The Hood Magazine: October 2021

‘hood OCTOBER 2021

TM

SIOUX EMPIRE’S FAMILY RESOURCE

LOCAL MOM: Transitioning Back to Work Overwhelmed or Adult ADHD? a little extra:

October is Down Syndrome Awareness Month

Childcare Resources

inside

lowee&n HalCostumes Fun

Join the Fu n!

Great Plains Zoo

Sioux Falls

October 22 – 5:30 PM – 8:30 PM October 23 – 10 AM – 4 PM October 24 – 10 AM – 4 PM Connect with us!

805 S. Kiwanis Ave. Sioux Falls, SD 605-367-7003 greatzoo.org

FOR A DISCOUNT ON TICKETS:

purchase ahead online: greatzoo.org/zooboo

An ‘Un-bee-lievable’ Experience!

In this imaginative exhibit, insects don’t just have super abilities – they are real superheroes! Explore the Ant Colony Climber, take flight (virtually) in the Dragonfly Drone exhibit and so much more!

4th Floor of the Kirby Science Discovery Center 605-367-6000 | washingtonpavilion.org

contents October 2021 cover story 18 Working Parent /

Childcare Centers Find the perfect home away from home for your little one while you’re away at work.

baby 8 Transitioning Back to Work

A local mom shares her story about returning to work after baby.

11

in every issue 11 Hood at Home Spooky Spaghetti Try if you dare.

26

14

child

parent

10 Happy Halloween

22 Parents, it’s not You,

In need of inspiration for your kid’s or family’s costumes this year?

12 A New Take on Childcare

Children thrive at Truks-N-Trykes.

14 A Little Extra

Chromosome Brings A Lot of Joy A local mom shares her family’s story for Down Syndrome Awareness Month.

teen 16 Their First Job

A few things to consider when your teen is on the job hunt.

17 Tech Tip: Smart Family for Smartphones

Learn how Smart Family can give parents peace of mind.

it could be ADHD

Your struggle to focus might be more than having a lot on your plate.

24 Sometimes, Even Eyes Need Therapy

Learn about vision therapy from Visions Therapy Center and how it might be just what your family needs.

26 Working from Home: Healthy Ways to Juggle Demands

Tips for your physical and mental health.

home 28 Say Goodbye to

Summer and Hello to Firing Up the Furnace Tips on preparing your home for fall/winter.

30 Fall Online Bonus Features

Great tips on all things Fall and Halloween, including DIY décor for the home.

welcome

We know the past year has been hard for working parents! You have been trying to do it all... packing lunches, running to activities, homeschooling, work, keeping up with the house, and parenting! It is exhausting, but you are doing an amazing job!

This is our Working Parent issue. If you find yourself working from home due to illnesses, we have some tips for you. Are you sending your kids back to daycare or looking for a new place?

We have done the research on childcare centers in our area and included what they have to offer.

If you are thinking all about Halloween and Fall, this issue, along with our September and October Online Bonus Features, are full of fun things to do as a family! We have lots of fun Halloween traditions we do each year, but if you are looking for some alternative ideas, make sure to check out our website! For other fun fall ideas and events going on in our community, check out thehoodmagazine.com, sign up for our newsletter, and follow us on Facebook and Instagram. l

Steff

and the ‘Hood team

‘hood

TM

Art & Design Director Ally Vogel

SIOUX EMPIRE’S FAMILY RESOURCE

President & Publisher

Steffanie Liston-Holtrop 605-366-1479 steff@thehoodmagazine.com

Copy Editor Miranda Ochocki

Digital Media Director Jaclyn Small

Contributing Photographer Ashley Wegh Photography

Cover Heather Michelle Photography

Reproduction or use of the contents of this magazine is prohibited.

‘Hood Magazine is published 9 times a year by Hoodlum Productions, LLC and strives to publish only accurate information; however, Hoodlum Productions, LLC cannot be held responsible for consequences resulting from errors or omissions. All material in this magazine is the property of Hoodlum Productions, LLC and cannot be reproduced without permission of the publisher.

We welcome article proposals, story suggestions and unsolicited articles and will consider all submissions for publication. Please send your thoughts, ideas and submissionsto Hoodlums@thehoodmagazine.com.

Magazine feedback and advertising and marketing inquiries to steff@thehoodmagazine.com. ©2021 Hoodlum Productions, LLC All Rights Reserved.

online

‘Hood Online We are so much more than a magazine. We are here to meet you where you’re at in life.

You’ll find us in the community, online and in our printed issues, which are always FREE! If you haven’t visited thehoodmagazine.com yet, you’ll want to check it out. There, you’ll find exclusive content not available in print! Here is what you’ll find this month:

Five Things to do When Preparing for a Divorce

If you are thinking about a divorce, Duncan Law shares five things that you can do now to help make the process less stressful.

