Owensboro Parent - January / February 2018 by Tanner Publishing

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jan // feb 2018 Publisher Jason Tanner jason@tannerwest.com

from the editor

Editor Ashley Sorce ashley@owensboroparent.com Advertising Sales Brock Quinton brock@tannerpublishing.com Robert Williams robert@tannerpublishing.com Layout Design Andrea Roberson Ad Design Jamie Alexander Andrea Roberson Taylor West Illustrations Ella Dukes Contributors Katie Albers Christina & Matisse Dalton Hank Dotsey Jamie Johnson Gail Kirkland Elaine Martin Danny, Luke & Beau May Dr. Shanna McGinnis Melody Ann Wallace Lora Wimsatt Casey Wink On the Cover Keleigh Payne, Elijah Parker and Avery Sorce who all entered the Kids Takeover ad design contest. Photo by Jamie Alexander Contact Information Owensboro Parent Magazine PO Box 9503 Owensboro, KY 42302 (888) 304-5416 www.owensboroparent.com facebook.com/owensboroparent twitter.com/owensboroparent issuu.com/owensboroparent Advertise Owensboro Parent is a FREE magazine because of community support. Thank you to the great group of businesses & organizations who advertise with us. If you want to contribute to the success of our magazine, we would love to hear from you and will work to develop an advertising partnership that will not only benefit you, but also the parents of Owensboro.

TANNER PUBLISHING CO.

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jan // feb 2018 FAMILY LIFE

the most important lessons [8] newborn photos from facebook [10] CO MMUNIT Y

a friendship rarer than rubies [14] a teacher, a friend, a hero [19]

THE BABY BO O K

[46] 7 things you should never feel guilty about when you have a new baby [54] feeding your baby [58] pregnancy timeline [59] popular baby names [62] 20 tried & true baby facts

[34]

KIDS TAKEOVE R

insight from an ordinary kid [22] kids takeover ad design contest [24] i wish you knew... [34] parental control [38] fun vs. mess [40]

DISCOVE R

[66] never fear! tried and true vaccines are here! [68] kids eat free list [70] jan/feb calendar

[21] [10]

www.OwensboroParent.com

[14]

[45] [19]

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family life

the most important lessons

. { by: lora wimsatt }

hen I was expecting my first child, I read anything, and thankfully had disposable diapers with no all kinds of “Getting Ready for Baby” pins. But I learned a lot along the way, and realized that the books. They were no help.

I got home from the hospital, laid my baby on the living

room chair, sat down on the floor next to the chair and

most important lessons were not mentioned in those dopey “Getting Ready for Baby” books.

looked at him.

1 Toss the books, get off the internet and tune out all those

I didn’t know what else to do.

Then he started to cry.

people who tell you what to do and how to do it. You and

By the time our first escapade was over, I was crying too.

your baby will figure it out together.

I hurried to the kitchen and put a big pot of water on the stove to begin boiling water so I could sterilize some bottles.

2 Don’t compare yourself – or your baby – to anyone else.

Do you know how long it takes a big pot of water to boil? A

You are fine, and your baby is fine. Learning to walk or talk

long time, and it’s a lot longer when there is a newborn baby

or use the potty is not a race. When in doubt, look at it this

howling of starvation.

way: By the time your child starts school, and certainly by

the time your child grows into a responsible adult, nobody

I did everything wrong with that first baby.

I couldn’t figure out how to fold his cloth diapers. I

will care at what age s/he learned to do those things.

cringe to think of how many times I stuck him with the pins. Bottles and diapers were just the start of all the things I did

3 Realize that each child is a unique person, with an innate,

wrong, but somehow, he survived, and I did too.

individual personality. They are not miniature versions of

their parents. You will save yourself and your child a lot of

By the time my fourth child arrived, I wasn’t sterilizing

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heartache, grief and arguments if you will simply allow

stack yourself and books. Real books, with real pages.

your child to develop into the person s/he was meant to

Construction paper, scissors, glue and glitter.

be. Embrace and encourage your child’s interests and gifts.

6 And now, here’s the one I learned the hard way: Everyone told me “They grow up so fast; they are children

4 This is one I never had to deal with (thankfully).

for only a short time.” But I didn’t believe it. I honestly

Please, parents: Think twice about what you are posting

felt like they were going to be little forever, the house

on Facebook. Do you really want to publicly label

would always be a mess, the sink would always be full of

your child as a whiner? How will your child feel when

dishes and the hamper would always be full of laundry.

those photographs show up years from now? Are your

Sadly, I spent more time on the dishes and the laundry

“Facebook Friends” really your source of guidance when your child develops a rash or has a broken heart or has trouble at school? You may be one of those people who feels comfortable with putting your entire life out there for the whole world to see, but please be sensitive to the fact that your child may not feel the same way.

5 Speaking of technology: Yes, your child will live in a connected world. But there is real value in old-fashioned imagination. Think about that when you’re buying toys, and be sure to provide dolls that don’t do anything on their own, plain old wooden blocks that you have to

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than I did playing with and enjoying my children. The dishes and laundry are still there … but my kids grew up and moved away.

But there is always time for a happy ending!

My kids have children of their own now, and guess

what: My home is filled with blocks and books and dolls and glitter and glue … and memories.

Don’t wait. Make your memories now.

Lora Wimsatt is a mother, grandmother and writer. She enjoys the everyday blessings and adventures of life, especially her family.

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newborn photos from facebook

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newborn photos from facebook

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PHOTO BY INSPIRE PHOTOGRAPHY BY HILLARY

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community

a friendship

Rarer than rubies

{ by: gail e. kirkland }

PHOTOS BY JAMIE ALEXANDER

Two girls. One beautiful friendship.

She is a natural leader in our classroom. No matter

Soft-spoken, ever-so kind and big-hearted, this energetic

the situation, Claudia is always ready and willing to

Tamarack third-grader plays a silly get-your-nose game

lend a helping hand (this includes coming to the aid of

with her best friend. That best friend, Ruby, is a fifth-

a classmate who may be ill or injured, need a helping

grader with Down syndrome. Their unique friendship,

hand with school work, or someone who is alone on the

regardless of an age and communication gap—was

playground),” said Kelly Smith, Claudia’s teacher.

instantaneous. Claudia Munsey said it feels “good” to

help Ruby. “Not every day do you see someone Claudia’s

at Tamarack Elementary, were new to this school in 2015-

age naturally interact without hesitation with her

2016. Since Claudia arrived at school with her mom

peers who have different abilities. I saw the friendship

shortly after 6:30 a.m., she said, “I kept on following my

between Ruby and Claudia instantly . . . Claudia found

mom around . . . then Ms. McAtee (Ruby’s teacher) just

this friendship on her own—a friendship I pray everyone

asked me if I wanted to help with her class in the morning,

feels once in their life . . .” said Amanda Owen, founder

so I asked my mom if I could,” Claudia said. From that

of Puzzle Pieces.

moment forward, a very sweet, tender relationship began.

Claudia helps Ruby every school morning and

Claudia’s teachers played a key role in this new-found

Both Claudia and her mom Carrie Munsey, principal

friendship and recognized her exceptional sensitivity.

afternoon.

“Claudia is a very sensitive and compassionate girl.

morning, Claudia asks her to “hurry up,” because

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If mom isn’t moving fast enough in the

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she does not want to miss greeting Ruby at her bus. So,

McAtee’s students during assemblies, on the playground,

Claudia waits to meet Ruby as she steps off the bus each

and in special area classes. When school starts, not

morning. “I kinda put my hand out to help her off the

everyone wants to be partnered with someone who may

bus,” Claudia said. From there, they go to the cafeteria

learn differently. We are now on a monthly rotation,

to get the breakfast cart for their classroom. Ruby helps

because EVERYONE wants a partner,” Kelly said. Wow.

pull the cart and Claudia unloads it in preparation for the

Whether it’s Claudia’s mom, teachers or classmates,

other students to arrive and have breakfast in their room.

they all concur that Claudia and Ruby are best friends.

“Seeing Claudia’s amazing dedication and commitment

“They seek each other out whenever possible at school.

when Claudia greets Ruby every morning at the bus” is

Ruby attends after-school events with Claudia and the two

Anne McAtee’s favorite memory of this twosome. After

play together, outside of the school setting,” Kelly said.

breakfast, Claudia and Ruby lead the Pledge together,

This year they Trick-or--Treated together as blue M & M’s,

which also involves camerawork to produce the live news

wearing their matching blue tutus. Ruby attended Claudia’s

broadcast. As Carrie described Ruby’s role with the Pledge,

First Communion, and they often have play dates, eat at

Ruby responded with an all-telling, broad smile, knowing

Ruby’s favorite Chick-Fil-A or get ice cream together. “For

that she had a very important job to fulfill. Those smiles

most peers the relationship is strictly school-related, but

abound. “It always brings a smile to see Claudia help Ruby

not so with Ruby and Claudia. For a relationship to extend

(with this task) in an inconspicuous manner whenever

beyond school hours is truly unique,” Anne said.

needed,” Kelly said.

In addition, Claudia accompanies Ruby as her partner

Puzzle Pieces to assist Ruby there, staying until 5 or 5:30

when they go beyond the classroom to specials: music,

when her dad picks her up. “Not many people find a friend

art, library, PE and computer classes. “I believe the

in life they can sit next to and not say anything at all but

relationship between Claudia and Ruby has touched

understand everything. Ruby and Claudia do that. I saw

Claudia’s heart in a way we as adults see, but only these

something in Claudia from day one,” Amanda said. “She

two girls understand. Claudia has mentioned many times

is an angel in disguise. Ruby is a sweet girl, but has speech

that she wants to be a special needs teacher. Her friendship

problems. She is difficult to understand, but Claudia

with Ruby brings out the very best, in both girls,” Kelly

treats her as she does any of her non-disabled friends,”

said. “Ruby has become much more independent, I think,

Anne said.

because of her relationship with Claudia. There are times

when I can’t understand something Ruby tries to tell me,

in athletics, playing basketball and softball—wanting to

but I look to Claudia and she always knows.” Not only

also try out for the volleyball team. Sometimes she resorts

has this relationship impacted Claudia and Ruby, but

to doing homework at her brother’s games and admits that

also the other students at Tamarack: “My students have

sometimes it is hard to do it all. Yet she has earned the

been impacted in a positive way. My students guide Ms.

admiration of many. “I have been fortunate to have the

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On Mondays and Tuesdays after school, Claudia goes to

Claudia still finds time to excel in the classroom and

January // February 2018 . OWENSBORO PARENT

opportunity to work with Ms. McAtee and her class for the past 12 years. Our motive is always the same: to teach students to be accepting of each other, no matter how they differ. Year after year, it is amazing to watch the children grow and understand each other. My students are often able to reach and teach her students through patience, modeling good choices, and understanding. Through the years, I have not witnessed a bond like these two girls share. Claudia and Ruby set an awesome example of unconditional friendship,” Kelly said.

Ruby will go to middle school next year. That could

be a significant adjustment for both girls. Nonetheless, Claudia is planning to see the “Rube-ster,” as the Munsey family affectionately calls Ruby, at Puzzle Pieces and they will still have play dates.

