigest.com

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 his/ 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, running or tennis.

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.

RECESS READY We buy & sell gently used kids clothing & more!

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

/onceuponachildcolumbusga

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DANCE Wise Choices for You & Your Family

y r o t c e r Di

2016 Dance Directory www.FamilyAndKidsDigest.com

Hoo’s Tips

Battement tendu - To stretch the leg and foot out from one position to another.

Adagio - Slow, refined, very flowing series of movements in a dance, where one movement transitions seamlessly into another.

Dance Terms If you have ever watched your child’s ballet lesson, you probably have wondered what all those French words the ballet instructor uses mean. To help you interpret them, here is a glossary of some commonly used dance terms.

Arabesque - Dance position where one leg supports the body while another leg is extended horizontally backward.

The arm on the same side of the body is also held behind the body while the opposite arm is held in front of the body.

Plié - To bend the knees.

Grande allegro - The term allegro is used to refer to

brisk, fast movements, like jumps. The grande allegro is the exciting part of the dance, full of these quick, dynamic movements. In a class, the students usually save jumps and other types of allegro movements until the end.

Croisé - Dance position where the dancer stands with legs crossed, at an angle to the audience.

Assemble’ - When a dancer throws a leg up into the air and then brings the other leg up to meet it and ‘assemble’ in the fifth position.

Grand jete’ - This is a large jump, with one leg fully extended forward and the other extended backward and the toes pointed.

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Do You Love to DANCE?

Wise Choices for You & Your Family

REGISTER FOR FALL!

• Ranked #1 Reader's Choice BEST DANCE STUDIO

by Ledger-Enquirer for 3 years in a row • 2015 Winner for Performing Arts in Georgia • Only Dance Studio in the Valley area CERTIFIED for Acrobatic Arts Professional Tumbling Curriculum

Top Training facility for Dance and Acrobatics in the Valley Area!

Recreational and Competitive Dance Companies Audition Inquiries please contact Artistic Director Carrie Paris

BOYS ONLY DANCE PROGRAM!

GREAT for Rhythm, Coordination & Self-Esteem!

Taught by PDC Faculty Andrew Winston Professional Dancer in Disney Channel's High School Musical 1 & 2 movies!

JOIN OUR RECREATIONAL THROUGH ADVANCED LEVEL PROGRAM!

Mommy & Me - 18-24 months PreJazz - 3-4 yr olds PreDance - Tap/Ballet 2 1/2-3 yr olds, 3-4yr olds, 4-5yr olds AcroDance - Tumbling beginning at 3 years old

NEW! PreSchool Dance Program

Classes for all levels and ages beginning 5 yrs old - Adult & pre-professional levels in p Jazz, Tap, Ballet ,Pre-Pointe, Pointe, Lyrical, Hip Hop, Acro, Boys only Classes, Conditioning, Turns & Leaps, and Adult Fitness!

WANT TO BE IN THE HOLIDAY CLASSIC THE NUTCRACKER?

Come to our Audition Class September 10th!

Everyone is welcome and ALL dancers receive a role!!!

AUDITION and Placements Class

9 - 10am: 5–7 yr olds • 10 - 11:30am: 8-11 yr olds • 11:30 - 1pm: 12 – up

"TEA WITH CLARA, SANTA, AND FRIENDS" – DEC. 10TH 3PM

Meet and Greet with Clara, Santa, and her friends, and much more! Photo session included.

“THE NUTCRACKER” – DEC. 10TH 7PM Columbus State University Hall

Presented by Performance Ballet Company Director Shayla Hewitt

www.FamilyAndKidsDigest.com

HOO’s HEALTHY

being active adds to kids’ brain power Kids who enjoy lots of physical activity are doing more than just having fun; they’re improving their brain structure, brain function and academic prowess according to a new consensus statement published online in the British Journal of Sports Medicine.

A group of 24 researchers from the United States, Canada and Europe examined the latest scientific and medical research on the benefits of exercise in kids, ages 6 to 18 years old.

