Multiplicity - Spring 2013

Spring 2013

what to do in the event of disaster

great family

getaways

twins in school:

to separate or not?

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12 months to toxin free plus: tips for more YOU time!

protecting the earth and your family!

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35 Appy Spring! Apps the whole

Sleep training twins - you CAN do the impossible!

family can enjoy

10 Is your family prepared for a

36 Ready for a change? Try 12 Months

12 Need a little TLC? How to make

40 Things Every Mom Should Know

15 Celebrating Earth Day in lots of

43 The Low Down on the Baby Blues

to Toxin Free!

disaster?

10

when traveling

some YOU time! little ways

46 Book Review - Audio book ideas

16 Exercise? When? - 10 ways to

for reading this spring!

squeeze it into your busy day!

48 Separate or Not? Twin placement

20 Do your kids eat healthy? If not,

in schools

find out how to make it happen

51 Creative (and Cost-Friendly)

24 It’s never too early to childproof

Camps for your backyard

your home

26 Great Family Getaways - Tips for traveling to some of America’s greatest places!

54 Color is the name of the game this

spring. Check out our Fashion Finds for Less

59 Five Minute Fix - Love the

30 Product Buzz

outdoors? Bring it in!

33 Healthy snacks from Petit

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60 Feeding your family by gardening

Organics

64 Do Something Good - featuring

Moms of Multiples Chicago/North Suburbs

cover cuties At almost 8 years old this spring, it was fitting for Brooke and Brianna to be our cover cuties this issue! Brooke likes singing, acting, and roller skating. Her favorite color is pink and she wants to be a singer when she grows up. Brianna likes directing, singing, acting, talking on the phone, and playing basketball.

Her favorite color is purple. She wants to be a singer and get married when she grows up, but doesn’t want kids (ha! she comes from a rather large family with lots of siblings!).

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photos courtesy of Cleo Bella Photography

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the must-have magazine for all moms of multiples

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Spring is finally here and my kids and I are loving being outdoors... achoo!...at least when we’re not sneezing and rubbing our eyes! If you and your twinnies are among the many of us who suffer this time of year, we have a special feature from a Pediatrician on how to cope with seasonal allergies.

I also love that everything is coming out of hibernation; the flowers are beginning to bloom, birds are singing every morning, and we begin planning our family garden. It’s a time of year when changes come about naturally. Life blooms and is renewed and is extra special in our house because my twins celebrate their birthdays (they turned 8 this year --- how did we get this far so soon!), my son will soon be 3, and baby #4 will also make her debut in just a few short weeks (yes, my springs are about to be very busy with parties, parties, and MORE parties!).

In celebrating these milestones and my growing family, it reminds me of how precious life truly is. We should be mindful of how best to protect our families in the event of a disaster (do you have an emergency or fire plan in place?), how to celebrate Earth Day in even the smallest of

Natalie Diaz founder/publisher natalie@multiplicitymag.com

ways, and possibly even how to rid our lives of unnecessary toxins (think of all the processed foods we could eliminate to look and feel better!). Of course, if making your own laundry detergent and health and beauty products seems more than a little daunting to you, we also have some great (and very easy!) recipes for helping your family snack healthier.

Every bit makes a difference, right?!?

Of course, we know as moms we take a lot of precious time with and for our families, but not near enough time for ourselves. We hope that you enjoy our tips on how to make more quality time for yourself, how to make products at home that will make you feel years younger, how to create kid (and cost!) friendly camps in your own backyard, and even some great tips on where to vacation with your family this spring/summer.

We at Multiplicity and Twiniversity are all about supporting each other as MOMs and celebrating the little lives that made us so, so whether you’re staying close to home or planning some fun excursions away, we hope that you feel the love and enjoy our special features aimed at helping us all be the best we can be!

Talitha A. McGuinness executive editor talitha@multiplicitymag.com

Publisher Natalie Diaz Executive Editor / Creative Director Talitha A. McGuinness Photographers Firewife Photography Jane Goodrich Photography Contributing Writers Cara Krenn Dr. Joan Friedman Angel Rodrigues Jill Marcum Rehana Zamfotis Traci Zeller Dr. Preeti Parikh Michelle Leichty Tobi Stanton Stewart Karen Finchum Natasha D’Anna Kinan Copen Dr. John Mascazine Stacey Geer Kara Kozier Kimberly Amato Jodi Smeiska Karen Finchum Social Media Mgr./Ad Sales Jill Marcum Contact us: 141 Mulberry Street Apt. C-1 New York, NY 10013 917-442-2020 info@multiplicitymag.com www.multiplicitymag.com Multiplicity is published as a digital magazine four times per calendar year, with additional supplements as desired. Multiplicity cannot assume responsibility of statements made by advertisers. In addition, though hand-picked and carefully reviewed, Multiplicity cannot guarantee the accuracy of editorial pieces. No portion in whole or in part of this publication may be reproduced without express written consent from the publisher. Questions? Email editor@multiplicitymag.com.

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multiplicity

the must-have magazine for all moms of multiples

photo courtesy of nicole depron photography

spring is in the air! here’s to smelling the flowers, swinging so high it takes your breath, playing in puddles, enjoying those last few hours of daylight, counting the stars, and spending as much time outside with your kids making memories as your seasonal allergies will allow!

MISSION POSSIBLE:

sleep training your twins

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multiplicity

the must-have magazine for all moms of multiples

by stacey geer

has adapted to fit Harper and June’s rapidly changing needs.

At nine months old, they are little bed and nap time rockstars. I lay them down and they just know that it’s time for sleeping and, most of the time, they’re ready. I usually hear a touch of grumbling. Maybe some chatter.

Often there is a cry or two thrown in, just to test my resolve. But then they’re out and, whether it’s a one-hour nap or the beginning of a 10-hour night cycle, the mommy version of bath, bottle, bed - a little number I like to call coffee, Flannery O’Conner, dozing - may begin.

We began our bedtime routine that very night, with my best friend (a School Psychologist from Vermont, who’d taken all of the Developmental classes I’d missed in college) looking on. Baths. Bottles. Bed. And, for the first time in three weeks, silence. For four straight hours.

I was in new mommy heaven.

And if she hadn’t been my best friend before, she would have been bumped right to the top of the list six weeks later, when the bedtime routine still worked like a spell. Or four months later, when our girls (and we) were sleeping a full 10 to 12 hours with no night time feedings, weaned from their binkies and swaddles, and still beaming bright as neon every morning when I responded to their waking squeals.

Choosing to sleep train was essential for me, mainly, but also for my husband, to maintain our sanity. Simple things like daily routines with twins is exponentially harder (forget double the work, try four times!) with multiples and mothers of singletons often don’t understand my unyielding insistence on logging those nap hours.

Once we made the decision to sleep train (thanks, again, to my baby guru and best friend), deciding how to go about it was like trying to cut a path through the jungle. Google the term “sleep training” and you come up with somewhere in the neighborhood of one hundred million results. In point three seconds. If you’re already reeling from the normal, everyday tasks, trying to understand, let alone

“

Our bedtime routine, which developed into a modified form of Weissbluth’s Cry It Out (or CIO)

continue to think about it, but rather than trying to figure out whether to sleep train or how to do it, just listen to your intuition. multiplicity

“

photo courtesy of jane goodrich photography

“What’s your bedtime routine?” my best friend asked through the waspish grumbles and owly shrieks of my daughters. My vision was fuzzy. Dingy, you know? From too little sleep and even less cheer. Perceptually compromised as I’d been, it appeared that my best friend had somehow merged her DNA with a Charlie Brown character - imprecise and wobbly on the edges - and had become acutely fluent in Teacherese. Her question translated to wompwomp-womp-womp-wompwomp as Harper slapped me in the temple and June sobbed, inconsolably, face first into the carpet. Up to this point our bedtime routine had all the planning and execution of the dropping of a cooler at the paws of a hungry, and consequently quite angry bear. Offer food, run, pray.

choose, a sleep training method can seem insurmountable.

My best advice, my only advice really, when you boil it all down to bare bones, is to find a peaceful moment and just stop thinking about it. Wait until that magic instance where they’ve both managed to fall asleep at the same time and the house feels like an old west boomtown before a gunfight, and stop worrying about it.

Continue to think about it, but rather than trying to figure out whether to sleep train or how to do it, just listen to your intuition.

Ugh. I know. Every mother in history who has levelled up and unlocked an achievement that you desperately covet says, when asked how she got there, “just use your intuition”, or “you know your baby best”. But that seems to hold true for me. It’s just that I have to stop trying to come up with the answer and be willing, instead, to hear it. Next I’m going to tell you to just open your soul and allow the positive energy to flow through you or something, right? I know. It’s one of those pieces of advice that you need a decoder ring to understand.

But all I can say is that I can’t tell you how many times I’ve honestly believed that this was it; I was finally going to lose my mind. And then I just decided.

With no idea whether it was the right choice or the wrong one.

I just chose a course of action and I’m pretty sure I’m kind of psychic because every time I’ve just made a choice like that, lo and behold, it’s been the right one. For all of us.

I’ve learned many things about babies since then, which seems inevitable really, when you

the must-have magazine for all moms of multiples

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consider the fact that I knew nothing about them to begin with. That you didn’t have to wait, for instance, until they could run through the hallway after a bath, like the dog, hooded towels streaming behind like terrycloth capes on the backs of superheroes in the eternal fight against Body Odor. Just maybe, you know, not rubbing their faces on the floor, or rolling over to have their bellies scratched. Maybe just running.

And my best friend no longer looks (or sounds) like the Charlie Brown trumpet teacher. So that, she might tell you, is the real victory in it all.

Stacey Geer is a freelance writer, blogger, and stay-athome mom to twin girls. She lives in Pennsylvania with her husband, Mike. Stacey is currently working on a collection of brief personal essays about the perception of mothering multiples versus the reality.

When she’s not writing or chasing her girls, she enjoys cooking, eating, and, of course, sleeping. Visit her blog or find her on facebook or twitter. *Photo by Linda Gross Photography

additional

sleep resources

The American Academy of Pediatrics published a recent study stating the safety of infant sleep training.

Babycenter has many message boards specifically created for the sleep training of twins, as opposed to singletons.

Caution: you will get many different, often heated opinions both for and against the topic. If still undecided, message boards should probably be saved as a resource for when you’re more comfortable with your decision and are simply looking for third-party reports and advice.

Because she’s a member of Twinversity, check out this blog post by Jodi Call over at Pistols+Popcorn. You also ought to read more than just this post. It’s good stuff.

If you’re interested in a form of Cry It Out, check Dr. Marc Weissbluth’s method out.

On the flip side of Cry It Out is a parenting philosophy known as Attachment Parenting, associated with Dr. Sears. You do not have to be a strictly Attachment or a strictly Cry It Out sleep trainer. There are countless ways to cherry pick the best of many methods and tailor a routine specifically for your twins.

And just to round us out, Troublesome Tots is an all encompassing blog specifically about sleep training. While a search of the blog returns no results for the term “multiples,” this resource boasts solid information and research. Lots of it.

Here’s to success in getting those little ones off to dreamland!

Expecting or just recently delivered?

Multiplicity’s Baby Gear Guide will help you register for those musthave items, design the nursery of your dreams, and share information on wonderful products for mom and babies, too.

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in case of a disaster

is your family

prepared? by natalie diaz

l

iving in NYC my entire life, I’d definitely consider myself “street smart”. My family always taught me the right way to cross a street, not to talk to strangers, and what to do in an emergency.

Of course when I was a little girl, the worst thing I could think of happening was having a fire in our home. I can remember doing fire drills in school, and planning our “exit plan” even as a family. I come from a family that believes in being prepared for everything. Well, on the morning of September 11th, 2001, all that went out the window. It wasn’t just my family in an emergency; it was thousands upon thousands of families.

The twins weren’t born back then. I was living with my husband in a small apartment downtown, not far from the World Trade Center. I was already at work when we learned over the radio that a plane had crashed.

To be honest, I said a silent prayer, and went on with my day. I supposed I’m a bit on the numb side living here forever. I’ve seen fatal fires in high-rise buildings, people pushed onto subway tracks, cranes falling on passersby, and many other things that people shouldn’t witness. I suppose we see more than the average person because our “small town” holds six million people in a matter of a few square miles.

That day went on to be one that will live in my 10

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memory with a stronger impression than even the day of my twins’ birth. We lost thousands of our fellow New Yorkers. We mourned together as a city, and as a country.

Because of our location, we weren’t even allowed to leave our home for days after the towers fell because there was a grave fear that the inhalation of bone fragments floating in the air would cause irreversible lung damage. However, our family banned together. We took in family members that were in even worse shape than us. We lived 13 people in a 600 square foot apartment. It was then that we stayed glued to the television watching what was happening less then a mile away. It was then that we kept a hand on the telephone hoping we would get word that the people we knew who worked there were safe. It was then that my niece took her first steps; we finally had something to smile about.

Living through that tough time made us all a little more organized, a little more prepared. It was in those few days that we made a pact to plan better and be ready for an even more unspeakable event.

To be honest, as a New Yorker, I’m always waiting for the other shoe to drop. Will it be the Statue of Liberty next, the Stock Exchange, the Empire State Building? I’m not sure, but no matter what,

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we are prepared because in the event of the next disaster or emergency situation, we have a “Go” bag packed, ready and waiting. This bag contains a minimal amount of stuff, but is easily accessible in case of a fire, natural disaster, or terrorist attack. In this bag we currently have: / Copies of birth certificates, marriage licences, health insurance cards, passports, and any other documents that would be hard to replace. (We also have a thumb drive with this info); / A week’s worth of medication, along with a first aid kit; / Face masks in case we aren’t able to breath the air; / A gallon of water; / A hand crank flashlight (which came in VERY handy during our recent hurricane); / Enough cash if we have to get off this island. We never lose sight that we are on an island and there are only a few ways on or off; / Extra pair of glasses for every family member who needs them; / Basic hygiene supplies (remember we are skipping town, not lunching with the Queen); / Extra keys; / When the twins were babies, we also had formula, and other medicines they needed.