“I think the best part is that once you get to know

someone with different abilities, you realize they are not so different after all,” Anne said. Claudia and Ruby have discovered that and more with an incredible friendship rarer than rubies.

Gail Kirkland recently retired from DCHS, where

she taught journalism and English. She is a mother of twins, a Meme, and sports enthusiast.

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community

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community

a teacher, a friend, a hero

I N MEM ORY OF A NTHONY " TONY" K RAUS: NOV. 24, 1 967 - NOV. 26, 201 7 { by: casey wink and hank dotsey, ochs students }

ony Kraus touched the lives of all the people

degree in business. To Tony’s family, he truly was a

around him. From actively serving at his parish,

blessing. Before meeting his wife in February 2006,

Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church, to

Tony planned on entering the Seminary in October. He

dedicating 13 years of academic leadership at Owensboro

initially had a career in finance but “had a void in his life

Catholic High School, to being a Third Degree Knight

and felt he was being called to do more,” Christy says.

of Columbus, he taught people what it means to be a

She also stated that his favorite thing about teaching was

blessing to somebody. Tony’s genuine love for the wellbeing of others made him one of the most respected coworkers, teachers, and parishioners in the Owensboro Catholic community. He had a servant’s heart. His wife, Christy, said it excellently: “Tony

“I know that I wouldn’t be who I am if I didn’t have him as a teacher.”

watching his students grow spiritually. He taught them how to walk with God and live the life God would want them to live. She commented that Tony taught in a way students could learn, something every student of his would confirm. Not only was Tony a blessing to his

was a messenger; people came to him in time of need,

family and friends but to his students, as well. Abbey

despair and he was able to guide, through Christ.” Tony’s

Thompson, a senior at OCHS and a member of the

cheerfulness filled the entire room, and his presence is

Choral Musicians, said, “He encouraged me to continue

greatly missed.

to share my gifts and talents with others because he said

Anthony “Tony” Kraus was born in New Albany,

that my voice has helped both students and teachers

Indiana but moved to Owensboro, Kentucky after he

grow in their faith.” She remembers how much he

graduated from Indiana University with a Bachelor’s

supported her and was always there when she needed

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to talk. Abbey remarked, “his strength to know and serve God” has helped her to grow in her own faith. “[Mr. Kraus] always putting others before himself ” is something she said that has impacted her life. Tony’s impact on his students still resonates today; one of his former students, Jenna Ruth, said, “He never doubted my ability or anyone’s to achieve whatever they want.” She went on to explain the true influence that he had on her life. “I know that I wouldn’t be who I am if I didn’t have him as a teacher.” Tony was one of her class’ sponsors and committed hours to helping build the Titanic for their junior-year prom, much to the disbelief of the other students. Every day at OCHS, he would stand outside his classroom door and greet each student with a smile. Jenna expressed, “It showed that he cared for his students on a personal and genuine level.” Jenna is studying now to become a teacher herself; Tony’s passion to change lives is what influences her to do the same. Along with his students, Tony touched the lives of his co-workers. Scott Lowe, the guidance counselor at Owensboro Catholic, described him as the ultimate example of respect, humility, selflessness, and determination. He sums Tony Kraus up: “He was just a role model of how to grow the Kingdom of God.” Scott remembers a time he entered Tony’s classroom and without a word, the students went quiet. “He respected his students and therefore they respected him.” If there is one thing you should know about Tony, said Scott, “is that he was very humble.” And that he was.

His physical being may no longer be here but his spirit is. Those who

knew Tony know that he is finally at home in perfect happiness with his Creator. Father Jason McClure said to the OCHS students at a prayer service, “Mr. Kraus is teaching us the most important thing right now,” that it is easy to keep the faith when things are good, but Tony showed us how to keep the faith when faced with adversity. It was what Tony did or did not do, what he said or did not say, that showed so many people how much he cared. In the words of his wife, “Tony planted hundreds of seeds, teaching people the way God would want us to live our lives every day.” Tony’s challenge for all of us today and every day is simple--be a blessing to someone.

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After 52 issues, Owensboro Parent writers, editors, designers and photographers put down their pens (or keyboards or cameras) and let kids take over the magazine! In this section you will find what kids think about money, what they wish their parents knew, and even some ideas for New Year's resolutions. A talented 6th grade student from Daviess County Middle School illustrated a number of pages. And probably most impressive, students from across the city and county entered our ad design contest, designing print advertisements for 15 local businesses. The staff of Owensboro Parent, after writing hundreds of stories, taking countless photos and designing more layouts and ads than you can imagine, was excited to sit back, relax, and let your kids do the work!

PHOTO BY JAMIE ALEXANDER

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insight from an ordinary dad

kid

{ by: luke may }

{ photos by: beau may }

Memories in the New Year Like everything else in this Kids Takeover issue, "Insight" looks a little different this time. Normally I would be writing about something to do with becoming a better father in the New Year or commiserating the fact that Luke turns 10 this month. But since this is the Kids Takeover issue, my sons have conspired against me, stolen my computer for the night, hijacked a camera from the office at Tanner Publishing, and seem to be relishing in the limelight. I wouldn't be surprised if they try to get extra credit in their english classes with this project and I'm more than a little concerned that getting their first piece published at 8 and 10 may go to their heads. But at any rate, I hope you enjoy the first ever Insight From an Ordinary Kid. I'll catch you next issue. - Danny

id somebody call for a New Year’s resolution man? If making family memories is your resolution this year, then I’m your guy.

There are a lot of things I want to tell you about. But

first, I want to give my little brother, Beau, some of the credit in this article because he doesn’t want to talk right now. I think he’s a little shy. But he told me yesterday he wanted to write about how our family tries to make memories together by making things meaningful. For example, our traditions at Christmas. We always leave milk for Santa in a special mug called “Milk for

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Santa” cup. We also put up a small Christmas tree in our bedroom so we can fall asleep with the Christmas lights as a night light. Every year we add new ornaments and crafts we make in school to be memories for next year because we decorate our whole house. Now for the family memories I love. I like spending time with family the most because I love my family and they take care of me. So I want to give as much time as I can to them. Watching

movies, playing family games, and taking naps. It’s important to me because my family is very special to me. All of my family, even my little brother. Second, playing as a family. Like swimming in my friend’s pool. Playing baseball and riding our bikes; all these things I love. Next, going to the library. I like to read and watch movies. But my favorite place of all to get those things and to hang out is the library. Without the library, we would not have been able to borrow movies and books. I hope these ideas will help your family make memories in the new year.

Luke May is a fourth grade student at Owensboro Catholic Schools who turns 10 on January 29. Beau May (8) is a second grader at OCS. They enjoyed taking over for Dad (Danny) for this issue.

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kiDs t s e t n o c n g i s e ad d SPONSORED BY

With over 200 submissions, the Kids Takeover Ad Design contest was a huge success! Kids from across the city and county completed the ad templates and returned them to the Owensboro Parent office for their chance to win. Each business judged the entries and chose the winners, who will all receive a gift card from the Takeover sponsor, Chick-fil-A. And Owensboro Parent staff members even got to pick our own favorites! Thank you to all of the kids who entered the contest and for all of the businesses that participated:

KENTUCKIANA ANIMAL CLINIC LIBERTY FINANCIAL OWENSBORO DERMATOLOGY PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY OF OWENSBORO HILL VIEW FARMS MEATS WENDELL FOSTER NICK T. ARNOLD JEWELERS ALLERGY & ASTHMA SPECIALISTS KIDSTOP CHILDREN'S BOUTIQUE & STRIDE RITE BOOTERY CHICK-FIL-A GATEWAY URGENT CARE EDGE ICE CENTER OWENSBORO HEALTH

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ad design contest winners Designed by:

Matthew Duke Age: 12

1500 East 18th Street (270) 684-2949 kentuckianaanimalclinic.com

Elias Campbell Age: 10

3000 Alvey Park Dr W, Ste 9 firstlibertymortgage-owensboro.com

Elizabeth Eaton Age: 10

2821 New Hartford Road (270) 685-5777 www.OurFamilyDerm.com

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ad design contest winners Rebecca Locke Designed by:

Age: 11

Located in the Springs on Hwy. 54 2200 E. Parrish Ave. C-202 (270) 683-7447 www.kidsdentistofowensboro.com

Charli Worth Age: 9

5024 Lee Rudy Rd. (270) 929-0558 www.hillviewfarmsmeats.com

amazing kids! “

Alyssa Rhineburger is a 5th grade student at Meadow Lands Elementary School. She was asked if she would push a classmate in a running stroller so that he could participate in the 2017 East Daviess County Cross Country Series. Peyton Howard became the first Team Karlie participant in the East DC Cross Country Series 29 history of the races. She practiced with her little sister in a regular stroller so that she would be able to handle Peyton. She was chosen because she is a strong girl with a kind heart. We had to pick someone that would be willing to give up their competitive “race time” in order for Peyton to compete. Alyssa and Peyton are both amazing students at MLES! -Amy Bouchard, P.E. Teacher, Meadow Lands Elementary School

”

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“

The SCRUBS club at Owensboro Catholic High School plans Teen Issues Week each fall. This year, they chose to highlight the struggle with depression and decided to send positive messages to fellow students. Elizabeth Ford and Abby Hagan (and many other SCRUBS members not pictured) left positive message on each student’s locker and each teachers’ doors so that everyone could start their day on a happy note. -Connie McFarland, Guidance Counselor, Owensboro Catholic High School

”

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Geordyn Stevens Age: 10

815 Triplett Street (270) 683-4517 www.wendellfoster.org

Mila Kindle Age: 9

3630 Frederica St. shopnta.com

“

Emani Barksdale is a 3rd grade student at Estes Elementary School who is a very self motivated leader! She is always coming to school with math games she creates, extra reading assignments completed, and ideas for how she can problem solve issues that may arise in the classroom, school, or even the community. She has a bright future ahead of her! She sets goals for herself and pushes herself to achieve these goals! -Lauren Magill, 3rd grade teacher, Estes Elementary School

”

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“

Ava Trunnell, a 3rd grade student at Burns Elementary School is currently writing a book and has already completed multiple chapters. It is really good and certainly worthy of recognition! - Jennifer Crowley, 3rd grade teacher, Burns Elementary School

”

“

Ava is passionate about her ukulele. We have started a new ensemble this year for 4th and 5th graders interested in playing the instrument, but I had to make an exception for Ava. Not only did she begin practicing weeks before the club even officially met for the first time, but she has quickly become one of the top performers because of her hard work and dedication. It seems like everyday I see her, she tells me a new chord she taught herself or a new song or a new strumming pattern. She is truly a special student! - Jordan Roller, music teacher, Burns Elementary School

”

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ad design contest winners Designed by:

Trinity Ralph Age: 8

3604 Wathen’s Crossing (270) 684-6144 owensboroallergy.com

Delaina Rose Davis Age: 8

2660 Frederica Street in Wesleyan Park Plaza (270) 926-6433 facebook: @kidstopboutique

amazing kids!