3 Tips to Pay Off Your Mortgage Early

If you’re ready to make moves toward to paying off your mortgage early, check out these tips from DVN Mortgage to make that happen!

Fall Maintenance Checklist

HouseMaster shares a brief checklist to guide you through some basic tasks before it is too late to perform repairs properly and effectively before winter arrives.

thank you

10 Downsizing Tips for Seniors

Community Sponsors

Downsizing your home can be a bittersweet moment in time, but Trail Ridge has 10 tips to make the process joy filled.

mortgage

BY PLAINS COMMERCE BANK

10 Days of Giving

It’s almost time for Thanksgiving, and we’re thankful for you! On our Facebook page (www.facebook.com/thehoodmagazinesiouxfalls), be sure to adjust your “Follow Settings” so you don’t miss our 10 Days of Giving in November, where we will partner with local businesses for great giveaways leading up to Thanksgiving. And maybe you’ll even see some great ideas to put on those Christmas lists!

Bring out the Comfort Food!

Check out the great recipes from South Dakota Beef that will warm you up as it starts to get colder out.

‘Hood Community Directories at Your Fingertips:

Did you know that our ‘Hood Childcare Directory and Birthday Party Directory are available to you by just scanning this QR Code and going directly to our website? Resources for your busy life at your fingertips... courtesy of ‘Hood Magazine!

October 2021 | thehoodmagazine.com |

7

baby

by Becky Squyer

Transitioning Back to Work Nothing is permanent. I would often utter those three words to myself when in the midst of a transition with the kids. Whether it was finding the right daycare for us, figuring out how to be able to stay awake during 40 weekly work hours, or remembering that I needed to eat a meal and drink some water. Nothing is permanent.

8|

October 2021 | thehoodmagazine.com

The transition from new mom to working mom can be so terrifyingly muddy. I’m not sure when the title ‘New Mom’ even wears off because I personally feel like moms strip themselves of it far too soon. I knew one thing for certain with baby #2, and that was that it was paramount that I set real boundaries with work and care for myself enough to stick to them. Things like pumping every three hours, eating lunch, leaving at 4:30pm daily – normal things that are extremely challenging for me. I struggle greatly with work interruption and battle daily with perfectionism, anxiety, and efficiency verses output. I did not give myself these boundaries when we had our first daughter six years ago and many of my motherly goals, like breastfeeding, failed much sooner than I’d hoped.

take

$5off $25 It’s that time of year again. Find everything you need to keep your little ones layered up and looking good at Once Upon A Child!

or more

May not be used with any other coupon or discount.

Not valid on previously purchased merchandise.

Expires 12-31-21

3804 S. Western Ave. Sioux Falls, SD 57105

605-334-0922

REGISTER FOR A CLASS

Give grace. Give yourself grace. Babies are beautiful, and challenging, and the separation when returning to work may or may not cause you actual pain to your core (both are acceptable). Be okay with losing yourself for a while because (yes, I’m going to say it) you will truly blink and the days will switch from being touched-out and needed every moment to hardly at all. l

Teach the whole family to enjoy South Dakota’s outdoors.

PHOTO © CHAD COPPESS

I don’t believe in a work-life balance. I believe that figuring out what is best for the day is what creates the balance. My family dynamic is unique and believing in some sort of measurement scale for that unicorn balance would be silly of us. My husband is in the bar/restaurant/event industry, and I am retail. We are home together at the same time on Sunday and Monday nights and that’s really it. I know that after bedtime, I prepare everything for the next morning and clean up the house so that I can go to sleep with a clear mind that is ready for a new day but, to flip the coin, I also give myself grace if I need to just go to bed and leave the dishes for tomorrow - no matter how much I hate it.

OUTDOOR CAMPUS

SIOUX FALLS, SOUTH DAKOTA GFP.SD.GOV/TOC-EAST | 605.362.2777 October 2021 | thehoodmagazine.com |

9

holiday

HAPPY Many kids like to dress up year-round (hello Spiderman at the grocery store), but Halloween provides a little extra fun for families to go all-out. If you need inspiration for your kid’s or family’s costumes this year, check out a few photos from last year that our social followers shared.

hood at home

Spooky

SPAGHETTI You’ll need your go-to spaghetti recipe but add olives and black food coloring (gel paste works best!) to your shopping list. You can easily find this online, or at your local craft stores or large box stores in the cake decorating aisle.

Add a 1/2 tsp. of food coloring to your pot of water. A good ratio is 1/2 tsp. of coloring for each pound of spaghetti noodles.

Bring to boil and add noodles.

Want to be included in our local family photos pages?

Follow The Hood Magazine on social to share your photos - you just might be next!

When noodles have finished cooking, remove from heat and drain. Add a drizzle of olive oil to keep noodles from sticking.