Experts from a variety of disciplines evaluated the values of all kinds of exercise, including recess, physical education classes, youth sports leagues and old-fashioned outdoor play.

The researchers noted that: • Physical activity and cardiorespiratory fitness are good for children’s and young people’s brain development and function as well as their intellect • A session of physical activity before, during, and after school boosts academic prowess • A single session of moderately energetic physical activity has immediate positive effects on brain function, intellect, and academic performance • Mastery of basic movement boosts brain power and academic performance • Time taken away from lessons in favor of physical activity does not come at the cost of getting good grades In terms of the physiological benefits of exercise, the statement says that cardiorespiratory and

The

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Kids

Doctor

Sue Hubbard, MD kidsdr.com

muscular fitness “are strong predictors” of the risk of developing heart disease and type2 diabetes in later life, and that vigorous exercise in childhood helps to keep these risk factors in check.

Even low intensity exercise will help improve kids’ heart health and their metabolism.

But the positive effects of exercise are not restricted to physical health, says the statement. Regular physical activity can help develop important life skills, and boost self-esteem, motivation, confidence and wellbeing. It may also play a role in strengthening /fostering relationships with peers, parents, and coaches.

Just as importantly, activities that take account of culture and context can promote social inclusion for those from different backgrounds, ethnicities, sexual orientation, skill levels and physical capacity.

Incorporating physical activity into every aspect of school life and providing protected public spaces, such as bike lanes, parks and playgrounds “are both effective strategies for providing equitable access to, and enhancing physical activity for, children and youth,” says the statement.

With school being back in session now, and most kids being saddled in a desk for a great portion of the day, it is super important to take time each day to let your little ones be physically active.

Family walks before dinner, throwing a baseball out in the yard, or even just dancing around the house, will not only help their brains, it will help with bonding and decompressing from our busy days.

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DRAW OUT THE INNER ARTIST! Every child is an artist. Some kids draw things they love in the world around them.

Others draw and paint images that are completely born from their imaginations.

With increasing competition for kids’ attention in a world full of tablets, smart-phones and other gadgetry – the following drawing tools for kids have just the right amount of modern marvel to bridge the divide between traditional drawing and newer technologies.

Aquadoodle Travel ‘N Doodle

(Spinmaster)

The name is a big hint toward the basic premise of this portable drawing tablet. Instead of carrying around piles of paper and markers, the Aquadoodle Travel ‘N Doodle set includes a two-sided drawing surface, a ‘pen’ and a carrying case. The pen is essentially a water marker (refillable with water that saturates the tip) that interacts with the drawing surfaces. No ink to spill, crayons to melt, pencils to sharpen, markers losing caps, etc. Emptying the water from the pen, or sealing it in a plastic bag before transport, ensures that the surfaces stay dry and are instantly ready for art to happen. When a drawing is complete, simply allow the surface to dry and it will soon return to a white blank, ready for the next artistic pass!

Ingenio Smart Projector

(Ingenio)

The Ingenio Smart Projector uses a powerful LED light to project traceable images onto a drawing surface for small hands to follow with crayons or other marking mediums. The traceable image collection includes the alphabet, numbers, as well as 24 animal pictures with each named in Spanish and English. The projector can adjust the size of images as young hands hone their fine motor control. With sturdy image discs and simple controls, the Smart Projector allows little hands to operate and direct their drawing independently. It’s a bright tool for supporting the early skills of young artists and writers!

IDO3D Design Studio

(IDO3D)

3D printing is quickly becoming a force to be reckoned with in engineering and technology. And the method behind the printing has already translated into a tool for the younger set to employ for their own artistic ideas. The pens extrude a melted plastic which quickly cools into the shape as it was “drawn.” Using layers and connections, young artists quickly begin to develop the ability to draw in 3D, lifting their artistic visions off the flat page and building them into a whole new dimension. The studio includes enough material for up to 25 projects, and replacement pens are available for 3D artists who want to expand their body of work in this new frontier of drawing.

www.FamilyAndKidsDigest.com

’

Talking!