“

Isaac Mundell is a 2nd grader at Sutton Elementary School and is known as Sutton’s Super Star Bucket Filler! He makes it a point each day to fill the buckets of others with kind compliments and loving hugs. When someone is feeling down, a few minutes with Isaac can really turn their day around. - Kristin Tines, School Counselor, Sutton Elementary School

”

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“

Burns Elementary School's Everybody Counts Council (ECC) is a group designed to focus on advocating for students with special needs in our building and in our community. Their first event this school year was the Burns Elementary Buddy Walk. The ECC members paraded the hallways lined with students and collected change in buckets. This school-wide event raised $657.10, which was donated to a team participating in the Owensboro Buddy Walk. - Larkin Wetzel, Speech Language Pathologist Burns Elementary School

”

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Sadie Bellows Age: 8

4601 Frederica St. (270) 683-0907 www.chick-fil-a.com

Dathan Hinton Age: 9

3245 Mount Moriah Ave. Suite 10 (270) 663-0955 www.gatewaymercy.com

Juan Santiago Castro Age: 9

1400 Hickman Ave. www.owensboroparks.org

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ad design contest winners Designed by:

Carlie Gainer Age: 13

1201 Pleasant Valley Rd (270) 417-2000 owensborohealth.org

Asharria Owens Age: 9 NICU 1201 Pleasant Valley Rd owensborohealth.org/NICU

Victor Neves Age: 10

Pediatrics 1000 Breckenridge St., #300 (270) 688-4480 owensborohealth.org/pediatrics

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Stafsf: Pick

We had too many great entries to pick just one from each business! Here are some more creative designs we loved! Adelyn, 9 Allergy & Asthma Specialists, P.S.C.

Zaria, 9 Gateway Urgent Care

Aiden, 7 Chick-fil-A

Xavier, 10 Hill View Farms Meats

Julia, 9 Edge Ice Center

Belinda, 8 Kentuckiana Animal Clinic

Marlon, 10 Liberty Financial

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Camille, 8 Kidstop Children's Boutique & Stride Rite Bootery

Naylee, 8 Nick T. Arnold Jewelers

Tiyonce, 9 Owensboro Dermatology

Adrian, 9 Owensboro Health NICU

Winifred, 8 Owensboro Health Pediatrics

Keleigh, 12 Owensboro Health

Hazel, 11 Pediatric Dentistry of Owensboro

Jaiden, 9 Wendell Foster

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{ by: elaine martin }

how do people get their money? (Choose all that apply)

working from their parents they win it it grows on trees

$ $

91% 40% 26% 4%

JA USA/JACKSON/WAKEFIELD RESEARCH SURVEY OF 7-10 YEAR OLDS

9% 17% 21% 45%

buy stuff

68% get good grades 54% do my homework 36% be nice to siblings/parents 21% don’t do anything 3% i don’t get an allowance 13% what’s an allowance? 2% do chores

save it

(Choose all that apply)

buy gifts

how do you get your allowance?

Disney/zoo

if you had $2,000, what would you do with it? give it away

$ NEY? Mo

0 0 0 $1, $1,000

we asked kindergarteners:

pay bills

what do kids think about

we asked kindergarteners, 3rd and 4th graders:

where do your parents spend their money?

9% 46% 20% 3% 3% Target or Walmart

bills

Target or grocery Walmart

other:

at the bank Florida restaurants

gas station, dollar store, our pool, Holiday World, French Lick

what do your parents spend on groceries weekly?

how much does a 2017 vehicle cost?

70% of kindergarteners said

30% of 3rd graders said

63% of 4th graders said

< $10

$100-$199

< $2,200

35% of 3rd graders and 52% of 4th graders said

$20-$99

how much is a one-day ticket to Disney world?

< $99

Meadow Lands Elementary School: K – Mrs. Robyn Collignon • 3rd – Mrs. Rachelle Brown • 4th – Mrs. Stelyn Kahle

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January // February 2018 . OWENSBORO PARENT

i wish You knew... honest advice to parents from middle school students { by: melody ann wallace // illustrations by ella dukes

}

I wish...

you would be more encouraging.

I really wish you wouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t... blame me for everything.

hold me responsible for the mistakes my siblings make.

I could spend more time with my dad. you would let me have my say sometimes; I actually have some good ideas. we had more fun together.

put so much pressure on me (sports, grades, etc.). compare me to others, and accept me for who I am. focus on everything I did wrong, and donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t acknowledge me when I do things right.

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I wish you understood... how easily you could hurt my feelings. how difficult it is for me to make friends. that I worry a lot — about everything. that I can’t do everything at once.

Fact: “Even when parents are able to remain calm and avoid

yelling, kids pick up on the tension in the home and experience stress, anxiety and other negative emotions as a result.” U.S. NEWS AND WORLD REPORT

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January // February 2018 . OWENSBORO PARENT

10 WAYS TO HELP YOUR MIDDLE-SCHOOLER MANAGE STRESS From understood.org, a non-profit organization that believes, “With the right support, parents can help children unlock their strengths and reach their full potential.” ›› Help your child discover how they are feeling about a situation by asking specific, low stress questions, such as, “Are you nervous about the math test on Tuesday? How can we make sure you are prepared for it?” ›› Break homework down into manageable chunks each day. ›› Help your child prepare for new experiences and decrease anxiety by doing some research ahead of time and discussing expectations. ›› Celebrate small victories and take opportunities to praise accomplishments. ›› Suggest positive phrases for stressful situations. Instead of, “I’m an idiot, I’ll never get it,” suggest, “I can do it; it just might take a little while.”

I really do want you to...

talk to me about why you two got divorced.

›› Establish consistent routines for homework and afterschool activities.

realize that, just because I’m a child, doesn’t mean I can’t take care of myself.

›› Seek your child’s input on an activity that might help reduce stress, increase self-esteem, and help them to “blow off steam.”

know that when you argue it worries me.

›› Find a positive balance between afterschool activities and schoolwork. ›› Be specific about expectations. Rather than making a general statement like, “I need you to start taking more responsibility,” try saying, “I need you to start making your bed each morning before school,” and then demonstrate what that should look like. ›› If you still feel that your child is struggling with stress and anxiety, consider contacting someone outside of the family for them to talk to, such as a pediatrician or counselor. 36 OWENSBORO PARENT

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I wonder what would happen if...

you let me try new things, instead of forcing me to do what you think I should do. you saw all sides of me instead of just the side of me thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s around you.

Three groups of middleschoolers were asked what they would like to have more of: privacy, time with their parents, time with their friends, or time on their phones or electronics. Their answers may surprise you.

Melody Ann Wallace is a sixth grade language arts teacher at Daviess County Middle School that has been writing since she was old enough to hold a crayon, and is currently working on her first novel.

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4% 22% friends

electronics

41% parentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; time

33% privacy

Ella Dukes is a 6th grader who attends DCMS. Her passions include drawing, writing and reading.

January // February 2018 . OWENSBORO PARENT

{ Q & A w i t h c h r i s t i n a d a l t o n & d a u g h t e r, m a t i s s e }

parental

control Q: I have a 12 year-old-girl and she has been having some issues at school with kids wanting to make fun of her. She comes home and cries about it. We are in that awkward phase of braces and acne. I think her self-esteem is already a little low from that. What advice can I give her to help?

A: Well, if people are making fun of her, I would personally ignore them, or in another case I would use reverse psychology. Like if they called me, "brace face" for example, I would say, "Thanks! Don't you like them?â&#x20AC;? Or something else that might trick the bully into thinking that it doesn't bother me anymore. If bullies think that it bothers her then they will keep making fun of her. But if she acts like she's cool with it, then they will probably quit doing it. Kids can be mean sometimes, but tell her to think about how awesome her teeth are going to be when she gets her braces off.

coming home from my dad's house. A suggestion would be to ask him (your son) what his dad does for discipline. Then you could try to do something similar to each other. My mom and dad talked to each other a lot and tried to always use the same kind of discipline, so it was consistent for me. If I was in trouble for something they would tell my Nana, Papa, and my Mimi, so no matter where I went everyone knew what I was in trouble for too. I didn't like it either. But I think this is something that would help you and maybe things will be the same everywhere for your son.

Q: I am divorced and my son, who is 10, goes back and forth between my house and his dad's. When he comes home from being with his dad, he is sometimes disrespectful to me and it takes him a day or two to get back to normal. This is new for me and I just wonder what advice you might have to make this transition smoother?

Q: Do you think that kids should automatically get an allowance or should they have to do chores to earn money?

A: My mom and dad are divorced too. When I was younger I remember my mom telling me that I acted different

ILLUSTRATION BY ELLA DUKES

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A: In my opinion, I think kids should have chores to earn an allowance. This teaches them how to work hard, have persistence and use and distribute money. Don't let them just blow their money on a toy in one day either. Make them save it up and be responsible. It will make them feel good about themselves. I saved up money that I earned doing chores, Christmas money and my birthday money two years ago. I used the money to buy a phone. It made me feel really good that I could buy that myself. I think it's good when a kid has certain chores, but they can also earn extra money by doing other stuff. My mom will give me extra money for doing chores that she doesn't want to do like cleaning the windows. And I don't mind doing it because I like using the squirt bottle! OP

Matisse Dalton is a an 8th grader at Burns Middle School. Her hobbies include playing the cello, basketball and softball. She also loves unicorns, llamas, and Stranger Things.

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January // February 2018 . OWENSBORO PARENT

fun mess vs.

the search for indoor activities for kids

{ by: katie albers }

inter in Kentucky means some cold, yucky weather and the potential for long days stuck in the house with the kids. And, while I believe wholeheartedly that boredom breeds creativity, I also know that when my kids are left too long to their own devices, they tend to destroy the house. As a mother of four, ages 8, 6, 2, and baby, in a three-bedroom house, I am always weighing the fun factor versus the mess potential when helping my children to direct their energies. With another January fast approaching, we needed a few new ideas. So, we did a quick internet search and found some activities to try out. Then the kids rated how much fun they had and the parents rated the mess.

knot tying tutorials Source: animatedknots.com

Fun:

Mess:

exploding car wash Source: whatdowedoallday.com

Fun:

Mess:

This activity is that classic science experiment of baking soda and vinegar with the fun of toy cars. Onto a large tray, we spread out baking soda and the kids spent a while simply playing in the powder, piling snow banks, making tracks, and spilling it onto the counter, floor, and their clothing. Good times! Then I brought out the gallon jug of vinegar and started splashing it over the baking soda coated cars. The kids loved watching the bubbles form and hearing the sizzle of the reaction. However, within a couple minutes, the wow factor had worn off and it was time to clean up. My kids felt like the most fun part was not the explosion at all, but driving the cars through the “snow.”

I admit, this activity was my idea. I enjoy yarn arts: knitting, crocheting, and macramé, so I thought perhaps the kids would enjoy learning to tie a few knots as a little introduction into my hobbies. We used nylon cord and found a knot tying tutorial on the computer to help. But, after an attempt or two with no success, my kids were ready to move on. On the bright side, clean up only required rolling the cord back up and putting it back in the cupboard!