Remember to check your bag often, (the month of your birthday is a good time!), update your medications, glasses, or anything with an expiration date. We also have a plan of action. The person closest to the twins will get them from school. We have a rally point in Lower Manhattan. If we have to evacuate, we have a place to meet in New Jersey.

We planned right after 9/11.

We actually used this plan a few years later when we had a major black out and then again during our recent hurricane. We are ALWAYS on our toes. We ALWAYS have the car filled with gas. We are ALWAYS ready for the unexpected.

So TODAY, not tomorrow, not next week...TODAY --- put a plan in place with your friends, neighbors, family and community. Start at home.

Create your evacuation plan (and practice it!). Pack your “Go” bag and just hope you never need it.

plan and practice!

Meet with your family and discuss why you need to prepare for disaster and the types most likely to happen in your area. Explain the dangers of fire, severe weather, and earthquakes.

Share responsibilities and work together as a team. The National Centers for Disease Control recommend the following: / Pick two places to meet: • outside your home in case of a sudden emergency, like a fire.

• outside the neighborhood if you can’t return home. / Teach children how and when to call 911 for help. / Determine the best escape routes from your home. Find two ways out of each room. / Find safe spots in your home for each type of disaster. / Show each family member how and when to turn off the water, gas, and electricity at the main switches. / Teach each family member how to use the fire extinguisher, and show them where it’s kept. / Install smoke detectors (and test them frequently) on each level of your home. / Stock emergency supplies and assemble a disaster supplies kit. / Learn how to “shelter-inplace” or “seal the room” to prevent outside air from coming in. / Practice your plan.

For a printable template to get you started, visit FEMA’s resources online.

mommy rejuvenation why we need more “me” time and tips to make it happen by tobi stanton stewart 12

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As the moms of multiples we spend our days doing things for other people. Often our own needs are put last on a list or filed away for “someday.”

Some of these desires are big “bucket list”items like seeing the Greek Islands. Other items on our wish lists might be as simple as calling a friend or getting a haircut.

Life as a mom is a marathon, not a sprint. Every day there are very real and valid excuses why we don’t have time for ourselves. It may be mounds of laundry, stomach bugs, after school activities, or just the daily grind of running a household and often working outside the home, as well.

Our challenge is to make time and to make our own wellness a priority. When we moms become depleted, we have less to give to our partners and to our children.

Mommy rejuvenation may sound like a silly notion when you barely have time to use the bathroom by yourself. So that’s where we will begin --- in the bathroom. With a few simple steps, we are going to make it your personal oasis!

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10 Minutes Daily

I am not going to start off by asking you to book that Greek Island vacation. Instead, give yourself 10 minutes. I can already hear the excuses, but stay with me. I will tell you where they are hidden.

There is a magical moment in the households of all parents with multiples. It happens when you glance at the monitor, or tip-toe past their bedroom, and you realize: THEY ARE ASLEEP! That’s your moment. If you have a spouse, ask them to listen for the kiddos. If you are a single parent, take your monitor into the bathroom with you. We won’t call it a bathroom for those 10 minutes; we will call it “The Spa.” I won’t ask you to overachieve. You don’t have to emerge looking like Charlize Theron. Just think of one ignored need you had during the day. Did you look down at your nails and see dry, ragged cuticles? It’s time for some cuticle oil and massage. How about your brows? You might be able to squeeze in a bath or shower. Maybe you will even have enough time for shaving your legs...ah, the simple life of luxury!

Rule #1: There is no multi-tasking at “The Spa.” You are not allowed to text concerns to a coworker, write a grocery list, or read an article about The Mozart Effect. Turn your phone off, as this is all about Y-O-U! When the kids fall asleep, if you begin doing housework or collapse in front of the TV, you will miss this window of opportunity. If you are failing your daily 10 minutes, then try to report directly to “The Spa” at least 3 times a week.

One Half Hour, Once a Week

trips. This means no diapers or potato chips. We don’t eat in the spa...sorry!

After you master this mini-outing, you can use it for other experiences you enjoy. It may be a latte or to pick up a book at the library. The goal is that it is something that is a nice treat for you.

An Outing - Once a Month

If you start slow and master the daily 10 minutes, and the weekly half hour, you will work up to the monthly outing. This will take a lot of planning.

You will need the help of your partner or perhaps a paid babysitter. I am here to remind you that it is Spring. Miracles can happen. The sister, friend, aunt, neighbor who has offered to watch your kiddos for you may need to be called in. Time away can seem impossible. Try to find one hour. It is usually enough for a pedicure, reflexology, a walk through the park , or just a cup of coffee at a cafe.

If you have a supportive partner, or the means to pay a sitter, try to work up to sacred time for yourself at least an hour each week.

Alone: You need time to just be yourself. Wander around an antique shop, hit some balls at the driving range, choose an activity that connects who you are and what you love. Exercise is also a great way to invest in your own wellness. The hardest part is getting started, so make the call to your local community center or health club today.

It happens when you glance at the monitor, or tip-toe past their bedroom. You realize: THEY ARE ASLEEP! That’s your moment.

Once you get the 10 minutes to yourself down, you are ready to advance to the half hour. These are harder to find, but have been known to be hidden when your children are at an activity or school. Working moms may find it on their drive to or from work, or possibly on a lunch break.

Moms with tiny kiddos at home may have to trust Dad or a friend or family member. Your first half hour outing should be for items for “The Spa”. Yes, you are going shopping! Get yourself some cuticle oil, especially if you’ve never heard of it. There’s a moisturizing cream you have been seeing on TV, or a nail polish shade that makes your heart sing. No matter how frivolous this item seems, treat yourself.

With The People You Love: Some of your outings should include time with your partner. Date nights are ideal. Steal time for a coffee or a walk around the neighborhood holding hands. The important thing is that it be time set aside for just the two of you.

Rule #2: You are not allowed to get items for anything other than “The Spa” on these first few

You should also try and have some of your outings be with the women who replenish --- contd. pg. 32

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the must-have magazine for all moms of multiples

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celebrating

earth day

kid-friendly activities to learn more about mother earth 14

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the must-have magazine for all moms of multiples

Earth Day is the largest environmentally celebrated event. It is recognized internationally throughout the months of March and April and with the easy access to the internet and books galore, there are so many activities available for helping protect the earth and reduce our carbon feetprint. Of course, there’s always the importance of teaching about recycling and how to reuse items around the house, and now is the season for many of us to begin planning and planting our gardens. For extra ideas on celebrating earth day, try out a few of these family-friendly, but fun (and even sometimes educational!) activities you and the kids will love! counting & planting project

pet rocks for the kid in us all

things you need *Terra Cotta Pots *Wooden sticks for labeling *Patio Paint bottles in various colors *Paintbrushes for each child *Pot decorations *Seeds & potting soil *Paper, pencil & permanent marker

things you need *Rocks from around your house *Paints in various colors *Paintbrushes for each child *Hot glue gun and glue sticks *Googly eyes, yarn, stickers, etc.

by angel rodrigues

by talitha a. mcguinness

what to do Let each child enjoy selecting their very own rock and then allow them to paint them as monsters, animals, or with patterns, etc. After the rocks have dried, an adult can use the hot glue gun to adhere the accessories like googly eyes, hair, etc. Once complete, display their pet rocks as quirky room decor on bookcases, shelves, their desks, etc.

what to do 1. Paint pots and decorations.

2. While pots dry, pour seeds onto paper, and label as you go along.

3. Have the counters count the seeds and write on the sheet the amount for each pack.

4. Make math problems out of the numbers to show how to divide the seeds for each pot.

5. Once pots are dry and decorated, fill with potting soil and seeds.

6. Label each stick with the name of the seed and place n the pot.

The great thing about this project is the many combinations of how to use the scents, and the recipes are endless!

Angel has a feminist brain, a thirst for knowledge, and writing is her dirty little secret. She is mom to a 7 year old, 4 year old busy twin boys, and a 2 year old little girl.

She has been married for over 14 years and is kept alive by coffee. You can follow her blog or find her on Facebook and Twitter.

mod podge birdhouses by karen finchum

things you need *Wooden birdhouse *Scrapbook paper *Mod Podge (outdoor kind for sustaining the weather) *Paint brushes what to do 1. Paint the bird house everywhere that you aren’t --- contd. pg. 18 multiplicity

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10easy ways

to squeeze exercise into your day

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by cara krenn

e all know that taking time to exercise is a critical part of maintaining our health and sanity, but busy moms can find it hard to carve out time for a coffee break, let alone hours at the gym. However, you can always squeeze in bursts of activity throughout your day. Studies have shown that small workouts can yield a big payoff. The key is making them happen. Here are 10 ways you can fit exercise into the busiest of schedules:

1 2 3 4 5

Actively play with your kids at the park. It’s tempting to scroll through your phone once your kids are old enough to play at the park by themselves, but you can burn some serious calories by joining in their play.

Play chase, hide and seek, or scramble up the playground structure. Just remember to wear comfortable shoes.

Wake up early. Try to make yourself wake up before your kids once a week to fit in a morning workout session. There’s no better way to start the day than by doing something healthy and positive just for you. You may even surprise yourself by making this a routine.

Put on a DVD when your kids are asleep. If you don’t have the time or wherewithal to head to a gym, try popping in an exercise DVD while your kids nap or right after they go to sleep for the night. From kickboxing to yoga, aerobics to Zumba, a wide array of DVDs will ensure a little exercise is only a TV screen away.

Download a fitness app. Downloading a fitness app is a great way to choose a personal trainer app that will guide you through quick push-ups, sit-ups, strength training, yoga, and more. Many fitness apps will also track your progress and help remind you to exercise.

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Make an active date with a partner. Instead of meeting for coffee or going out to dinner with your spouse, try mixing it up once in a while with an

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active date. You can play tennis with your husband, go for a jog with your best friend, or walk your dog with a neighbor.

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Don’t take the “easy” way. You’ve heard the advice before: Take the stairs instead of riding the elevator. Walk anywhere you don’t have to drive. Consistent, short bouts of exertion can have a big impact on your general wellness over time, so don’t always make it “easy” on yourself.

7

Try a group exercise class. Need the motivation of others to get into your exercise groove?

Head to the gym or studio to join a group class. If your children are young, try a Mommy & Me class or join a Stroller Strides group. Many gyms offer childcare so you can dedicate a solid hour to a workout of your 1:16 Twins_Ad.aiclass 1 12/14/11

choice. Pencil your classes onto the family calendar so everyone knows your schedule.

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Go for a walk or run with your kids. Pile your kids into a jogging stroller and hit the trail. Ignore whining by bribing your kids with snacks, play an “I-spy” game – do whatever it takes to get a quick 20-minute cardio session. When your kids are older, you can encourage them to jog short distances with you.

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Make house-cleaning a speed activity. Dreading mopping your floors or vacuuming your carpets? Put on some music and make speed cleaning your workout. Flex your arms when vacuuming, do squats when picking up toys – be creative. Hate cleaning? Try speed-weeding your garden.

PM

10

Stretch every day. Even if you’re pinched for time or low on energy, you can always get a quick fitness and mood boost by taking time to stretch.

Whether you’re at the park with your kids or overseeing baby’s tummy time, roll out your neck and loosen your limbs with a calming stretching session.

You may be busy, but remember that when it comes to squeezing in exercise, a little really does go a long way.

Cara Krenn lives in San Diego with her husband and fraternal twin girls. A freelance writer, editor and stay-at-home mom, visit her blog to learn more about her many adventures.

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more earth day activities *Clean it Up - grab some trash bags, some disposable gloves and the family and head to the park to do a little trash pick-up. *Feed the Birds - Find or purchase a large pinecone and attach the narrow end to a sturdy string or twine. Cover the pinecone first with peanut butter and then coat with birdseed. Hang from a tree and watch the birds feast! *Leaf and Learn - With the trees filling in, take the kids on a scavenger hunt to collect an assortment of leaves. Have them draw, color and label them in a journal that can be used to add more in the future. *We Like to Move It, Move It! - Have somewhere to go within a mile or so of your home? Instead of cranking the car, put on some comfy shoes and hoof it! Make it a learning exercise, too, by playing “I Spy” games with the kids, or using the moment to teach them about the harm our transportation systems can be on our environment.

contd. from earth day planning on putting scrapbook paper.

2. Once dried, cut out the scrapbook paper to fit the areas where you will be applying.

3. Coat the back of the paper with outdoor Mod Podge and apply to birdhouse. (tip: Mod Podge dries very quickly, so work relatively fast.)

4. Allow a few minutes for the paper to adhere, then seal the paper in with more Mod Podge, allowing 15 minutes drying time between each coat. (If placing outside, apply the Mod Podge to the painted areas as an additional layer of sealer.)

This craft is so easy and packs quite a punch to the backyard!

recycled butterflies by karen finchum things you need *Coffee filters *Pipe cleaners *Finger paint *Round sponges what to do 1. Protect the area where the kids will be working .

*Take a Visit to Trashy Town - Literally make an appointment with your kids to visit your local recycling center to learn about the process of recycled goods. It will give you all a much greater appreciation on the amount and types of things we consume and how we can better use and reuse these items! *It’s in our Hands - Recycle the largest side of a large cardboard box (think refrigerator or washer/dryer, etc.) by having your kids paint an earth on it. Then have them each take turns painting their hands and “stamping” them in a circle around the earth. This serves as a fun way to teach that the protection and conserving of the earth is the responsibility of all of us. *Grow a Promise - Create or purchase a large wooden/paper tree that can be hung on a wall or door within reach of your children. Have them make paper leaves and write promises of earth preservation on each one (i.e. I promise to ride my bike more, I promise to help with recycling, I promise to try more foods instead of wasting, etc.).

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2. Lay the filters flat and let the kids dip sponges or their fingers in the paint and decorate.