Hello French: bonjour

(bohn-jur)

Spanish: hóla (o-la) Italian: ciáo (chow)

Goodbye French: au revoir

(oh-rev-wah) Spanish: adios (ah-de-yos)

Italian: arrivederci (ah-re-va-der-chee)

25 25 ©2015 Kumon North America

Math. Reading.

Confidence.

Now’s the time for Kumon.

Call Today!

Kumon Math & Reading Center of Columbus - North 1290 Double Churches Rd., Ste. K Columbus, GA 31904

706.257.6963

kumon.com/columbus-north Special morning hours available for HomeSchoolers!

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Moms’ Marketplace LOVE ON YOUR LAWN

Turfscapes

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1ST MONTH WITH NEW ANNUAL CONTRACT

You could reach over 15,000 moms in this space for only $65.

Call 253-212-7270

Dance • Music • Art • Drama Classes help support adoption and foster care. www.clement-arts.org Feature your business here, starting at only $65.

Call 253-212-7270

A Page In A Book Recommending the Best Books

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for Children and Teens By Gerry P. Smith

Getting a Read on Personal Style

To the outside observer, our clothes and accessories are often the first indicator of the things we like – a peek at our personal vibe. In a similar way, the items that kids choose to wear, are early statements of their own particular tastes and interests. Giving kids some wardrobe control also empowers them to cultivate their own personal style. The following titles celebrate the ways fashion can be a form of self-expression.

Hooray for Hat

By Brain Won (Houghton Mifflin Harcourt)

Elephant has woken up in a grumpy mood.

When the doorbell rings, he stomps down the stairs with a rising temper to find...a present. Inside the gaily wrapped box is a hat, tall and layered with even more headpieces. It’s hard to be cross with a fantastic hat like that, Elephant dons the cap and heads off to show it to his friends.

When he finds them in foul moods of their own, Elephant uses his hats to lift their spirits. But one friend’s hat needs are going to be a tall order. If one hat can make so many friends happy, then surely many hats can overcome the gloomiest mood of all!

The Frog Who Lost His Underpants

By Juliette MacIver, Illustrated by Cat Chapman (Candlewick Press)

For a frog with a specific taste in clothing, his missing underpants are a big deal. When Frog enlists his jungle friends to help him search for his special draws, the rhyming recon that follows is a madcap adventure that turns up unexpected culprits. The solution entails sharing Frog’s signature fashion with others to keep the peace. For any parents who has dealt with the drama that can follow when a child’s favorite clothing item goes missing, this title will be a delightful repeat read!

Churchill’s Tale of Tails

By Anca Sandu (Peachtree Publishers)

Churchill’s life is filled with friends and hobbies, but the thing that gives him the most joy is his curly tail. When he wakes up one morning and his tail is nowhere to be found, his friends offer to let him wear tails like theirs. Churchill gets so wrapped up in enjoying other styles that he begins to neglect his friends. But meeting with a new friend reminds Churchill that he has missed his pals and his own tail. The reunion that follows celebrates both the return of his best accessory as well as Churchill’s return to being a good and loyal friend.

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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

Building a strong foundation for life.

253-212-7270

school.stlukeum.com 318 11th Street 706-256-1301 St. Luke School Early Learning Center Preschool

Calvary Christian School K3-12th

CalvaryKnights.com

706.323.0467

A Ministry of Calvary Baptist Church

K3-6th Grade | Small Classes | Military Discounts 2303 Double Churches Road | 706-323-4441 westminsterchristianschool.org

www.FamilyAndKidsDigest.com EDUCATION DIRECTORY

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Wise Choices for You & Your Family

Jokin’ Around

HOO’s FUN

about OUTER SPACE

What kind of candy bars do aliens like to eat?

Mars Bars!

Where do astronauts keep their lunches?

In launch boxes!

What do you call an alien with three eyes?

An aliiien!

