What’s INSIDE
by
photos
Ritchie White Photography
PARENT to Parent
Arefresh feels so good, and we’re delighted with our new look of Valley Parent. Our magazine, available in print and online, has been a staple publication in the region for over 20 years and is the go-to resource for families in the Chattahoochee Valley area. We pride ourselves on being able to offer our magazine for free to the community thanks to the valued relationship that we have with our advertisers.
On the cover, and inside, you’ll find a mix of locally-focused features and informative articles that cover this season’s celebrations of Earth Day and Mother’s Day. With summer in our sights, you can also read all about preparing your child for their first camp experience.
Our columnists and feature writers live and work in the heart of our region. Introducing In the Thick of It by Natalie Downey, Book Nook by Khristina Gallagher and our expert in the medical field, Dr. Britney Farmer with Mental Health Minute. With all the fun events that we love to promote, we are equally aware that parents need information that will help them along their journey of raising children.
Mental Health Awareness is a focus during May, and we tell the inspiring story of Clara Tebeau who emerged from her own struggles to help her doctors with suggestions for future treatment options as well as visits to uplift patients in the hospital. Concerned about your own child? Dr. Britney Farmer offers her expert insight on spotting signs of depression in children in Mental Health Minute.
Our front cover features our new Valley Parent masthead and Olivia Vander. We had a fun time at Columbus Bound Bookshop for our cover shoot. The independent bookstore is locally owned by Khristina Gallagher who will be a regular feature with her Book Nook column.
We’re ready to get the Clingstones baseball season underway, and you could be heading to a game with our family of 4 Great Day Giveaway—enter today! We’re all about promoting family fun, and we’d love for you to join us as we team up with Parker’s Pantry for a Picnic in the Park. Enjoy your picnic while spending the afternoon at the Arts in the Park festivities at Lakebottom on April 27th.
Fresh Faces Cover Contest
Join us for a picnic at this year’s Arts in the Park. Details on page 9.
Don’t miss out! Enter for a chance to be on our cover. Details on page 16.
Jodi Saunders
Great Day Giveaway
Enter to win tickets to see the Clingstones play. Details on page 19.
P. O. Box 229
Columbus, GA 31902
706-324-6214 • fax 706-324-6216
EDITOR/PUBLISHER
Jodi Saunders
jodi@columbusandthevalley.com
ADVERTISING & MARKETING
Becky Kenimer becky@columbusandthevalley.com
Margie Richardson margie@columbusandthevalley.com
Julie Lauzon salesassistant@columbusandthevalley.com
LAYOUT & DESIGN
62 Graphic Studio 62GraphicStudio.com
WRITERS
Natalie Downey Dr. Britney Farmer Khristina Gallagher
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Cherie Gough Rebecca Hastings
PHOTOGRAPHY Ritchie White Photography
A Publication of Columbus and the Valley
SUBSCRIBE OR READ ONLINE
Family Fun CALENDAR
April
4-13
Spring Fling Columbus Civic Center CivicCenter.ColumbusGa.gov
FRIDAYS IN APRIL
Uptown Spring Concert Series
Uptown Columbus AlwaysUptown.com
11-12
Columbus Cup Freestyle Kayak Competition
Waveshaper Island AlwaysUptown.com
15
Columbus Clingstones Opening Day Synovus Park MILB.com/columbus-clingstones
Arts in the Park Lakebottom Park TheColumbusite.net/artsfest 29
Youth Orchestra of Greater Columbus Spring Concert RiverCenter YOGC.org/events
May
2 & 3 RiverFest
Uptown Columbus AlwaysUptown.com/Riverfest 3
Strut the Hooch Parade Down Broadway StrutTheHooch.com 13
Cool Pool Summer Splash Celebration
F.D.R. State Park
Explore.GaStateParks.org/ info.267429?c=31287355
23-25
Memorial Day Weekend Events Callaway Gardens CallawayGardens.org
The Light in the Dark Fund
Local Teen Helps Other Teens Find Resources for Their Mental Health
Adolescence is a time of major change that leads one into the transformation from child to adult. This time in a person’s life often can feel unsettling, a bit scary and unpredictable. While all teens need caring support during their adolescent years, in some cases, the mental and physical changes they experience can lead to serious mental challenges necessitating a deeper level of supportive care.