3. Once dry, gather the filter in the middle and wrap the pipe cleaner around several times to secure. Take the remainder of the pipe cleaner and shape to make antennas.

This was such a neat project for the kids to make. You could even adhere a magnet to the back to display on the refrigerator or hang string to display in a window to welcome the spring!

YOUR AD COULD BE HERE. We’re reaching parents of multiples all around the globe and we’d love for you to be a part! Contact talitha@multiplicitymag.com to learn about ad rates and securing your spot in a future issue.

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19

how to get your kids to eat

healthy

by kara cozier

You may have noticed that feeding your kids can be quite a challenge. From finding time to prepare food to getting them to eat it without a fight, you have your hands full.

The following is a list of what I’ve done to get my twin daughters to eat healthy, and a few things that some of my readers have done as well!

1. Lead by example.

This applies for more than just food. If you want your kids to do something, then you must set the example. They copy everything you do and say. Replace your bad habits with goods ones. Snack healthy, avoid sugars, and prepare meals consisting of Real Food not processed foods.

2. Start from the beginning.

If you are just beginning to introduce solid foods, then you are in the perfect starting position. Make every moment count. Introduce organic healthy fruits and vegetables, avoid processed foods, and make your own baby food.

3. Don’t buy it.

If you’ve ever tried to diet, you know what I’m talking about. Easy access to unhealthy food just makes eating healthy harder. Keep it out of your fridge, freezer, and pantry. This applies to fast food restaurants, as well. Stay out of them! If your kids have never had a Happy Meal, they won’t ask for one! I’m proud to say that since I quit unhealthy foods when they were 6 months old, my girls have never been to a fast food restaurant.

4. If they haven’t tried it, they won’t ask for it.

For example, if they haven’t been given soda and you don’t drink it around them, they won’t want it. Soda has no nutritional benefit to anyone. Why train your kid to think it tastes good?

5. Keep it positive.

They aren’t going to like everything you put in front of them the first time. This starts at 6 months and continues for life. It took me about a year when I was 19 to get myself to start liking bananas, and now I could eat them 20

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tip:

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make it a family affair!

all day. Acquiring a taste for different healthy foods is possible, given time and opportunity. Avoid allowing negative comments from anyone at the table. I’ve seen my girls avoid cut peppers (their favorite snack) for a day after another little girl stated that she hated them.

staples on the menus. None of which are healthy. I try to order off of the adult portion of the menu, and have the meal split between my daughters. If you absolutely have to order off the kid’s menu, then ask to substitute the fries for steamed veggies, a side salad or fruit (and note the shock on the waiter’s face!).

6. Get all on board.

9. Water everywhere.

I won’t lie to you on this one; this is the most daunting task. Grandparents and other caregivers seem to have this need to give children sugary foods as a demonstration of love.

Outlawing this type of behavior doesn’t seem to work for anyone involved. I have instead gone with the ‘less is more’ approach.

I’ve explained that giving them too much makes them sick later or alters their behavior. Both results have actually occurred.

It has been my experience that once everyone sees how well your children eat and how healthy they are, they will start paying attention to what you are doing.

7. They’ll eat when they’re hungry.

Somewhere along the way I was brainwashed into thinking that my girls needed excessive amounts of milk and juice to survive. Not true. I don’t regularly purchase juice. I will buy juice boxes for long car rides and pull them out when my husband and I stop to get coffee. I’ll also bring them along to the beach or pool. Otherwise, day-to-day life consists of water.

As a bonus, water is very easy to clean up when they spill it

The fewer sugars you eat, the more amazing fruits and vegetables start to taste.

This method has worked for me and some of my readers, though I have heard of children that will essentially go on a hunger strike.

My girls have heard me say, “I am not a short order cook” several times. One meal is made for everyone. I will accommodate small requests, but I do not make one meal for the kids and another for everyone else.

8. Kid’s menu is the devil.

It is rare to see healthy food on the kid’s menu. Grilled cheese, mac and cheese, french fries, and breaded chicken fingers are 22

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around the house! I have one daughter who asks for water with lemon at home and at restaurants. Have you ever heard a 5 year old ask a waitress for water with lemon?

Priceless moment.

10. Get them involved in food preparation.

Invite your children into the kitchen. I know, this doesn’t make dinner preparation easier. I don’t do this every day, but I do it often. From washing vegetables to stirring sauces, my children are in the kitchen. My theory on this is that if they are invested in the labor involved in preparing the meal, they will be more inclined to eat it.

11. Good brainwashing.

I’m always telling my girls to eat their healthy foods so they’ll grow big and strong.

We ask them to “show us their muscles” after they finish dinner. They think this is hilarious. We identify healthy foods and unhealthy foods and why they are classified that way. I’m amazed at how much they actually do understand and remember.

12. Make it easier.

Life is crazy if you haven’t already noticed. Make a little extra effort when you have a few minutes to prepare yourself for the crazy times.

Bags of trail mix and cut veggies will help you have something to grab and go when you’re short on time.

Be prepared. Meal planning is a huge help. When I plan my meals, we eat better. Yet, it has been 5 years and I haven’t mastered this yet!

Healthy eating may seem like a daunting task for those of

us who start out with poor eating habits. Believe me when I say it can be done. I personally started out loathing pretty much every vegetable and now I eat them regularly. You can do it and your kids can do it, too. If they are older and you are starting from scratch, take baby steps. Eliminate or replace the unhealthy foods one by one. The fewer sugars you eat, the more amazing fruits and vegetables start to taste. I never knew I could love an apple without drenching it with cinnamon and sugar until I changed my habits! Invest in your family’s health.

Make a change today!

discounts fo families withr multiples!

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After years of eating processed foods, soda, and other unhealthy habits Kara decided to make a change. She started investigating what it meant to eat healthy and live a natural life in 2008 when her daughters began transitioning to solid foods. Down the rabbit hole she tumbled! Kara currently homeschools her 5 year old twins and blogs about her journey to a more natural, self-sustaining life by eating real food, gardening, and making her own cleaning and personal care products. Follow Kara’s journey on her Life Sanity blog, or find her on facebook, twitter and pinterest.

Want more information?

Contact 704.942.0729 or email Rebecca.Peplinski@ rep.culturalcare.com

Thanks to Step2 for partnering with us and congrats to our 1st Quarter winners! multiplicity

aiden &

ka y l a & l i l

All submissions entered will be considered/reviewed by the Twiniversity Mom Squad.

The chosen twinnies will be featured on Twiniversity and will receive a toy from our sponsor, Step2. Send us your submission today!

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of the month

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23

childproofing: why it’s never too early!

by kimberly amato

What would a nice night on the town cost you? You know, a nice romantic dinner, maybe a movie or a show, and of course, a babysitter. What if for the cost of that night on the town, you could instead transform your home to a safe zone for your kids?

You might even save their lives.

Interested? It’s easy!

I’m talking about childproofing.

You’ve probably already child proofed your house, right?

You’ve gotten outlet plugs, drawer latches, gates for the stairs, and maybe even toilet locks, and door knob covers.

The reality is, while these are important, it’s only the tip of the iceberg when it comes to making a home safe. Without a complete home safety proofing, the risk of a serious injury or even death to your children is very real.

Accidents are the leading cause of death of children.

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According to Safe Kids, more than 3 million children under 14 suffer unintentional injuries that require care in an emergency room every year. Pediatricians and emergency room physicians report that parents often say they were ‘right there’ in the same room and were powerless to prevent the accident from happening and their child from being injured or killed right before their eyes.

So how do we figure out where to start? Get down on the floor of each room of your home and think like a baby or toddler.

Look up, under, down and around. Notice what they could reach, tip over, pull on, climb on or knock over. Notice smaller items that could end up in their mouths. A good guide for choking hazards is if it fits inside a cardboard toilet paper tube that is cut in half, it’s a choking hazard to a child under 5! Next, make a list with two columns; on one side, write all the hazards you find and on the other side,

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write down what you need to do to make it safe. Then purchase what you need and get to work.

In a few hours, you’ll have a safer home!

While there’s no substitute for supervision, it’s impossible for parents to watch their children 24/7, especially with twins or more. However, there are many safety devices available that can make your child and your home safer; they’re not expensive and are easy to install.

Common dangers to children in and around homes include falls, drowning, strangulation, burns, choking, and poisoning.

Magnets and button batteries (in toys, hearing aids, watches, car key remotes, and more) pose both a choking hazard and a serious health risk if swallowed, and should be kept out of reach at all times. Traumatic brain and crush injuries are usually caused from a fall or by a falling object like a piece of furniture or a TV, which could instantly kill a child.

Some key child proofing devices you might be unaware of or have that can be used to prevent these types of injuries include window guards, door alarms, cord containment, cord and blind winders, power strip safety covers, bi-fold, sliding and top-of-door locks, as well as door knob and lever handle guards. Toilet locks, oven and appliance locks and latches, outlet plug covers, or slide outlet plates instead of traditional outlet covers, and lazy susan locks are also important. Rail nets, banister guards or cardboard and duct tape can be used for spindle gaps on stairways, railings and decks. Magnetic locks are superior to the plastic drawer latches and cabinet locks.

You should secure ALL furniture, TV’s and appliances to the wall.

You should also have a fire extinguisher on every level of your home and know how to use it, as well as working smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, and a family fire escape plan. Do you know the number for Poison Control?

1-800-222-1222.

I know your parents have probably told you, “I didn’t do any of those things and you survived!” While that may be true, we live with a greater knowledge of what the dangers are and how to prevent them. Don’t allow yourself to fall into the trap of thinking ‘it’ can’t happen to you or that your kids are

not at risk because they ‘know better’ or aren’t climbers. No one who has ever lost a child thought it would happen to them, either. Despite my well childproofed home, I lost my daughter, Meghan because her dresser was not secured to the wall. She was a twin. I forever see one where two should be and it could’ve been prevented.

As parents, we have the responsibility for the health and well-being of our children.

As parents of multiples, that responsibility can weigh heavier on us, as we have not just one child to keep safe, but two or more of the same age. We can only go in one direction ourselves, after all! Our job, as parents, is to keep our kids safe. Their job is to be free to explore their environment through play. So, when do you plant to get started?

For additional resources on child safety visit Safe Kids, Home and Life Safety, Meghan’s Hope.

Kimberly Amato is a busy mom of three. Her two boys, age 11 and 14 still walk with her on earth. Her daughter, Meghan, the twin of her 11-year-old, died at the age of 3 from a furniture tip-over accident.

Kimberly continues to parent Meghan through her teaching and writing about child safety, as her goal is to prevent any other family from knowing her pain.

Kimberly created Meghan’s Hope and a Facebook page by the same name, as well as Home and Life Safety to educate the public about making homes safer. In her free time, she blogs and ballroom dances with the love of her life. multiplicity

Pregnancy is a beautiful part of life and should be full of wonder and love.

Being pregnant with multiples doesn’t have to be scary, even if an unheard of diagnosis is involved.

Have questions?

We can help!

Answers for today.

Hope for tomorrow.

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great family

Getaways! by the mom squad

Who doesn’t love to take a vacation, especially with school soon to be out and wanting to plan lots of fun summer experiences? Here you’ll find tons of ideas for possible new places to visit, things to see and do while there, and even some twinfriendly tips from moms who’ve done it before!

Great Wolf Lodge

This Disney-esque, indoor waterpark resort has so many locations from which to choose and is the epitome of a family-friendly resort. Plus, the waterpark passes are part of your experience and the only way 26

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you’ll get access to some of the best waterpark entertainment year-round!

The hotel: My kids especially loved the themed rooms with cabins that have bunkbeds and their very own television. The only thing I would recommend as an added benefit (and obvious convenience) would be to have a towel warming rack in the bathroom to help dry swimsuits during your stay. Also, while there are many restaurant options on site, be sure to take advantage of possible coupons and savings at restaurants just outside the lodge. My family

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of 5 ate breakfast at Denny’s for less than $20, because up to 2 children could eat free for each paying adult with our waterpark wristbands!

If you want to keep your kiddos busy even outside the waterpark, there are activities galore.

From the wolf walk first thing in the morning to the storytime before bed, plus

fun had by a ll!

the arcade, spa, MagiQuest, mini golf, and bowling, too, there’s something for all ages.

And, with so many locations, surely there’s one near you!

The waterpark: With a number of waterslides, ranging in speed, twists and turns, and thrills and excitement, you can’t do anything BUT have fun. Not into slides? Take the kids and enjoy jumping the waves in Slap Tail Pond™, or the fun of Chinook Cove™ Activity Pool, complete with trying to jump from one lily pad to another in efforts to cross the pool without falling in. There are areas tailored to different ages, like Cub Paw™ Pool with its zero-depth entry, and Fort Mackenzie, an interactive treehouse with twisting slides and water falling, well, everywhere! For those wanting to relax, consider renting a private cabana, complete with beverages, your own TV, table and chairs, and several other perks (what mom wouldn’t love having her own personal cabana boy waiting on her every beck and call?!? Yes, please!).

d racing my twins love slides! on the 4-story

To book your stay, visit Great Wolf Lodge online and let the fun begin! ~ talitha

Walt Disney World

Known as the “Most Magical Place on Earth”, Disney World has over 47 million people visiting the Parks each year. There are 33 onsite resorts and four theme parks spread over 47 square miles. Use these tips to keep the magic in your vacation!

1. Plan ahead There are many resorts in various price ranges, and all suited for children, but they may not all be suited to your family.

Once you decide on a resort, plan your tickets. A standard ticket will allow you to visit one theme park per day, for as many days as you purchase. The more days you purchase, the lower the cost (i.e. an adult one day pass is $89 and a 5-day pass is $53.60 per day).

The Park Hopper option allows you to visit more than one park in one day. The Water Park & More option is what you’ll need for visiting Disney’s Blizzard Beach or Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon.