Why did Mickey Mouse go to outer space?

To find Pluto!

Hoo’s Tips

keepin’ up With Your

Little Mover

Between the sleepless nights, spit-up and countless diaper changes, new parents quickly realize that chasing after their little speedsters is no easy feat.

With only a few lifestyle changes, your baby’s exciting milestones don’t have to be accompanied by crazy days, puffy eyes and fast food dinners. Here are some tips to maximize your energy as you chase after your little mover.

1. Get moving. Finding time to hit the gym isn’t always easy with a baby at home, so find ways to incorporate aerobic activity into your day. Walk to the library or supermarket whenever possible, and be sure to get your toddler out of his/her stroller so she can walk some of the way, too. If walking to your destination isn’t an option, park the car far from entrances and enjoy those extra steps of exercise.

2. Surround yourself with support. From sharing parenting advice to all those special firsts in your baby’s life, connecting with other parents is a great way to surround yourself with needed support. Check out a meetup.com group or facebook group in your area.

3. Laugh. From the spit-up to the spilled milk, don’t be afraid to laugh off the silly situations.

Laughter really is the best medicine — relieving stress and burning extra calories. Remember, parenting is never perfect, so the next time you find yourself in the middle of that messy diaper change don’t let yourself stress — laugh it out instead.

4. Accept a helping hand. For a first-time mother, it’s hard to realize you really can’t do it all.

Keeping up with your little speedster all day can be exhausting. When feeling overwhelmed and ready to pull out your hair, it is ok to admit that you really could use that extra helping hand. Accept your family or friend’s offer to come over and keep your little one entertained for a couple of hours.

5. Don’t forget to sleep. Between the late night feedings and round the clock diaper duty, it may seem impossible to get more than a couple hours of shut-eye. To keep from feeling like you are going to fall asleep while at the stroller wheel, try to fit in a midday nap while your baby snoozes.

For the working mom, head to bed as soon as possible once the little ones are tucked snuggly in their beds. Teaming up with your partner and switching off middle-of-the-night feedings and diaper changes can also save you from exhaustion.

www.FamilyAndKidsDigest.com

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2.

99

$

PLUS TAX

Large Classic Round Pepperoni or Cheese Pizza with the purchase of any Supreme, Meat Treat or Deep Dish Pizza.

Not valid with any other offers.

Must present coupon to redeem by 12/31/16.

Present this coupon at participating locations: Columbus, Ft. Benning, Phenix City, Auburn, Valley

HOO’s HUNGRY simple no bake

energy bites

These bites are kid-pleasing, low in sugar and calories, but are high in iron, fiber, and protein.

Perfect for an easy breakfast or an after school snack.Try making some for your family today!

DIRECTIONS

Ingredients

Stir together peanut butter, coconut oil and honey in a small mixing bowl until smooth Combine dry ingredients in a large bowl..

Pour peanut butter mixture over dry ingredients and mix until evenly combined.

Form small balls with 2 tablespoons of mixture and place in a glass storage container. If the mixture does not stay together easily, refrigerate it for 20-30 minutes.

Chill energy balls for 30 minutes then enjoy.

• 1½ cups whole rolled oats • 1½ cups crispy rice cereal • ½ cup shredded coconut • ¼ cup chia seeds • ¼ cup flax seed • ½ cup natural peanut butter • ¼ cup coconut oil • ¼ cup honey • ¼ cup mini chocolate chips

*Store in refrigerator for up to 2 weeks*

9:30 AM |11:30 AM|7:00 PM

9:30 AM |11:30 AM|7:00 PM

Lightwire Theatre: Ugly Duckling and The Tortoise & the Hare FEB. 26, 2017 2:30 PM

FEB. 27, 2017 9:30 AM | 11:30 AM Much Ado About Nothing MAR. 8, 2017

MAR. 9, 2017

10:00 AM

7:30 PM

900 BROADWAY, COLUMBUS, GA | 706.256.3641 | rivercenter.org