West Virginia Family Magazine September/October 2014

WEST VIRGINIA

FAMILY

M A G A Z I N E Volume 7/Issue 4 Sep/Oct 2013

2013

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family events

Back To School INSIDE: Scho o t k c Ba

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Madne g n i n r o M Taming

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Also: Sleep Routines Backpack Safety School Then & Now Fire Safety for Your Family And MORE...

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Hospitalists

H. George Hebard, MD John O. Mills, DO Amy Pearson, MD Dan Stalnaker, PA-C

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Contents

Annual Back-to-School issue 2013

BACK-TO-SCHOOL

6 8

10 11 12 14 15 18 18 22 24 24

School Then & NOW Back-to-School 101 Dear Teacher: Question/Answer School-Year Sleep Routine Books, Books, Books Taming Morning Madness Backpack Safety for Back-to-School Book Give-away Back-to-School Editor's Picks Five Easy Ways to Save on School Stuff School-based Health Centers Does Your Child Doodle?

Immunizations Chart for Children

QUICK BITS

16 16 16 17 17

Online Library for Print Disabilities Breaking the Flu Transmission Cycle WV Family Resource Centers Improve Your Study Space Protecting Your Child's Identity

FAMILY SAFETY

19-20 Fire Safety for Your Family 26 Is Your Teen READY to Drive? Age vs.

Maturity

FAMILY ACTIVITIES

23-29 Fall Events/Family Calendar 28 Halloween Fun West Virginia Family Magazine ď Ź 1-304-472-4528

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FAMILY PETS 30

Why Pet Ownership is Ultimately Good for Kids

DIRECTORY 31

Back-to-School Directory

ON THE COVER:

Cover Photo Contest Finalist

Cover Kid Malia, age 7

Buckhannon, WV Photo by Carrie Bowers Photography September/October 2013

WEST VIRGINIA

FAMILY

M A G A Z I N E www.WVFamilyOnline.com A Trusted Family Magazine Since 2006 Publisher/Editor Carla Cosner

Contributing Writers

Rhonda Franz, Malia Jacobson, Christina Katz, Lara Krupicka, Genevieve Larimer, Heather Lee Leap, Kimberly McCallen, Kirah Meade West Virginia Family is a FREE bi-monthly magazine serving families in the North Central West Virginia area. WV Family has a circulation of 15,000 copies with more than 375 highly visible distribution points, including schools, bookstores, libraries, doctor offices, malls, visitor centers, daycares, and more. WV Family has a 98% read rate, with over 30,000 readers.

The views expressed by writers and advertisers, do not reflect the views of the publication or staff. Distribution of this publication does not constitute an endorsement of information, products, or services. West Virginia Family reserves the right to edit or reject any materials for any reason. Neither the advertisers nor the publisher will be responsible for misinformation, typographical errors, omissions, etc., herein contained. The articles in West Virginia Family are provided for informational purposes only. For further information, please seek the opinion of the professionals of your choice.

Please call or email for deadlines for Ads, Family Calendar, Resource listings, and/or to request a Media kit/Rate sheet for display ad rates. For Writer Guidelines please email for information.

WV Family Magazine P.O. Box 107 Buckhannon, WV 26201 PHONE: 304-472-4528 FAX: 304-472-4594 EDITOR: editor@WVFamilyMagazine.com SALES: info@WVFamilyMagazine.com CIRCULATION: carla@WVFamilyMagazine.com ONLINE: www.WVFamilyOnline.com

www.Facebook.com/WVFamilyMagazine Copyright 2013. All rights reserved. Any reproduction in whole or in part is prohibited without written permission.

Names, addresses, phone numbers, emails or such that are submitted for contests are never shared with any third party.

Published by (BookCastle Publishing, LLC)

Printed by:

Certified Nursing Assistant - *NEW THIS FALL* Computers/Word Processing Math Health Occupations Technical Special Classes for Adults Specialized Testing

Community Education Arts and Crafts Health and Fitness Special Interest Classes

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Registration times are: Monday - Thursday 1:00-7:00, Friday 8:30-2:00

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September/October 2013

West Virginia Family Magazine  www.WVFamilyOnline.com

Registration will be accepted at the Monongalia County Technical Education Center (MTEC) beginning Monday August 5. Fees are due at time of registration; books will be sold the first night of class.

No phone or mail registration accepted.

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Adult Education

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Family Matters

School

Then & NOW

10 Things You Probably Had In School That Your Child May Not

by Lara Krupicka

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hese days we marvel at the technological innovations being used in the classroom. And indeed, with so many new devices available, our kids' experience of school is beginning to look quite different from our own. But beyond technology there are other differences too. Here are 10 things you probably had in school that your child may not: 1. Overhead Projectors And Filmstrips. Remember those? Most of us jumped at the chance to be the one to manually move the strip forward at the sound of the tone. And we all wished we could be the one writing with squeaky markers on the overhead sheets.

Plus who among us didn't try at least once to sneak a quick nap in the darkened classroom? Now computers have taken the place of many of the old audio-visual devices. PowerPoint presentations, digital projectors, and videos do the job in our kids' classrooms.

West Virginia Family Magazine  1-304-472-4528

2. PB & J Sandwiches. With the prevalence of nut allergies and the severity of risks, many schools now ban any peanut or tree nut products within their walls. This means no more peanut butter and jelly sandwiches for hungry kids (although alternatives, such as sunflower seed spread are beginning to fill the gap).

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3. Chalkboards. Some classrooms still have one, but most aren't used for writing any more. Instead dry erase boards and computerized SMART boards (interactive white boards) take that role. No more staying after to help clap erasers for our kids!

4. Playing Tag At Recess. You heard that right. Some schools have placed restrictions on any contact games during the school day (except in gym) due to the risk of injury.

5. Open Front Doors. Gone are the days where you can walk right into an elementary school. Because of the potential for violence, many schools have installed security systems that require being buzzed into the building. Along with these measures have come "lock-down drills" where students and teachers practice what to do in the event that school security is breached.

September/October 2013

6. Mimeographed Papers. Remember that smell? The days of duplicating via mimeograph machine are a thing of the past. Now teachers use photocopiers and printers for printing multiple copies for classes.

7. Birthday Treats. No more bringing in smiley-face cookies to celebrate their special day. In an effort to do their part in the battle against childhood obesity, schools have begun forbidding treats aside from sanctioned school celebrations. This means no homemade cupcakes or even store-bought donuts. And in some cases, teachers are no longer allowed to use sweets and food as a behavior incentive.

8. Typewriters. Okay, so none of us used these in elementary school. But not only are students no longer using typewriters, they're also being taught the skill of "keyboarding" (formerly known as typing) at younger and younger ages. With computer labs in the majority of schools, kids now have time set aside each week for learning both typing skills and how to use common computer programs.

9. Fluoride Rinse. Some states still conduct regular fluoride rinse programs in schools. Others have ceased their programs. With municipalities adding fluoride to their water supply, the need isn't as great. But schools still take dental health seriously. In a quarter of the states, laws require proof of a dental exam for school admission.

10. Lunch Money. With the advent of scanners, schools have been phasing in the use of swipe cards, I.D. code, or finger print to pay for school lunches. Parents send a check or go online to load the cards. This is one that any parent who ever had their lunch money stolen by the school bully or lost their meal ticket can appreciate.

No more chances of stolen or lost coins or tickets on the way to school.  Lara Krupicka, a freelance writer, is surprised how much things have changed even since her daughter started elementary school nine years ago. She has three girls, ages 14, 12, and 9.

From the publisher Welcome to our Back-to-School issue! In this issue you will find some great articles, tips, and news, and a fall calendar full of family-friendly fall events in your area.

Getting back into the routine of school can be challenging. Check out "Back-toSchool 101" on page 8 and "Taming Morning Madness" on page 12, for some great tips to lessen the stress of trying to get out the door in the morning. A checklist at the door always helped us to remember things

that sometimes got left behind in the rush lunch boxes, homework, band instrument, teacher note or money, etc.... We have even, somehow, left the backpack behind.

Every parent will admit, mornings can be crazy. I am sure the tips provided will be helpful.

Children these days carry alot in their backpacks - books, lunch, water bottle, a tablet or laptop... making the backpack quite heavy. It is not surprising then that 89% of chiropractors have seen children for backpack related problems. Check out page 14 for tips on helping to prevent backpack pain.

Enter a chance to win a set of children's books on page 15. As always, we never

share your information. Winners will be chosen by random drawing.

October is National Fire Safety Month. On page 19 and 20 you will find tips to keep your family safe, a fire safety checklist, and a grid to create your escape plan.

In this issue you will also find an installment of our Safe Teen Driving Series.

The topic this time is age verses maturity.

There is no magic number for when a child is ready to drive - each child developes differently. Please take a moment to read the article on page 26 if you have a child ready to drive soon.

Congratulations to Malia of Buckhannon our Cover Kid for Fall 2013! Enjoy our Back-to-School issue and have a great Fall.

Is Your Child in the Right Car Seat?

THE NUMBER

WHO ACTUALLY DO HAVE THEIR CHILD IN THE RIGHT SEAT.