When Columbus resident Clara Tebeau was in eighth grade she was diagnosed with some mental health disorders that led to her hospitalization and treatment at the St. Francis Hospital Bradley Center. For both Clara and her family, it was a
by Natalie Downey
scary and uncertain time as they navigated a world that was new to them. “You have these thoughts in your brain where you’re not sure what they are and they make you feel scared, afraid and lonely, and you’re not sure what’s going on,” Tebeau explains as she recalls the days leading to her diagnosis. “The more I pushed it away and bottled it up, the worse it got.”
Concerned for their daughter’s wellbeing, Clara’s parents sought treatment for her at The St. Francis Bradley Center, which included therapy and learning skills for coping with the intrusive thoughts that had been casting shadows over her world. Clara’s experience brought healing and led to a deeper understanding, for her and her family, of how they could support her mental health on an ongoing basis. But, along with the transformation of her own personal mental healing, another transformation began for her during this time of mental health challenges. Inside the walls of The Bradley Center, Clara found her calling as she recognized the major gaps in the current system of mental health care for adolescents and identified some mental health needs within our own community that she felt compelled to meet.
A recent statistic from the World Health Organization states that one in seven 10to 19-year-olds will experience a mental disorder, with depression, anxiety and behavioral issues. Depending on location, the disparities of care can widen, leading to a growing number of untreated challenges. Additionally, suicide is the third leading cause of death among 15- to 29-year-olds. Unfortunately, across the country, there is a shortage of child and adolescent mental health providers, while the number of people needing treatment has increased since the pandemic.
The mental health of our adolescents matters, and when issues aren’t addressed during teen years, they can persist into adulthood and severely impact that individual’s quality of life. One of the biggest mental health needs our region faces is access to more providers, a need Clara and her family witnessed firsthand during her treatment.
In our state, the only adolescent mental health crisis stabilization units are in Columbus, Atlanta, Carrollton and Macon, and, Clara points out—“They’re at capacity.” So, teens facing mental health emergencies have to travel to one of these treatment centers and hope there is space for them, and often while experiencing a situation that needs immediate attention.
After her experience, Clara felt drawn to find ways to support Columbus’ teens and mental health providers. “I told my parents that I wanted to make it better, to give back and to support other kids.” Having experienced the system firsthand, she felt that she had some good insight into what could be improved to make other kids and teens feel more supported throughout the process.
With her parents’ support, Clara formed a nonprofit designed to meet these needs. The mission of Clara’s organization titled The Light in the Dark Fund (LITD) is “To provide awareness,
PA RT Y G U ID E
Clara with her parents, Dee Dee and Tom Tebeau at St. Francis Hospital.
access and resources to adolescents and their families navigating mental health as well as furthering the research for depression, anxiety and OCD.”
Starting out, LITD began raising money to provide much needed supplies, toys, games and snacks to adolescent patients at The Bradley Center facility. With a personal understanding of how scary an inpatient stay at the center can be, Clara started with practical ways she could help make patients feel more comfortable and supported.
Working with Betsy Covington and the Community Foundation of the Chattahoochee Valley, Clara was able to raise over $18,000 in her first year of operating her nonprofit. And, working directly with her contacts and doctors at the Bradley Center, she was able to receive feedback to identify specific needs and set goals to meet them.
For example, Clara explains that when child and adolescent patients leave a crisis stabilization center, they have to wait, sometimes weeks, to begin working with a therapist. Clara is working to establish an outpatient center that would provide support to these patients in the form of after-school therapy, coping skills and structure during the in-between time in their treatment as they transition out of the crisis stabilization unit.
In addition, she envisions helping The Bradley Center expand resources and the number of therapists so that people in our area have more access to mental health treatment. And, as her organization’s impact grows, Clara wants to expand her mission to the other facilities in Atlanta, Carrollton and Macon.
As Clara has worked to grow her organization, she’s been able to brainstorm with more mental health professionals including the Pastoral Institute and her pediatrician to identify needs in our area and build a plan for addressing them through The Light in the Dark Fund. While access to treatment is crucial, Clara recognizes the importance of taking it a step further and focusing on prevention. She is working to create an awareness program to empower
adolescents to speak up about mental health challenges they’re facing, and to work to remove the stigma surrounding those challenges. She plans to introduce this program to local schools and encourage her peers to take action to support their own mental health as well as provide camaraderie and support.
For Clara, starting The Light in the Dark Fund has given her a sense of purpose as she takes what she has learned from her personal struggles and offers hope to other teens in our area. When former patients who have received support from her fund reach out to thank her and share their stories, it encourages her to keep going, and, Clara says, it helps her feel less alone.
“I felt a lot of darkness,” Clara says, recalling the onset of her mental health struggles. “And now I feel encouraged to share the light with everyone else going through it. I’ve learned a lot about who I am, my purpose—and the brain and how it works. I wouldn’t trade it.”