You can book dining 180 days before your vacation, including character dining. Booking these multiplicity

early is best, as you can get mealtimes as close to normal as they would be at home.

One mistake a lot of people make is trying to do it all. You’re traveling with multiples, so don’t fret if your plan gets altered; take your time and enjoy the Parks.

2. Choose a good stroller If you bring your own stroller, do not lock it up like a bike, as Disney will remove all locks.

Disney does offer stroller rental, but keep in mind that the strollers are designed for durability and are costly. If you need to rent, I recommend an outside stroller company, as you will get great service and a much better stroller.

Since all Disney strollers look alike, put a piece of ribbon on yours to identify it in a crowd.

3. Prepare your twins Explain to them that the characters they see will be as big as mommy and daddy and that they are all nice. Show your children ride videos on Youtube.

If they are not yet 40 inches tall, prepare your child that they won’t get to ride some of the rides.

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4. Guest Assistance Card The Guest Assistance Card is a card you get from Guest Relations at any one of the theme parks and is for children or adults with special needs.

Once you have the card, it can be used at all four Disney World Theme Parks. You also don’t have to have an obvious need to obtain one. It is for those with Autism, heat/sun sensitivity, physical disabilities, being able to use your stroller as a wheelchair, etc.

5. Companion Restrooms and Baby Care Centers Companion bathrooms are single room restrooms in which you can take more than one child. They have baby changing stations for the really little ones, and enough room to bring your double stroller right in.

Disney also offers Baby Care Centers in each Theme Park.

They offer amenities like private nursing rooms, a microwave and sink, and sometimes even a television, table and chairs. They also offer a shop with formula, diapers and sunscreens.

6. PhotoPass A Disney photographer will give you a plastic PhotoPass card with an ID number on the back.

Each time you see one of the them, just hand them your card.

They’ll snap the pose, scan your card and off you go. You can do this as often as you like.

7. Child Swap Child Swap is a program for families with young kids, where the grownups (and/or older kids) want to do the more adultoriented rides. This is a special form of FASTPASS that can be 28

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obtained from a Cast Member when there is a young guest who can’t go on an attraction.

return during that period. Once your FASTPASS time has arrived, return to the attraction and get in the line for FASTPASS holders.

A trip to Walt Disney World can be a truly magical experience.

Taking the time to plan things out will make all the difference. ~ Cathy Zakibe is a mother

8. Things to bring from home Twins means double the “I want this!”

A good moneysaver is to go to a dollar store and get a few things that the kids are going to want. I brought some Disney stuffed animals on clearance and told my kids Tinker Bell brought them since they were so good. My twins loved it and never asked for another stuffed animal.

9. Take rest/water breaks In one day at Walt Disney World, the average person walks about 6 to 13 miles! Most people simply aren’t accustomed to that much walking. As far as little ones go, they WILL get tired. Between 12-3pm is the hottest time and crowds are at their peak. This is a good time to go back to the room and rehydrate, take a nap or swim.

10. Fastpass No time for waiting? With Disney’s FASTPASS, you wait a little less. EACH PERSON NEEDS A FASTPASS TICKET! You are given a timeframe and may

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of three year old twins. She plans Disney vacations as a part of Magic of Mickey Travel. Contact her to help plan your trip, or find her on Facebook.

New York City

To stay: Club Quarters are roomy and include plenty of extras like free wifi, complementary coffee, universal charging stations, and more. Lowes Regency is near Central Park, museums and the world famous FAO Schwarz. This hotel also features childproof rooms and cribs.

To do: Uptown - Don’t miss visiting The Plaza to see if Eloise is home. Check out the Central Park Zoo and don’t miss the museum of Natural History, Metropolitan Museum of Art and the Children’s Museum. To eat: Burger Heaven and Serendipity (home of the famous Frozen Hot Chocolate).

Midtown: The Toys R Us in Time Square is not to be missed. Visit the TKTS booth in Time Square for up to 70% off tickets for a play. Note - lines can be long!

To Eat: Shake Shack (go early to avoid lines), Virgil’s BBQ, Greys Papaya (best hot dog ever)!

Downtown: Put your walking shoes on and stroll through Soho, Little Italy and Chinatown.

New York City

(contd.)

Take a trip on the Staten Island Ferry (free) for that billion dollar skyline view and visit Battery Park, the financial district and the World Trade Center Memorial. To eat: La Mela on Mulberry Street is one of the only restaurants in the city where kids eat free with a paying adult. Dumplings on Mosco Street in Chinatown is where you can get five homemade dumplings for $1!

Twin Mom Tip (from a native New Yorker): Almost all hotel lobbies have a bathroom; use them. The subway is the fastest way to get around and kids under 44” ride for free on all public transportation.

Taxis only take four passengers, so larger families should consider a limo service like Lincoln Car Service (212) 571-2828. They have great rates and large cars. Many museums have free or pay-as-youwish days. Call ahead to see if one of the days will fit your schedule.

For safety, consider writing your cell number on the inside of your childrens’ jackets or buying wristbands with it on it (Mabel’s Labels). It’s a big city, so have a plan in case one of your kids gets out of eyesight.

Check family websites like New York Family Magazine and local blogs for up-to-date tourist info. ~ natalie

Austin, Texas

Seattle, Washington

To eat: TacoDeli’s breakfast tacos are divine, as is Thursday’s special, scallop tacos. Kerbey Lane is open 24 hours and serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, all day long. They focus on cooking affordable, locallygrown food. It’s known as funky, family-friendly and very Austin. Last but not least, check out Phil’s Burger House, a terrific burger joint with a playground for the kids. Right next door is Amy’s Ice Cream where you can get yummy ice cream with “crush’ns.”

To eat: Check out local favorites like Anthony’s Bell Street Diner, the Cheesecake Factory (for more variety for kids), or the Old Spaghetti Factory.

To stay: Hyatt Regency Austin, located on Lady Bird Lake in the middle of Austin, or The Driskill, an iconic hotel located in the middle of downtown Austin within walking distance to the State Capital, Congress Avenue, Sixth Street, and so much more.

To do: The Seattle Center includes Chihuly Garden and Glass Museum, EMP Museum, Childrens Museum, Pacific Science Center, International Fountain, and the Space Needle. Use Seattle Great Wheel to tour Seattle by land and water on a World War II amphibious landing craft.

To do: Zilker Park, a 351-acre park in the heart of Austin, has a variety of things for families to enjoy. Or for something different, check out Glow Bowl at the Texas Union Underground.

To stay: Edgewater Hotel, which is located on the waterfront, offers rooms with gas fireplaces, pine furnishings, plush comforters, and great views of the Puget Sound.

The Olive 8 Hyatt in Seattle offers great shopping, and also offers spa packages for mom and a fabulous pool for the kids.

The Four Seasons Hotel has an outdoor pool and offers a great welcome package to all kids if you provide the names and ages of each child prior to arrival.

Twin Mom Tip: Visit in March or October when temperatures are ideal. Weekends during these months are packed full of special events, concerts, and festivals.

Check out event calendars for something your family might enjoy. ~ kristi m.

Twin Mom Tips: A visit to the Pike Place Market with fun shops and the “GUM” wall are a must.

Woodland Park is always fun, too!

Seattle offers the Seattle Link Light Rail from Sea-Tac Airport to downtown Seattle. Children under 6 are free. ~ jana s. --- contd. pg. 38

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the buzz

twin tested...

MOM approved!

the scoop on things worth giving

a try

hey sugarSNAP - diaper bag filing system

Any moms out there have the black hole of all diaper bags? You know, the ones where you know you placed something in it just this morning, but when you need it, it’s nowhere to be found? Hey SugarSNAP has created an ingenius filing system (the OCD side of me sings “hallelujah!”) for diaper bags, and it will be even handier for us moms of multiples with all the “extras” we tote. Each diaper bag filing system is made of breathable mesh on one side and an easy to clean, beautifully patterned back side (there are 3 beautiful patterns from which to choose). The filing systems include tabs like “Dipes + Wipes”, “Shirts + Socks”, “Snacks”, and even a “Me + Mine” for us moms who need our own space for items, too! Best of all, the filing systems are connected by a sturdy hook and ring system and can easily be switched into any other diaper bag or purse at a momen’ts notice.

This is perfect for any first-time mom or for those of us who crave order in our everyday lives! ~ talitha

kiehl’s face wash

Since I’ve had my twins, my skin has changed (along with my digestive system, but I’ll save that for another time!). I used to have oily skin pre-twins and then once I had them, all the oil was sucked out and it’s more on the dry side. I really dislike the feeling of my skin about three hours out of the shower. Something had to change. I started buying “moisturizing” facial washes, but after dozens (literally dozens) of attempts, nothing was working for me.

THEN, one day I was at a cosmetics counter and noticed a Kiehl’s display. Since I tried almost everything on the shelves of my local CVS, I thought, why not give it a try? Now that I’m a grown-up, maybe I need a more grown-up face wash. I spoke, at length, to a sales woman and she suggested I try this. She said, if I didn’t like it, I could return it for a full refund. BEAT THAT! I brought it home and used it for six days and saw a difference immediately. I use this wash daily in the shower and it’s done the trick since then. If you are in the market for a new face wash, go for it. See if your store offers the same guarantee and then you really have nothing to lose. ~ natalie

kushie’s reusable training pants

I have really enjoyed using the Kushie’s reusable training pants on my 2 year old twin boys.

Knowing that I’m not throwing money away into pack after pack of disposable training pants makes money spent on Kushie’s worth it. They come in such cute and fun colors and the best part is, they work! We’ve definitely had our share of accidents in them but the training pants held every time...no leaking at all! The pants have a soft cotton flannel liner inside the waterproof shell, and the cleaning instructions are super easy. I would definitely recommend them to anyone getting ready to start the potty training process with their kids.

I am positive I’ll be using them again when the next little one comes along. ~ cindy 30

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*

Want a jump-start on summer? Grab some brand new Bling2O goggles (launching spring/summer 2013) and fret not, as they are stylish AND provide UV protection. Swim on, twinnies!

amy michelle cosmo go tote

I’m sure there are lots of moms out there just like me, who L-O-V-E handbags.

I am highly recommending the Amy Michelle Cosmo “go tote” (and don’t just stop there, as they have a whole line of bags that are beautiful, stylish and totally functional, too!). I just returned from a business trip and love everything about my bag. From the oversized front pocket for keys, to the numerous slots for a driver’s license and credit cards (I even used them for business cards since I was networking!), it had ample space for everything in between, including a laptop, snacks and bottled water. Not into the business scene? No worries, as there are elastic side pockets within, perfect for bottles or sippy cups! I was also very excited about the stroller straps that I was able to put to use for a playdate. *special plug - be sure to check out the zebra tote, as I’ve been told it’s a perfect bag for moms of multiples, with ample room for it all! ~ talitha

step2 party time kitchen & fixin’ fun outdoor grill

If your twinnies love to help in the kitchen, they’re going to love Step2’s new Party Time Kitchen. With real lights and sounds, a cordless phone to place those important phone calls, a refrigerator and stove, and even an electronic microwave they can use, it’s just like mom and dad’s! The kitchen even has builtin cabinets to store all the play food and a working clock so that you always know what time it is. Also, be sure to check out the outdoor grill, just like the real thing, that comes complete with utensils and condiments for those yummy hotdogs your little ones will serve up. Want to see more? Check out this Twiniversity video! ~ natalie

origins face mask

When it’s “that time of the month”, sometimes my face needs a little extra love or I look like a 15 year old, pimply-faced teenager. Ok, maybe not the teenager part, but you get the picture. I find that if I use this face mask the week before, I can avoid all the breakouts and coast by until the following month. I’ve been doing this for about three years now and I’ve had almost 100% success. My mother-in-law was the one who told me about this mask and I’m so glad she did.

Also, a little goes a LONG way so it’s a small investment for a facial mask. I get about 15 uses out of one bottle (that’s over a year’s worth). Just be sure that you store it top side down to block any air from coming in or it will dry out your mask. IF that does happen, add a little water and you should be set. ~ natalie

Enter online to win a filing system in Jax by Hey SugarSNAP, and make organizing that diaper bag for your twinnies a S-N-A-P! Drawing to be held April 30th.

YOU could be our

winner

contd. from rejuvenation your spirit. Plan lunch with your mom or sister. Go shopping or out with your best girlfriends. The planning of your outtings, whether with loved ones or alone, is really half the fun.

If even ten minutes seems like too much, I offer you a “Mom Moment�. Whether it be during nap time, or when they are at school, give yourself a moment.

Breathe. Think. If it is your faith tradition, Pray. In that moment, give yourself credit for being a parent.

It is the toughest and most important job on the planet.

Someday we all deserve a Greek Island vacation, but until then, your children have an amazing mother who loves them very much. Please take excellent care of her.

Tobi Stanton Stewart is a twin mom and writer who blogs about the good, the bad, and the fabulous world of multiples at The Posh Mommas.

DIY: beautifying masks (for face & hair!)

+ 2 tsp lemon

2 tsp honey

honey & lemon face mask

This mask brightens, clears and smooths skin for the softest finish. For the best results: 1. Tie your hair back away from the facial area; 2. Steam face to open your pores (why not take a hot shower --- relax and enjoy!); 3. On clean skin, apply your mixture of honey and lemon all over; 4. Let the mask sink in for 20 minutes; 5. Wash off with warm water and a final splash of cold water to close pores & smile!

super

This recipe was brought to you by Blossom Everyday where you can find tips on beauty, travel and style.

MOM

sponsored by

Recognize a Super MOM today!

We are partnering with MAM to recognize 12 of the most outstanding moms of multiples around the the world.

To nominate a Mom, please complete the form online and tell us why she should be one of our Super MoMs. All submissions will be reviewed and considered by the Twiniversity Mom Squad. The chosen Super MoM of the month will receive a $50 SpaFinder Gift Card. Even Super Woman needs a day off every now and then!