THE NUMBER OF PEOPLE

West Virginia Family Magazine ď Ź www.WVFamilyOnline.com

WHO THINK THEY HAVE THEIR CHILD IN THE RIGHT SEAT.

September/October 2013

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Back-to-School 101:

Making the Transition from Summertime to School Time

by Rhonda Franz

Parents must think about it even if children don’t want to: the first day of school is on its way. This year, plan ahead, and make the switch from a laid-back summer to a scheduled school day as smooth as possible for you and your family.

• Double-check supplies. Does your child have everything listed on her school’s supply list? What about accessories needed for lockers or clothing and equipment for extra-curricular activities? Make sure supplies are ready and working before the first day.

• Start the schedule before starting school.Start the school schedule at least a week before the first day. Go through the routine: When do kids need to get out of bed? What needs to be added to the routine that is different from summer

mornings?Get the whole family to bed earlier—every night.

• Have things ready the night before.

Make sure clothes are washed and laid out for the morning. Put backpacks and books in the car. If possible, have lunches packed and ready.

• Test the routine. If you drive your kids, can you make it to school with a bit of time to spare? Is the wake-up time adequate for getting to the bus stop? If your child is in a new school, this can be especially helpful in making sure your morning routine works for everyone.

• Make lunch. If your kids are taking their lunch, you can start preparation the week leading up to their first day. Get serving portions of foods like crackers or chips sectioned out into small, reusable containers or zipper storage bags. Go ahead and

Dear Teacher

Expert Advice to Help All Children Succeed in School

West Virginia Family Magazine  1-304-472-4528

Is Homeschooling a Good Idea?

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Question: I think that my children might do better in school if I home school them. Is this a good idea? – For Change Answer: Home-schooled children usually do well academically. However, it’s not easy to home school.

You must have the time and patience to work closely with your children and the organizational skills to develop and implement a solid curriculum.

You can’t decide whether home schooling is right for your children until you learn all about it. Visit these Web sites: www.home-ed-magazine.com, www.teachinghome.com, and www.homeschool. com, find out what the legal requirements are for homeschooling in your state, and talk to as many homeschoolers as you can before making your decision. Visit the Web site of the Home School Legal Defense Association (www.hslda.org) and click on the name of your state.

September/October 2013

store single serving containers like yogurt or pudding in your refrigerator. Stock up on sandwich ingredients. Make cookies and store them in the freezer.

• Put school functions on the family calendar. Whether you use a paper calendar, a software program, or a web-based organizer, make sure everything from the first parent meeting to the prom is marked for the school year. Having school events written (or typed) in advance will help avoid confusion and help you make decisions about how to plan for, and around, school events.  Rhonda Franz is an educator and Managing Editor of ParentingSquad.com. She lives in northwest Arkansas with herhusband, three children, a kitchen calendar, and a daily organizer.

The Secrets to Getting Good Grades Parents: Don’t believe for a minute that your children have to be geniuses to get mostly A’s and B’s. This is an absolute myth. What most need is a willingness to work hard, persistence in completing difficult tasks, self-discipline, a sense of responsibility, and a focus on doing their best. As parents, you are the mentors who can instill in them these habits that lead to success in school.

You are also the ones whose involvement in their education is essential. It has been shown repeatedly that what families do to help their children learn is more important to their success in school than family income or education. To be involved, you will need to… »» Know what your children are doing at school. Talk with them each day about school. Look at all the work they bring home whether they are in kindergarten or high school. »» Expect your children to do homework or school-related work every day for approximately 10 minutes for each year in school – starting in first grade. »» Show interest in your children’s education by attending as many school functions as you can. »» Handle academic difficulties and behavior problems when they first appear to resolve them quickly. »» Praise your children’s efforts so they know you are proud of the work they are doing in school. »» Help your children get organized so they arrive at school on time and ready to learn.

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Tips on Avoiding Homework Battles

Answer: Most homework battles occur over the time it is to be started. This needs to be set in stone. A contract between parent and child can resolve most homework battles. We‘ll be happy to send you a contract. Or you can find one on our Web site under the “Skill Builders” section in Resources. If you decide to use a contract, have very few terms at first.

Beyond using a homework contract, make it a point to give help only when it is requested. You don’t want to have homework battles harm the relationship between you and your child. Try to settle this issue now before it becomes a running battle over the years.

Parents should send questions to dearteacher@dearteacher.com or ask them on the columnists’ Web site at www.dearteacher.com.  ©Compass Syndicate Corporation, 2009 Distributed by King Features Syndicate September/October 2013

West Virginia Family Magazine  www.WVFamilyOnline.com

Question: Can you give me some tips on avoiding the nightly homework battle with my second-grader? – Seeking Peace

Dear Teacher is a help column offering solid advice to help all parents make the educational experience of their children as successful as possible.

Columnists Peggy Gisler and Marge Eberts are experienced teachers, and authors of 70 textbook and advice books for parents. Both have master's degrees in education and specialist degrees in reading. They have been answering readers' questions in newspapers and magazines across the country for over 25 years. They each have children of their own and see themselves as interpreters between parents and schools as they have been on both sides. www.dearteacher.com

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Family Health

Crash Course: Returning to a School-Year Sleep Routine

by Malia Jacobson

T

rading summer’s relaxed sleep schedule for a school-year routine is an important part of back-to-school prep, says Roslinde Collins, M.D., medical director of the Sleep Center at Rutland Regional Medical Center in Vermont. Reestablishing an earlier time for lights-out helps ensure that kids get the rest they need to shine at school.

Kids who get their required 9-12 hours (depending on age) of nightly slumber are primed for school-year success. Proper rest helps children learn and retain information, because memories are incorporated during REM sleep.

Early to Bed, Early to Rise. During the transition, adjust both bedtime and wake-up time. Hitting the sack early isn’t enough, says Collins; kids won’t be tired enough to fall asleep at an earlier hour unless they’re also waking earlier in the morning.

Once they’re up, let the sun shine in—fling open curtains to expose them to morning light, and serve breakfast in the brightest spot in the house. They’ll be awake in no time, and the light will reset their internal clock to help them fall asleep earlier at night.

An hour before bedtime, help kids slow down to prepare for sleep.

Draw the curtains to block out late-summer rays and limit stimulating television and video games. Spend time winding down as a family with books and other quiet activities.

If a late summer bedtime lingers into the school year, kids will be subject to grouchiness, inattentiveness, or worse. “Chronically sleep-deprived children often exhibit symptoms of hyper- Stay in the Groove. Kids’ bodies and brains depend on consisactivity and can even be diagnosed with tency, so aim to keep bedtimes in check Is your child getting enough sleep?

ADHD,” says Collins. even on weekends and school breaks.

Check these guidelines to be sure.

Collins recommends keeping schoolDon’t expect kids to fall back into their vacation bedtimes no more than an hour 15-16 hours per day school-year sleep habits without some One to Four Weeks Old later than normal.

One to Twelve Months Old 14-15 hours per day help. While you can’t make them celSleeping in on weekends is a reality of One to Three Years Old 12-14 hours per day ebrate summer’s end, you can plan for our sleep-starved culture, but it’s no 10-12 hours per day Three to Six Years Old brighter mornings and happier days with Seven to Twelve Years Old 10-11 hours per day substitute for good everyday habits. A some advance preparation.

8-9 hours per day Thirteen to Eighteen Years Old general rule of thumb: “If kids have to sleep in more than two hours later than Slow and Steady. Kids depend on a regular sleep schedule, so don’t wait until the last day of summer normal on weekends, they’re probably not getting enough sleep to dig out the alarm clock. Rising early after months of sleeping in during the week,” says Collins. can shock little bodies and leave kids in a daze during the critical When it comes to sleep, kids are not little adults. “Parents often wonder why it’s hard to get their child up and ready for school first weeks of school. after eight hours of sleep. They’re not done sleeping yet!” says Instead, give them time to adjust to the new schedule. Beginning Collins. Good school-year snooze habits will make this year their a week before the first day, wake kids 15 minutes earlier in the best yet.  morning, and move bedtime earlier by the same amount of time.

Malia Jacobson is a nationally published sleep and health journalist and author of Continue adjusting both wake-up and bedtime by 15 to 20 minutes Sleep Tight, Every Night: Helping Toddlers and Preschoolers Sleep Well Without per day until both are appropriate for their school-day schedule.

West Virginia Family Magazine  1-304-472-4528

Tears, Tricks, or Tirades.

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Books

Books

The Adventures of Detective Luke: THE DISAPPEARING DOG BOWL Written by Wilson Grant Hickman Illustrated by Kesmine Grace Hickman Award-winning book written and illustrated by brother and sister duo, ages 14 and 15. Detective Luke is a highly professional detective‌who just happens to be a dog! His newest case is the disappearance of his dog bowl. Recommended for ages 9-12. (Published by CreateSpace, paperback, 192 pages, $5.99, April 2013).