Currently a junior in high school, Clara
continues to work on her mental health with a therapist and has found great improvement with cognitive behavioral therapy, playing sports, doing service projects and working with animals. She has a new service dog whom she’s looking forward to taking with her on visits to patients in the treatment centers.
“I just want to give back to The Bradley Center for all they’ve done for me and to reach and impact as many people as possible,” Clara says, “By giving them hope, encouraging them to not give up and providing resources to help them.” VP
Clara talking to the board at St. Francis-Emory Healthcare about how to make mental health facilities and treatment better within their facilities.
Clara and her sister, Kate, delivered food and presents to children at The Bradley Center on Christmas Day.
Book NOOK
Books to boost your kids’ moods as sunny weather becomes the norm!
AGES 4-8
Hope in a Jar
by Deborah Marcero
A charming story of a trio of rabbit friends that share their hopes and dreams and place them in jars in the forest. One day, a storm comes through and displaces all their hard work. Through the power of friendship and optimism, they create new aspirations. When things feel like they are falling apart, we still have each other and can dream of a better future!
AGES 4-8
Escargot and the Search for Spring by
Dashka Slater
A snail suffering from ennui (winter blues) ventures outside to boost his mood only to encounter a fluffy white rabbit. Not happy at all about this cuddly creature, Escargot challenges the bunny to a hopping contest. This funny story shows how kindness and a good snack can really turn your mood around.
AGES 6-9
by Khristina Gallagher
Fluffle Bunnies #1 Buns Gone Bad by
Anna Humphrey
For fans of the popular Bad Guys series, here’s a new graphic novel in the same vein. Three bunnies are left without their mother when she goes off to Brazil to learn jiu-jitsu. With quick thinking, ingenuity and maybe a little bit of raccoon manipulation, these three buns will take on all comers to be the rulers of the park.
AGES 8-12 Is It Real? The Loch Ness Monster
by Candace Fleming
Fans of mythical creatures may be intrigued by this non-fiction book that shares how real-life detectives and scientists explore phenomena. Readers, faced with the evidence, can decide on their own if they think the Loch Ness monster is real…or not.
These reviews are provided by Columbus Bound Bookshop owner Khristina Gallagher. Locally owned, located in Midtown, Columbus Bound Bookshop carries new books for children and adults. You can find them online at Columbus Bound Bookshop, Facebook and Instagram.
H C P M A A P P R Y E S
Tips to Help Kids with Their First Camp Experience
by Cherie Gough
School’s almost out.
You found the perfect day camp for your little artist, swimmer or scientist, but you’re worried because camp is unfamiliar territory. Help prepare your child for what’s ahead with these tips to make his first camp experience a positive one.
One, Two Buckle My Shoe: THE BASICS
Children should memorize full name, address and a parent’s cell phone number before camp begins.
Many day camps require closed-toe shoes and many activities need kids to get shoes on and off quickly. Practice tying shoelaces; if your little one hasn’t mastered this skill before camp starts, consider a pair of Velcro shoes. Even then, do trial runs until he masters getting shoes on and off in a timely manner. Practice makes perfect!
Children should be able to zip their own jackets and pants (or wear ones that pull on). Teach them to tie a jacket around their waist, if necessary.
For half-day camp, apply sunscreen before leaving; children who attend full-day camp should know how and when to reapply.
C is for Cookie: MAKE LUNCH STRESS-FREE
Packaging often poses a problem for little fingers. Practice opening wrappers and containers at home. Don’t assume camp staff will have time to assist everyone at lunchtime.
One in 13 children has a food allergy; it’s likely that someone at camp will, too. Swapping snacks sounds like fun, but it’s not safe for many kids. Crosscontamination can pose a big problem for kids allergic to nuts or gluten. Teach children not to share food and to respect other people’s space by not touching their lunchbox and food.
Stop yourself the next time you start to clean up after your kids. Teach children how to sort trash from recyclables, throw items in proper bins and most importantly, not to expect adults to clean up after them. Part of being a successful, happy camper is to help out and do his part.
SOCIAL SKILL ESSENTIALS
For many first-time campers, enrolling with a buddy helps ease jitters. But it’s important to gain the confidence and skills to make new friends. Review and role-play skills that show openness to making friends:
Practice how to greet someone new. Make eye contact and smile.
When someone says “hi”, teach your child to reply, even if he feels shy. Not responding may be misconstrued that he doesn’t want to be friends.
Remind children to take turns.