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PHOTOS BY JAMIE ALEXANDER

ice tower excavation Source: funathomewithkids.com

Fun:

Mess:

This activity takes some pre-planning, but it held the kids interest for quite a while and was fun for all of them. I took a plastic pitcher and poured in about 2 inches of water and a small toy or trinket. I put the pitcher in the freezer and then a bit later I added another 2 inches of water and another trinket. In our ice tower we had beads, a block, a bracelet, thread, ribbon, a feather, and a button. Once the tower was complete, I gave the kids small squirt bottles, a bulb syringe, and a salt shaker. I told them that they were not allowed to hit the ice with anything or directly run water from the faucet over it. They worked in the sink and together melted the ice away to release the â&#x20AC;&#x153;treasures.â&#x20AC;? There was some stray water on the counters and floor to clean up, but the high mess score also reflects the effort put in to prepare for this activity.

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January // February 2018 . OWENSBORO PARENT

FunnY things kids saY! Kids say the darndest things, often to the surprise and confusion of their parents. Whether they are asking the tough questions about life or having a chat with their toys, sometimes the craziest things come out of the mouths of babes.

My 3-year-old was telling me her friend in school is having a little sister. So, my daughter was trying to convince me to have a baby. She said, "All you gotta do is eat all your food and you'll get a baby in your belly, Mommy!" Yesterday I was sick so my 4-year-old was giving me - Patricia "check up" and after she a Homsey felt my forehead said "Mommy, you're a little bit warm. I think you have a beaver."

I was teaching my 1-year-old grandson to put his hands together and pray before his dinner. After holding his hands together and saying the blessing he began to clap and roll them in a circle then he said, “Roll 'em and roll 'em and pitch 'em in the pan. Amen.” So now this is our ending to the blessings.

- Becky Clark LaRoche

4-year-old Graylon, working on his ABC's: Dad: OK, say the alphabet slowly. Graylon: allllpppphhaaaabeeeettt - Jenny Sutton

- Leslie Bracy

Me and my 6-year-old (at the time) were talking about roads and highways and how they were made. He turned around in all seriousness and asked, “Momma, what was it like riding on dirt roads in a horse and buggy?” -Shellie Moorman

Finn, 3 years old said," I love you, Momma. I love you in my heartbeat."

Measuring Around the House Source: www.education.com

Fun:

Mess:

Taking inspiration from a measuring worksheet, we made our own charts and the kids chose different objects to measure. Before measuring, they estimated the length of the object and then compared the true measurements to their guesses. Next time, the kids mentioned that they would like to measure the same objects and compare their estimates in a competition to see who can guess the most accurately. I was quite surprised by how much the kids enjoyed this activity. It occupied a good chunk of time and clean up only required putting away the tape measures and clipboards.

-Jessie Byers Frizzell

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Balloon Olympics Fun:

Mess:

On a list of indoor activities, we found the suggestion to toss a balloon around. We decided to take that advice a little bit further. I challenged the kids to come up with different events using balloons for a Balloon Olympics. They ran races, kicked goals, volleyed around the room, and finally ended with a contest to determine who could make the most obnoxious squeaking sound when releasing air from the neck. They spent more time occupied with this activity than any other, and clean up was a breeze with quick toss of the used balloons in the trash.

As the excitement of the holidays winds down and the dreary days of winter seem to linger, donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t let the ultimate fun without a mess activity, TV watching, dominate your kidsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; days. Try out some of the activities that we tested or there are zillions more ideas online for engaging the little ones. Save your sanity and your house by getting creative with the kids! OP

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Katie Albers grew up in Owensboro and loved words so much that she became a school librarian and even alphabetized her family: Josh, Katie, Lance, Mallory, Noelle, Oaken, and Polly (the cat).

January // February 2018 . OWENSBORO PARENT

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PHOTO BY CAPTURED MOMENTS PHOTOGRAPHY

Having a baby can be the most joyful time in a couple's life. After waiting nine long months, finally meeting your baby will be a moment you never forget. But there are a lot of unknowns leading up to that moment and a lot more unknowns to come. The Owensboro Parent Baby Book is full of advice on how to deal with those unknowns, written by the experts in this community. Learn how to best feed your baby, how to pick out shoes when she learns to walk and even how to start saving money for when he goes to college. We know first-hand that life with a new baby is both challenging and rewarding. Owensboro Parent wants to be there to support you through the challenges and celebrate the victories. After all, we are all in this parenting thing together.

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January // February 2018 . OWENSBORO PARENT

The Baby Book

7 Things

you should never feel guilty about when you have a new baby { by: jamie roby johnson }

aving a new baby is such an exciting, magical time in life! You wait nine long months to meet your little human face to face. And when you finally do, you fall in love immediately. But having a new baby isn’t all rainbows and unicorns. Being a parent is hard. There are a lot of things people DON’T tell you about when you announce your pregnancy. One of the things I found the most surprising was the amount of guilt I felt in certain situations. It was completely unnecessary, but it was that nagging voice in my head telling me I was doing something wrong. So here is a list of things you should NEVER feel guilty about when you have a new baby, or are about to bring a sweet little munchkin into the world.

2 Don’t feel guilty for asking visitors to leave your room if you need rest or asking them to wait until you get home to come see the baby. You will be so tired. And you will need sleep. Taking care of a new baby is hard work. And they will understand because most of them have been there.

3 Don’t feel guilty for not doing anything around the house when you get home. The laundry will pile up. The dishes will overflow the sink. The floors won’t be vacuumed or mopped. Most likely you will have created some sort of nest for you and baby on the couch or in the bed. Take that time to rest, spend time with your baby, and heal. 4 Don’t feel guilty asking for help. Like I said above, the

1 Don’t feel guilty about not wanting every member of your family in the hospital room while you are in labor. Having a child is a very personal and exhausting experience. It’s OK to tell your parents that you want to share that moment with just your partner. It will also decrease the chance that you will yell at someone for trying to make small talk while you’re having a contraction.

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laundry will pile up and the dishes will be overflowing. There will be so much laundry from a tiny human. So, when your mom asks how she can help, put her to work! If someone wants to bring you food, say yes! If your friend asks how they can help, hand them a vacuum! They wouldn’t be asking if they didn’t really want to help. And if they didn’t want to help, they should have stayed silent because that laundry won’t fold itself.

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5 Don’t feel guilty for leaving the baby for a few hours to be alone or go meet friends. It is good for you and your health to get out of the house and around those people that make you happy. Plus having a conversation with an adult that doesn’t live in the same home as you is extremely refreshing. I don’t care if it’s with the cashier at the gas station. Get out for a bit and get a breath of fresh air. 6 Don’t feel guilty for going back to work. It’s a fact of life. Not all of us can stay at home with our babies. It’s very hard to spend 6-8 weeks doing nothing but caring for your newborn then handing them over to a sitter so you can get back to the grind. But it happens. You will be sad. You might cry. You will miss your baby. But hopefully, you also missed your job just a little and the friends you have there. If you have to work to pay the bills, like I do, you will make the best of the situation and find the joy in working too. 7 Don’t feel guilty for not feeling like yourself after you have the baby. I had my second baby in July and I still don’t totally feel like myself. Hormones are crazy things. I still find myself crying during movies or when I watch those sad animal commercials where Sarah McLachlan sings. If you are a mom, I hope you can relate to this list. If you are about to have a baby, take this to heart. You must put yourself and your new baby first. And you can only do that by resting and spending time bonding with your little human – guilt free. OP

Jamie Johnson is a full-time working mom to two little boys, wife to Logan, and part-time writer. Her pieces have been featured in HuffPost Parents, Motherly, Today Parents and PopSugar Moms. You can follow her blog at HashtagMomFail.com!

4 Wellness Tips for new Moms Wellness should be a major consideration for both expectant moms and moms who have just delivered their bundles of joy. Two Peas Wellness keeps this in mind as they advocate for intentional movement, real food nutrition, mindful awareness, and whole self wellness. Casey Thomas Hardesty, owner of Two Peas Wellness, offered these four tips for both moms-tobe and new moms:

Find a trainer with knowledge. Exercise is an important part of a healthy pregnancy. Be sure that your trainer is well educated in prenatal and postpartum fitness to help you on your journey.

Modification isn't enough. Don't simply modify your existing fitness routine. Be intentional with your movements; you are now training for birth. Focus on body awareness, positioning, and breath and keep your long term core and pelvic health in mind.

Pregnancy is temporary; postpartum is forever. Allow yourself time and grace to recover. It can take an average of 280 days to heal soft tissue. Doing too much too soon can set your fitness goals back much longer than taking it slow initially.

Listen to your body, but know what you need to be listening for. Diastasis rectus abdominus (commonly seen as coning of the abdomen), leaking urine, hip or pelvic pain, and a feeling of bulging or heaviness in the pelvic area are symptoms that may need an evaluation by a professional as well as an adjustment to your fitness routine. Not sure what movements are right for your pregnancy and postpartum journey? Schedule a consultation with us. We would love to help.

Two Peas Wellness (270) 993-2800 | twopeaswellness@gmail.com Facebook: Two Peas Wellness Instagram: @twopeaswellness www.OwensboroParent.com

January // February 2018 . OWENSBORO PARENT

The Baby Book

Right Shoes For their First Steps

{ paid advertorial }

NEW BALANCE KVURGBRI REG. 44.99

It is an exciting time when your kids start walking. It is an important milestone in your baby’s life, but equally important is providing the right footwear to support their journey. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

1 If a child is learning to walk and is indoors, bare feet or

4 When buying shoes for your little one, always get

socks are the best options. Their muscles are still learning this new adventure. People used to think that hard soles were best for a baby taking his or her first steps, but this is not the case.

a professional measurement from a shoe store like Shoe Stop. McDonald says it is important to measure both feet, always fitting for the larger foot. A good guideline is a thumb width from the longest toe to the tip of the shoe.

2 If learning to walk and outdoors or when walking is becoming more of a daily routine, a shoe with a flexible sole is best. While this can vary for every child, Julie McDonald, general manager at Shoe Stop, recommends this for children from 8 - 30 months.

5 Kids grow at different rates so there is no time line on how often to get new shoes. Parents, it is important to remember to periodically check your child’s foot measurement in their shoe, keeping in mind the thumb width rule.

3 If a dress shoe is worn, this should only be done so for

6 Also, parents should never buy shoes too big in attempt

a short amount of time.

to get more use out of the shoe. “Kids have enough to worry about while learning to walk — don’t add to that with shoes that are too big,” McDonald said. “A shoe too big is as bad as a shoe too small.”

7 It is also important to have shoe soles with grip. If a shoe sole is too slippery, McDonald recommends to sandpaper the soles of the shoe. 8 The seasons of the year should dictate the type of shoe your child wears. Winter calls for leather shoes, summer calls for canvas and McDonald says all plastic shoes should be kept for water purposes.