Keeper of the Reign Written by Emma Right This story takes place in a mythical world called Reign. Centuries ago, a curse reduced the inhabitants of Reign to an inch in size - now called The Elfies. The only way to reverse the curse is for Jules, his siblings, and their friends to travel into the enemies land to find the missing Ancient Books. A wonderful tale of family, friendship, and strength. Recommended for teens. (Published by Telemachus Press, paperback, 340 pages, $16.99, May 2013).

Books

Luna: Puppy Detective #2: No-Slack Jack Written by Kesmine Grace Hickman Written by Kesmine at the age of 13. She published her first book when she was only ten. The main character, Luna Bella, was inspired by Kesmine's own Shih Tzu. Luna Bella is a puppy detective. She finds herself trapped in an animal care center with a dangerous apparition - "The Ghost of No-Slack Jack". Recommended for ages 9-12. (Published

by CreateSpace, paperback, 172 pages, $5.99, April 2013).

The Dogma of Cats for Kids Written by Deb Snyder, PhD Author Deb Snyder uses colorful illustrations and rhyming text to share the wisdom of cats - live happy, have fun, be adventurous, express gratitude, forgive, live heart-centered, and more. For kids of all ages. Recommended for ages 4-8. (Published by CreateSpace, paperback, 32 pages, $14.95, April 2013). www.dogmaofcats.com

BookboardTM is designed to motivate kids to read by offering young readers a digital library subscription that has hundreds of books to discover, unlock, and collect.

Subscription features "Read to me" option, iPad App for reading anywhere and everywhere, unlimited reading, reading progress reports, multiple readers per account, parent features, and more. $4.99/month. Try Bookboard for free. For more information and to sign up for a free trial of Bookboard, visit http://bookboard.com/

Where Do The Animals Go When It Rains?

Written by Janet Crown This book is based on bedtime stories that author, Janet Crown, created with her kids based on their curiosities about animals and what happens to them when it rains. Recommended for ages 4-8.

(Published by Janet Crown, hard cover, 24 pages, $14.99, December 2012). www.dogmaofcats.com

WEST VIRGINIA Now in our 7th Year of Serving WV families and M A G A Z I N E businesses.

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September/October 2013

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

Family Matters

Taming Morning Madness

by Heather Lee Leap Do you dread mornings? The mad rush to get everyone up, dressed, fed and out of the house on time can aggravate the mellowest parent. If you are like many families, your mornings involve elevated blood pressure, cajoling, whining, and perhaps even yelling and tears. At the very least, you arrive at your destination frazzled and unhappy. And in the end, the emotional drama does not get you to school or work any sooner.

There is hope for a more peaceful and efficient start to your day.

With a little planning and the following suggestions you can organize your schedule and create new routines so you can honestly say, “Good Morning!”

West Virginia Family Magazine  1-304-472-4528

If packing lunch boxes is slowing you down, shift lunch-packing duties to the evening. When storing leftovers after dinner, quickly determine what can be packed in tomorrow’s lunch. Leftover beans, steamed vegetables and grain or pasta salads hold up well and taste good cold. As you put food away, divide portions directly into single serving containers, one for each child. You’ll rely less on convenience items, waste less food and save a step in the packing process. Designate one shelf in the refrigerator for lunch items. In the morning, grab items from the shelf and pop them into lunch boxes.

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ation twenty minutes later, require them to get dressed before they come to breakfast. No lolling around in pajamas. Aim to have them completely dressed before they can eat. No one should have to run back upstairs for socks once you announce it is time to go. Limit other potential distractions by putting tempting projects away in the evening.

If your kids can never find their homework and other papers, store anything that routinely travels between home and school in their backpack or book bag. Finished with that book from the school library? Toss it right in the pack. Permission slip signed? Tuck it in the bag before it disappears from the kitchen counter. If your child doesn’t already use a binder to keep track of paperwork, keep a pocket folder in your child’s pack to store homework pages and permission slips. Make the backpack the designated home for these items and no one will be scurrying to find them at the last minute.

If your kids act sluggish in the morning and have trouble waking, put them to bed earlier. The mad rush for the bus stop is inevitable if your kids routinely sleep in. According to the National Sleep Foundation, preschoolers need between eleven and thirteen hours of sleep, and school age children ages six to twelve still require a whopping ten to eleven hours of sleep each night.

Chronic fatigue will make children groggy and uncooperative in Finally, if you are still running late, redefine on-time. Most schools the morning. If your children are not getting enough shut-eye, have a first and second bell, and students are expected to be in their seats and ready to learn before that second bell rings. Being on time begin inching their bedtime earlier by 15 minutes. means arriving at school before the first bell so that kids have time If getting dressed is a challenge, choose tomorrow’s clothing the to get inside and get settled. night before. Morning brain-fog can be too thick for the decision-making process, so shift the choice to a time when your To assure that you arrive before that first bell, plan a five to ten minchild is more alert. Lay clothes on a chair or shelf, or hang them ute buffer into your schedule. Putting out the call of “all aboard” on a special hanger. Some families pick a weekend day to choose earlier will get you out of the house and at your destination with outfits for the entire week. Planning the next day’s outfit is a per- time to spare. Just don’t let that buffer lull you into a false sense of fect time to check in about your child’s schedule. Is there PE to- security. If you have five more minutes, use them to get everyone in morrow, or band practice? Use this time to set any special items the car, not to throw another load of laundry in the wash.  by the door, ready to be picked up on the way out of the house.

If your children wander back to their rooms to get dressed and you find them still in their P.J.’s, straddling their latest Lego creSeptember/October 2013

Heather Lee Leap is a freelance writer and mom. She is guilty of occasionally yelling at her children in the mornings.

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Safety

September is Backpack Safety America Month

Packing a Pain: Backpack Safety for Back-to-School

T

his fall, kids everywhere are heading back to class with their own unique sense of fashion on display. Whether your student sports a message tee, cargo shorts, or a school uniform, one accessory they’re sure to have is a backpack—soon to be overflowing with everything they consider essential (like snacks, earbuds, and perhaps even a book or two).

West Virginia Family Magazine  1-304-472-4528

For over 90 percent of the world’s schoolchildren, backpacks are a schoolday staple, toting everything from lunches to laptops. But many health professionals are concerned about the injuries they can cause. According to Andrew Casden, M.D., orthopedic surgeon and associate director of Beth Israel’s Spine Institute in New York City, overloaded backpacks can cause posture problems, back and shoulder pain, fatigue, muscle irritation, and tiny muscle tears.

Why is Backpack Safety Important?

Pack injuries are no walk in the park; repetitive stress injuries caused by backpack misuse can result in costly doctor visits, even missed school. Backpack Safety America reports that 89 percent of chiropractors have seen children for backpack-related pain.

Researchers say that many kids carry packs that are too heavy, but that’s only part of the problem. How a backpack is worn is just as important as its weight, says Henry Chambers, M.D., of Rady Children’s Hospital San Diego. Read on for backpack basis to help your child go back to school without pain.

Weighty Matters Family physician Darin Charles, M.D., of Methodist Mansfield Medical Center in Mansfield, Texas, recommends that backpack weight should not exceed 20 percent of the student’s body weight. That means 12 pounds is the maximum pack weight for a 60-pound child. Leaning forward while wearing the pack or struggling to take it off are signs that your child’s backpack is probably too heavy.

Proper Position Pack weight isn’t the only factor in back pain; backpack position is also important. Backpacks should be worn above the hips, researchers say, with maximum contact between the upper body and the pack.

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September/October 2013

by Malia Jacobson “The optimal position for wearing a backpack is high on the upperback, with straps over both shoulders,” says Alan Hargens, Ph.D., professor in the Department of Orthopedic Surgery at the UC San Diego School of Medicine. “Kids who wear their backpacks in the more stylish lower back position, or only use one strap, may suffer shoulder pain and posture problems.”

Strap Happy Look for a pack with wide, padded shoulder straps to help with weight distribution. Waist and chest straps are an added bonus, because they can help distribute the weight load (as long as your child actually uses them!).

Baggage Check Is extra cargo dragging down their backpack? According to researchers, kids often carry unnecessary items that add to the pack’s weight, like laptops and music players. Even excess paper can add up to an overburdened bag. Do periodic pack clean-outs to cut the excess.

Homeroom Zoom Peek inside the hallways of many of today’s schools and you’ll probably see a few backpacks on wheels. When large textbooks or laptops are a daily necessity, wheeled backpacks allow kids to tote heavy loads without straining their backs.

Changing kids’ backpack habits can be tough, requiring effort and encouragement from parents as well as cooperation from teachers and school staff. Ultimately, most parents can’t dictate what kids will and won’t carry in their overstuffed packs. But parents can ease their burden by encouraging healthy backpack habits, and prepare kids for a school year that’s successful and pain-free.  Malia Jacobson is a nationally published health journalist and mom of three.

Book Give-away

Enter to Win One of These Great Book Sets.

Mary Ellen Sullivan, MEd, MA

Choice Educational Services

Songbird Learning Center Assessment, tutoring, learning strategies, personalized instruction planning 304-795-4388 or 304-366-3722

email: learningoptions@frontiernet.net 305 Songbird Lane, Fairmont, WV 26554

Coconut's Set

Captain No Beard Set

Set of two books from Coconut, an American Girl's Best Friend.