Thanks to MAM for partnering with us and congrats to our 1st Quarter winners!

s

hannon

amy

natal ie

lle miche

+

+

homemade hair mask

Grab these easy ingredients and try this hair mask for shine, nutrition and strength.

1. Mix half an avocado with 2 eggs and 2T of honey; 2. Blend and spread evenly throughout dry hair (for longer hair, double the ingredients); 3. Let sit for 20-30 minutes covered in a shower cap or saran wrap; 4. Rinse, wash and let shine!

This recipe was brought to you by Lily & Jasper, an editorial based commerce site full of inspiration on health & beauty & fashion.

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healthy snacks for families on the go...

n

from

ow that spring has finally arrived, my twoyear old twins are chomping at the bit to get outside for some fun in the sun. With lots of upcoming outings, it is imperative to have plenty of healthy, grab-and-go snacks on hand. As the co-founder of Petit Organics Baby Food and a busy mom of twins, I also know that time is of the essence. Here are three of my little ones’ favorite snacks that are super simple to prepare ahead of time and can easily be grabbed as you head out the door!

Every time I make oatmeal raisin bites for my kids, I marvel at the fact that there is no flour, no added sugar, no eggs and no dairy. Best of all…the ingredients are mixed together in just one bowl. You can’t get much easier than that!

Preparation: Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Mash bananas until creamy. Stir in remaining ingredients and allow to sit for 10 minutes. Scoop approximately one tablespoon of the batter and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 20 minutes, cool and serve.

oatmeal raisin bites

Ingredients: (Makes about 25 cookies) • 2 ripe bananas • ½ cup applesauce • 2 cups quick oats • 1 cup dried dates, pitted and chopped • ¼ cup canola oil • ½ teaspoon cinnamon • ½ cup raisins • ¼ teaspoon salt multiplicity

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contd. from healthy snacks

baked zucchini chips

Potato chips are a picnic staple this time of year; however, we all know they are void of nutritional content. Here is a low fat recipe that ups the nutrition by using zucchini --- bet you can’t eat just one!

Ingredients: • 1 lb. zucchini • 6 Tbs dry bread crumbs • 4 Tbs grated Parmesan cheese • 1 tsp dried basil • ½ tsp salt • 2 egg whites Preparation: Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Slice zucchini into 1/8-inch rounds. Mix bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, salt, and dried basil. Beat egg whites until slightly frothy. Dip each slice of zucchini into egg whites and then dredge them in the breadcrumb mixture. Place breaded slices on an ovenproof baking rack coated with cooking spray.

Place rack on a baking sheet and bake for 25 minutes, or until crispy.

protein-packed, chocolate mini muffins Garbanzo beans are the secret to these amazing muffins. These little powerhouses are packed with protein and fiber, the perfect snack to keep your little ones’ energy up on those days at the park!

Ingredients: (Makes 24-30 mini muffins) • 2 1/4 cup canned garbanzo beans • 4 eggs • 3/4 cup Sugar • 1 tsp baking powder • 1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips • 1 tsp. vanilla Preparation: Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Spray a mini muffin pan with cooking spray or use paper liners. Rinse and drain the beans. Grind completely in a food processor with the eggs until smooth. Add sugar and baking powder to the beans and blend. Melt the chocolate in the microwave in 30-second increments (or in a double-boiler), until completely smooth. Add the melted chocolate and vanilla to the mixture and blend until smooth. Pour the batter into the muffin tins. Bake approximately 20 minutes, until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Allow the muffins to cool completely before removing them from the pan. Enjoy!

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Rehana Zamfotis is the cofounder of Petit Organics, Manhattan’s only 100% organic, fresh baby food delivery service.

Rehana sources local, organic ingredients for her handmade baby food. Every perfect puree is whipped up less than 24 hours before delivery - you can’t get much fresher than that!

Rehana lives in New York City with her husband, Andy and their two year old twins. For more time-saving recipes that will delight your foodies-in-training be sure to visit the Petit Organics’ blog, find them on facebook and twitter. Bon appétit to you and your bébés!

the must-have magazine for all moms of multiples

appy spring! fun, educational apps for kids of all ages --and for mom and dad, too! for the preschool and under crowd In efforts to find more games and apps to keep my little one quiet when waiting places, I recently discovered Kids Phonics, a cool app aimed at teaching spelling and letter sounds. Granted, with its “Learn”, “Find”, “Words” and “Test” features, it’s still a little advanced for my near 3-year old without my assistance. However, I love that in the “Find” level, he can see a letter and find the word that starts with that particular letter (using pictures, of course!). Download it free in the Android Market for Droid devices.

Another great app for the little ones is Kids Preschool by Intellijoy. My little guy is a whiz with puzzles, but it amazes me that he can take random, multi-colored shapes and somehow place them correctly into the puzzle without boundaries. The Lite version is free through the Android Market with a limited 20 puzzles to try. Upgrade to the full version for only $1.49. for kids 5 and up Stack the Countries allows older kids to learn about countries around the world by answering questions about capitals, geography, and much more. For every correct question answered, the country can be stacked on top of others until it reaches a pre-determined line where that level is then won. The countries also show up on a map that can be personalized by the player.

This app is free and available through iTunes.

Scribblenauts is a puzzle of sorts, more for the imagination that strategic thinking, as you can create pretty much anything you can imagine to help solve each problem. There are at least 50 levels of play and you can even share your creations via facebook and twitter.

Scribblenauts is available for $0.99 through iTunes.

Think math can’t be fun? Let your elementary school kids try their hand at Mathmateer and see how much fun they have. With over 56 math missions that range in difficulty from even/odd numbers to multiplication and division, your children will enjoy hours of fun while trying to beat their own best scores and honing their math skills. This app is currently available through iTunes for $0.99. multiplicity

for mom and dad Stuck at the airport?

Waiting at the doctor’s office? Who wouldn’t love movies on the go? With their “TV Shows and Movies Anytime, Anywhere” slogan, signing up for Netflix is a no-brainer.

Netflix allows you to stream your favorite movies and television shows across the internet through your computer, television, Kindle, iPhone, or other Android mobile devices. They offer various genres for adults like Comedy, Action & Adventure, and Romance, among others.

This app might also come in handy for the family, with the “Just for Kids” version (geared torward those 12 and under). They can watch episodes from many of their favorite shows like Curious George, Yo Gabba Gabba, and The Backyardigans.

You can purchase a Netflix subscription for $7.99/month.

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12 toxin

months to

free

and why baby steps will make all the difference!

by kara cozier

I like to think of myself as your average mother of twins. This statement might not be totally accurate. I guess you could say I’m normal with a touch of crazy. Five years ago, when my identical twin daughters were 6 months old and starting to eat solid foods, I decided to figure out what it meant to eat healthy. The food industry tries to sell us on “diet” food or “low-fat” and then there is also the “low-carb” option. I was very confused and overwhelmed. I was finally eating whole bananas, apples NOT drenched in cinnamon and sugar and no longer eating Chef Boyardee. I was heading into unfamiliar territory. I started reading posts in natural living forums, various blogs, and I visited Dr. Michael Smith, a Naturopathic Doctor (ND) from the Carolinas Natural Health Center in North Carolina. All three of those sources steered me down the right path. The most important things I learned from Dr. Smith were to make small changes over time and to try not to beat yourself up for mistakes of the past. Basically, you can only make decisions with the information you have at the time.

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I’m obsessive sometimes, and when I get something in my head I just roll with it. I went out and spent way too much money replacing everything in my pantry and fridge. I decided I was going to eat “Real Food” and I was 100% all in.

I didn’t listen to Dr. Smith about baby steps; I took more of a cold turkey approach. I believe that approach led to some of the challenges and the binges I went on (several Trader Joe’s brand Joe Joes, which were my replacement for Oreos). The one thing I remained perfectly committed to was the Infant Food Introduction Schedule he gave me. I began making all of my own baby food. Surprisingly, this was not as daunting a task as one might think. I saved money and gave my girls healthy, organic foods. I felt really good about what I was multiplicity

the must-have magazine for all moms of multiples

doing for the girls and that strung me along during my personal change low points. Once I eased up on the amount of things I was trying to change, I became more successful. Baby steps work.

Five years later, I looked back at my achievements and struggles and created a plan to take my healthy lifestyle to a whole new level. I wanted to eliminate as many of the toxins in my life as possible and start growing my own food.

Buying toxin-free products from health food stores gets very expensive and I still found unnecessary ingredients in them. I decided to go the homemade route! I began by making a list of all of the things I wanted to change; shampoo, conditioner, deodorant, and household cleaners were a part of that list. As I broke them apart into a manageable schedule, my personal plan for 12 Months to Toxin Free was born. Changing one item in each category over a 12 month period would help me achieve my goals in a reasonable amount of time. I focused this plan around the concept of “habit investments;” the idea that making small changes over a period of time will increase your likelihood for success. With life being what it is---crazy---this makes complete sense.

parmesan and cauliflower potato soup.

In the “Make Your Own” category, I put together a list of all of my household and personal care items that were full of nasty chemicals. I spread them out over the 12 months and challenged myself to make them on my own with natural ingredients. This has been incredibly rewarding for me, as I’m in love with the shampoo and conditioner recipe I have been using. I never thought I would be able to pull that one off successfully and be happy with it! My husband has even been impressed with some of my concoctions. Lesson learned by my husband on the body scrub --- coconut oil is slippery on the shower floor (oops!).

...you can only make decisions with the information you have at the time.

Balancing work life, home life, and personal sanity can be quite a challenge. I created three overall categories for the plan; “Real Food”, “Make Your Own”, and “Go Green”. Under the “Real Food” category I challenged myself to add one new fruit and veggie every month and remove one processed food item. At this point in my life, I’m limited on my processed food items I have left. I went through my cupboards and identified items I was purchasing that I could make myself. I also added a small additional challenge in the “Real Food” category every month. For example, in month two, I challenged myself to eat meat every other day. I don’t think that there is anything wrong with meat, but I have noticed that meals begin to center around it. The goal is to stop thinking “what do I put with this chicken?” and branch out. This method is how I discovered some of my favorite staple recipes like eggplant multiplicity

Going Green wasn’t a part of my initial list of goals, but as I wrote out my lists I started thinking, why not? There were some things I was really interested in trying and if I put them in my plan, I might actually do them!

Rain barrels, composting, and purposeful plants are some of the goals I included. I want to plant herbs and plants that do something for me or give me something to eat instead of just planting pretty flowers or bushes.

Citronella, horsemint, and marigolds help to repel mosquitos. Why not plant those around my patio in lieu of spraying nasty chemicals in the air, on the ground, and on my body?

So far, I love my 12 Months to Toxin Free plan because it is providing me with a loose framework to make changes. It is posted where I can see it so I can check items off and so I don’t forget to add certain items to my grocery list. I’m building a recipe database for myself (and others) in Yumprint, and photo guides on Snapguide.

Now, if I can just find my dream farmhouse, life will be complete!

Kara currently homeschools her 5 year old twins and blogs about her journey to a more natural, self-sustaining life by eating real food, gardening, and making her own cleaning and personal care products. Follow Kara’s journey on her Life Sanity blog, or find her on facebook, twitter and pinterest.

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contd. from getaways

Baltimore, Maryland To eat: The Inner Harbor has a Cheesecake Factory, a Phillip’s restaurant (of Phillip’s crabmeat fame), and a stand that sells pastries from the Maryland famous Vaccaro’s pastry shop in Baltimore.

The éclairs are not to be missed!

On the other side of the harbor, there are restaurants such as Dick’s Last Resort, and many other chains like Chipotle and other interesting surprises. All of these have seating on a large outside dock patio that overlooks the harbor.

To do: Baltimore Inner Harbor is loaded with shops, paddleboat rides, quick eats, as well as nice boats and scenic views for walking.

There is a famous “Duck Boat” that gives tours of downtown Maryland on a double-decker duck-shaped bus. The Baltimore Aquarium sits on the edge of the harbor, with several floors of exhibits and a daily dolphin show. The Maryland Science Center is an interesting museum for children with several exhibits, an Imax Theatre, and a Planetarium. Port Discovery is a “hands on” children’s museum approximately 3 miles by cab or car from the harbor. There is even a waterplay room where you can actually try to engulf yourself in a giant soap bubble! ~ natalie 38

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Colorado Springs, CO To eat: Hop on board Solo’s, an actual Boeing KC-97 tanker that seats 275 diners. Fargo’s Pizza is known as an ‘experience’ restaurant. The world’s largest family pizza restaurant, it’s set in the Victorian period and is a step back in time. Last, but not least, check out Gunther Toody’s Diner, with Daily Specials, awesome shakes, a jukebox, and 50s décor.

To stay: Cheyenne Mountain Resort is surrounded by extraordinary mountain backdrops.

Within driving distance is Garden of the Gods park, Pikes Peak Cog Railway, Cave of the Winds, and more. Another great place is Homewood Suites with suite-style rooms with a full kitchen. They offer free daily hot breakfast & free evening dinners four nights/week.

To do: Santa’s Workshop, Pikes Peak Cog Railway, and The Cheyenne Mountain Zoo are all must visit places in this area.

Twin Mom Tips: Know about altitude sickness and how to prevent it, as many of the mountains in the Pikes Peak region rise to 14,000 feet. Dress in layers.

Summer temperatures can be in the 80s to mid-90s, with cool nights in the 60s. ~ donna l.

the must-have magazine for all moms of multiples

Las Vegas, Nevada To eat: Lindo Michoacan for Mexican Food, (a twin owned business); Jimmy Buffet’s Margaritaville; In N Out Burger (fresh food fast and delicious!).

To stay: - The Golden Nugget (downtown Las Vegas; recently remodeled and has a water slide that goes through their aquarium).

It is also right by the Freemont Street experience, which has a lot of free entertainment. Another good one is the RedRock Resort (off the strip). The Westin at Lake Las Vegas has a fantastic pool area with a water slide, but is quite a distance from the strip. There is also a nice little village with shopping and dining.