NEW BALANCE KVURGGSI REG. 44.99

Visit Shoe Stop in Town Square North for your kids footwear. 270-686-7508 • www.shoestopky.com • Open 9am - 9pm, Monday thru Saturday • 11am - 6pm Sunday

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January // February 2018 . OWENSBORO PARENT

The Baby Book

{ paid advertorial }

dental care for your baby When should my child first see a dentist?

When should bottle-feeding be stopped?

“First visit by first birthday” sums it up. Your child should visit a pediatric dentist when the first tooth comes in, usually between 6 and 12 months of age. This visit will establish a dental home for your child. Early examination and preventive care will protect your child’s smile now and in the future.

Should I worry about thumb and finger sucking?

Why so early? What dental problems could a baby have? The most important reason is to begin a thorough prevention program. Dental problems can begin early. A big concern is Early Childhood Caries (formerly known as baby bottle tooth decay). The earlier the dental visit, the better the chance of preventing dental problems. Children with healthy teeth chew food easily and smile with confidence. Start your child now on a lifetime of good dental habits.

How can I prevent tooth decay from nursing or using a bottle? At-will breast-feeding should be avoided after the first primary (baby) teeth begin to erupt and other sources of nutrition have been introduced. Children should not fall asleep with a bottle containing anything other than water. Drinking juice from a bottle should be avoided. Fruit juice should only be offered in a cup with meal.

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Children should be weaned from the bottle at 12 months of age.

Thumb sucking is perfectly normal for infants. Prolonged thumb sucking can create crooked teeth or bite problems. If the habit continues beyond age 3, a professional evaluation is recommended. Your pediatric dentist will be glad to suggest ways to address a prolonged thumb sucking habit.

When should I start cleaning my baby’s teeth? The sooner the better! As soon as the teeth begin to appear, start brushing twice daily using fluoridated toothpaste and a soft, ageappropriate sized toothbrush. Use a “smear” of toothpaste to brush the teeth of a child less than 2 years of age. For the 2-5 year old, dispense a “pea-size” amount of toothpaste and perform or assist your child’s tooth brushing. Remember that young children do not have the ability to brush their teeth effectively.

Any advice on teething? From six months to age 3, your child may have tender gums when teeth erupt. Many children like a clean teething ring, a chilled ring, cool spoon or cold wet washcloth. OP

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January // February 2018 . OWENSBORO PARENT

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The Baby Book { paid advertorial }

work out with

Peace of Mind

lot of moms are ready to get get back to their prepregnancy body after having their baby. But working out was a lot simpler before having a baby. Post-baby, mom has to find someone to watch their little one while she runs to the gym, taking into consideration feeding and napping schedules, not to mention the mom guilt of being away from your child. The Owensboro Family YMCA has the perfect solution to all of these problems — Wee Care! Moms can exercise with peace of mind with Wee Care, a free service to all YMCA members, which offers fun and safe activities for children while you use the amenities of the YMCA. While mom is in the building, taking advantage of the gym or fitness classes, Wee Care is available for children 6 weeks to 10 years old for up to two hours. Liz Young has worked in Y Wee Care for 16 years. “My favorite part about my job is seeing the impact that a nurturing, mentally stimulating environment can have on babies and children,” Liz said. “I also love the diversity of the families who use our program. The opportunity to serve these families is so rewarding.” Jenni Long, who has worked in Y Wee Care for almost two years, uses the service herself. "As a mom, I am happy knowing that there is a service available where I can leave my kids in the capable hands of the Wee Care staff while I work out," Jenni said.

According to Liz, the parents who use the service are able to spend much-needed time on themselves, whether to work out or just to have some time to relax, while their children are socializing and enjoying dramatic play. They offer toys and activities that encourage creativity, and staff who loves working with kids. “Many of our moms, specifically, have remarked on how nice it is to know their children can have fun in a safe environment while they work out and have a hot shower to start the day, and how they can spend a few minutes to focus on themselves so they can care even better for their little ones,” Liz said. “One parent recently told us, ‘You guys are Owensboro’s best kept secret!’” Wee Care is offered at both the YMCA Family and Athenian Branches:

Family Branch Monday-Friday 8 am - 12 pm and 4 - 8 pm Saturdays 8 - 11 am Athenian Branch Mondays & Wednesdays 8:30 am - 12:45 pm and 4 - 8 pm Tuesdays & Thursdays 8 am - 11 am and 4 pm - 8 pm Fridays 8 - 11 am Saturdays 8 - 11 am OP

For more information, please contact Samantha Lipscomb at 270-926-9622 ext. 8202 or at samantha@owensboroymca.org www.OwensboroParent.com

January // February 2018 . OWENSBORO PARENT

The Baby Book

Feeding youRBaby

{ by: shanna mcginnis,

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M D, FA A P

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}

ext to diaper changes, feeding your baby is the activity that you will do most for him or her during the first year of life. Providing proper nutrition is obviously of utmost importance for an infant, but feeding can serve as a barometer for wellness. When babies are ill, changes in feeding patterns are often one of their first symptoms. Parents also should be aware of what, when, and how much to feed their baby. This article will provide some basic principles on feeding infants during their first year. Breastmilk or infant formula should be at the center of your baby’s diet during their first year of life. In fact, for at least the first 4 months, it should be their sole source of nutrition. The quantity that infants ingest can vary from baby to baby, but there are some general guidelines that are helpful. An infant’s stomach size changes over the first month of life. On the first day, the stomach is the size of a cherry and can only hold 5-7 ml of volume. By day 3, it is the size of a walnut and can hold up to 27 ml, which is nearly one ounce. At the end of the first week, the stomach is the size of an apricot and has a capacity of 45 to 60 ml, up to 2 ounces. By one month of age, the stomach is the size of a jumbo chicken egg and can hold a volume of 4 ounces. With these volumes in mind, parents can expect their new baby to consume slightly increasing volumes over the first month of life. More important than the specific volume is the infant’s growth. For the first several months, the rate of weight gain should be about one ounce per day, but that rate slows to half an ounce per day around 4 months. There are also some general guidelines for the interval between feedings. Formula fed newborns typically eat every 3 to 4 hours, while nursing infants eat more frequently. It is important to note that all babies, whether eating breastmilk or formula, should not go more than 4-5 hours without being fed. For most babies, until they reach approximately 12 pounds (between 2 and 4 months for most), they still require feedings during the night. Many parents inquire about adding cereal to the bedtime bottle to help the baby sleep through the night. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends against starting solids until at least 4 to 6 months of age. Research has shown that infants who eat rice cereal prior to 4 months old have a higher risk of www.OwensboroParent.com

developing diabetes later in life. In addition, an infant is not

the order, there should be an interval of 2 to 3 days between

ready to digest solid food before 4 months and their immature

the start of each new food so if there are any sensitivities or

kidneys should not be exposed to the level of salt contained in

allergies, it is easier to identify which food is the culprit.

cereal.

Finally, newer research suggests that there is no need to wait

to introduce foods that commonly cause allergies such as

Side note: Parents should refrain from giving young infants

water as well. Again, their kidneys are too immature to maintain

eggs, dairy, fish, or peanuts.

the proper salt balance and in severe cases, it can lead to seizures.

referring to pureed foods.

Although many babies have the oral-motor skills to start

solid foods at 4 months of age, the AAP urges breastfeeding as the sole source of nutrition for the first 6 months. Rice cereal has traditionally been suggested as the first solid food for infants even though there is no specific research to back this recommendation. I usually recommend this for practical reasons. Parents can prepare cereal with breastmilk or formula which allows them to adjust the consistency to their baby’s needs and it is also a familiar flavor on the baby’s palate. Likewise, there is no medical evidence to support starting vegetables prior to fruits, but this has been the traditional recommendation by pediatricians for decades. The conventional wisdom is that babies will prefer sweeter foods so those should be reserved for later. Regardless of

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Another side note: When I discuss “solid” foods for infants, I am There is lots more to say about feeding your baby than I

can fit into this article. You will have lots of discussions with your doctor during the first year regarding what and how to feed your infant. If you notice any changes in your baby’s typical feeding pattern, let your doctor know as this could be a sign of illness. Feeding your baby, particularly during the night, can seem like a chore at times, but try to enjoy it. It is a great time to nurture and bond with your little one. Before you know it, they will be feeding themselves!

Dr. Shanna McGinnis board-certified pediatrician with Owensboro Health Pediatrics. She is also the mother of 3 children.

January // February 2018 . OWENSBORO PARENT

The Baby Book

{ paid advertorial }

music - the great superpower We all know that MUSIC is truly one of the most powerful forces in the universe. A popular video game even uses music as a booster source causing gamers to become stronger, faster, and more durable when they come in contact with music even unlocking hidden potential of existing powers. In addition, a user may draw sustenance and slow down or even stop the aging process. Now that’s POWERFUL! But, why?

Music Makes You Feel Music causes chemical changes in the brain. Have you ever heard a song and started to cry? Music did that by connecting neurons in your anatomical wiring that tapped into your emotions. Have you ever heard a song and started moving without even noticing like maybe tapping your foot or nodding your head? Have you seen your child start bouncing when a song came on? That’s music, baby! We feel it!

Singing, dancing, and making music together creates stronger bonds.

Music Fertilizes the Brain Statistics prove that musical training helps students develop language and reasoning. Students who study music along with academics have overall better standardized test scores. Music students stay especially engaged in school.

Music Positively Impacts Health Study after study reinforces the fact that music can have very strong, positive effects on our overall health, both physically and mentally. Listening to music can help with insomnia. Music can reduce pain perception, reduce cortisol levels, and reduce stress and anxiety. Music can help relieve the symptoms of depression. In addition, music can reduce recovery time after working out or surgery and it can improve cognitive brain function.

Music Builds Bridges Making music with others builds compassion and empathy. Music helps with social development in ways that other activities do not.

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. January // February 2018

Bring more MUSICAL SUPERPOWERS into your child’s world, try Kindermusik!

www.OwensboroParent.com

Timeless Traditions

{ paid advertorial }

hen registering for your baby shower or buying gifts for an expectant mom, why not think of a timeless gift that will be cherished forever? Kidstop Children's Boutique & Stride Rite Bootery offers just this. Owner, Jeanne Clark, says that gifts from Kidstop make life long treasures that won't eventually be sold in a garage sale. She says gifts like pewter baby cups and rattles, bonnets and monogrammed blankets are all gifts that will stand the test of time. "I still have my baby cup in my China cabinet," Jeanne said. The Feltman Brothers clothing line at Kidstop offers parents classic pieces for children -- from day gowns to sweaters and smock dresses. Jeanne says these are the perfect choices for children's portraits that can then be saved and passed on to the next generation. The same idea can be applied to the many toys, like the Hape line of toys at Kidstop. These are wooden toys that are not only durable, but educational toys as well. Jeanne says learning is in the heart of these toys, which promote imagination and creativity. The store also offers Usborne books, which are perfect gifts as well. But maybe the most popular play item in the store

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is the Madame Alexander lifelike baby dolls. Kidstop makes the purchase of one of these dolls a special event for your daughter. When ready to purchase, your child will come to the store for an adoption. The employees will give your child a questionnaire and present them with a birth certificate with the baby's new name. What a special day for a little girl! Kidstop is always trying to provide customers with timeless gifts for their customers, which is why they also bring in a silhouette artist once a year. Only taking few minutes, the artist will create the outline of your child's sweet face from black paper to be framed and preserved forever. So when registering for your baby shower or buying a gift for an expectant mom, consider a timeless gift -- one that will be passed on for generations to come. OP

January // February 2018 . OWENSBORO PARENT

The Baby Book

Pregnancy Timeline

Weeks 1-8

Weeks 16-20

[ ] Tell your partner the good

[ ] Look into childcare options

[ ] Take pregnancy test news

[ ] Start planning nursery [ ] Standard mid-pregnancy

[ ] Find an OB/GYN [ ] Schedule prenatal checkup [ ] Research insurance â&#x20AC;&#x201D; how does it deal with pregnancy and children? [ ] Figure out how pregnancy, baby and maternity leave will affect finances

ultrasound [ ] Milestone: Find out baby's gender? [ ] Milestone: Hear baby's heartbeat? [ ] Milestone: First baby kick? [ ] Milestone: Belly starting to show?