Discuss the idea that not everyone has to be friend—especially if your child is a people pleaser.
Almost There: BE ASSERTIVE
Children should know how (and be willing) to ask for help when needed. If he has a special need, let camp know ahead of time. Kids and staff can even agree on a signal to get a staff member’s attention.
Have kids practice asking for what they want (politely). Manners go a long way. You’ve taught your child “please” and “thank you” since he was knee high—be sure he says these allimportant phrases without your cue. Practice simple, direct responses to communicate dissatisfaction when necessary, such as “I don’t like that. Don’t do it again.” If an annoying behavior continues from another child, ask a camp counselor for help.
Camp is a place to try new things. Let your child know he’s expected to participate in all activities, and that it’s OK if he doesn’t do everything just right. A child who pouts until he gets his way or is unwilling to try new things may not be ready for camp. Kids who follow directions and are willing to venture into “new territory” have an opportunity to learn many skills that build confidence and independence. VP
Lessons Learned
Mental Health MINUTE
iSPY Depression
Spring has sprung, and while we are happy to feel the warmth of the sunshine and see our gardens in full bloom, this time of year is most difficult for a subset of people. May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and in recognition of this, I was moved to write an article on the most diagnosed and most costly of all mental health conditions—depression.
The formal name, Major Depressive Disorder, is the number one mental health condition that is diagnosed in the United States. According to the National Institute of Mental Health in 2020, Major Depressive Disorder costs $326.2 billion annually in disability, medical management and coexisting conditions. Right now, 21 million people experience depression while only 61.2% seek treatment. The reasons for not seeking treatment are multifaceted, varied and cannot be covered in the span of this article. However, there is something we can do in the fight against this epidemic and that is to educate ourselves. The first step in any illness script is identification. We must know what depression looks like before we can start introducing treatment and finding solutions.
Know the Signs
To spot depression you don’t have to be a detective, but it does help to take an investigatory approach. Your doctor may diagnose depression based on certain pieces of evidence that you are disclosing during your appointment. Depression is defined as five or more of the following symptoms that present in one’s life for two weeks or greater. The five symptoms are usually present simultaneously, but this is not a requirement. The symptoms are low mood, irritability, decreased interests in prior hobbies, increased guilt, decreased energy, decreased concentration, eating too much or eating too little, too much
or too little sleep, moving or speaking slowly and increased suicidal thoughts. These symptoms must cause disability in home life, work or school. The diagnosis of Major Depressive Disorder cannot be better explained by a medical illness, loss of a loved one or a traumatic event. If someone is experiencing symptoms because of one of these reasons that will lead your doctor to concluding a different diagnosis.
Depressive Behaviors
Now that we are on the case of depression, let’s look closer at the evidence. The requirement of two weeks or longer is to establish that this is a sustained changed in mood and not a transient one. We are all human beings that get sad on occasion and situationally irritable because of life’s challenges. These ups and downs are a part of the natural human experience and make us the complex beings that we are.
From the above symptoms that were listed—a low mood can be defined as feeling sadness, crying spells or emotional disconnectedness. Some people with depression experience a drop in enjoyment from activities (ex: sports, hanging with friends, artwork, exercise) that they typically enjoyed in the past. Due to the symptoms of depression, people may withdraw from their lives which can lead to increased guilt for the persons missing out on life or guilt for not doing anything to help themselves. Individuals with depression may also experience a physical loss of energy. It can be difficult for them to get out of bed, to make it through an entire day without rest or to perform personal hygiene. Depression causes trouble at school and home usually due to the change in concentration. It can be difficult to keep up with deadlines, turn in work and even comprehend new material.
by Dr. Britney Farmer
The stereotype of a depressed person is that of sleeping all day and refusing meals because of their condition. There is a phenomenon called atypical depression where the person has insomnia and/or overeats as a symptom of their condition. The symptom of moving and speaking slowly is clinically called psychomotor retardation. This is a severe symptom of depression and can signal that the condition has advanced. Lastly and most worrisome because it can have life long consequences is suicidal thoughts. This can include the spectrum of wanting to go to sleep and not waking up to intentional harming oneself.
If someone you know is experiencing suicidal thoughts, you can escort them to the nearest emergency department, call or text 988 or call the Suicide Hotline at 1-800-985-5590. It is better for you to “overreact” rather than under react when it comes to life and death.