Set of three Captain No Beard books

by Carole R. Roman

• Coconut's Cookbook: Fun and Fluffy Treats to Eat • Coconut's Guide to Life: Life Lessons from a Girl's Best Friend Coconut is a little Westie pup, playful and loyal. Come along as Coconut leads the way to cooking awesome treats and finding happiness wherever she goes. Ages 9 and up. $16 value.

• Captain No Beard - An Imaginary Tale of a Pirate's Life • Pepper Parrot's Problem with Patience • Stuck in the Doldrums - A Lesson in Sharing Alex goes on imaginary journeys full of danger and excitement - sure to keep young readers captivated and attentive from beginning to end.

Recommended for ages 4-8. $30 value.

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Qualified, caring, creative teachers Test scores above national averages Music and Art Lifetime fitness training Service projects and field trips 1 Old Leadsville Road Elkins, WV 304-636-4274

www.highlandadventistschool. org

American Girl Set Set of two books by American Girl.

• Dance! No Matter What Kinds of Dance You

Do, This Book Is For You • Girls Love Gymnastics American Girl celebrates a girl's inner star. Each book includes five 7"x7" tear-out inspirational posters. Ages 9 and up $20 value

Please check the book set you are entering for: Captain No Beard Set Coconut Set American Girl Set

Winners will be chosen by random drawings. Deadline for entries is Sep. 30, 2013.

Winners will be announced in an upcoming issue of WV Family Magazine. As always, we never share your information with third parties.

We are here to serve, not to be served.

Join our mission - enroll your child today. PreK-8.

Open to everyone.

St. Francis Central Catholic School 41 Guthrie Lane Morgantown, WV 26508 (Route 119 across from Walmart)

304-291-5070

www.stfrancismorgantown.com

Send your entry to: WV Family Magazine Attn: Book Give-Away PO Box 107 Buckhannon, WV 26201 September/October 2013

West Virginia Family Magazine  www.WVFamilyOnline.com

Entries must be received by Sep. 30, 2013.

Name: ______________________ Phone: ______________________ Address:_____________________ City: ________________________ State: __________ Zip: _________ Child’s age: __________________ School: _____________________

Central Catholic School

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 Quick Bits

An Accessible Online Library For Students With Print Disabilities

Bookshare, a completely free, (funded by the U.S. Department of Education, Office of Special Education Programs), online library of digital books for students with print disabilities - such as severe dyslexia, a visual impairment, or a physical disability. A downloadable reading software for the computer or a mobile device can read the book out loud.

A special education teacher or other professional on the staff can determine if your child is eligible and sign him or her up at school. At school, the teachers can download textbooks, as well as pleasure reading for your child.

You can have Bookshare at home, as well as at school (once your child has been qualified and process started by your child's teacher). You will be able to install the free reading tools on a home computer.

If you don’t have a computer at home, there are several options. You can have the school to download and transfer the books to an mp3 player, iPod, smart phone, or smart tablet. The school may even be able to lend one of these devices if necessary.

Helps students with Over 200,000 students currently use books from Bookshare. Ask your child's school about accessible books and Bookshare. A few questions and a little investigation can make a huge difference for your child. Don’t wait any longer. These suggestions were contributed by Bookshare, a federally funded nonprofit. You can find lots of information at www.bookshare.org. 

print disabilities.

Books for every age and interest.

Free membership for qualified U.S. students and schools.

Free reader software for Bookshare members.

Flu Vaccines Aimed At Younger Populations Could Break Annual Transmission Cycle A recent study supported by the National In the United States, Institutes of Health only about one-third of provided a computer the population actually modeling analysis of gets a flu vaccine each vaccine transmission by year. certain age populations.

The study found that most flu is transmitted by children in school and young adults at work.

Historic vaccine efforts have been focused on people at high health risks and the elderly. With this new understanding that children and young adults are the ones who spread it, determining who has priorities for vaccination may change.

While this age group often do not die from the flu, they are spreading it to everyone else.  Collaborators on this research included researchers from Department of Biomedical Sciences in Oregon State University, scientists from Yale University and the University of Texas. It was supported by the National Institute of General Medical Sciences.

West Virginia Family Magazine  1-304-472-4528

WV Family Resource Centers

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West Virginia has over 25 Family Resource Centers throughout the state. These centers are like a one stop shop for resources for children and families.

Family Resource Centers bring together existing services in a single location such as

a school or other neighborhood building. This comprehensive approach increases the accessibility of services, brings resources together in one place, provides family support and education, and allows the Centers to meet the community's needs. Family Resource Cen-

ters serve families pre-natal through age eighteen. Each Center offers a variety of services to reflect the diversity of the community needs. To see a list of centers and a description of their programs, go to www. wvdhhr.org/bcf/eces_services. asp.

Parenting Special Needs

Equipping parents, developing families.

Fun, Free, & Simple daily activities offered for newborn babies to children age 5.

The online magazine serving the special needs community. Providing information and inspiration to parents of special needs children of all ages and stages in life.

www.ProductiveParenting.com

FREE SUBSCRIPTIONS

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September/October 2013

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Unique And Simple Tips To Help Improve Your Study Space Give Your Desk a Makeover:

• Color-coordinate your desk just like you would a room to make it unique to your style.

• Make a study space colorful and expressive by painting the wall in front of a desk- or the desk itself.

• Amp up boring desk space by placing a whimsical chair or lamp in the mix – vintage lamps are especially fun.

Conquer Clutter:

• Organization is key! Eliminate storage on your desk top to create a clean work space.

• Only keep essential objects (pens, pencils, stapler etc.) on top of the desk.

• Invest in a good wastebasket and toss or file any unused papers.

Get the Creativity Flowing:

• Hang a pin board above your desk for inspirational photos, clippings, or words.

• Encourage productivity by placing a plant or living thing on your desk. Bonus!

Plants are calming, which is helpful in a stress-filled environment.

Plus, they help clean the air in the room and add oxygen to the air.

• Take time to invest in a healthy Children make a tempting target for identity thieves, as theft of a child's identity may go undework space and you’ll do your tected for years - with possible serious consequences. According to the Federal Trade Commisbest work. 

Protecting Your Child's Identity

sion, more than 19,000 cases of child identity theft were reported in 2011, up from about 6,000 in 2003.

www.apartmenttherapy.com

To help safeguard your child’s identity, TransUnion recommends the following to parents: Be mindful of the personal information that your child is carrying.

Remind your child that they should never give out their personal information, especially to a stranger, and it should only be given to a teacher or other person they trust and know.

Consider hand-delivering directly to the school any forms with personal information or medical records instead of sending them with your child.

In this social media and digital age, remind children to never put personal information on the internet and never post a picture of their photo ID - driver's license, school ID, etc...

Possible warning signs of child identity theft include:

TransUnion

• 334 Days: Average time to detect a case of child identity theft • 56 Percent of child identity theft cases involves a stolen Social Security number • 27 Percent of reported child identity theft cases were perpetrated by a family member or friend • 1 in 40 households with children under 18 had experienced a case of child ID theft 2012 Child Identity Theft Fraud Report released by the Identity Theft Assistance Center

For graduation rates, median debt, and other important info, visit our website: www.oicwv.org www.oicwv.org

Heritage Christian School

Medical Coding Enrolling Now!

Apply Online

(304) 366-8142 888-999-1602

oicfmt@oicwv.org

Medical Assistant Dental Assistant Pharmacy Tech.

www.hcswv.org 304-842-1740

LIFE CHANGING EDUCATION Offering K3 - High school

Affordable Christian education Spiritual and Intellectual Development Before and After School Care Excellent Test Scores September/October 2013

West Virginia Family Magazine  www.WVFamilyOnline.com

The child begins to receive suspicious mail, like pre-approved credit cards and other financial offers normally sent to adults, in their name.

The parent tries to open a financial account for the child, but finds one already exists or learns the application is denied because of a poor credit history. A credit report already exists in their name. If the child has one, they may have been targeted already, since typically, an application for credit, a credit account, or a public record starts the compilation of a consumer credit file. 

Child ID Theft Statistics

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BACK-TO-SCHOOL Picks: ditor’s E

B

ack-to-School time is a time of many news and firsts. Check out these awesome new products and be the first in your school to have one.

The RIDELIT LED Bike Light provides clear, obvious visibility for people who cycle at night. Its adjustable elastic band attaches to your ankle to create a moving circle of light or can be attached to the handlebar or bike seat post. Perfect for afterdark games, activities, or events. ($9.99).

Available at www.niteize.com.

TABEE - The Ultimate Tablet Tote.

This tote bag/tablet purse is cute and functional, with a padded pocket for your tablet or e-reader, three organizational pockets inside and two exterior pockets. Stylish, protective, and organizational. Many colors and patterns. $44.00 www.pouchee.com POUCHEE - The Ultimate Purse Organizer. Organize your essentials and change bags in a snap! This compact purse organizer makes keeping essentials in one place easy and transferring between bags has never been more simple!