[ ] Create a savings plan for your child's future expenses [ ] Make a budget to start saving now

[ ] Start pediatrician interviews

Weeks 8-12

[ ] Start buying maternity clothes [ ] Research photographers for maternity photos [ ] Start thinking about baby names

Weeks 12-16

[ ] Start planning maternity leave and postpartum work schedule [ ] Tell boss about pregnancy [ ] Milestone: Tell friends and family? 58 OWENSBORO PARENT

Weeks 20-24

[ ] Research and sign up for childbirth classes [ ] Figure out baby shower logistics (date, host, location, guests, etc.)

Weeks 24-28

[ ] Update or write will, including directions for child's inheritance and guardianship [ ] Purchase life insurance [ ] Update 401K and retirement account beneficiaries [ ] If using doula, start interviews

. January // February 2018

[ ] Start childcare interviews [ ] Send out shower invites [ ] Register for shower gifts

Weeks 28-32 [ ] Babyproof house

[ ] Prepare birth plan [ ] Baby shower [ ] Send thank-you notes for gifts (start one week after shower) [ ] Have maternity pictures taken [ ] Cook and freeze meals for after delivery [ ] Start childbirth class [ ] Milestone: Others feel baby move?

Weeks 32-36

[ ] Buy any baby items still needed [ ] Put finishing touches on nursery [ ] Get car seat inspected [ ] Pack hospital bag [ ] Milestone: Last day of work [ ] Milestone: Last week to fly safely (week 35)

Weeks 36-40 [ ] BABY!

www.OwensboroParent.com

Baby Names

popular

of 2017

top 10 Girl names

top 10 boy names JACKSON

CADEN

OLIVIA

ARIA

LIAM

GRAYSON

EMMA

RILEY

NOAH

MASON

AVA

ZOE

AIDEN

ELIJAH

ISABELLA

AMELIA

LUCAS

LOGAN

SOPHIA

www.OwensboroParent.com

MIA

January // February 2018 . OWENSBORO PARENT

The Baby Book

New Additions

{ paid advertorial }

Introducing Introducing a new baby to a family of pets

Introducing Changes

Tara Groves

LEAD CLIENT SERVICE REPRESENTATIVE

Sarah Nelson

LICENSED VETERINARY TECHNICIAN

When introducing your bundle of joy to your furry family member(s), start with doing some research. Since my pets typically have full roam of the house, I started by establishing boundaries, and designated the nursery as “off limits” by using a child gate to block the doorway. When coming home from the hospital, give your pets time to be excited about you being home from your stay. Allow them to smell you as they take in all the new scents of you and baby. My husband and I calmly introduced Sawyer to our furry family members by slowly allowing our pets to approach and smell him. We took precautions to make sure not to over step any comfort levels. Keep visits short and sweet! Since the nursery was off limits, the majority of “mommy and me” time was in that designated area. Visiting times became longer and eventually Sawyer became a routine that the pets were adjusted to. It is important to stay smart when it comes to your children and pets! Remember that even though your pets may not hurt a fly, do not leave them unattended together. This is very important to keep in mind even as your baby gets older. Doing your research and keeping the comfort of your pets and the safety of your child in mind, you can cross this introduction hurdle with ease.

It is important for us as pet owners to remember the commitment we made when taking in a pet and try to find solutions instead of automatically rehoming our pets. I recently got engaged and my fiancé has a son that is allergic to cats. Working at an animal hospital and being the owner of three cats, my heart instantly sank at the thought of having to rehome my cats. Two of my cats I bottle fed since they were kittens and the other cat has special dietary needs so I didn’t know how to make all of this work initially. I think a lot of families come across changes like these in their lives and a majority of the time your first instinct is the same as mine. However, there are better solutions than simply rehoming. My solution was to build a cat enclosure and put it in my back yard. This enclosure was not expensive or hard to make. It allows my cats access to outside but also provides them a warm safe place to come in to. I put my cats up in this enclosure every night just like I do my dogs in their kennels. This allows me to make care for them and keep a close eye on their special dietary needs. When I come home from work or have finished playing with the cats, I take my clothes straight to the washer to cut down on the allergens in the house. Now I can have my new family but also still have my cat family!

Introducing a new pet to a family with kids Dr. Laura Boarman, DVM When introducing new pets into a family with small children, it is important to make this transition slowly. Animals are already going through a lot of stress when being relocated away from everything they know and usually from their siblings and mother. It is important to make sure those pets feel safe and loved. We all know it is hard to contain the excitement of young children when bringing home a new pet, however try to remind your children to go slow and be easy. Make sure to do supervised visits with kids and pets at first until everyone feels comfortable around each other. Also another helpful tip that is very important is to make sure that your new pet is on prevention to reduce the risk of intestinal parasites and other harmful diseases. Protection for your four legged family, means protection for the rest of your family. OP

For more information about your pets, visit Kentuckiana Animal Clinic at 1500 East 18th Street, Owensboro, KY 42303 or call (270) 684-2949. Visit us on the web at kentuckianaanimalclinic.com

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www.OwensboroParent.com

January // February 2018 . OWENSBORO PARENT

Tried & True 20

baby facts { by: ashley sorce }

SARAH KENWORTHY PHOTOGRAPHY

ecoming a mom these days seems like you have to be a technology genius, a fashion guru and a nutritional expert all rolled into one swollen, waddling pregnant body. From Baby Bjorns to Bumbos, every new parent can be overwhelmed by the latest baby trends that we just have to have. For me, it was items like Sophie the Giraffe that I just had to have with my son. “It will save your life when he’s teething,” they said. Not! It became a $25 dog toy within a few months. And with my firstborn, I spent more than I care to admit on the “perfect” baby bedding, which was ultimately stained with throw up and diaper explosions when it was all said and done. And this is just the “stuff.” Don’t get me started on the advice. You picked what name? Don’t co-sleep. It’s fine to give her peanut butter! He has to be swaddled. Give him rice cereal if you want him to sleep through the night. You have to let her cry it out. You can’t give him Tylenol this young. She should be walking by now. After two babies, I am certainly no expert. Every day still presents it’s own challenges. (Right now I am battling a tooth that my daughter refuses to pull and a son that loves to go #1 in the potty, but #2…not so much.) But I do believe there are some baby facts that are just tried and true.

Have a Wonderful Pregnancy 1 You never really need to eat enough for two.

3 I know you just want to be done with pregnancy, but be patient. Healthy babies are worth the wait. (Not going to lie, this one was hard for me.)

Sleep Habits 4 Never disturb a sleeping baby. 5 Put the baby in the crib while she is still awake. This will allow her to get used to falling asleep herself.

6 I know it’s hard, but sleepless nights won’t last forever. Your baby will start sleeping for longer stretches of time.

Tears, Tears, Tears 7 Don't get the impression that a baby's crying is an applause meter in reverse. He's not judging your motherly abilities -- he's just crying.

8 You will find the right soothing technique for your baby. For mine, it was patting their bottoms. Try whispering, funny faces – my favorite episode of “Friends” was when Ross and Rachel realized their daughter was soothed by the song, “Baby Got Back.” You’ll figure it out.

Shop Smart 9 If your child has a favorite blanket or stuffed animal, avoid

2 But it is OK to give into cravings. After all, you are growing a disaster by getting a duplicate, then swap the two occasionally another human. Just make the next meal healthy. 62 OWENSBORO PARENT

. January // February 2018

so they look and smell similar. www.OwensboroParent.com

than actual toys. Tupperware!

decisions jointly. When you can't agree, try both ways and see what works best for your baby.

11 If you don’t have the budget, do not spend a lot on bedding or gadgets. In the end, those things don’t really matter as much as a happy, healthy baby.

17 Go on out-of-the-ordinary dates, like a concert or hike, as often as you can, rather than heading out for ho-hum dinners every week. A healthy marriage is the best thing for your child.

Meal Time

Enjoy being a Mom

12 Breastfeeding for even a few weeks is better than not

18 Take a smartphone time-out. If you pause in the doc's

10 For a baby, things that are not toys are often more fun

breastfeeding at all. But don’t beat yourself up if it doesn’t work for you. A fed baby is best.

waiting room long enough, you might meet another mom who would love some adult conversation. Get her digits!

13 No bribing, coaxing, promising, or pleading should ever be used at mealtime.

19 Set a good example. A physically fit mother who enjoys being active will communicate her enthusiasm and zest for life to her children.

14 If you find yourself planning meals around the baby, you are missing the whole point. He should join you, not you him.

20 Forget about being a "perfect parent." There is no such

Mom AND Dad 15 Take turns getting up with the baby, giving baths, and handling the fussy hour. This way one partner doesn't become resentful of the other.

16 Discuss parenting problems with your spouse, and reach

www.OwensboroParent.com

thing, and working to appear as one requires so much effort that there's not much energy left for you to spend being a loving parent, which has to be the top priority. OP

Ashley Sorce is the staff writer for Tanner Publishing Co. and editor of Owensboro Parent. She enjoys everyday adventures with daughter Avery (6), and son, Reed (2).