How to Get Treatment
With our detective skills fully refined we can now know what to look for when we or a loved one are suffering from depression. Primary care doctors can be the first stop when seeking advice on options for treatment. Treatment options can include psychotherapy, medication management or a combination of both. Selection of treatment will depend on one’s symptoms and disease severity. There are protective measures that we can take to prevent depression such as maintaining healthy social connections, setting a regular sleep/wake cycle and engaging in regular activities to let off stress. Depression may not be 100% preventable but it can be managed. VP
Dr. Britney Farmer is a Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist originally from California currently living in Columbus and practicing for St. Francis Hospital Partners at The Bradley Center Campus. Dr. Farmer has a passion for children with mental health disorders, learning disabilities and autism.
Easy Ways to Celebrate EARTH DAY 12
We all know taking care of the Earth is important, but it’s easy to let the busyness of daily life push thoughts of being eco-friendly to the back burner. Being aware of the planet and making small changes is easier than you think.
Earth Day is the perfect opportunity to remind kids how to appreciate and take care of our planet. Raising earthconscious kids has never been more important than it is today. The earth provides us with a place to call home, food, water, clothing, shelter and even medicine. Fostering a love for our planet helps all of us live longer and healthier lives. And it doesn’t have to be overwhelming.
Start small by trying one activity a month or go all in and try all of these fun activities with your kids today.
Plant Something
It doesn’t matter if it’s a tree, a flower or a seed. When we grow new things, it helps the earth. Trees help replenish oxygen and keep the planet cool, flowers can help endangered species like bees and growing your food helps reduce the amount of food transport needed. Plus, it can be a lot of fun to plant and grow something together as a family.
Find a Local Farmers Market
Supporting local farms and growers is a great way to keep the earth healthy. The farmers that offer goods at farmer’s markets often minimize waste compared to conventional grocery stores. Many of them also use fewer harmful chemicals in their growing practices which helps keep the soil and water clean. Plus, you can find tasty new foods for your family to try.
Get Inspired
Watch the video of young poet Amanda Gorman reciting her poem, Earthwise. Kids and adults will be inspired to treat our planet well.
Visit a National Park
Did you know the U.S. has 62 national parks and almost all have virtual tours? Whether you make a trip to visit or go virtual, helping your kids fall in love with these awe-inspiring treasures will grow their appreciation for the planet.
Recycling Challenge
Teach kids to look for recycling symbols on packages to recycle as much as possible. At the end of a week see how much you recycle compared to how much you throw away. Try to get your recycling output to beat your trash output each week.
Give It Away
Instead of tossing things you no longer want or need in the trash, have a household collection day. Once your family gathers a group of items, make a family trip to the local donation center or give things to another family that could use them. You can even think about younger kids who would enjoy playing with toys your kids have outgrown. It can be fun for kids to see their favorite playthings being used by another child who will enjoy them.
Make a Recycled Craft
Kids love to get creative. Instead of grabbing the usual art supplies, use some of those recycled items to create something. You can have a theme or let everyone create whatever they want. This is a great, earth-friendly rainy-day craft!
Make a Birdfeeder
Gather pinecones or large sticks to use for the feeder. Cover them with a layer of peanut butter and roll in birdseed. Hang outdoors for birds to enjoy.
Just One Thing
Swap out one plastic item for a more sustainable option from your household per month. Try reusable water bottles, travel mugs, straws, shopping bags or sandwich bags to reduce plastic waste.
Leave No Trace
This is an effort to leave the planet in its most natural state. Do a little research about Leave No Trace and then have a fun family challenge. On your next outing see if you can cover your tracks and leave no trace that you were even there.
Get Outside
The best way to help kids take care of the earth is to fall in love with it. Spending time outside, enjoying the beautiful creatures and landscapes is great for fresh air and exercise as well as learning to love this great big beautiful planet we call home.
Take 52
Commit to taking one hike, walk or bike ride each week this year. Try making a chart to keep on the fridge to see your progress throughout the year. VP
FRESH FACES Cover Contest!
Here are some helpful hints to get the judges attention:
• Be sure your child’s face is clearly visible in the photo you choose, i.e. no icing covered faces, no hats or masks that obscure the face, no silly faces, no side profile shots, etc.
OFFICIAL RULES
• Send only ONE recent photo per child, age 13 and under. Additional photos will not be considered.
• Only one child per photo unless multiples. Twins, triplets, etc. should appear together.
• Photos and completed web form must be completed.
• Entries must be received by April 30th.
• Photos sent in are used for judging purposes only. The photos themselves will not be used on the cover, so do NOT choose a photo based on the interesting background, funny pose or artsy flair. The judges look for a winning child, not a winning photo.
• Send a high res photo file large enough for print. File should be over 1 MB (300 dpi for you techy types out there). Small photos are hard for the judges to see and hard to print.