Toss in your favorite sauce and top with a few olives for that extra “ick” factor.

October 2021 | thehoodmagazine.com |

11

SPONSORED FEATURE

A New Take on

CHILDCARE Truks-N-Trykes is a child’s home away from home.

Nutritious meals, silly activities, educational curriculum, and growing friendships help set the foundation for each child’s development. Our focus is to encourage growth in a loving environment for everyone. No two children are the same, so we strive to meet each child where they’re at and let them each thrive in their own unique way!

Truks-N-Trykes Playcare, located at 3400 S Centerfield Place, features: • All day preschool • Daily yoga and movement • Emphasis on building social and emotional skills • Transportation to and from select east side schools • Kids build friendships that will last through elementary school as we serve ages 2-12 • A balance of child-led and teacher-led activities allows for confidence going to kindergarten • Parent teacher conferences twice a year for ages 3-5 • Small group learning

Truks-N-Trykes @ Golden Gateway is being built at 5705 E Tahoe Street and is now enrolling! Here are features of our newest TNT addition: • I nfant to 12-year-olds – “One-Stop-Shop” • I nfants will be introduced to foods through Baby Led Weaning, beginning at 6 months • I nfant gym space • C afé for eating and getting messy • L arge classrooms • B ig windows in each room to allow for natural light • I ndoor playspaces for all ages

What can you find at Playcare and Golden Gateway locations? Here are features available at both: • B athroom in classrooms to allow for successful potty training • All day preschool to build confidence for kindergarten • Preschool conferences • Open-door policy for parents

Whatever your child’s age, we have a place for them.

From fostering fun and learning for your curious toddler to learning and preparing your pre-k child for beginning school, we offer specially designed rooms for each age group at all our locations. We can’t wait for you to join our TNT Family!

• • • • •

G yms for year-round gross motor practice U se of an app to communicate with parents O ne hour of uninterrupted play for ages 1-12 N utritious lunches provided by LifeScape S tructured school-age program for after school and summer care

CONTACT U

S

Want to schedule a time to see our centers? Reach out to us at: TNT PlayCare: 605-371-9770 TNT @ Golden Gateway: 605-305-2784

Truks-N-Trykes PlayCare and Golden Gateway are locally owned by Barry and Melissa Anderson whose vision for childcare is to enhance the life of families through creating independent thinkers who are socially and academically confident while meeting each child at their ability levels to celebrate success throughout life. Truks-N-Trykes @ Golden Gateway opening November 1, 2021!

parent

by Michelle Baartman

A Little Extra Chromosome brings

A Lot of Joy

Our lives and hearts were forever changed on February 4, 2020. Our son Levi AJ Baartman came into this world with a little extra in him. An extra 21st chromosome. Most of us have two but there are those lucky few that are blessed with a third 21st chromosome.

Those with this extra chromosome are diagnosed as having Trisomy 21 or what we know as Down Syndrome.

Levi has so much extra in him, more than just that extra chromosome. He, like so many others with down syndrome, has extra love, joy, happiness, and laughter. He has brought extra to our family in so many ways. Since his birth, he has taught us to always show kindness to anyone and everyone. People are what he loves most. He doesn’t care where he is or who you are, he will always smile and wave to you.

Our family of four live in Tea, SD. Prior to finding out Levi had down syndrome, I’m sad to say our family didn’t know much about down syndrome.

It’s not all rainbows and glitter but we would not change Levi having down syndrome for anything. Our daughter, JosieAnn, loves to help with his therapies. She works hard at encouraging

him to do things and modeling how it is done, like rolling, crawling, sitting, and talking. She is a proud big sister and a great advocate for those with down syndrome. Adam and I are learning what it is to be parents of a child with special needs.

Levi has brought a strength to our family like no other. There is a sense of determination in him to learn and take on life. And to take on life with joy, love, and happiness always.

October is down syndrome awareness month.

As a family we hope to teach that stereotyping down syndrome as a bad thing is not true. In reality, having someone in your life with a little extra is amazing.

Here are two great resources for families and those wanting to become more educated: www.dsdiagnosisnetwork.org and www.newdirectionsdsa.com. l

try it: Time to make some sensory slime! Sensory bags are full of squishy fun! However, did you know they can also help kids cope with big feelings? Encourage little ones to squeeze, scrunch or search for objects within their sensory bag to help them feel calm. Follow the steps below to create a fun and calming resource.

Go to fit.sanfordhealth.org for more calming and whole-child health activities!

1 2 3

Grab a bowl or bag. Grab some slime or soap or whatever slimy goo you can find! Then gather up whatever small objects you can find: beads, toys, googly eyes, etc.

Put a small amount of slime in your bowl or bag. Layer in the objects and slime until it is full.