Many colors. $25.00 www.pouchee.com Photos provided by Pouchee.com

Photo provided by Niteize.com

Kimmidoll Junior collection includes pens to notebooks to key chains, these adorable characters are sure to make school all the more exciting while brightening up any girl's day! Available at amazon. com. Notebook $8. Pencil case $13.

Happy Charmz are fun, fashionable charms

Photo by Kids Preferred Photo by Avalon PR

for pencils and pens - the newest innovation in tween expression. They are collectible, tradeable and super fashionable. Over 80 different charms to choose from to create your personal statement. Available in starter kits ($6.99), Trio sets ($6.99) and there is also a super cute storage pouch with a backpack clip ($5.99).

ShopSmart: Five Easy Ways to Save on Back-to-School Stuff

Plus, Where To Save The Most Money On School Supplies

West Virginia Family Magazine  1-304-472-4528

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he September 2013 issue of ShopSmart magazine, from Consumer Reports, features five easy tricks for saving on educational essentials.

“Don’t dash into an office-supply store to buy everything,” said Lisa Lee Freeman, editor-in-chief of ShopSmart. “If you find yourself beyond the sale bins, you could wind up paying more than twice as much as at a discount store.”

ShopSmart also conducted a price scan of common school and office supplies and found the biggest differences in price – at least 50 percent – on these seven items: notebook paper, security envelopes, sticky notes, one-subject notebooks, two-pocket folders, glue sticks, and pens. Walmart was the low-price winner, but similar items were just a few cents more at Target.

Five Easy Ways to Save on School & Office Supplies 1. Look for store-brand supplies. They’re not easy to find September/October 2013

(Walmart had almost none), but shoppers who do can save as much as 74 percent compared to name-brand supplies.

2. Check out weekly sales circulars the first of the month for the best deals. Sites such as Spoofee.com and SundaySaver. com links shoppers to local ads for dozens of stores.

3. Download the Weekly Ads & Sales app. This mobile tool, free for Apple, allows users to view the latest ad pages while on the go without dealing with paper clutter.

4. Look for sales online. ShopSmart found online prices for OfficeDepot, Staples, Target and Walmart closely matched those in stores, but shoppers may have to shell out for shipping.

5. Ask for a price match. Shoppers who find a better deal somewhere else can show their phone or a paper ad at checkout at stores with price-matching policies.

For more ways to save on back-to-school items, including clothing, electronics and more, check out the September 2013 issue of ShopSmart, on newsstands now.  ShopSmart has a newsstand price of $4.99 and is available nationwide at major retailers including Barnes & Noble, Walmart, Kroger, Safeway, Publix and Target. ShopSmart is available by subscription at www.ShopSmartmag.org.



Family Safety

October is National Fire Safety Month

FIRE SAFETY for Your Family

FIRE SAFETYCHECKLIST Photo courtesy of Getty Images

N

o one likes to think about bad things happening to their home or family. But things like home fires do happen – more often than you might think.

Here are some easy steps you and your family can take to protect your home and each other, and to understand the basics of fire safety.

YOUR BEST DEFENSE According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), working smoke alarms are your best chance for escaping a home fire. They can alert you to a fire 24 hours a day, seven days a week, whether you’re

• 11 p.m. to 7 a.m. are the peak alarm times for home fire deaths – when people tend to be asleep and the house is likely to be dark.

• On average, families have less than three minutes from the time the first smoke alarm sounds to escape a fire.

The NFPA says that in the U.S., almost twothirds of home fire deaths resulted from fires in homes with inoperable smoke alarms or no smoke alarms. In reported home fires in which the smoke alarms were present but did not operate: • Half of the smoke alarms had missing or disconnected batteries. Nuisance alarms were the leading reason for disconnected smoke alarms.

• Almost one-quarter (23 percent) of the smoke alarm failures were due to dead batteries.

• Only seven percent of the failures were due to hardwired power source problems, including disconnected smoke alarms, power outages and power shut-offs.  (Family Features)

September/October 2013

West Virginia Family Magazine  www.WVFamilyOnline.com

Home fires kill an average of seven people every day, and they cause billions of dollars in property damage. “We know fire safety is important to families,” said Michelle Atkinson, Vice President of Marketing for Energizer North America. “Energizer is proud to partner with the International Association of Fire Chiefs and 6,400 fire departments around the country in their long-standing commitment to spreading the lifesaving message of fire safety and preparedness with tips like these.”

awake or asleep.

Install smoke alarms on every level of the home and outside each sleeping area.

Best location – On the ceiling in the center of the room, at least 12 inches from any wall.

Second best location – On a wall 12 inches below the ceiling.

Test alarms once a month.

To reach it, stand on a chair or use a broom handle, and push the unit’s test button. If you don’t hear anything, the battery is probably dead. If the unit still doesn’t sound after you’ve changed the battery, replace it with a new smoke alarm.

Change batteries at least once a year.

The clock change for daylight saving time is an easy way to remember to change your batteries, as well.

Install a fire extinguisher in or near the kitchen.

Use a multipurpose fire extinguisher suitable for use on multiple flammable materials.

Check the pressure regularly to make sure it’s at the recommended level.

Keep flashlights with fresh batteries at your bedside for help in finding the way out and signaling for help in the event of a fire.

Develop and practice an emergency escape plan. See page 20 for more Fire Safety and an Escape Plan Grid for your family to use.

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October is National Fire Safety Month

A

Having A Working Smoke Alarm Cuts The Chances Of Dying In A Home Fire In Half

ccording to the National Fire Protection Association, two-thirds of home fire deaths occur in homes with no or faulty smoke alarms. Smoke alarm failures

usually result from missing, disconnected, or dead batteries. If your smoke alarm is "chirping", it is time to change the battery do so immediately. NEVER unplug/remove batteries just to make it stop chirping. If a new battery is install and the chirping continues, see the owner's manual. It may need cleaned or may be malfunctioning and the whole

unit need replaced. NFPA recommends that smoke alarms be replaced every ten years.

Smoke alarm batteries should be changed annually - a good reminder is when we change clocks for Daylight Saving Time. In October, during Fire Prevention Week, be sure to check your smoke alarms by simply pressing the test button located on the smoke detector.

West Virginia Family Magazine ď Ź 1-304-472-4528

Use This Grid to Create a

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Use this grid above to PREPARE your fire escape plan. Draw a floor plan of your home, including all windows and doors, and label each sleeping area. Indicate all working smoke alarms, which should be located on every floor of your home and outside of sleeping areas. Plan two routes of escape from every room and mark your family meeting spot, located safely away from your home. Post the escape plans on each level of your home and in locations where overnight guests and caretakers can easily see it. Most importantly, PRACTICE your fire escape plan regularly, at least twice a year. If you prepare and practice, you can PREVENT THE UNTHINKABLE. September/October 2013



Women's Health

Breast Cancer Awareness Products for a Cause

THINK PINK THIS OCTOBER!!

HERE ARE SOME GREAT PRODUCTS THAT ARE CHIC, PINK, AND SUPPORT THE CAUSE!!

Pretty in Pink!! Woven

Workz Donates to Breast Cancer!! The Pink Charlotte Throw is a New York Award-Winning throw. Fluffy yet substantial in weight this 50x30 throw is fun yet fashionable. During the month of October Woven Workz will be donating 15% of the Charlotte proceeds to Breast Cancer! Price: $89 www.wovenworkz.com

Kind Notes are jars enclosed with adorable miniature envelopes to be opened by the recipient once a day with the goal of bringing a smile to their face. Kind Notes has created a special edition jar in honor of National Breast Cancer Awareness month and it’s the perfect and most personal way to reach out to your friends or family with your best words of encouragement. Words are the most powerful tools we have-use them to make someone’s day with Kind Notes!:) Price: $35.95 www.kindnotes.com

Whether you’re feeling whimsical, wild, vibrant or fresh, PlusMotif has a combination for you. PlusMotif interchangeable covers come with a dual stylus pen. The stylus will work on any touch screen device. What’s more, the case is foldable and enables you to interchange the position of the device and the notepad. Plus Motif will donate 5% of sales from "Plus Motif Bright Pink" products sold between August 15 and October 31st 2013 to the American Cancer Society. $39.99 www.plusmotif.com/

The ABonita Scarf® is a unique scarf has a built in adjustable headband that snaps and stays on! Made of 100% cotton and come in an array of colors and prints. You get four different looks from one scarf with no tying needed! In the month of October, 5% of all interent sales will be donated to the American Breast Cancer Society in the month of October Price: $24.00 www.abonitascarf.com

September/October 2013

West Virginia Family Magazine  www.WVFamilyOnline.com

Who says shoes have to match?