• Children chosen will need to do a photoshoot, so avoid shots that make your child seem brooding or shy.
• Professional photographs are accepted, but not preferred.
Make Mother’s Day Special from Start to Finish!
by Rebecca Hastings
Some people love celebrating the mom in their life for Mother’s Day, but others find it overwhelming. Where do you start? Should you get a gift? What is her favorite flower? There are so many things to consider. A lot of people get so overwhelmed, they go one of two directions: they do the same thing every year, or they do nothing. Both options can leave Mom feeling a bit disappointed. You don’t have to get stuck. With a bit of thought and planning, you can make Mother’s Day special from start to finish. This works in three parts. First, you’ll answer some questions. Next, some quick brainstorming. Finally, you’ll put it all together to create a plan for a great Mother’s Day. You can do it all in about 15 minutes. Ready?
Let’s Start with the Questions
There are some things you should know as you get started. This will help you know what you’re doing and why. As you read the questions, jot down your answers.
Who are you celebrating?
Knowing this is essential. Is there one mom you’re celebrating or more than one? Are you celebrating grandmas? Who will be part of your Mother’s Day plans?
Are you buying gifts?
Some families purchase gifts for Mother’s Day while others opt for experiences or homemade gifts. What does the mom in your life want?
How much time do you plan to spend together?
Some moms love having a break with some time to themselves on Mother’s Day while others want to spend the whole day with their family. If you’re not sure what the mom in your life wants, ask her.
What
will you eat?
Mother’s Day usually involves at least one meal. Think about how you want to handle that. Will you cook or eat out? If you plan to eat out, making a reservation in advance saves a lot of hassle as it’s a popular day at many restaurants. If you are going to cook, make a list and shop for what you need BEFORE Mother’s Day so you don’t need to go to the store on the day of. Most moms have no desire to visit a grocery store on Mother’s Day.
Does she want rest?
This is one of the most overlooked things on Mother’s Day, but many moms long for rest. Would she like to sleep in? Would she enjoy a quiet afternoon nap? Does she need to go to bed early and get a full night’s sleep? Think about how you can make these things happen.
Is there anything the mom in your life asked for or hinted at?
This is very important. If she asked for something and you can make that happen, that makes things even easier. If she doesn’t ask for anything, don’t pressure her. Instead, think about her and what she would enjoy.
Don’t rush through these questions. It may be tempting to skim them and say you’ll figure it out later but don’t do that. Knowing the answers to these questions will save a lot of last-minute headaches.
It’s Time to Brainstorm
Now that you have some questions answered, it’s time to brainstorm ideas about what the mom in your life would enjoy. And that’s the key: what would SHE enjoy? If this day is about her (and it is) you want to make sure the things you do are things she enjoys that make her feel loved and valued.
Try brainstorming 3-5 ideas for each of the following:
• Foods: List foods/drinks she might enjoy. This could be a meal like brunch, a favorite treat or her favorite fancy coffee drink.
• Places: Write down some of her favorite local places. Think about parks, stores, beaches, museums or other places she enjoys.
• Gifts: List anything special you’d like to give her as a gift. Think about things that would make her happy and she would enjoy receiving. (Avoid household related gifts.)
April
9:30 & 11:30 AM
• Helpful Activities: Think of some things the family can do that would be helpful. Household chores or small projects like gardening are great places to start.
Write down these quick brainstorms and see what you have. Do any of them fit together well? Is her favorite coffee shop next to the bookstore she loves? Could you go to the garden center and then plant her new flowers? Be mindful of how a few of these things can work together to create a special day.
Put It All Together
Now that you have more information about what would make the day special for the mom in your life, you can create a plan. You don’t have to have a schedule for the whole day, but you can think about what you want to do and when.
A good strategy is to break the day into three parts: morning, midday, and evening. Each one of these can be part of one big plan or they can each have a different purpose. This works especially well if you are trying to spend time with grandma or other moms in your life, too.
Write down your plan for the day and then check to make sure it aligns with the answers to the questions at the beginning. Don’t plan a hike if mom wants to spend the day relaxing in bed. Be mindful of how each part of the day shows her that she is special.
Ideas to Help You Plan a Great Mother’s Day
As you consider the three steps above, here are some ideas for meaningful ways to spend Mother’s Day.
• Day Trip: Plan a day out of town. Head somewhere special as a family for the day. Include places she enjoys and food she likes. Don’t wait and decide as you go. Make a plan. You can always change course if you need to along the way.