Mix in glitter or confetti to make it extra fun!

Get to playing! Move the objects around. Challenge yourself to find all the orange pieces. Try out a game of Eye Spy. Most importantly, get creative!

Scan here to sign up for our emails and get more fun delivered straight to your inbox!

teen by ‘Hood Staff

Their First Job: What You Should Know

Kids love getting an allowance and having money to buy things on their own. But eventually, those kids grow up and want or need to purchase items that an allowance won’t cover. Enter: their first job.

Here are a few things to consider when your teen is on the job hunt.

1. A re they ready There are many things that go into being “ready” to be employed, like maturity, transportation, and school activities and grades. They will most likely run into an unhappy customer at some point; do they know how to react?

2. S easonal or year-round work Many companies need extra hands over the summer. And if your teen is involved with activities during the school year, a summer job might be perfect. If food service or attraction attendant isn’t up their alley, think about other places like construction or yard maintenance that have an increased need for help, not to mention young and able bodies.

3. C heck out the company culture While this is an important topic for adults, having your teen enter a company with a poor culture can lead to learning bad habits and set them up for a lifetime of dreading work. Have your teen talk to their friends about businesses or you can get chatty with the cashier at your grocery store to see if she enjoys working there.

16 |

October 2021 | thehoodmagazine.com

4. D on’t do it for them It’s their job to find a job. You can assist them with where to search, setting up a resume, and providing tips for an interview, but they need to put in the work themselves. You’re not going to be with them on their first day. And if they need to wear a uniform on that first day, be sure that you discuss who is washing that uniform so they’re never yelling at you that their clothes aren’t clean.

5. F inancial responsibility Before that first paycheck hits their account, you will want to have a conversation with them about money management. It’s a big conversation: taxes (no, they won’t get paid that entire $12), savings goals (car, college, new clothes), retirement (yes, a little early but putting aside 5% each month can set them up for a big win once they start a “real” job), and, of course, fun money.

A first job can be an exciting step into freedom for teens, and with a little guidance from parents, it can also be a safe and enjoyable experience.

Check out our website at thehoodmagazine.com to see a great list of teen jobs. l

SETYOUR FAMILY FREE!@

Smart Family for Smartphones Whether you are giving your kid their first smartphone or iPad or they’ve had one for a while, we have the solution to give you peace of mind. Smart Family with Verizon is exactly what all parents need.

• Let’s talk social media. There are so many apps kids can be on and so many ways they can use them.

With Smart Family, you can block specific apps and websites until you think they are ready.

• Kids are on their phones ALL THE TIME. Ever wonder what they are viewing? You can see what they see and what content they are viewing. With Smart Family, you have peace of mind.

• There are so many apps kids use that parents aren’t aware of. You will be alerted about a suspicious app or website visit!

• Do you know how often they are on their phone at school or at night? It will show you how often they are on their device. Smart Family can even make it easier for you by blocking use of the device on Wi-Fi and cellular at any time.

• Whether your kid rides the bus, carpools, or has a sitter, with Smart Family, you can get alerted when they have reached their destination.

Let us at Cell Only help you have peace of mind.

Tech tip brought to you by:

All New Indoor!

Entertainment Open Year Round!

HyperBowling Mini Bowling 7D Theater 2-Story Laser Tag Ax Throwing Th Bumper Cars Large Arcade Event Rooms + Rev it Up Grille Restaurant

Exciting Outdoor Go-Karts Fun! Mini Golf

Euro Bungy Tilt-A-Whirl Water Wars Batting Cages Laser Maze

201 N. Kiwanis Ave. 605-334-4181

ThunderRoadSiouxFalls.com Sioux Falls, SD 41st & Louise next to EyeMart (605) 362-2900 Dawley Farm in front of Target (605) 275-4146

Also in Aberdeen and Watertown.

October 2021 | thehoodmagazine.com |

17

2021

Childcare Resources Leaving your kids in the hands of someone else while you’re at work can be a stressful time. But finding a great space your family will love just got easier with our 2021 Childcare Resources! We have amazing childcare options for you to check out, complete with what each center offers and their contact information. As with all our directories, you’ll find this information all year at thehoodmagazine.com!

1

Apple Tree Learning Centers www.appletreechildren.org

Phone: 605-339-9571(Apple Tree East), 605-3619875 (Apple Tree West), 605-332-5581 (Apple Tree North), 605-361-7746 (Apple Tree Valhalla) Locations: 3309 East 26th Street (Apple Tree East), 6400 West 43rd Street (Apple Tree West), 700 North Sycamore (Apple Tree North), 4101 Valhalla Blvd (Apple Tree Valhalla) Services Offered: Before/Afterschool Care, Faith Based, Preschool, Play Based, Drop In, Full-Time, Part-Time, School, Aged Summer Care, CenterBased, Transportation Our mission is to provide exceptional care while offering age-appropriate learning opportunities in the context of a Christ-centered worldview.