XOLO celebrates your child’s unique personality (and your own!) with coordinating but mismatched fabric designs in fun, colorful patterns. For the month of October - XOLO Shoes will dontate 10% of the proceeds of our Tabby Cheetah shoes and backpacks to Susan G Koman for the Cure! Show your support by purchasing our fun and bright pink (mis)matched shoes! They are available in Toddler, Youth, and Women's sizes. Price: 29.99 www.xoloshoes.com

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

Kids' Health

School-Based Health Centers: Kids Stay Healthier and Do Better in School

by Genevieve Larimer, FNP

West Virginia Family Magazine  1-304-472-4528

School-Based Health Centers are starting to appear in many coun- fer after-school hours. Parents can come in with their children for ties all over West Virginia. These centers are basically a doctor’s appointments if needed. office in the school. With the parent’s permission, providers at At a School-Based Health Center a child can be taken out of class School-Based Health Centers can see children for sick visits with for just 20-30 minutes for an appointment instead of missing half acute problems, such as: earache, fever, sinus infection, flu, cough, a day of school. If they do have to be sent home for illness, they can go to the School-Based Health Center first injury, upset stomach, etc… They can also see and see a provider, be diagnosed, and have a prechildren for chronic health problems (asthma, allergies, diabetes, ADHD, depression, high blood The first School-Based scription called in (if needed) before being picked pressure, etc…), well-child exams, sports physi- Health Centers in West up, which saves time for parents. Having regular cals, camp physicals, etc. In addition, School- Virginia opened in 14 access to health care means kids stay healthier, and we know that healthy kids do better in school!

Based Health Centers offer services such as alschools in 1994. Since School-Based Health Centers all over West Virlergy shots, immunizations, hearing and vision then many new sites ginia are helping to make health care available, screens, and lab work.

The main goal of School-Based Health Centers have opened around accessible, and affordable to children. They save is make health care available and affordable for the state. There are time for parents and limit the amount of school all children. Many children are not able to see now School-Based children miss due to illness or health problems.

Check with your child’s school to see if there is a doctor regularly due to time or financial constraints. School-Based Health Centers offer visits Health Centers in 32 a School-Based Health Center near you and get during school hours so that parents do not have to counties serving over them enrolled today! leave work to take their child to an appointment. 80 schools and more For more information refer to the West Virginia The center can bill insurance, but also works with will be opening next School-Based Health Assembly at www.wvsbha. org.  programs like Medicaid and CHIP. Some cenyear. ters offer sliding scale rates for children with no insurance.

Genevieve Larimer is a Family Nurse Practitioner with ComSchool-Based Health Centers are usually staffed by a mid-level munity Care of West Virginia, Inc. and serves as a School-Based Health Center provider at Buckhannon-Upshur High School, Academy Elementary School, South provider (a Physician’s Assistant or Nurse Practitioner) along with Harrison Middle School, South Harrison High School and Lost Creek Elementary. a nurse. They can see children during school hours and some of-

22

Do you know a child who is not:

FAMILY AND IMPLANT DENTISTRY Thomas E. Condron, D.D.S. 234 Court Street Clarksburg, WV 26301

304-623-4984 We Can Make A Difference!

1‐866‐321‐4728 www.wvdhhr.org/birth23

Every child deserves a GREAT START!

WV Birth to Three services and supports are provided under Part C of the individuals with Disabilities Act (IDEA) and administered through the WV Department of Health and Human Resources, Office of Maternal, Child and Family Health.

www.dentist4kids.org

September/October 2013

*moving *hearing * seeing * learning or *talking like others their age?

 Family Calendar

September/October 2013

Deadline for the next issue is Sep. 23, 2013. The next issue will be on shelves November/December and is our Holiday issue. Send us your family-friendly holiday event.

Please call 304-472-4528 or email: info@wvfamilymagazine.com.

Calendar also listed on our calendar page at www.WVFamilyOnline.com ONGOING Expecting Moms Monongalia County Health Dept., Morgantown, WV. Meetings are for expecting moms. Second Thursday of every month. 10:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. 1st floor Conference Room. 304-680-0568.

Farm Discovery Center Blackwater Falls State Park, Davis, WV. May thru October 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Monday-Saturday, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Sundays. 304-259-5611 www.farmdiscoverycenter.com. (see ad on page 27) Festival Fridays Jawbone Park, Buckhannon, WV. Every Friday thru the end of September.

Live music, entertainment, demonstrations, food, West Virginia-grown produce, and handmade products. Children's activities. visitbuckhannon.org, call 304.473.1400, or email info@VisitBuckhannon.org.

Morgantown Ice Arena Skating Rink 1001 Mississippi St., Morgantown, WV. Open August 1 – March 31. Skating provides great exercise and an opportunity to get out of the house - plus, it's not like exercising at the gym... skating is fun! Also lessons offered - beginner and advanced, figure skating, ice hockey. 304-296-8356 Private Music Lessons Saint Paul School of Music LIFE UMC Clarksburg and Fairmont locations. New students accepted anytime.

Beginner - Advanced. Ages 5 & up. 304-3663758. See ad on page 10.

P.U.R.R. WV Adoption Events are ongoing

Studio Kids Classes at The Wow Factory, Morgantown, WV. Ages 5-12 Tuesday or Thursdays 4:30 p.m. $15 per session. 304-5992WOW (2969) www. thewowfactoryonline. com. See ad on page 13.

Train Rides at Durbin & Greenbrier Valley Railroad Elkins, WV. Every Thursday- Sunday in September. Every Tuesday-Sunday in October! The Polar Express Rides begin November 7 – reserve your tickets today!

Mtn-rail.com or call 866-874-7653 WVReads150 is a reading challenge for all ages to celebrate WV's 150th Birthday. Individuals and teams are invited to read 150 books between Jan. 1 - Dec. 31, 2013. Visit your local library to register or for more information. AUGUST August is Family Fun Month August is National Picnic Month Aug 19 Fall Registration Begins at WVU Community Music Program Morgantown, WV. Classes begin Tuesday, September 3. 304-2935511 http://music.wvu.edu/community_music_program Aug 24 Morgantown Dance Studio Auditions for 2013 The Nutcracker Morgantown, WV. The Nutcracker will be performed at The Metropolitan Theatre Nov. 23-24. Check out the website for audition times. www.morgantowndance.

org. See ad on page 29.

Aug 25 Dog Splash at Marilla Pool Morgantown, WV. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Games, contests, and tail wagging fun! All dogs must be on a leash and supervised by an adult at all times. No pronged collars or flexi leads are permitted for this event. Proof of vaccinations, including rabies, is required to enter this event. http:// www.boparc.org/ SEPTEMBER Sep 2 Labor Day is a United States federal holiday observed on the first Monday in September, that celebrates the economic and social contributions of workers.

Sep 3 Fall classes begin at Morgantown Dance Studio Morgantown, WV. Classes offered include: Leap ‘n Learn program for children 3-6, classes in ballet, modern, tap, and more for children and adults of all levels. 304-2923266 www.morgantowndance.org See ad on page 29.

Sep 5-8 Randolph County Fair Elkins, WV. Family fun for everyone! Admission. Gambill Amusements, food/vendors, rodeo, barrel racing competition, antique car show, pumpkin pie eating contest, demolition derby, greased pig contest, and more. http://www.randolphcountyfairwv.com/ Sep 6-8 23rd Annual WV Black Heritage Festival Clarksburg, WV. A fun-filled three day event celebrating African-American culture. This fesContinued on page 25 September/October 2013

West Virginia Family Magazine  www.WVFamilyOnline.com

Horseback Riding - Open Year Round Mountain Trail Rides 255 Freeland , Davis, WV. Horseback riding in the beautiful mountains of Canaan Valley, WV. 304-866-4652 www. mountaintrailrides.com.

at various locations around North Central WV. P.U.R.R. WV is a no-kill cat rescue Please go to http://www.purrwv.org/html/events.html for dates and locations. $5 Friday Adoptions at Eastern Pet Supply 9 a.m. See ad on page 25.

23



Smart Stuff

oes Your Child Doodle in Class or During Homework Time?

by Kimberly McCallen

D

on't act too fast to stop the doodles! A study, which was pub- than non-doodlers. By taking away the ability to doodle could lished in the journal Applied Cognitive Psychology, shows restrict the ability to concentrate and retain information. Some students use doodling to purposefully help in that doodling actually helps to stay focused and pay attention.

At 1 month of age, HepB (1-2 months), Doodling expends just enough energy to prevent daydreaming, but notetaking by emphasizing words, phases, and At 2 months of age, HepB (1-2 importantfrom information.

2013 Recommended for other Children Birth Through 6 Years Old allows attention to be on the task at handImmunizations - whether it is listening to months), DTaP, PCV, Hib, Polio, and RV aAt 4lecture, watching a film, or concentrating on a problem. months of age, DTaP, PCV, Doodling can be encouraged to students who Hib, Polio, and RV do not already doodle.

Doodling can be At 6 months of age, HepB (6-18 A doodling child months), DTaP, PCV, Hib, Polio may appear distracted and not paying attention, scribbles, 15 lines, underlining, circles, shading, (6-18 months), RV, and Influenza 2 4 6 12 18 19–23 1 2–3 4–6 however the opposite is actually at work here.

(This also applies (yearly, 6 months through 18 Birth month months months months months months months months years years  or small illustrations. years)* to adults in the work environment.)