To do: Aquarium at Mandalay Bay; Lied Discovery Children’s Museum and Springs Preserve. The free shows in front of the hotels along the strip can be fun, too, especially the infamous Water Show at the Bellagio. While there, be sure to check out the conservatory inside, as the flowers are changed throughout the year. Also, check out the parks and recreation website for the location of various ‘splash pads’ (water features that are part of the parks and are free to the public and fun for the kids to run through). ~ charissa l.

be exposed. If a food truck meal is not your thing, DC is a lot like NY in that every block has something to offer. Take a small walk, or get in a cab and see what jumps out at you.

Washington, DC

To eat: DC is a foodie wonderland.

The National Mall and Harbor are decorated on the perimeters by food trucks serving authentic homestyle dishes of so many nationalities. These trucks cut down on overhead for great new chefs, they cut down the prices for you and me, and allow us to try foods to which we wouldn’t otherwise

To do: The National Mall is a large rectangular walking area that is encased by the many complimentary museums provided by the good old US government. These attractions are highlighted by the Air and Space Museum, the Museum of Art, the Museum of Natural History, and several others.

The National Zoo is a nice, clean zoo with nice attractions, decent views of the animals (a must in our opinion!), and a great price (free!). There are petting areas, indoor exhibits, and a food court in the middle of the walk. One tip when visiting this zoo --- park at the bottom of the hill and walk

up to start your trip. It will save you from getting winded at the end!

There is also a new Children’s museum at the National Harbor in DC. In the words of one website, it is a cultural and educational center with exhibits and activities that focus on the arts, civic engagement, the environment, global citizenship, health and wellbeing, and play. The mission of the National Children’s Museum is to inspire children to care about and improve the world. We couldn’t have said it better, so why try? ~ natalie No matter where you decide to vacation or spend some time with your family, we hope that these ideas and tried and true tips help make your journey and time together a little less hectic and a lot more memorable!

Innovative one-step fold, 16 Unique seating combinations, Ideal for twins or children close in age!

Visit www.babyjogger.com to learn more!

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10

things every mom should know by natasha d’anna

ith Spring gently creeping upon us and holiday vacations scheduled for everyone, safety is a number one factor for all families. For moms traveling alone or with your little ones, here are ten things that should be considered while making your travel plans. Let’s start with some at-home planning, before leaving for your vacation.

1.

Whether you are a mom traveling alone or with your family, make sure that you do the most research that you can on the location where you will be staying, and it’s surrounding areas. It is always best to stay in a highly populated tourist area close to the city, especially when traveling out of the country.

The best places to stay for boarding are usually on popular travel websites, such as Trip Advisor and Travelocity, where you can find other customers’ comments and ratings. If you are traveling alone, leave all forwarding information regarding the name of your hotel, your checkin and check-out time, and keep in touch with friends and family back home on a predetermined schedule.

2.

Always pack your necessities in your carry-on luggage or an easy to access bag if 40

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photo courtesy of Jane Goodrich Photography

travel safely:

w

traveling by car (i.e. passports, driver’s license, itinerary, credit cards, favorite snacks, items for the kids, chargers, and means of communication, etc.). Also, make sure that you begin your journey with a fully charged phone or laptop, and at least $200 in cash.

3.

Instead of copying your passport and photo ID, scan and email all passports to yourself.

4.

If traveling with your own car, have your mechanic check your oil, make sure your wipers are working, along with all major lights. Most importantly, fill up your tank with gas. Always pay attention to your gas tank along with speedometer on roads with heavy traffic. When your tank is a quarter full, begin to look for a popular, well-lit area to get gas. Don’t wait until the last minute and take the chance of having to drive into a dark, unfamiliar area looking for gas.

5.

7.

Always let your children know in advance that they will be traveling on vacation. This will give them a chance to get excited, ask questions, prepare mentally for the transition, and avoid possible melt downs. It will also allow you the chance to give them the list of safety rules to follow, such as no swimming in the pool without an adult, and no wandering off.

8.

When traveling with your children to heavily crowded locations such as amusement parks and other popular tourist locations, have them wear bright similar colors. Also take photos on your camera or phone before reaching your destination. Another great thing to do is to place a tag in their jacket, sneaker or shirt with their name, along with your name and telephone number where you can be reached.

9.

Trying new foods while traveling should be done with precaution, especially when you are with your children. There may be unknown ingredients used that can cause an allergic reaction (food allergies). Although it may seem fun and exciting to fit in with the locals, children’s palettes are not as developed to eat and drink new foods. To avoid unplanned trips to the hospital and plenty of sick time in the bed, stick to what you know when choosing your lunch and dinner locations.

10.

Overall remember to relax...you’re on vacation! Be the creator of the mood and everyone shall follow. This will allow you to keep a clear head, enjoy, and make smart decisions.

When traveling with children that are still using a carseat, always bring their own. You are familiar with the history of your child’s carseat, but not that of a borrowed one that may have possibly been in an accident. This safety precaution applies to cribs, as well. You are better off bringing a pack-andplay with you. If you plan to fly, the safety precaution is to make sure that the crib that the hotel is providing is in great condition, is not broken, is a popular brand, and has not been recalled.

Natasha T. D’Anna is a mom of wonderful twin girls, an educator, a self-published writer of a children’s book titled Twindollicious, and a blogger; she enjoys blogging about all things twin-like and fashion for kids. You can also find her on facebook.

6.

Another precaution for roadtrip mamas, is to not force yourself to make it to your destination if you are tired, especially if you have a long drive. Plan ahead for a room to rest for the night that is in a popular location, and continue your journey the next day. multiplicity

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the low down on

the blues (and signs every mom should know) i

by kinan copen

t’s not breaking news that the trifecta of pregnancy, childbirth, and breastfeeding can unleash a torrent of hormonal changes that basically render you as messy as the drug-addled guy you avoid outside the grocery store. You’re sad, you’re happy, you’re furious, you’re crying --and that’s just the first five minutes of your day.

But what about when those unbalanced feelings don’t go away? Post Partum Depression, or PPD, is an umbrella term that covers a spectrum of mood disorders from depression to anxiety to obsessive/compulsive symptoms that can appear any time in the first year after your bundles of joy have arrived.

While you yourself may not have experienced it, PPD may be more common than you think.

In the United States, it’s reported that 15-20% of new moms experience some form of PPD (that’s about 1 million women each year). Of course, this statistic only reflects the diagnosed cases. Many medical professionals believe the numbers are actually much higher, but that new mothers experiencing symptoms of PPD often try to shoulder it on their own rather than seek help, perhaps ashamed they aren’t feeling that incredible joy they had expected while they were expecting. The case is even stronger for us moms of multiples, who quickly have to adapt to shouldering double (or triple or quadruple!) the newborn load. It’s to be expected that we multiplicity

might be more tired, more anxious, more over-all “freaked out” than our singleton mom compatriots, so we try to explain away our symptoms as part of the job. We tell ourselves we’re strong, we can “handle it,” but this stoicism can be to our own detriment.

At least it was mine.

Despite an easy pregnancy and going full term with my identical twin boys, I exhibited symptoms of pre-eclampsia after my c-section which meant I wasn’t able to be with my babies right away. Those five hours seemed like eternity as I stared at the blood pressure monitor, willing those numbers to go down, body shaking as the drugs left my body. All I could think was that they hadn’t even been in this world a day, and I’d already let my sons down.

After I recovered and we were home from the hospital, I was haunted by recurring thoughts that there was no way I could protect these wonderful, fragile creatures --- that I simply wasn’t up to the task. A common symptom of PPD is having trouble bonding with your newborn and I suppose this was my version of that. I was so busy worrying I couldn’t protect them, it was hard for me to truly enjoy being with them.

My love for them was large and overwhelming.

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Everyone was always telling me “sleep while the babies sleep,” but instead I would sit with eyes glued to the monitor convinced if I didn’t watch them, one, if not both, of my babies would die. In my mind, they were too perfect and I didn’t deserve them. I became obsessed by the various awful fates that could befall us.

My new little family suddenly felt so vulnerable.

These unceasing negative thoughts began to cause me a ton of anxiety, another symptom of PPD. Obviously, being unable to stop thinking about your newborn babies dying is not the best way to experience the joys of the miracle of life. Something bad was going to happen; I was sure of it.

the outside, on the inside was another story. On the inside I sat quiet in my panic, until it finally broke open and spilled out everywhere.

One day, our dog accidentally took a wrong wiggle off our bed. He wasn’t hurt, only startled, but at the sound of his small doggy yelp, I started sobbing. Even once it was clear he was fine and back to his crazy terrier self, my tears just kept coming. Here was proof of how unqualified I was to be a mother! I couldn’t even keep my dog safe. How could I possibly keep my babies safe?

My husband (and hero of this story!) held me close and told me gently that I didn’t seem

Despite all this, I still didn’t think anything was wrong with me. Thanks to having two best friends who are therapists, I was pretty clear on the symptoms of PPD from the time I got that plus sign on my pregnancy test, but that didn’t stop me from making excuses for how I was feeling. I told myself, “This is me.

I’m a stress case.; an adrenaline junkie who is used to going at 110%, even when the gas tank is at zero. There were many times in my life I felt like was drowning --- why should this be different?

Instead of seeking help, I tried to “normalize.” I cleaned the house obsessively. I kept the boys and I on a strict routine. I made sure to take a shower and put on make-up every single day, as though as long as the house was in order and we were all dressed, everything would be okay. I got a lot of, “I don’t know how you do it” and “you have it so together,” but I was living a lie.

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...instead I would sit with eyes glued to the monitor convinced if I didn’t watch them, one, if not both, of my babies would die. My new little family suddenly felt so vulnerable.

the must-have magazine for all moms of multiples

like myself. I knew he was right.

Sure, becoming a mom can be a tough transition, but it shouldn’t have to be so miserable, right?

We made me an appointment with a wonderful therapist who specializes in PPD. Within a few weeks, I was on a low dose of an antidepressant and soon able to function better and better each day. It was that easy! Before I knew it, I was calm and patient.

For the first time I felt like all those people were right; I was handling becoming a parent pretty well. My mood went from “I’m drowning in this,” to “Hey, I’ve got this,” and that felt really good. My confidence in myself as a mom grew while all the fear, sadness and panic faded to the background. This made all the difference in how I was able to relate to my new babies and become the mom I always wanted to be; present, involved, and loving, rather than anxious and overwhelmed.

My boys are now a year and a half, living proof we all survived that harrowing first year. I’m no longer on the medication, although I reserve the right to call in my support system of friends, family and pharmaceuticals if I need some extra help again. Thanks to them I was able to make it through the toughest transition of my life: becoming a mom.

Kinan Copen is a screenwriter and journalist living in Venice Beach, CA who writes for screens large and small, and has freelanced for ESPN: The Magazine and various online publications. She’s the mom of identical twin boys as well as a ferocious terrier-dachshund. You can follow her on facebook or twitter.

photo courtesy of firewife photography

ask the veterans

know you are serious about this matter, there is no way that they will fight you on it. Find a teacher to take your side. That will help.”

“We struggled with that but convinced the school to put [our girls] in the same class by sharing research with the principal on the fact that separation can be injurious to twins,” said Cathy S. “We also had twins who played separately until they were forcibly separated at circle time in preschool (who then began talking “twin talk” and refusing to interact with anyone else). Once we sorted out why that all started and gave them back the choice to sit with each other at circle time, the “twin talk” disappeared.”

twins beyond the twos...

What happens when it’s time for your twins to start school and the principal wishes to forcibly separate them? While some twins adjust well, others clearly show that it isn’t in their best interest. Do you know your rights as a parent of multiples?

According to the majority of twin research and education, it encourages schools to have a flexible placement policy, where parents and the administrative staff work together in making the best decision for the twins in question. Some twin-specific research even shows poorer reading scores and that they suffer to a higher degree over twins not forcibly separated.

As this topic was very hot on our

facebook thread, here’s what a few of our readers had to say: “The school cannot decide if it is necessary or not to separate your twins,” said Taylor K. “They can have an opinion. I am a special education teacher, and I know my principal would never go up against a parent regarding their children and placement.

However, if your principal does not agree with you, then go to the Superintendent. If they multiplicity

Andrea B. said, “I would schedule a meeting [to] talk to the principal with a list of reasons why you want to keep them together and [include] some research to go with it. If it doesn’t go in your favor, you can always appeal the decision with the Superintendent or school board. No principal wants to start a public debate.”

“Mine were oh too ready to be separated in Kindergarten, but not everyone’s [twins] are. If you have one that is placed in the “younger”, less mature class, I think you can argue that putting them together in the middle class will bring up the less mature one, as the more mature one will help bring them along,” said Susan W. Want more information on how to handle twin placement in school? Visit Twins Law and be sure to read the article in this issue by world-renowned twin researcher, Dr. John Mascazine.

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book

review by michelle leichty

Road trip! Those words can inspire excitement, and dread. So many hours on the road can get tedious, even with iPods, DVD players and other inventions of modern-day life. Listening to audio books as a family is a great way to establish common experiences, start conversations, and (added bonus!), pass the time during your summer travels.

While some audio books can be a drag for parents, these delightful books will engage both children and their parents.

Ages 3+ Mercy Watson

by Kate DiCamillo follows the antics of a silly pig who lives in a house. Her real-people parents treat her like a child, much to the annoyance of their neighbors. Mercy is lovable though, and her crazy situations usually end happily. As books, these stories are written for early readers so the sentences can sometimes be short and abrupt when read aloud. But Ron McLarty, who reads the collection, handles them well, allowing the audience to focus on the funny.

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Rabbit Ears Treasury...

Rabbit Ears Entertainment produced several of these treasuries, including Treasury of Fairy Tales, Treasury of Tall Tales, and Treasury of World Tales. Celebrities read the tales, which are interspersed with original music from various artists which capture the mood of each tale. These tales are true to the original tales, very well performed and well-written. Each tale is roughly 30 minutes (some more, some less), so listening to one is not overwhelming. Our family favorites are The Talking Eggs, read by Sissy Spacek and Davy Crockett read by Nicolas Cage - although I would call them performances rather than readings.