18 |

October 2021 | thehoodmagazine.com

2

Truks-N-Trykes @ Golden Gateway www.truks-n-trykes.com/truks-ntrykes-golden-gateway

Phone: 605-305-2784 Location: 5705 E Tahoe St, Sioux Falls Services Offered: Preschool, Play Based, FullTime, Part-Time, School Aged Summer Care Truks-N-Trykes has hands-on education that helps children learn through play. Our center offers care for children ages infant to schoolage, all-day preschool, Pre-Kindergarten, Junior Kindergarten, before/after school care, and summer care.

childcare resources

3

EmBe www.embe.org/hood

Phone: 605-336-3660 (EmBe Downtown), 605-362-9438 (EmBe South) Locations: 3300 W 11th Street (EmBe Downtown), 3510 E Ralph Rodgers Road (EmBe South) Services Offered: Before /Afterschool Care (South location only), Preschool, Drop-In, FullTime, Part-Time, School Aged Summer Care (South location only), Transportation, CenterBased EmBe educates children to become confident, independent thinkers. We offer a meaningful curriculum that facilitates the growth and development of each child.

4

Kids Crossing www.kidscrossingdaycare.com

Phone: 605-271-1471 Locations: 6101 S. Mogen Ave, Sioux Falls Services Offered: Before/Afterschool Care, Faith Based, Preschool, Play Based, Full-Time, Part-Time, Special Needs, School Aged Summer Care, Center-Based, Transportation We’re a Christian childcare center committed to providing a safe & loving learning environment for children four weeks to twelve years. We offer unique scheduling options.

Exceptional childcare with more personalized care.

Better Nutrition. Broadened Education. Christian Principles.

• Providing Christ-centered infant, toddler and preschool care.

• Certified teachers with low student-to-teacher ratio to ensure individual interaction.

• Nutritious, low-sugar meals prepared fresh daily, on-site kitchen and chef.

Featuring the area’s only Noah’s Ark indoor play splash pad.

• Innovative building concept includes indoor splash pad, interactive play, art studio and gallery, tree house library, and large outdoor play area.

Accepting applications!

To apply, visit CreatorsKids.com or call 605-231-5520

Exceptional Childcare 77th & Lyncrest Avenue

October 2021 | thehoodmagazine.com |

19

childcare resources

5

Kids ‘R’ Kids Prairie Hills www.kidsrkids.com/prairie-hills/

Phone: 605-215-1341 Location: 52201 W Trevi Pl, Sioux Falls Services Offered: Before/After School Care, Preschool, Play Based, Drop In, Full-time, Part-time, School Aged Summer Care, CenterBased, and Transportation Kids ‘R’ Kids Learning Academy provides a secure, nurturing, and educational environment.

We provide opportunity to grow physically, emotionally, socially, and intellectually by playing, exploring, and learning with others.

6

Creator’s Kids Learning Academy www.creatorskids.com

Phone: 605-231-5520 Location: 6804 S Lyncrest Ave, Sioux Falls Services Offered: Faith Based, Preschool, Fulltime, Center-Based The Creator’s Kids mission is to provide the best care for God’s greatest blessings. We offer more personalized care, broadened education, better nutrition, and Christian principles.

7

Little Wings Preschool www.littlewingspreschool.com

Phone: 605-413-1487 Location: 5629 W Mandy Ct, Sioux Falls Services Offered: Part-Time Preschool/Pre-k We offer a unique, small setting that focuses on social skills as well as education through hands-on experiences. We have morning and afternoon programs to fit all needs!

READY .

SET.

LEARN !

Field trips and special speakers are also used to enhance the educational experience. Our teachers help each child become an individual who is aware of their abilities and who can focus on their own strengths.

Stop in and check out our programs and teachers anytime! No appointment necessary.

OW ME TO APPLE TRE FOLL E! 4 CONVENIENT LOCATIONS Apple Tree East 3309 E. 26th Street 605-339-9571

20 |

Apple Tree North 700 N. Sycamore 605-332-5581

October 2021 | thehoodmagazine.com

Apple Tree Valhalla 4101 Valhalla Blvd.

605-361-7746

Apple Tree West 6400 W. 43rd Street 605-361-9875

childcare resources

8

Boys & Girls Clubs of the Sioux Empire www.bgcsiouxempire.org

Phone: 605-338-8061 Locations: Multiple locations in Sioux Falls, Brandon and Harrisburg Services Offered: Before/Afterschool Care, Preschool, Play Based, Drop In, Full-Time, Part-Time, School Aged, Summer Care, CenterBased, Transportation We are committed to supporting children at each stage of life. From infant to 18, we provide enriching programs that are aimed to enhance social, intellectual, physical, academic, and emotional well-being.