Doodlers actually retain more At 12 months of age, MMR (12-15 HepB † HepB HepB months), PCV (12-15 months) , Hib Varicella At 1(12-15 monthmonths), of age, HepB (1-2 (12-15 months), HepA (12-23 months), § months) , and At 2 months ofInfluenza age, HepB(yearly, (1-2 6 months 18 years)* months),through DTaP, PCV, Hib, Polio, At and4-6 RVyears, DTaP, IPV, MMR, Varicella, andofInfluenza (yearly, At 4 months age, DTaP, PCV, 6 Hib, Polio, and RV months through 18 years)* At 6 months of age, HepB (6-18 months), DTaP, PCV, Hib, Polio your family (6-18 months), RV, andIsInfluenza To protect growing? (yearly, 6 months through 18 your new baby and years)* yourself against whooping At 12 months of age, MMR (12-15

RV

RV

RV

Hib

Hib

Hib

2013 Recommended Immunizations Old DTaP DTaP DTaP for Children from DTaP DTaP Birth Through 6 Years

Birth

1

month

PCV

PCV

PCV

months IPV

months IPV

months

2

4

6

West Virginia Family Magazine  1-304-472-4528

cough, get HepB HepB † a Tdap vaccine

months), PCV (12-15 months) , end of each towards the Hib (12-15 months), Varicella pregnancy. Talk to your (12-15 months), HepA (12-23 doctor for more details. months)§, and Influenza (yearly, 6 months through 18 years)* At 4-6 years, DTaP, IPV, MMR, Shaded boxes indicate the Varicella, and Influenza (yearly, 6 months through 18 years)*

24

Is your family growing? To protect

doctor for the next shot. about vaccines.

For more information, call toll free

15

HepB

18

months

months

DTaP

DTaP

DTaP

Varicella

DTaP

Hib

Hib

Hib

Hib

HepA§

PCV

PCV

PCV

PCV

IPV recommended for children aged 6 months through 8 years * Two doses given at least four weeks apart areIPV

FOOTNOTES:

of age who are getting a flu vaccine for the first time and for some other children in this age group.

§

2–3

years

4–6

years IPV

MMR

MMR

IPV

19–23

Influenza (Yearly)*

RV

* Influenza Two doses of HepA vaccine are needed for lasting protection. The first dose of HepA(Yearly) vaccine should be

given between 12 months and 23 months of age. The second dose should be given 6 to 18 months later.

HepA vaccination may be given to any child 12 months and older to protect against HepA. Children and adolescents who did not receive the HepA vaccine and are at high-risk, should be vaccinated against HepA.

MMR

Varicella

If your child has any medical conditions that put him at risk for infection or is traveling outside the United States, talk to your child’s doctor about additional vaccines that he may need.

Shaded boxes indicate the vaccine can be given during shown age range.

Talk with your child’s doctor September/October 2013 if you have questions

PCV

RV

yourself whooping you don’t against need to start over, just go back your child’s cough, get atoTdap vaccine doctor forthe the end nextof shot. towards each Talk with yourTalk child’s doctor pregnancy. to your ifdoctor you have for questions more details. about vaccines.

For more information, call toll free 1-800-CDC-INFO (1-800-232-4636) NOTE: If your child misses a shot, or visit you don’t need to start over, just go back to your child’s http://www.cdc.gov/vaccines

12

monthsIPV months

RV

vaccine can be given during shown age range.

your and NOTE: If yournew childbaby misses a shot,

Hib

HepA

Varicella DTaP

IPV

See back page for more information on vaccinepreventable diseases and the vaccines that prevent them.

MMR

Varicella

§

FOOTNOTES:

* Two doses given at least four weeks apart are recommended for children aged 6 months through 8 years of age who are getting a flu vaccine for the first time and for some other children in this age group. §

Two doses of HepA vaccine are needed for lasting protection. The first dose of HepA vaccine should be given between 12 months and 23 months of age. The second dose should be given 6 to 18 months later.

HepA vaccination may be given to any child 12 months and older to protect against HepA. Children and adolescents who did not receive the HepA vaccine and are at high-risk, should be vaccinated against HepA.

If your child has any medical conditions that put him at risk for infection or is traveling outside the United States, talk to your child’s doctor about additional vaccines that he may need.

See back page for more information on vaccinepreventable diseases and the vaccines that prevent them.

www.healthybabieswv.com

Children’s Hospital

 Family Calendar continued tival is FREE...So bring the entire family. Browse the vendors for unique gifts, taste some delicious soul food, and listen to music by world class artists. Mark the dates and we'll see you there! http://wvbhf.com

Sep 22 The Beach Boys at The Clay Center, Travel back in time to a carefree era of romance, cars, and surfing with one of the most popular All-American bands in music history. Tickets: $45, $58, $68, $75 304-561-3570 theclaycenter.org

P.eople U.nited for R.escue & R.ehabilitation P.U.R.R. West Virginia Inc.

Too often cats are not valued in our rescue system. P.U.R.R. is changes reality for cats and kittens everyday, by giving them the care and value they deserve. Your donations will help us help them!

Every Donation Helps!

Please Give A Gift of Life!

help@purrwv.org www.purrwv.org March/April 2013

MIDDLETOWN MALL

Autumnal Equinox - this is the First Day of Fall.

Sep 26 Job Fair/Business Showcase 9329 Middletown Mall, Fairmont, WV. 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. 304-363-3230 Sep 28-Oct 6 77th Mountain State Forest Festival Elkins, WV. One of the largest and oldest festivals in the state. Whether it is your homecoming or first visit, young or old, come and participate in many events & activities - parades, exhibits, arts and crafts, delicious food, carnival, and more.

304-636-1824 www.forestfestival.com

West Virginia Family Magazine  www.WVFamilyOnline.com

Sep 8 National Grandparent's Day - first Sunday after Labor Day. Grandparent's Day has been a national holiday since 1978. It is a day to reflect on the impact grandparents have on our lives and our society. Founded by a WV mom/grandma, Marian McQuade of Fayette County. http://www. grandparents-day.com/event1.htm

Learn how to soothe a crying baby at www.purplecrying.info/

3

nts

ve Fall E

Sep 2 Mall Closed - Labor Day Sep 26 Job Fair/ Business Showcase 11 am - 7 pm Oct 5 "Clip for the Cure" Breast Cancer Awareness Event 10 am - 6 pm Oct 17 "Lights on After School" Program 4 - 7 pm Oct 28 Halloween Parade 6 pm

9329 Middletown Mall White Hall, WV 26554

304-363-3230

OCTOBER October is National Fire Safety Month - see pages 19 and 20 for fire safety tips and a grid to create your family escape plan.

Oct 5 “Clip for the Cure” Breast Cancer Awareness Event 9329 Middletown Mall, Fairmont, WV. 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. 304-363-3230

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places

& Historic Barn Philippi, WV

Oct 12 Making Strides Against Breast Cancer of North Central WV Hazel Ruby McQuain Park, 185 Garrett St., Morgantown, WV. Join the fight against breast cancer by participating in this 5K walk. Wheelchairs, wagons, strollers, and walkers are welcome. No pets or bicycles please.

Registration at 9:00 a.m. www.stridesmorgantown.org.

Oct 12 -13 Fall Festival and Antique Fair Prickett's Fort State Park, Fairmont, WV. Enjoy a fall weekend that focuses on 18th century foods, including demonstrations and displays about wild game, food production, harvest, preservation, cooking, customs and manners. Shop the Antiques Fair.

Regular admission is required for the historic attractions and festival.

Saturday 10 am to 4 pm; Sunday 1 to 4 pm. 304-363-3030 www.prickettsfortstatepark.com Continued on page 27 *Information about events is subject to change. Please use the listed contact information for more details on events.

Adaland Mansion is a stately home built in 1870 and restored with period decor and furnishings. Historic guided tours are designed to surround the visitor with an idea of life in 1870's.

Guided Tours

May 1 through December 31.

Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Sundays 1-5 p.m. or by appointment. $10 adults. Children under 12 are free with parents.

School Tours - grades 5-9 (Sep, Oct, Apr, May) - Call for info.

Calendar of Events Sept. 14 Heritage Day at the Barn Sept. 21-22 Celebrate WV Women

Oct. 24 Evening at the Mansion House 5:30-8 p.m.

Please check website for times and admission.

304-457-1587 info@adaland.org www.adaland.org September/October 2013

West Virginia Family Magazine  www.WVFamilyOnline.com

Oct 11-13 Fall Festival Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum Weston, WV. A variety of vendors offering an assortment of food, crafts, and many other items. Opportunities to explore the Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum will be offered that include flashlight tours and heritage tours; and make sure to take a trip through our haunted house.

25



Safe Teen Driving Series

Is Your Teen READY to Drive?

Age vs. Maturity

West Virginia Family Magazine  1-304-472-4528

A

26

ccording to the Center for Disease Control, vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death among 15-20 year olds. Decades of research by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration found that maturity is one of the biggest factors into why teens are at such a greater risk than drivers of other age groups.

Not all teens mature at the same age.

There is no magic number for when your teen will be ready to drive. In some states teens can get their permit at the age of 15, however, this does not mean your teen is ready!