• A Day for Her: If she craves some alone time, give her a day to herself. Take the kids out and leave her with a quiet house or stay home with the kids and send her off to spend the day doing things she loves. You can make appointments for her at a spa if that is something she enjoys.
• Family Time: If you’re celebrating other moms in your life on Mother’s Day, don’t leave all the work to her. Instead, plan out a meal and invite people over or make a reservation for the whole group. Also, talk to her about any gifts you should purchase for the other moms in your life.
• Make It a Mix: Start the day by letting her sleep in and making or ordering her favorite breakfast. Enjoy the morning to relax at home. At lunch, head out for a picnic or to a favorite restaurant and visit someplace she enjoys. This could be a place like a park, a museum or a store. Enjoy an early dinner by inviting the other moms in your life over. Be sure to do all the cleanup so the kitchen is spotless for Mom the next morning!
There are so many ways you can spend Mother’s Day. With a little planning ahead and considering what Mom would enjoy, she’s sure to have a great day! VP
School BOARD
Harris County High School’s Teacher Cadet Instructor and Junior Riley Markert won first place in CSU’s Go2Teach “Excellence in Teaching Competition.”
(L-R) Harris County High School Class of 2025
Valedictorian Connor Archilla, STAR Teacher
Katie Sizemore, Salutatorian and STAR Student Tate Williams pictured with Harris County School District Superintendent Justin Finney.
Richards Middle School student Isaiah Julien claimed first place in the Georgia Association of Educators (GAE) Regional Spelling Bee. This impressive win marks his second consecutive year qualifying for the state spelling bee championship. Isaiah is now set to represent MCSD at the GAE State Spelling Bee.
Kendrick High School recently earned recognition as an industry-certified Marketing Program of Excellence.
The Hardaway High school Lady Hawks’ varsity basketball team celebrated their historic first state championship on March 6.
Ant Farm Maze
Creepy Crawly Word Scramble
Why did the snail cross the road? I'll tell you when he gets here! Butterfly wings are actually clear! The colors and patterns that we see are made up by the reflection of the tiny scales covering them. Can you unscramble these
What is the butterfly's favorite school subject? MOTHemathics!
What do you call a rabbit with fleas? Bugs Bunny!
2025 SUMMER CAMPS
Scan to Sign Up at Evans Farm in LaGrange, GA Scouts BSA Summer Camp on West Point Lake
• KAYAKS & CANOES
• BOATS & JET SKIS
• SHOOTING RANGE
• ARCHERY RANGE
• FELLOWSHIP
• CLIMBING & RAPPELING
• SO MUCH MORE!
SPARTAN CAMP
Overnight Camp at Camp Frank G. Lumpkin in LaGrange, GA
CAMP COW PIE Mythical Sea Creature Adventure DAY CAMP
• Nature Fun
• Legendary Sea Creature Hunts
• BB/Archery
DAY CA MP July 7-11 Daily 8:30 am-3:30 pm June 9-13 Daily 9:00 am-3:15 pm
• Marine Games & Challenges
• Underwaterthemed Crafts
June 5-8 at Oxbow Meadows Environmental Learning Center
THIS SPECIAL CAMP IS DESIGNED FOR SCOUTS ENTERING 4TH & 5TH GRADE TO PROVIDE AN INTRODUCTION TO THE WORLD OF SCOUTS BSA.
• Science
• Experiments
• Solar Ovens
• Charcoal Crystals
• 3D Printing
• Robot Derby
Academy Dance Center
Acute Care Express
All About Kids Learning Center
Devica Alappan, MD
Angel Academy
Aranas & Stitt, OBGYN
Bareware Pottery
Basilio Pediatrics
Behavioral Health Partners
Bluebelle Artist Market
The Blushing Brunette Boutique
Carver Heights Presbyterian Child Development Ctr.
Central Pharmacy
Central Christian Church
Central OBGYN
Chambers OBGYN
Ritu Chandra, MD
Childcare Network (Hamilton Rd)
Clement Arts
Columbus Bound Bookshop
Columbus Children’s Dentistry
Columbus Clinic
Columbus Museum
Columbus Pediatrics
Columbus Public Library
Columbus Regional Midtown
Columbus Roberts Center
CSU Elizabeth Bradley Turner Ctr.
Dinglewood Pharmacy
Divine Childcare Learning Ctr.
Columbus Specialty Hospital
James Dorchak, MD
Easter Seals
Miranda Y. Edwards, MD
Fairview Baptist Preschool
The Family Center
Family Physicians of Columbus
First Baptist Church Child Dev./PC
Foot & Ankle of West Ga.