9

United Childcare and Preschool www.unitedchildcareand preschool.org

Phone: 605-332-5940 Locations: 401 S. Spring Ave. (First United), 2425 S. Western Ave. (Asbury United) Services Offered: Before/Afterschool Care, Faith Based, Preschool, Full time, Part time, Drop In School Aged Summer Care, Tuition based on an income sliding fee, CCA Accepted, Small Class Sizes Our small class sizes, large gym areas, and support for the whole family set us apart! Our teachers are professional, experienced and committed to the joy of child development.

You’ll find this information all year at thehoodmagazine.com, as well as other directories for camps, party planning and more!

CREATE IMPACT HIGHLY COMPETITIVE WAGES

FREE CHILDCARE TUITION REIMBURSEMENT

Apply today at BGCSiouxEmpire.org October 2021 | thehoodmagazine.com |

21

parent

by LifeScape

Parents, it’s Not You,

It Could Be ADHD

Raising kids is hard enough. Every day it’s a juggling act. But for those of you that feel like you may be spinning, unable to stop and get even the simplest task done, just getting through the day can seem impossible. You’re not alone. Sometimes, that struggle to focus and make headway in the multiple roles we have is more than just having a lot to do. It could be adult ADHD. For years, Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) was thought of only as a children’s condition. Many health professionals were trained that kids with the disorder would just grow out of it. That’s not the case. ADHD can affect people of all ages. While Adult ADHD was once considered rare, it’s now very common. The National Comorbidity Study estimates that 4.4% of adults in the United States meet the diagnostic criteria for it.

When it comes to parents, it’s often not until their child is diagnosed that they realize they might also have ADHD. In fact, when children are diagnosed, the parents will learn the condition is probably hereditary, with a 40% chance that one or both parents have it as well. So how can you determine if that’s what is behind your inability to focus or be productive?

22 |

October 2021 | thehoodmagazine.com

Here are some of the common symptoms and signs in adulthood: • Problems prioritizing; poor time management skills • Problems focusing on a task • Trouble multitasking • Poor planning • Struggles to follow through and/or complete tasks • Difficulty with organization • Impulsiveness • Low frustration tolerance • Frequent mood swings • Trouble coping with stress • Excessive activity or relentlessness If these symptoms sound familiar and you want more information, reach out to your primary doctor. They may recommend medication or behavior therapy, or a combination of both. Keep in mind treatments work differently for everyone, but there are many resources available to you. l

4 Things Our

Calendar Can Do for You! You are busier than ever right now adjusting to new schools, routines, and activities. The last thing you have time to search for are events happening in the community. But don’t worry, our ‘Hood website is loaded with events, classes, and activities just for you! Haven’t visited before?

Well, here are four things to know about the ‘Hood “Things to Do” Event Calendar.

1. S earch function! If you want to know if something specific is happening, type in our search bar and hit enter – or use our advanced search function – to find just what you are looking for. You can even tailor your search by age and location to find the perfect outing for your family.

2. F riends or family in town? Find things to do with your guests to allow them to experience our great community.

3. A dd in your own events! It may be the ‘Hood Calendar, but it’s for the community, by the community. If you have something going on that you want our readers to know about, add it to our calendar.

4. D on’t have time to visit our website? Sign up for our newsletter and get our top picks delivered right to your inbox each week. l

October 2021 | thehoodmagazine.com |

23

SOMETIMES, EVEN EYES NEED THERAPY Not all vision problems can be corrected with glasses or contacts. For those situations, vision therapy can help. Vision therapy is an individualized program designed to correct visual motor and/or processing deficiencies. It strengthens the connection between the eyes and the brain to improve eye alignment, teaming, tracking, and focusing.

H O W D O E S V I S I O N A CT UA L LY W O R K ?

Vision is the process of finding meaning in what you see. It involves much more than just distinguishing details. Vision also includes how the eyes aim, how they focus, how they move, and how they guide motor coordination.

Your vision continues to develop over time and is influenced by both your environment and your experiences. Problems can occur even if your eyes are healthy and your vision is clear. If you do develop vision problems, it may present itself through signs of discomfort when performing activities that are visually demanding.

M O S T C O M M O N R E A S O N S TO C O N S I D E R VISION THERAPY • Learning difficulties especially reading, letter or word reversals, tracking issues, headaches, eye fatigue, or trouble focusing • Binocular vision disorders such as lazy eye, eye turn, or teaming issues • Traumatic brain injuries such as concussions or stroke • Sports vision training to help compete at a higher level

H O W TO K N O W I F YO U N E E D V I S I O N T H E R A P Y The following are common symptoms of vision problems that are treated with vision therapy. If you or your child frequently experience three or more of these symptoms, a vision evaluation is necessary to further explore the visual skills required for efficient visual performance.