Ages 5+ Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. Lewis take place in the mythical world of Narnia. The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe follow the adventures of Peter, Susan, Edmond and Lucy as they fight the evil witch to reclaim Narnia for Aslan, the lion which created it. Subsequent books follow the adventures of other humans (including Edmond & Lucy) as they find themselves suddenly in Narnia to help right a wrong. Different readers read the unabridged versions of the audio books, but each one does a fine job of bringing the stories to life.

the must-have magazine for all moms of multiples

Little House on the Prairie by Laura Ingalls Wilder. These semi-autobiographical novels tell the story of Laura and her family as they move from the Big Woods of Wisconsin to the prairies out west. Cherry Jones reads the entire series, which is great if you enjoy her reading style, but not so great if you don’t appreciate her voice.

Ages 8+ The Incorrigible Children of Ashton Place by Maryrose Wood are difficult to describe. They are part mystery, part parody, part irreverent rabbit trails.

However you describe them, they are deliciously delightful. The rabbit trails had my older children and I laughing hysterically, while my younger children looked at us quizzically. Wood writes with a fairly difficult vocabulary, so it is easier for children to listen to her books than read them. Plus, Katherine Kellgren’s warm, personable voice brings each character to life - the dim-witted and very silly Lady Constance, the too-goodto-be-true governess Miss Penelope Lumley, the wolfchildren Alexander, Beowulf, and Cassiopeia.

To truly enjoy The Willoughbys

by Lois Lowry, children must have a basic understanding of fairy tales like Hansel and Gretel, Anne of Green Gables, Pollyanna, etc. And adults must understand that The

Willoughbys is a parody. The parents in this book are horrible, and the children aren’t much better. But the story itself is hilarious, and Arte Johnson’s masterful performance is worth listening to more than once. Be sure to listen, and laugh, through the glossary at the end.

“For anyone expecting or raising multiples, this book needs to be on their recommended reading list!” —MultipleBirthsFamilies.com “Offers advice to frazzled parents.” — Brooklyn Daily Eagle “Full of information, it is richly flavored with tips and tricks that are certainly very practical for the busy parents of twins.” — Twin Research and Human Genetics

photo courtesy of jane goodrich photography

Michelle Leichty has read hundreds of books to her four children in the course of their homeschooling journey. So many people asked her to recommend books that she started blogging about her favorite children’s books at CultivatingReaders.com. You can find out about her writing business at MLContent.com.

A must-read book...

*New book about adult twins coming soon, too!

Dr. Joan A. Friedman, PhD

audio books... give ‘em a try!

Would your children rather play their DS or watch DVDs than listen to audio books? Here are some ways to encourage a change: 1. Start early. Children's listening level is generally much higher than their reading level. It's really never too early to start listening to audio books in the car. Start by listening to something you enjoy when the children are tiny. Once they are about three, start listening to books they might enjoy, like the Rabbit Ears Treasury, Mercy Watson, or other shorter books.

2. Make a deal. On long car trips, agree to listen to one CD of an audio book (or one chapter, or 30 minutes), followed by an equal amount of time for their individual pursuits. Added benefit: it helps the time pass more quickly.

3. Let them pick. This could be a good way to encourage participation, or it could cause fights. You know your children best. If they will fight, pick two audio books you will enjoy, and let them choose between the two. If they willingly work together, then take them to the library to pick an audio book they would enjoy.

4. Start small. Start listening to a short book (two or three CDs at the most) while running between school, practices, daycare, or on errands. You will be surprised at how much story you can cover in only a few miles. multiplicity

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twins in school: the placement issue by dr. john mascazine

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arents are increasingly concerned about the placement of their multiple-birth children in school. Interestingly, many states (in the U.S.) have passed laws regarding school placement, and many other states are considering such laws.

The laws are a formal way of enforcing sound professional policy. In other words, there would be no need for such laws if school administrators and education professionals would consider the needs of each set of twins or multiples and their educational needs before making a placement decision. This is typically the procedure for other 48

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students in unique circumstances, and is routinely done for students with individual social, behavioral, or disability issues. Why then, should it be much different for students who happen to have a same age brother or sister?

Each child unique?

Education professionals know that each child and each student is unique in his / her educational development and learning needs. We realize that one approach or one strategy will not adequately address the needs of everyone in our class.

Therefore, the most effective teachers vary their

the must-have magazine for all moms of multiples

teaching methods to meet the diverse needs of their students.

and identical twins with similar intensity.

Anyone studying twins and multiples realizes this as well: each set of siblings is unique as a set. Therefore, one policy or placement strategy will not “fit” each set of siblings. Some siblings do very well to work and learn in the same room or within easy sight of each other. Some siblings benefit from time away from their sibling(s) as a way of discovering talents or making new friends. And for some, the placement arrangement will not matter. The point is:

How do I know whether or not to separate my twins in the classroom?

First, proceed based on observations of the children in home, school, and social situations. How do they “get along”, not only with each other when engaged in the same activity, but when they spend time apart? How do they communicate and solve disputes? Is one much more dominant or subdued by the other(s)? How do they interact with other non-twin siblings? Have they had positive experiences spending “quality time” with each parent, apart from each other? These questions may help make the placement decision. The sidebar offers more guidance into twin placement in schools.

It doesn’t make sense to have a policy that doesn’t address or consider the needs of all types of twins / multiples.

The only policy should be a flexible policy. A flexible policy realizes the need for different approaches and different placement arrangements. It also places importance on evidence (or data) to make decisions that are most likely to be in the best interest of the children. And finally, a flexible policy includes a review and revisit process in the case where a placement decision appears to be counterproductive to the development of the children.

Research studies have also confirmed that the placement decision is most important in the preschool through grade 3 years.

After grade 3, the multiples are likely to have less of a need or concern for whether they are placed into the same or different classrooms. Similar studies have also shown the placement decision can affect fraternal

How do I work with my school to ensure the best possible support for my children?

Teachers, administrators, and school personnel don’t always have knowledge of the latest research on multiples. The best way to support your children and their educational needs is to do your research. Sites such as Curtin University’s twinsandmuliples.org and multiplebirthscanada.org can provide resources that help parents and teachers find common answers to puzzling questions. For many educators, it may be the first time they realized such resources existed.

Providing print resources is also recommended. I suggest leaving booklets or my own Understanding Multiple-Birth Children and How They Learn at your child’s school. --- contd. pg. 53 multiplicity

things to consider with placement Reasons to Separate: *Different learning needs that can best be addressed by different teachers. *Different developmental or cognitive abilities. *Siblings are confrontational when together. *Siblings often do not socialize with peers. *One sibling overshadows other sibling(s). *Both siblings want to be in different classrooms. *Siblings resent having to be placed together. *Siblings are overly competitive / adversarial.

Reasons to Keep Together: *Siblings adapt well to different environmental or social situations. *Siblings make / have their own friends. *They complete tasks whether together or apart. *Siblings have similar cognitive abilities. *They are motivated by each other’s presence. *They may have experienced a traumatic event and may need the other one to help them transition. *Previous classroom experiences together were productive and each child adapted well in the same classroom.

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the must-have magazine for all moms of multiples

DIY: creative camps for kids (for your own backyard!) by talitha a. mcguinness

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ften it’s not what we want for our kids, but rather, what we can afford for them. Let’s face it, when it comes to sending kids away for camps, it can become expensive when paying for twins or more (even with a possible discount). Ever considered joining up with a few other friends and creating your own one-of-a-kind summer camp?

With these fabulous and fun ideas, you can tailor the perfect summer camp for your own kids --- for TONS less (and without the worry of them being gone overnight!).

First, consider what type of camp would best suit your kids, and if they’re old enough to weigh in, let them help in the decision-making process (i.e. think ages, interests & abilities, etc.). Then, be sure to agree with the other moms in your group on dates and locations (i.e. your house vs. theirs). Finally, get to work doling out responsibilities and creating or purchasing the supplies and crafts needed for making camp happen. You’ll be surprised at how much fun you multiplicity

have interacting with your kids in creating a fun atmosphere, while also fostering friendships and memories that will last a lifetime!

Need ideas? Here are a few tried and true backyard and home camp ideas, sure to make even the whiniest summer kiddo smile!

arts & crafts camp If you have a little creativity and a lot of patience, you can purchase craft supplies for mere pennies at Dollar stores. One day could focus solely on painting new t-shirts or painting on canvas (like this giant mural idea from Pinterest pinner, Handmade Charlotte). For more art ideas, check out Deep Space Sparkle (one of my all-time favorites for

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my twins!) for complete age-specific lesson plans and instructions on everything from paper weaving to line drawing and creating art with oil and pastels. Other ideas include beading jewelry, designing clay pots and other useful items like buidling bird houses, etc.

drama camp

Have kids that love drama?

Put it to good use by creating scripts for them to act out. If they’re too young to read a script well, consider having them act out stories with which they’re already familiar. Take it one step further by allowing them to create the backdrops and costumes using items around the house (i.e. cardboard boxes, discarded dress-up clothes, hats, etc.). What fun it would be for the kids to put on their very own play for neighborhood friends and family!

cooking camp

If you’re looking for an escape from the heat, consider a cooking camp, complete with having campers decorate their own chef hats and aprons, too. Fun and easy ideas for little ones include making cookies and cupcakes, decorating fruit (think chocolate dipped strawberries), or for the older ones, create a more complex menu including international fare. Learn about each country and help them create their own cookbook for adding recipes for years to come!

nature camp

Have explorers on your hands? Encourage their curious minds by giving them tools to learn more about the animals and environment around them.

Set up a bird watching area, complete with binoculars and a book for identifying birds they see. If you live in a more rural area, lead them on a nature walk, explaining different types of trees, plants, and animals you see. Have them bring along a journal and pencil so that they can draw their favorite things along the walk.

One last idea for nature lovers is sending them on a scavenger hunt by giving each child a brown paper bag listing the items they must find to complete the hunt.

olympics camp

Who doesn’t love the thrill of the Olympics and what better theme for a camp?

Traditional games could include tug-of-war, relays, and even the egg toss. Blogger mom, Melissa Taylor suggests taking the fun up a notch by including events specific for the parents (what kid doesn’t love to watch their parents make a fool of themselves?!?). Some ideas were a daddy hula hoop contest to see who can twist the most, and blindfolding the moms and having the campers shout out “mom” to see if each mom can find their own kid! If it’s hot where you live, include water games, as a water balloon toss is always a favorite. Also, remember the sunscreen and consider adding some cold snacks to the menu to keep everyone from overheating. In our last Olympics camp, we offered sno-cones and plenty of water, but also provided an inflatable water slide for some extra fun once the games concluded.

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aeverything little bit camp of

If you’re looking to spread things out, consider combining a few of each of these camps over several days. Not only will it allow for easier sharing of mom responsibilities, but it will also cater to many interests and give the kiddos more to experience.

Regardless of what you choose, have fun!

the must-have magazine for all moms of multiples

contd. from placement Then, schedule a time to discuss these materials with your teacher or principal.

Print out some of the guides from the twinsandmultiples. org site and ask your school to consider discussing them at one of their professional inservice events. The checklist at that site can help guide the placement decision.

Find out if there are other parents of multiples in your school or in your district.

Discuss their experiences and take a proactive approach to planning. Invite parents who have had their twin children in the school to discuss their experiences and to help advocate for a flexible and workable arrangement.

Emphasize the positive aspects of your advocacy. I have found, both as a teacher and as a professor, that it’s easier to have school officials consider your point of view when you express a positive willingness to seek what is best for everyone. Counter negative

comments with information and evidence to support the needs of your children.

As a classroom teacher, I always appreciated ideas from parents who were operating from an attitude of mutual collaboration.

After all, if the students are having a rough time adapting to the placement decision, it will likely affect life on all fronts.

So, a little effort in the beginning, before the decision is actually made, is worth much more in time and energy for everyone involved.

Research is providing more evidence that multiples are different in subtle, but significant ways. And that “one size” (or simple decision) will not address the needs of all siblings.

Therefore, it makes sense to evaluate the needs, personalities, and previous experiences of the siblings before making the placement decision.

Dr. John Mascazine is a twin researcher at Ohio Dominican University in Columbus, Ohio and has explored how twins and sameage siblings learn and interact in the school environment. He teaches education courses to pre-service teachers and experienced teachers seeking master’s degrees. He has been investigating twins and how they learn since 1995, completing his dissertation research on the unique learning styles and study strategies of fraternal and identical twins in 1998.

Other possible sources include: Klein, B. S. (2003). Not all twins are alike: Psychological profiles of twinship. Westport, CT: Praeger.

Mascazine, J. (1998). The learning styles of monozygotic twins: A qualitative study. Ann Arbor, MI: Dissertation Abstracts.

Segal, N. (1999). Entwined lives: Twins and what they tell us about human behavior. New York: Plume.

Wilson, R. (1983). “The Louisville twin study: Developmental synchronies in behavior.” Child Development, 54(2), 298 – 316.