Fort Moore
Housing Services
Fountain City Coffee
Generations Knowledge & Care Ctr.
Great Beginnings Child Care
Greystone Falls
Greystone of Columbus Park
Greystone Inverness
Growing Room
Growing Room Too
Hollywood Connection
Imagination Station
Imagination Station Too
International Friendship Ministries
Joyful Journeys Childcare
Just for Kids
Kool Smiles
Mark Lawrence, DDS
Little Angels Child Development Ctr.
Little Paws Preschool
Thomas Malone, MD
Mathnasium
Mickayla’s Place
Midtown OBGYN
Mildred L. Terry Library
My Gym
Necco Foster Care
North Columbus Library
Northside Recreation Center
OBGYN Associates
Lirio E. Palmos, MD
Panvelkar & Panvelkar, MD
Pastoral Institute
Pediatrics at Brookstone Ctr.
Phenix City-Russell County Library
Pierce Chapel Methodist Preschool
Polka-Dots Early Childhood Development. Ctr.
Preppy Pets
Puddle Jumpers Child Enrichment Ctr.
Rivertown Pediatrics
Russell County DHR
Second Avenue Animal Hospital
Jeffrey Serff, DMD
Smile Doctors
Smith Station Baptist Church
Smith Station Pharmacy
St. John AME Church
St. Luke Early Learning Ctr.
St. Mark UMC Child Dev. Ctr.
Lisa Alexander Strickland, DMD
Summerville Baptist Church
Sylvan Learning Center
Nora Tan-Ngo, MD
Toni’s Dancing Studio
TSYS Childcare Center
Uptown Pediatrics
Richard A. Valentine, MD
Wynnton Methodist Preschool
ZÖe Pediatrics
In the THICK OF IT
Winning—Even While Losing
It had become our Saturday morning routine—slowly filtering into the church gymnasium and finding a spot on the bleachers alongside the other parents. I scanned the crowd of antsy children on the basketball court, my eyes settling on the blonde head of my son, biting away at his fingernails even though I’d told him a million times to stop.
I wore his team’s colors proudly (orange and blue) and nodded to other parents adorned in the same color scheme. Most likely I sighed. I might have even uttered a simple prayer. I definitely crossed my fingers. But I was resigned to support my child no matter what, and we all knew, most likely, what.
You see, my son’s church league basketball team full of energetic nine-yearolds was, in fact, terrible. They had not only lost every game of the season, but they also had not scored a single point all season and had been cruelly dominated by every other team in the league. It almost began to feel like some kind of vicious experiment, judging by how his team seemed so severely not in league with the others.
But my son smiled and waved to me excitedly as he stepped on an unraveling shoelace. He took his place on the court, listening for the whistle.
And I cheered. Knowing they didn’t stand a chance, I cheered. When they passed the ball—again, to the wrong team, I cheered, “Good try!” When my son took a shot that didn’t even come close to the goal, I cheered, “Good shot!” And when his team lost again, zero points, I cheered, “Way to hustle, guys!”
It never once occurred to me not to cheer. It never occurred to me not to wear orange and blue. I never once entered that gymnasium, even after weeks of watching
by Natalie Downey
his team lose, wondering which team I’d cheer for that week. It was always his. Whatever team my son was on throughout the years, I already knew it was his team I’d cheer for. Even in the freezing cold beside a soccer field when my toes were so numb that I wasn’t sure if they were still attached. In the sweaty summer sun with a weekend tournament’s worth of sunburn making my skin feel ablaze. In losses, in wins. In near misses and in flawlessly executed goals (he did, in fact, go on to discover that he was pretty amazing at soccer), I cheered.
Because, for me, it was never about the points or goals or wins, and even though he didn’t know it at the time, I don’t think it was really about any of those things for my son either. Maybe for him, it was about being cheered for. Making me proud. Knowing he had my support no matter what.
And for me, it was about showing up for him. Proudly letting the world know that the child who indeed just blocked his own teammate’s goal is my good, kind, smart and funny son. Even though he was really terrible at basketball, he was irreplaceably mine.
Today, my son is grown, and we laugh about his basketball days. He even asks, “Why did you let me keep playing as terrible as I was?” I just smile. Because to me? He was the star of the game, and why should a boy be anything less to his mama. I was just grateful for the chance to show up for my son. And to show him that no matter what, I’d be wearing his team’s colors and proudly cheering across the gym or field. Because I can’t imagine a greater privilege than to be my son’s biggest fan.
To me, there couldn’t possibly be a bigger win. VP