Words run together while reading Headaches or tired eyes when reading Skips/repeats lines while reading Difficulty copying from the board Avoids near work/reading Misaligns columns/digits Poor reading comprehension Trouble keeping attention for near work Poor eye-hand coordination Letter/word reversals Says “I can’t” before trying

never

occasionally

frequently

always

never

occasionally

frequently

always

never

occasionally

frequently

always

never

occasionally

frequently

always

never

occasionally

frequently

always

never

occasionally

frequently

always

never

occasionally

frequently

always

never

occasionally

frequently

always

never

occasionally

frequently

always

never

occasionally

frequently

always

never

occasionally

frequently

always

For questions or to make an appointment, contact Visions Therapy Center at 605-271-7100.

THERAPY CENTER

Love what you see.

THERAPY CENTER WEB EMAIL

(605) 271.7100 sdvisions.com visions@sdvisions.com

Love what you see.

EACH VISION THERAPY PROGRAM IS DIFFERENT A vision therapy program is designed specifically for the person receiving it. The frequency of therapy visits, the amount of training, and the duration of therapy all depend on the nature and severity of the eye problem being treated.

Regular practice is always important to achieve the best results. Vision therapy will train how to have better eye control to improve understanding of what is being seen. In the end, it will lead to greater confidence and improvement in the performance of daily activities such as reading, writing, and learning.

parent

by Sanford Health News

Working from Home:

Healthy ways to juggle demands Working from home has quickly become the new norm for many employees across the globe. People have pivoted to define what work-life balance looks like in a time when stress is at an all-time high.

On the physical side, this stress can lead to headaches, back pain, muscle aches and stomach trouble. Mentally, stress leads to low morale, poor sleep and concentration, and depression.

It can also take a toll on our immune systems — at a time when we all need to be focused on strengthening our health and well-being.

26 |

October 2021 | thehoodmagazine.com

Therefore, it’s important to find a balance between work and home responsibilities. Here are tips that can help:

Try to stay positive and relaxed The more stress you feel, the worse your mood and the harder it will be to get things done.

Focus your energy on completing one task at

a time — whether it be work or family-related — rather than worrying about how to do all of them at once.

laundry. Even younger kids may be old enough to dust or set the table. It’s much less stressful if you’re working as a team.

Prioritize your to-do’s Create a to-do list and a schedule of tasks you need to complete, with the most important ones at the top. Budget time for each of those items, and stick to your schedule as closely as you can.

Leave perfection at the door Don’t try to be perfect. Competing priorities means that perfection may not be attainable. If you have a less than clean house because you’re also caring for your children or caring for an elderly family member, so be it. Allow yourself room for imperfections.

Practice mindfulness When you feel overwhelmed, take some time to relax. Try to breathe deeply with your eyes closed, concentrating on your breathing. Or do some yoga or gentle stretches. Relax your muscles by starting with your toes and slowly relaxing each muscle in your body as you work your way up to your head.

Set limits When your to-do list is already full, say no to more projects at work and home if you can. Find out your boss’ top priorities and work on those, but be careful not to promise more than you can deliver. Make it clear that if you work on project “X,” you may have to push back the deadline on project “Y.” Share the load Don’t be afraid to ask your co-workers or family members for help. Have your spouse or older kids pitch in around the house and cook meals, do some cleaning, and take care of a few loads of

Do your best to stay healthy To do your best at work and at home, you’ve got to take care of yourself. Eat regularly and stick to nutritious foods, and do your best not to “stress eat.” Take walks and build in exercise breaks at home to manage stress and enjoy a little time for yourself. Similarly, be sure to get plenty of sleep each night — it’s one of the best ways to give your immune system the support it needs.

Take time for yourself A few quiet minutes to yourself each day can certainly recharge your batteries and help with your resilience. As a result, you’ll be a better employee and a better family member by doing this.

Encouraging friendships Learning how to make friends evolves with time.

Review these suggestions to help your child develop and maintain friendships. l

Empowering You on Your

Financial Journey

Insured by NCUA

October 2021 | thehoodmagazine.com |

27

home

by Foley’s Heating & AC, Inc.

Say Goodbye to Summer and Hello to

Firing Up the Furnace Not be the bearer of less than good news, but winter is just around the corner. Now is the time to make sure your home is ready for the cooler temps and that largely means assessing and addressing possible issues with your HVAC system.

Before the frost sets in, you will want to tend to any repair needs, get your air ducts cleaned, and even check insulation, especially if that is something you have not done in your current home. Once temperatures drop to near freezing or below, you do not want to suddenly discover your furnace is unable to keep your house warm and your pipes from freezing.