Wright, L., (1997). Twins and what they tell us about who we are. New York: John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

chic design with multiples in mind!

full service. e-design. textiles. blog. multiplicity

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for less by talitha a. mcguinness

multiplicity

all fashion photography courtesy of firewife photography

FASHION

finds 54

the scoop... on jessica: coral high-waisted blouse & snakeskin skirt - Marshall’s $16.99 each; on sarah: coral striped top & tan capris - Marshall’s $16.99 & $24.99; on emily: patchwork top & the must-have magazine for all&moms skinny jeans - Burlington $11.99 $12.99of multiples

the scoop... on brittany: aqua print top, capris & scarf - TJ Maxx $16.99, $24.99 & $16.99 on jessica: aqua satin blouse & black/white diamond patterned skirt - Marshall’s $12.99 & $16.99 on sarah: black & white halter & yellow skinny jeans Marshall’s $14.99 & $19.99

the scoop... on becky: black leggings - Burlington $6.99; one shoulder top - Motherhood Maternity $29.99 on brandy: black leopard print top, capris & black wedges - Ross $8.99, $12.99 & $17.99 on emily: navy and coral top - Burlington 56$7.99multiplicity the must-have magazine for all moms of multiples

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the scoop... on brittany: navy & white dress - TJ Maxx $39.99; on jessica: green, navy & white dress - Marshall’s $39.99; on emily: navy dress with necklace set - Burlington $9.99 & $13.99; on brandy: green & navy scooped neck dress multiplicity - Ross $14.99 the must-have magazine for all moms of multiples

the scoop... on becky: blue top with front tie & jeans - Burlington $12.99 & $21.99 on brandy: coral paisley dress & brown rhinestone sandals - Ross $14.99 & $12.99 58

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the must-have magazine for all moms of multiples

five minute fix: by traci zeller

bring the outdoors in

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fter a long winter cooped up, my twins and I are ready to enjoy the sunshine and fresh air. I also love the renewed emphasis on performance fabrics – those designed for outdoor use and are able to withstand the “elements.” In years past, performance fabrics were unremarkable. An average selection consisted of several shades of cream or khaki, a few stripes, and probably a “tropical” pattern or two. Thankfully, that has changed, as now you can find performance fabrics at all price ranges and in all patterns.

The best part, however, is that these chic fabrics don’t look “outdoor” – you can bring them indoors and enjoy the luxury of low maintenance!

A client of mine, who happens to be the mother of adorable triplet boys and a precious singleton

daughter, recently renovated her screened-in porch to serve as an additional living, dining and play area. The moderate climate in North Carolina means that spaces like this can be enjoyed for nine out of twelve months. Because the space isn’t fully enclosed, performance fabrics were a natural fit for her space. Notice, though, how chic and modern the throw pillows are! Those patterns, would work just as well in a sophisticated living room. Most mishaps wipe up easily with water, but tougher messes can be tackled with a mild detergent solution.

That’s why this “five-minute fix” – my term for easy, inexpensive things you can do to make your home look/feel better in the short amount of free time we busy MOMs have – is a “two-fer” of sorts. New throw pillows made of outdoor fabric transform a living multiplicity

room in a few minutes…and it will only take a few minutes to clean up after any, ahem, accidents. Calico Corners and Premier Prints are both great sources for stylish fabrics, but don’t forget about Etsy. Many Etsy shops specialize in pillows, including fabrics customarily available only through interior designers. Happy shopping!

Traci Zeller is an interior designer known for her clean, sophisticated mix of classic and modern pieces. As a busy wife and mother to active twin boys, she appreciates the need for spaces that are beautiful and functional.

Traci also authors a blog, and her firm, Traci Zeller Designs, provides full service design, textiles, and e-decorating packages.

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feed your

family gardening done right by jodi smeiska

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s winter lazily releases his hands on the land, plants seize the moment and spring forth from the earth, breathing the fresh air after so many months under the soil.

Each season has its charm, but spring has a special place in the hearts of my family. It is a time to prepare for the growing season, a time to reflect on the lessons learned from the summer before, a time to thrust our hands into piles of soil, and breathe the scent so long forgotten.

For our family, spring starts before it actually arrives. The first seed catalogs appear in our mailbox in January and I am hypnotized by the bright colors and delicious descriptions. I mull over the catalog for the better part of a month, using a few guidelines to decide what produce we will grow in the coming months. Some of my decisions are completely based on the needs of my family, while others are completely based on the names and photos of the vegetables. Last year, I discovered a variety of chard that was beautifully red and delicious when sautĂŠed with garlic; this year, I am trying two new varieties of squash. When deciding what seeds to order, I look at what our family eats most. Rather than creating a garden exploding with every variety of vegetable in existence today, we plant larger amounts of the veggies our family enjoys the most. This year, that includes a large raised bed filled almost entirely with cauliflower and broccoli. Use your creativity to drive the varieties you choose. After all, gardening is an art of all the senses.

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outdoor play things your twinnies will...

DIG! Even us parents enjoy seeing the birds nest and lay their eggs. Mount this birdhouse on a window so that you and your little ones can watch it all as it happens!

Got a little digger or two?

Put them to work and let them try their hands at helping with these big kid tools --- perfect for little hands and big hearts!

Check out this great book for hands-on activities that hone not only math and science skills, but language and nutrition, as well.

Grab the kids and get to planting!

Who wouldn’t love to watch butterflies form?

For moms not keen on dirt, but still wanting a great way to teach kids about nature, check out this simple-to-use butterfly kit.

A great idea for learning about the importance of recycling is to watch items decompose. Kids can even get a close-up look with the magnification spots.

Encourage your little explorers’ bug’s eye view with this outdoor kit. The drawstring backpack is complete with a sketchpad and colored pencils, a magnifying glass, and LED headlamp.

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While we like to try new things, we have a few staples in our garden from which we rarely deviate: tomatoes, lettuce, peas, and beans. I adore instant gratification, so being able to pluck lettuce from the ground in early June fills me with excitement for the harvest to come. Tomatoes, peas and beans are easy to grow, easy to preserve, and eaten with gusto straight off the vine by my little ones.

Using a square foot gardening approach allows us to plant the most seeds in the smallest amount of space.

For example, we plant 16 carrots in a square foot section. Creating a comfortably, close-knit grouping of vegetables creates a more abundant garden due to companion gardening. Carrots fare well with peas; peas dislike onions and garlic.

Planting marigolds throughout the garden wards off aphids, nematodes, and beetles.

Once you begin to plant vegetables next to their friends, your garden will flourish.

After choosing the seeds or seedlings you wish to plant, the fun begins. Gardening is dirty, as is childhood. On planting day, make a pact with yourself to allow your children to get dirty. Watch the emotions cross their faces as they squish mud between their fingers or hold a worm in their hand.

Children so often learn through doing, and

involving them in your garden planning, planting, and harvesting will not only bring much joy to your life, but also aid them in understanding where their food comes from.

This year, we plan on creating a children’s pizza garden --- a round plot of land divided into 62

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“slices”, in which a different vegetable that your children enjoy on their pizza would be planted.

“Pizza Night” will take on a whole new adventure when you send your children into their garden and let them return with their favorite toppings.

Another way we engage our daughters in the gardening activities is by giving each of them a task --- digging holes, covering the seeds with dirt, pulling weeds, watering the plants, etc. Making games out of the chores, and perhaps adding a few whimsical tales of fairies and elves, will make even the least enjoyable tasks pass quickly and enjoyably.

After the seedlings are planted and watered, and watered, and watered (seriously, folks, depending on where you live, you may have to water frequently) the first tiny vegetables will begin to appear. Suddenly you have a 3.5 foot zucchini, 3 dozen cucumbers, and 50 tomatoes, all seemingly overnight. As overwhelming as harvest time is, it is gratifying to see your hard work pay off in sustenance (and your neighbors will appreciate it, too!). Most vegetables can be blanched and frozen, providing months of vegetables for your family. If your freezer fills up as fast as mine does in September, canning is another excellent preservation method. If you have never canned before, check out home canning online or consider taking a class at a local community center.

Whatever method you choose for preserving your harvest will make for sweet summer memories in the dead of winter.

No two growing seasons are the same, leading us to swing between feeling like a Master Gardener and a failure. Take these lessons learned with you by journaling garden successes and opportunities.

Your children will see your garden bounty as nothing less than amazing and I’m confident that you will reminisce about your summer gardens for years to come.

the must-have magazine for all moms of multiples

Go forth and cultivate!

what you’re talking about...

What did you rule out of your diet when nursing your multiples?

Dairy, wheat, eggs, and berries. Berries would make my girls break out all over their little faces. The other foods caused eczema. - Erin B. Coffee. I swear it kept them awake! Danielle F. Broccoli & cauliflower, as it gave them awful gas pains! - Cheryl M. My kids didn’t like ANYTHING spicy. Jamie D.

How would/do parents handle it if one twin is clearly ready to switch from two naps to one?

I know it’s tough losing that time...but look at it as an opporunity for some one on one time! - Tracy P. For day naps I placed them in separate bedrooms.

If one twin stayed awake, it did not affect the other.

The twin that stayed awake got books on the bed to read, so still some form of a break. - Paula G. At some point you have to parent them as individuals. They have different needs. Your schedule just changes and you just have to adjust. Charleen R.

the dr. is in: 5 facts on...

spr ingt ime allergies

Seasonal allergies: the battle that you or your family members may face each year. This allergic reaction is most commonly caused by mold spores and pollen in the air, which then causes your body’s immune system to start a reaction. This reaction may cause symptoms such as itchy eyes, nose and throat, and various other symptoms. It can make one feel miserable. You know they’re coming, so here are 5 things you can do to head them off: • Shut the windows in your car and home, or use the air conditioner to keep the air moving.

• Before heading out, listen to the radio and check the Internet for the daily pollen count. Hot dry, windy, days tend to be the worst.

• Avoid hanging sheets or clothes out to dry. Don’t mow lawns or rake leaves, because that can also increase your exposure to mold and pollen.

• At the end of the day, take a shower to rinse allergens off your skin and out of your hair.

• Use simple nasal saline sprays and rinses to wash allergens out of your nose.

If even after following these steps you or your loved one is still suffering from allergies, talk to your doctor about possible medications. There are many options so that you don’t have to continue to suffer.

Dr. Preeti Parikh is a Board-Certified Pediatrician with a special interest in preventive medicine, advocacy and patient education. She is an Assistant Clinical Professor in the Pediatrics Department at the Mount Sinai School of Medicine, is a Fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics and sees patients at Pediatrics of New York. She also serves as the Medical Director of Programming at HealthiNation.com, contributes to Multiplicity magazine, The Bump, and the upcoming book “What to Do When You Are Having Two” to be published in the fall.

Outside of work, Preeti enjoys free time with her husband and wonderful twin children. multiplicity

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do something

GOOD

This issue features the Moms Of Multiples - Chicago/ North Suburbs club. With over 350 families involved, and so many affected by prematurity, the group is participating in the Chicago March for Babies to benefit March Of Dimes on April 28th. Last year, only their second year walking as a group, they earned two fundraising awards in fundraising over $12,000.

This year, they are in the running as a top five team fundraiser so far!

This year the MOM club has 13 families - over 30 kids! - walking. So far they have raised over $14,000.

One of the club’s families walking will be celebrating their twins’ first birthday on the day of the walk. Sarah Boulos has three girls, an older daughter who is now six, and her almost one year old twins. All three of Sarah’s girls were born prematurely (Madeline was born at 32 weeks gestational age and her twins, Charlotte and Eleanor, were born at 29 weeks gestational age). Clearly, this family is grateful for the research and support March of Dimes offers.

As the March of Dimes continues to accept donations for a few weeks after the walk, visit the team’s fundraising page if interested in donating.

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by the mom squad

Other examples of this group’s philanthropic efforts are the truck-load of donations they collected in March containing kids’ clothes, toys/books, bottles, gear, etc. that benefited a local organization called Family Focus. Within the group they have also had clothing and supply drives for families in uniquely challenging situations, ranging from a sibling with childhood leukemia, their first set of quadruplets, a sudden loss of a twin to SIDS, a parent with a chronic illness, etc.

On top of their educational meetings, family outings, and couple events, clearly this group of MOMs connects with each other and within their communities to make a difference.

ask joan

adiness e r y t t o p t abou y... t i v i t c a e r . s v

“I have been potty training my twins who are 3.5 years old. I started with the one who I felt like was ready. He was doing pretty good, but he refused to poop in the potty. Then he had an accident that sent him to the ER and then two weeks later he got a bug that made him sick for six days. Needless to say, we lost any progress we had made in potty training. Now in a new house, we are trying to train him, but he says he just doesn't want to go and throws a fit if we take him. My husband thinks we should push him since he's "proven he can do it". Any suggestions?" ~ jill m.

I certainly understand your concerns about wanting your 3 1/2 year old twin son potty trained. Parents frequently view successful toilet training as an important developmental milestone. However, as with all developmental markers, we must treat each child according to his/her own individual circumstances. I must disagree with your husband’s desire to resume potty training in the midst of your son’s protests and tantrums. The most salient point to remember is that we are entering dangerous territory if we attempt to control something that we do not have control over. Your son has experienced a number of upsets within the last few months. Moving to a new house is a very big transition.

Moreover, an unexpected visit to the emergency room can be quite upsetting and anxiety provoking.

based on his readiness and comfort level. Giving your son the control to decide when he wants to use the potty again will allow him to experience a renewed capability to manage whatever feelings emerge in respect to using the toilet.

I understand that you might feel concerned that he is not trained, as yet. Please try to appreciate that you recognize intuitively what your son needs better than anyone else. He will use the potty when he is ready.

He will experience feelings of pride and competence, which will nurture self-esteem and resilience. Toilet training is not

a requisite that can be forced upon a child. When it is, it can have detrimental consequences because it may interfere with a child’s natural inclination to find and to trust his own threshold for mastery and self-control.

Dr. Friedman is a prominent and well-respected twin expert who shares her passionate views and insights with twins and their families throughout the world. The fact that she is an identical twin and the mother of five, including fraternal twins, makes her ideally suited to this task. Her commitment to twin research and her treatment of twins of all ages demonstrate the breadth and depth of her skills and experience.

I would advise you and your husband to give your son control over his readiness to use the potty. He needs to master this milestone by himself so that he can feel proud, motivated, and successful. Of course, your praise and encouragement are essential; however, the primary wish to be “a big boy” and use the potty must be his decision multiplicity

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Mama said there’d be days like this.

Join moms of multiples all around the globe in supporting each other on the good AND the not-so-good days.

photography by firewife photography

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multiplicity

the must-have magazine for all moms of multiples