January // February 2018 . OWENSBORO PARENT

The Baby Book { paid advertorial }

can you save for

college and retirement? { provided by: kevin young }

ew of us have unlimited financial resources — which means that almost all of us need to prioritize our financial goals. Consequently, you’ll have some decisions to make if you’d like to help pay for your children’s college educations someday while, at the same time, saving for your own retirement. Your first step in addressing these objectives is to maintain realistic expectations. Consider the issue of paying for college. Right now, the average four-year cost (tuition, fees, room and board) is about $80,000 for instate students at public universities and approximately $180,000 for private schools, according to the College Board. And these costs are likely to keep rising in the years ahead. Can you save this much for your kids’ education? Instead of committing yourself to putting away this type of money, take a holistic approach to saving for your children’s higher education. After all, you probably won’t be the only one to help pay for college. Depending on your income and assets, your family might be eligible for some needs-based financial aid awarded by the college. Also, you should encourage your children to apply for as many scholarships as possible — but keep in mind that most scholarships don’t provide a “full ride.” Here’s the bottom line: Don’t assume you will receive so much aid that you don’t need to save for college at all, but don’t burden yourself with the expectation that you need to pick up the full tab for your children’s schooling. On a practical level, you may want to commit to putting a certain amount per month into a college savings vehicle, such as a 529 plan. You can generally invest in

the 529 plan offered by most states, but in some cases, you may be eligible for a state income tax incentive. Also, all withdrawals from 529 plans will be free from federal income taxes, as long as the money is used for a qualified college or graduate school expense of the beneficiary you’ve named. (Withdrawals for expenses other than qualified education expenditures may be subject to federal and state taxes and a 10% penalty on the earnings.) By starting your 529 plan early, when your children are young, you’ll give the investments within the plan more time to grow. Plus, you can make smaller contributions on a regular basis, rather than come up with big lump sums later on. And by following this approach, you may be in a better financial position for investing in your IRA and your 401(k) or other employer-sponsored retirement plan. Obviously, it’s to your benefit to contribute as much as you can to these plans, which offer tax advantages and a wide range of investment options. If you’re investing in a 401(k) or similar employer-backed plan, try to boost your contributions every time your salary increases. At the very least, always put in enough to earn your employer’s matching contribution, if one is offered. And once your children are through with college, you can discontinue saving in your 529 plan (although you may want to open another one in the future for your grandchildren) and devote more money to your retirement accounts. It can certainly be challenging to save for education and retirement – but with discipline and perseverance, it can be done. So, give it the “old college try.” OP

T h i s a r t i c l e w a s w r i t t e n b y E d w a r d J o n e s f o r u s e b y y o u r l o c a l E d w a r d J o n e s F i n a n c i a l A d v i s o r. 64 OWENSBORO PARENT

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www.OwensboroParent.com

January // February 2018 . OWENSBORO PARENT

discover

ou may have heard about new vaccine requirements in Kentucky for school-age

children, and as a parent and a pediatrician, I’m happy to give you more info about what to expect.

In mid-2017, the Kentucky Department for

Public Health unveiled new vaccine requirements: The first is two-doses of the Hepatitis A vaccine, and the second is a booster for the meningitis vaccine. These vaccines aren’t new, and many children have already received them and won’t need another shot.

TheHepatitisAvaccineisevenmoreimportant

because of recent events. In late November, the Kentucky Department of Public Health warned healthcare providers throughout the state of a Hepatitis A outbreak. The state has confirmed 31 cases, far above the yearly average of 20 cases per year. No cases were reported in Daviess County, but one case was confirmed in nearby Hopkins County.

Hepatitis A and meningitis are illnesses that

nobody wants to get. I also encourage parents to have themselves and their children vaccinated for the flu, as it’s far more likely children will get the flu than any other disease at this time of year.

H E PAT I T I S A • Disease type: Virus • Spreads through: Contaminated food or water • Symptoms: Flu-like, including fatigue, nausea, abdominal pain, low-grade fever and jaundice (yellowing of the whites of the eyes and the skin) • Duration: One to two months • Severity: Can sometimes be very serious and in rare cases can be fatal

never fear!

MENINGITIS

tried & true vaccines are here! { by: shanna mcginnis,

66 OWENSBORO PARENT

. January // February 2018

MD, FAAP

}

• Disease type: Most commonly bacteria or virus • Spreads through: Close contact (living with an infected individual), sneezing and coughing • Symptoms: Nausea, vomiting, sensitivity to light, altered mental status or confusion • Duration: Highly variable

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{ paid advertorial }

• Severity: Extremely dangerous, with high risk of

six months old, which is the earliest they could get it. My

death or permanent disabilities, including deafness

kids also get their vaccines in my office, so they get the

or brain damage.

same vaccines as all our other patients.

If you have questions about whether or not your

It’s also important for parents to know why we

child needs a vaccine covered by these new requirements,

vaccinate. Vaccines are like a “cheat sheet” for your

I encourage you to contact your child’s pediatrician, as

immune system. Using either dead virus or a weakened

they can let you know what is needed. I want to encourage

one, your immune system can be taught how to defend

parents not to wait until the last minute, since we can

against that illness. Vaccines also don’t just protect those

only give so many shots in one day and we can’t do them

vaccinated. When large groups of people are vaccinated,

all the week before school starts.

viruses can’t travel from person to person. This is called

“herd immunity” and that means it’s less likely that

any questions about the vaccines themselves. We want

people who can’t be vaccinated will get sick.

you all to be happy and healthy year-round, and we’re

always happy to be a resource if it will help you and your

One thing I often tell parents who are worried about

You should also talk to your pediatrician if you have

vaccines is what I do for my three children. My twin

child feel safe.

daughters are 6 and my son is 8. I would never give a parent

advice that I wouldn't take myself, and all three of my

with an Owensboro Health provider, call 844-446-9663.

For more information, or to schedule an appointment OP

children get every vaccine recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. That includes the flu vaccine, which they’ve received every year since they were

www.OwensboroParent.com

Dr. Shanna McGinnis board-certified pediatrician with Owensboro Health Pediatrics. She is also the mother of 3 children.

January // February 2018 . OWENSBORO PARENT

discover

the kids eat free list

Every Day O’Charley’s - Free kids meal for kids 10 and under with the purchase of adult entrée

Monday Catfish Willy’s - $1.99 kids meal with the purchase of adult meal Grandy’s - 99¢ kids meals with the purchase of regular adult meal TGI Fridays – Free kids meal with the purchase of adult entrée for kids 12 years and younger Moonlite Bar-B-Q Inn - Kids 10 and under eat free on Monday night at Moonlite from 4-9 pm (limit 2 free kids buffets per adult buffet purchase) Zaxby’s – Kids meals are 99¢ (up to 3 kids) with the purchase of adult meal from 5 – 8pm Huddle House – One free kids meal when you spend $6.99 or more on adult entree; only one free kids meal per adult entree. Culver's – $2.99 kids meal and face

68 OWENSBORO PARENT

. January // February 2018

painting and balloon artist EVERY Monday night!

Tuesday Beef ‘O’ Brady’s – Free kids meal with the purchase of adult entrée from 4 – 8pm for kids 12 years and younger Denny’s – 2 free kids meals per adult meal purchase Fazoli’s – 99¢ kids meals with the purchase of adult meal up to 3 meals with the purchase one entrée Pizza By the Guy – 1 free buffet for kids 10 and under with adult purchase with a drink on Tuesdays from 5 – 8 pm Pizza Hut – 1 free child buffet with the purchase of adult buffet from 4:30 – 7pm at the South Frederica location Salsarita’s – Free kids meal with the purchase of $5 or more adult entrée; dine in only Huddle House – One free kids meal when you spend $6.99 or more on adult entree; only one free kids meal per adult entree

www.OwensboroParent.com

Wednesday

McDonald’s – Happy meals are $1.99 from 4 – 7pm, dine in only Firehouse Subs – Kids under 12 eat free all day with purchase of adult meal; up to 2 kids per adult Donatos – 2 free individual pizzas for kids 12 and under with a purchase of a large pizza at regular price

Thursday

Wheatgrass Juice Bar – Free kids smoothie with adult purchase Long John Silver’s – Kids meals are $1.99 all day.

Sunday Briarpatch – 1 free kids meal per adult entrée for kids 10 and younger Maloney’s – Free kids meals from 11am – 2pm

Bee Bop’s – Free kids meal with the purchase of adult meal after 5 p.m. for kids 12 and younger

Salsarita’s – Free kids meal with the purchase of $5 or more adult entrée; dine in only

Dairy Queen (Frederica Location) – $1.99 kids meals. Limit 2 kids per combo meal

Texas Roadhouse – 1 free kids meal per adult entrée from 11am – 3pm

Saturday Maloney’s – Free kids meals from 11am – 2pm

Pizza By the Guy – 1 free buffet for kids 10 and under with adult purchase with a drink on Sundays from 11:30am – 2pm

Texas Roadhouse – 1 free kids meal per adult entrée from 11am – 3pm

Firehouse Subs – Kids under 12 eat free all day with purchase of adult meal; up to 2 kids per adult

Lure Seafood & Grille – Free kids meal with purchase of adult entrée

*The Kids Eat Free list is subject to change. Please contact restaurants to ensure their participation.

www.OwensboroParent.com

REPORT CARD INCENTIVES

Orange Leaf – Bring in your report card and receive $1 off yogurt; a report card with straight A’s will receive a small cup free. Ritzy’s (Both locations) – Ritzy’s has a “Scoops for Scholars” program. Students can bring in their report card each grading period to earn treats for each “A.” 1A = flavored soft drink (cherry, vanilla, or chocolate) 2 As = single scoop of ice cream 3 As = your choice of a hotdog, coney, hamburger, or cheeseburger 4 As = double scoop of ice cream McDonald’s – All five Owensboro McDonald’s decided this school year that they will award a free Happy Meal to any student who gets straight As on their report card. Family Video (1212 JR Miller) – For a limited time during the summer, you can take your end of the year report card to Family Video. Your child will receive a voucher for a free movie/game rental for every A (or equivalent) they received in a core class for the year. Krispy Kreme – A free glazed donut for every A, up to 6. Chuck E. Cheese in Evansville – A child can receive 10 tokens with a purchase if they bring in their report card. Sky Zone in Evansville – All A’s= 1/2 off any jump. A & B’s= $5 off any jump. Weekdays & Friday 2-7pm.

January // February 2018 . OWENSBORO PARENT

january // february Informing parents about fun, local events is a priority for Owensboro Parent. Our magazine compiles events from across the city and county. So when your family is looking for something to do, check out the Owensboro Parent calendar, where you will find information on local events, including event descriptions, locations, dates, times and price. Want to include your event? Contact the editor at ashley@owensboroparent.com.

MONDAY, JANUARY 1 NEW YEAR’S DAY

adults always free; 5 – 8 p.m.; (270) 685-

in the classroom about what is going on

1255 or ubouncepartyhouse.com.

in nature in the world around us. The theme for January's program is Tricky

THURSDAY, JANUARY 4 FREE WEE READ & CIRCLE TIME

Tracks- learning about animals that DON'T Wee Read

children, grandchildren, nieces & nephews,

for ages 3-5; 10 – 10:30 a.m.; Daviess

neighbors, and friends of The Garden,

County Public Library, 2020 Frederica St.;

$1 admission for non-members. Please

dcplibrary.org

contact The Garden with any questions at

SATURDAY, JANUARY 6

TUESDAY, JANUARY 2

PRESERVATION STATION Preservation

U-BOUNCE TODDLER TUESDAY All must

Station Market Days are held the first

wear socks; Children 5 and under get in for

full weekend of every month. Sat. 10

$5 all night; 5 – 8 p.m.; (270) 685-1255 or

a.m. – 5 p.m. and Sunday noon to 5

ubouncepartyhouse.com.

p.m. with over 100 vendors of antique, vintage, handcrafted, and boutique

FREE TINY DANCERS Put

on your dancing

hibernate. It is FREE for members and their

for ages 2 and younger and Circle Time

items, live music, and food. Preservation

(270) 852-8925 or email wkbg@bellsouth. net

SUNDAY, JANUARY 7 PRESERVATION STATION See Saturday, January 6 for details.