• Schedule maintenance: It is important to schedule annual maintenance for your HVAC system and fall is the perfect time to do it. HVAC professionals tend to be at their busiest during the summer and winter months, so you will find it is much easier to get an appointment this time of year. If you haven’t already scheduled maintenance in 2021, make sure that you do so before the year draws to a close.

• Broken record time: Replace air filters! Doing so not only helps to keep your home more

28 |

October 2021 | thehoodmagazine.com

comfortable, but it also helps your system to run more efficiently. It can also go a long way towards improving the indoor air quality of your home.

• Change direction of ceiling fans: Did you know you are able to reverse their direction in order to keep your home warm? As heat rises during the cooler months, ceiling fans rotating counterclockwise can help to push warm air down towards the living areas of your home.

• Assess for energy deficits: Did you feel as though your air conditioning was not keeping your home as cool as possible this summer?

There may be an energy deficit. A home energy audit can help you to determine where improvements can be made in order to keep your HVAC system operating at maximum efficiency and your home as warm and cozy as possible this fall and winter. l

Junkin’ Market Days

Fall Market

$ Entra5 nc Fee e

THE RIgHT ATTORnEY FOR YOU.

Providing client centered legal representation in the areas of family law and business services.

AmAndA EngEl, Attorney

Friday October 8th 10-8 PM

Saturday October 9th 9-4 PM

#

515 W Landscape Place, Ste 101 Sioux Falls, SD | 605.361.9840

www.ddlawsd.com

Buy one ticket get one free! (with coupon)

Repurposed ~ Rustic ~ Shabby Chic ~ Farmhouse ~ Vintage ~ One-Of-A-Kind Finds W.H. Lyon Fairgrounds - Expo Building 100 N. Lyon Blvd., Sioux Falls www.junkinmarketdays.com

Interested in having a booth at the event?

Vendor applications available at

www.junkinmarketdays.com Follow Us for More Information

FALL IN LOVE with YOUR SMILE AGAIN SCHEDULE NOW! legacydds.com

TOOTH TALK with Dr. Katie

With Halloween fast approaching, here is a friendly reminder regarding Halloween candy: Keep your favorites and donate the rest. Your teeth will thank you!

October 2021 | thehoodmagazine.com |

29

Are You on Our

Email List?

This isn’t just another email to clutter your inbox. Here at ‘Hood, we are also busy moms, and we know you don’t have time for that. What you’ll get from us is just the goods! Want to know what to do this weekend? We have you covered. Need a little encouragement to get through the weekend? We’ll send that your way too.

Our ‘Hood email subscribers get: • E xclusive deals you won’t find anywhere else • Recipes and crafts • Sioux Empire family-friendly calendar events • Weekend letters just for parents Plus, each issue of ‘Hood Magazine goes out to our email list first. This means you’ll get premier access to all our directory listings and content before it hits the shelves.

Love a bonus? We do too! Our monthly Online Bonus Features are delivered right your inbox, just in time for big events and holidays. l

!

S U BON

Bonus Online Content Did you know there is even more to ‘Hood than what you see here? Each month, watch for our additional Online Bonus Features! You can find them at www.thehoodmagazine.com or sign up for our emails to have them delivered right to your inbox.

Check out our September Online Bonus Feature, featuring kid friendly soup recipes, DIY fall decor on a budget, family crafts, and so much more!

Keep an eye out for our October Online Bonus Feature, where things are getting spooky because we are talking all things Halloween.

30 |

October 2021 | thehoodmagazine.com

THE CORN MAZE at Yogi Bear’s™ Jellystone Park SIOUX FALLS, SD

MORE THAN JUST A

OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

CORN MAZE! Come explore over 7 acres of corn maze!

Also included with admission: • The areas only jumping pillow • FREE miniature golf on the new 9-hole course!

• Plenty of photo ops!

Expanded offering of pay activities including tye dye tshirts, ceramics,and laser tag.

For more information call: 605-332-2233

siouxfallscornmaze.com

Spooky Science 2021 An Annual Fun, Non-Scary, Family-Friendly Event

Oct. 16, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. | Washington Pavilion Explore the wonders of science as we experiment, discover and create through hands-on activities for all ages.

Costumes are encouraged but not required. Children 12 and under must be accompanied by an adult.

Public: $14 Adults (plus tax) | $10 Youth (plus tax) Members: Free 605.367.6000 | washingtonpavilion.org

Sponsored by:

Experience Your Washington Pavilion 301 S. Main Ave. Sioux Falls, SD

TWO VACCINES IN ONE VISIT ANNUAL FLU VACCINE: • Recommended for everyone 6 months and older

440-268-941 9/21

COVID-19 VACCINE: • Recommended for everyone 12 years and older who has not received it yet

Visit sanfordhealth.org to learn more or find a location near you.