MONDAY, JANUARY 8 FREE MARTIN LUTHER KING DROP IN CRAFT

shoes and join Daviess County Public

Station Market and Event Center, 9661

Library for an exciting dance party with

Hwy 56. Also open daily Tues-Sat

songs, movement, rhymes, and just plain

10 a.m. -5 p.m. and Sunday Noon -5

fun. Parents and caregivers are invited to

p.m. Call 270-993-7532, go to www.

join in and show off their dance moves.

visitpreservationstation.com, or find us on

FREE WEE READ & CIRCLE TIME

Ages 5 and younger; 10 – 11am.

Facebook.

Thursday, January 4 for details.

1ST SATURDAY FOR KIDS AT WESTERN

TUESDAY, JANUARY 9

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 3

KENTUCKY BOTANICAL GARDENS

FREE LITTLE LEONARDOS

U-BOUNCE OPEN BOUNCE NIGHT All must

This is a fun, hands on learning event

and join Daviess County Public Library as

wear socks; $7 per child, children under

from 10am to 12pm for children age 5

we create a fun art project. Recommended

2 are free, unless they are the only child,

- 11. We often explore outside and learn

for ages 5 and younger; 10 – 11am.

70 OWENSBORO PARENT

. January // February 2018

AT THE DAVIESS COUNTY PUBLIC LIBRARY through Sunday, January 14. See

Dress for a mess

www.OwensboroParent.com

calendar FREE WRITE ON! Daviess

FREE MARTIN LUTHER KING DROP IN

CRAFT at the Daviess County Public

Library’s creative writing club for teens in

CRAFT at the Daviess County Public

Library through Sunday, January 14.

grades 6-12. Come practice your writing

Library through Sunday, January 14.

County Public

MONDAY, JANUARY 15

skills, have fun, and meet fellow writers! Everyone is welcome to share their work

FRIDAY, JANUARY 12

FREE WEE READ & CIRCLE TIME

at meetings, but sharing your work is NOT

FREE MARTIN LUTHER KING DROP IN

Thursday, January 4 for details.

required; 4 – 5pm.

CRAFT at the Daviess County Public Library through Sunday, January 14.

U-BOUNCE TODDLER TUESDAY See

See

TUESDAY, JANUARY 16 FREE EARLY EXPLORers

Join Daviess

SATURDAY, JANUARY 13

County Public Library as we read stories

SHAKESPEARE IN LOVE PRESENTED BY

and learn about people, cultures, and art

OWENSBORO SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

from around the world. Recommended

at the Daviess County Public Library

Great drama makes for great stories – and

for ages 0-5; 10 – 11am.

through Sunday, January 14.

that demands great music! The audience

Tuesday, January 2 for details. FREE MARTIN LUTHER KING Drop

in Craft

will hear how legendary composers have

FREE STEAM LAB

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 10

reinterpreted Shakespeare’s timeless

Room at the Daviess County Public

U-BOUNCE OPEN BOUNCE NIGHT See

literacy works. Tickets available by calling

LIbrary for some hands-on science fun;

Wednesday, January 3 for details.

the RiverPark Center Box Office (270)

For ages 6-12 from 4 – 6pm.

Stop by the Programming

687-2787, Mon. - Fri., 9 am – 4 pm. FREE MARTIN LUTHER KING DROP IN

U-BOUNCE TODDLER TUESDAY See

CRAFT at the Daviess County Public

FREE MARTIN LUTHER KING DROP IN

Library through Sunday, January 14.

CRAFT at the Daviess County Public Library through Sunday, January 14.

THURSDAY, JANUARY 11

Tuesday, January 2 for details.

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 17 FREE CRAFTEENS This

month at Daviess

FREE WEE READ & CIRCLE TIME See

SUNDAY, JANUARY 14

County Public Library: make your own

Thursday, January 4 for details.

FREE MARTIN LUTHER KING DROP IN

smile! Open to grades 6-12; 4 – 5pm.

www.OwensboroParent.com

January // February 2018 . OWENSBORO PARENT

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. January // February 2018

www.OwensboroParent.com

calendar U-BOUNCE OPEN BOUNCE NIGHT See

U-BOUNCE OPEN BOUNCE NIGHT See

SUNDAY, JANUARY 28

Wednesday, January 3 for details.

YOUR PERFECT DAY WEDDING SHOW

THURSDAY, JANUARY 18

THURSDAY, JANUARY 25

The Your Perfect Day Wedding Show is a FREE WEE READ & CIRCLE TIME

See

FREE WEE READ & CIRCLE TIME

one-stop shop for everything Brides-toSee

be need to plan their special day! From

Thursday, January 4 for details.

MONDAY, JANUARY 22

FRIDAY, JANUARY 26

wedding dress and tux, sample wedding

THE 8TH ANNUAL DENIM AND DIAMONDS

cakes, see the latest in bridal fashions, and

WBKR presents the 8th annual Denim &

12 – 4pm, meet with wedding planners, florists, and photographers, fine the perfect

FREE WEE READ & CIRCLE TIME

See

Thursday, January 4 for details.

Diamonds St. Jude Fundraising Concert

TUESDAY, JANUARY 23

at 7pm at Empress Theatre (Theatre

MONDAY, JANUARY 29

FREE MINI THINKERS Join

Workshop Opryhouse). An incredible night

FREE WEE READ & CIRCLE TIME

Public Library for hands on STEM (Science,

of music and inspiring stories benefiting St.

Thursday, January 4 for details.

Technology, Engineering, Math) activities

Jude Children's Research Hospital. Tickets

for preschoolers; 10 – 11am.

are $10. For more information, visit WBKR.

TUESDAY, JANUARY 30

com.

U-BOUNCE TODDLER TUESDAY See

FREE ANIME CLUB Do

Daviess County

you love anime and

See

Tuesday, January 2 for details.

manga? Join Daviess County Public Library

SATURDAY, JANUARY 27

and fellow fans each month to watch

FREE LEGO DESIGN CHALLENGE

awesome anime, eat snacks, and make

the Daviess County Public Library and build

U-BOUNCE OPEN BOUNCE NIGHT See

cool anime-themed crafts. Open to teens

at your own pace to solve a challenge

Wednesday, January 3 for details.

in grades 6-12; 6 – 7pm.

using the Library's LEGO bricks. Show your

Drop in at

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 31

creation to library staff to be entered in a

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 1

U-BOUNCE TODDLER TUESDAY See

prize drawing; for ages 6 – 12 from 10am

FREE WEE READ & CIRCLE TIME See

Tuesday, January 2 for details.

– 12pm.

Thursday, January 4 for details.

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 24

www.OwensboroParent.com

January // February 2018 . OWENSBORO PARENT

calendar U-BOUNCE TODDLER TUESDAY See

January 6 for details

Tuesday, January 2 for details.

MISSOULA CHILDREN’S THEATRE PRESENTS JACK AND THE BEANSTALK

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 5

Missoula Children’s Theatre presents

FREE WEE READ & CIRCLE TIME

Jack and the Beanstalk, an original

Thursday, January 4 for details.

See

adaptation of the classic children’s story. What happens when a young boy plants

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 6

Wonder Beans in his own backyard?

U-BOUNCE TODDLER TUESDAY See

For Jack, it is the beginning of a great

Tuesday, January 2 for details.

adventure. With a little help from P.T. Wonder and a Giant, Jack learns a

FREE TINY DANCERS See

valuable lesson about true happiness.

2 for details.

Tuesday, January

This musical production also features a host of other characters, including the

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 7

Elegant Harp, Jill, Mother, Milky White,

U-BOUNCE OPEN BOUNCE NIGHT See

the Farmers, the Merchants, the Circus

Wednesday, January 3 for details.

Performers and the Wonder Beans.

FREE LITTLE LEONARDOS See

Tuesday,

January 9 for details.

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 14 VALENTINE'S DAY v

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 3

Tickets are on sale now online or by

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 8

calling the RiverPark Center Box Office

FREE WEE READ & CIRCLE TIME

(270) 687-2770.

Thursday, January 4 for details.

PRESERVATION STATION See Saturday,

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 12

FREE WEE READ & CIRCLE TIME

January 6 for details

FREE WEE READ & CIRCLE TIME See

Thursday, January 4 for details.

U-BOUNCE OPEN BOUNCE NIGHT See See

Wednesday, January 3 for details.

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 15 See

Thursday, January 4 for details.

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 4 PRESERVATION STATION See Saturday,

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. January // February 2018

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 16 TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 13

AN EVENING WITH TRAVIS TRITT

www.OwensboroParent.com

January // February 2018 . OWENSBORO PARENT

calendar Experience this rare opportunity featuring CMA and Grammy award winning country artist, Travis Tritt in an intimate solo-acoustic setting at the Owensboro Convention Center where his powerful voice and his guitar are the subject of the spotlight. An up-close and personal event punctuated by personal stories and anecdotes about his life and musical influences. Tritt will be performing some of his biggest hits, including ” T-R-O-U-B-L-E”, “It’s A Great Day to Be Alive” and “Best of Intentions.” The Grand Ole Opry member will bring his award-winning songs to life and leave the audience with a truly memorable experience. Tickets are $39 and $59. Additional processing fees apply to all ticket sales. FREE EARLY EXPLORERS See

Tuesday, January 19 for details.

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 19 FREE WEE READ & CIRCLE TIME See

Thursday, January 4 for details.

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 20 U-BOUNCE TODDLER TUESDAY See Tuesday, January 2 for details. FREE EARLY EXPLORERS See

Tuesday, January 16 for details.

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 21 U-BOUNCE OPEN BOUNCE NIGHT See Wednesday, January 3 for details.

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 22 FREE WEE READ & CIRCLE TIME

See Thursday, January 4 for details.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 24 RODGERS + HAMMERSTEIN’S CINDERELLA is the Tony Awards winning Broadway musical from the creators of The Sound of Music and South Pacific that’s delighting audiences with its contemporary take on the classic tale. This lush production features an incredible orchestra, jaw-dropping transformations and all the moments you love-the pumpkin, the glass slipper, the masked ball and more-plus some surprising new twists! Be transported back to your childhood as you rediscover some of Rodgers + Hammerstein’s most beloved songs, including “In My Own Little Corner”, “Impossible/It’s Possible” and “Ten Minutes Ago”, in this hilarious and romantic Broadway experience for anyone who’s ever had a wish, a dream or a really great pair of shoes. Tickets are on sale now, online or by calling the RiverPark Center Box Office (270) 687-2770.

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 26 FREE WEE READ & CIRCLE TIME See

Thursday, January 4 for details.

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 27 U-BOUNCE TODDLER TUESDAY See Tuesday, January 2 for details. FREE MINI THINKERS See

Tuesday, January 23 for details.

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 28 U-BOUNCE OPEN BOUNCE NIGHT See Wednesday, January 3 for details. 76 OWENSBORO PARENT

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