You need to know your child. Before handing over the keys to your child, consider his maturity level. Is he capable of understanding road rules? Does he un-

September/October 2013

by Kirah Meade

derstand why we have road rules? Does he understand that the road rules apply to him? And is he capable of following the road rules?

You need to also consider the emotional development and temperamental level of your child. Does your child get emotional or angry, and acts before thinking about his actions? Or is your teen a known risk-taker? An emotional, easily angered, or high risk-taker behind the wheel of a vehicle can be very dangerous. These individuals tend to have a hard time understanding or sorting what is risky behavior and can become very distracted by their own emotions.

Waiting even one year can allow your child's brain time to develop enough to

control impulses and have better judgement.

There is now question of whether the driving age in the country needs to be raised. With the number of teen driver fatalities rising each year (eventhough the overall numbers are down for other age groups), there is even consideration of raising the age to 18. Thoroughly evaluate your child's maturity level before allowing him to get behind the wheel. Making your teen wait could save his/her life and other lives. 

Kirah Meade is a mom of two teens. She resides in West Virginia and has written for family magazines across America.

 Family Calendar continued Oct 14 Columbus Day Oct 17 “Lights on After School” Program 9329 Middletown Mall, Fairmont, WV. 4-7 p.m. 304-363-3230 Oct 19 New River Gorge Bridge Day Rt. 19 - New River Gorge Bridge, Fayetteville, WV. (FAYETTE County) Every year on the third Saturday in October the New River Gorge Bridge closes to traffic and opens to attitude!

BASE jumpers, rappellers, vendors and spectators share the excitement, the spectacle, the experience of this day. Come be part of it! Big Bridge, Big Adventure, Bridge Day! 304-465-5617 www.officialbridgeday.com Oct 19, 20, 26, 27 ZooBoo Pittsburgh Zoo, Pittsburgh, PA. 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. Enjoy your favorite zoo animals, collect candy, Halloween Parade, Costume Contest, and other fun activities. Activites free with general admission. http://www. pittsburghzoo.org Oct 24 Evening at the Mansion House Adaland Mansion, Philippi, WV. Check website for times and admission. 304-457-1587 www. Adaland.org Continued on page 29 *Information about events is subject to change. Please use the listed contact information for more details on events.

THE POLAR EXPRESS and all related characters and elements are trademarks of and © Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. (s11)

Polar Express™ Departing

Elkins Depot for the North Pole

Select Dates Nov-Dec

RESERVE TICKETS NOW! 1.866.874.7653

Mtn-Rail.com

For more information and upcoming events, go to www.prickettsfort.org

NERIUM

TM

I N T E R N A T I O N A L

No matter how young or old you are, great skin begins with NeriumADTM. Real science, Real results, Real people. Proven to reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, discoloration, texture, tone, and aging skin.

NeriumAD's main ingredient is a natural botanical antioxidant that is patented and exclusive to Nerium.

Contact Debbie Burget to learn more about NeriumADTM and other products. Phone: 304-534-7841 Email: BurgetSkinCare@ gmail.com. Website: www.BurgetSkinCare.com.

September/October 2013

West Virginia Family Magazine  www.WVFamilyOnline.com

The

Harvest Festival October 12-13, 2013 Saturday 10 am to 4 pm, Sunday 12 to 4 pm Enjoy a fall weekend that focuses on 18th century foods, demonstrations, and displays.

27

WV Fairs and Festivals Fall 2013 Aug 17 -18 Shepherdstown DogFest Weekend Shepherdstown, WV. Celebrate the Dog Days of Summer with a "DogFest". A wide variety of activities for dogs, their owners, and dog lovers, as well as activities that everybody can enjoy. Dog Day 5K, blessing of the dogs, dog competitions and games, exhibits, demonstrations by trainers, hotdog eating contest, children's activities, music, 304-876-2786. www.shepherdstownvisitorscenter.com Aug 30 - Sep 1 35th West Virginia Italian Heritage Festival Clarksburg, WV. Free to the public. The Buckinghams, Lou Gramm, the Voice of Foreigner and Jo Dee Messina!! Many fun and exciting events all weekend long! 304-622-7314 www.wvihf.com Sep 6-7 Poor Farm Fest 2013 - Williamsburg, WV. Bring the whole family for a great time in the mountain air, star filled skies and green green grass is waiting for you. Music, dancing, food. Go to our website at poorfarmwv.com for a lineup of our bands this year. We are going to ROCK THE MOUNTAIN with a combination of national, regional, and local bands! Children 12 and under are no charge.

Sep 6-7 44th Annual Nicholas County Potato Festival - Summersville, WV. Amusement rides, food and craft vendors, mashed potato, tater tot and hot wing eating contests, pet pageant, corn hole competition, 5 K race, potato idol contest, car and tractor show, parade, entertainment, headline entertainment American Idol Finalist Chase Likens.

304-872-3722. nicholascountypotatofestival.com

Looking Glass CONSIGNMENT CLARKSBURG LOCATION IS NOW SELLING & ACCEPTING KIDS' CLOTHES OF ALL AGES!

Sep 13-15 5th Annual Pink Moon Music & Arts Festival - Pinky's Farm, Rock Camp, WV. (Monroe County) An incredible grassroots music and arts festival nestled in the scenic mountains of southern WV. A celebration of life, love, family, and fun. Incredible lineup of performances, entertainment, mind-blowing art installations, vendors, and activities. 304-994-0169. www.pinkmoonfestival.com Sep 21 Main Street Arts Festival Buckhannon, WV. Talk to artisans from across the state, watch as they demonstrate their work, and immerse yourself in Buckhannon's small town charm. Also, musicians, performers, and special activities for children. 304-473-1400. http:// www.mainstreetartscoop.org/Main_Street_Arts_Co-Op/Welcome.html Sep 27- 29 Leaf Peepers Festival Davis, WV. Family-friendly celebration of Fall Colors! Friday evening kicks off with the Fireman's Parade, Saturday is full of fun activities for everyone. Live entertainment, horseback riding trails, pets allowed, food, craft show, 5K, 2K Run/Walk, car show, and more. 800-782-2775 http://canaanvalley.org Oct 3 - 6 WV Pumpkin Festival Pumpkin Park, Milton, WV. (Cabell County) Great family fun, great food, bake-offs, arts and crafts, beauty pageant, live entertainment, and much more. And of course, the biggest pumpkin! 304-638-1633 www.wvpumpkinpark.com/ Oct 13 WV Botanic Garden Fall Children's Festival, Morgantown, WV. Bring the whole family to this fun yearly event including nature crafts, fairy house building, and seasonal refreshments. Free and open to the public. 304-216-8704 www.wvbg.org

See More Fairs And Festivals In Family Calendar, Pages 23 - 29. 

312 West Main Street (Across from Court House)

304-969-9334

Formal Wear, Men’s, Women’s, Childrens, Evening Gowns/Bridal/Tux, and Accessories Professional/Business Shell & Beth Hoskinson

http://lookingglassbridgeport.com "Like" us on Facebook Email: looking.glass@live.com

West Virginia Family Magazine  1-304-472-4528

Get ready to dance!

28

We offer the Leap ’n Learn program for children 3-6 and classes in ballet, modern, tap and more for children and adults at all levels Fall classes begin September 3

Auditions Saturday, August 24

RV PARKING PARKING RV • 1.7 miles from I-79 Exit 155 • 30 and 50 amp electricity, water, septic hookups • Call for special

season football or multi night rates • On site security during home game • Bagged ice/Dumpsters on site

Dancers age 5 and up are invited to audition for Morgantown Dance’s 2013 production of The Nutcracker to be performed at The Metropolitan Theatre Nov. 23-24.

Check our website for audition times.

Morgantown Dance Studio For information or to register call 304-292-3266 or visit us at www.morgantowndance.org

September/October 2013

For more information, go to www.mylanpark.org

 Family Calendar continued Oct 25 Haunted Hayride at Tygart Lake Grafton, WV (Taylor County). The woods become truly scary this night. Boo!This hayride is designed for good clean family fun. Bring the gang out and support the park foundation, Friday and Saturday. $1.00 per person per ride Sponsored by the Tygart Lake State Park Foundation. 304-265-6148.

Oct 26 Halloween Train Cass Scenic Railroad State Park, Cass, WV. Haunted train ride to Whittaker Station with ghostly surprises for all. Passengers are encouraged to wear costumes. Train departs at 6:00 p.m. www.cassrailroad.com.

Oct 28 Halloween Parade at 9329 Middletown Mall, Fairmont, WV. 6 p.m. 304-363-3230 Oct 31 Happy Halloween!

Halloween: A Healthier, More Peaceful Holiday “Halloween does not have to be a stressful time for parents,” said Jane Hersey, national director of the nonprofit Feingold Association, a charity that helps children with learning and behavior problems.

“With some planning, your children won’t act like little goblins after they have taken off their Halloween costumes!”

Safety Tips for Trick-or-Treating • Parents should supervise younger

children.

• Consider using makeup instead

of a mask to prevent vision issues.

• There is safety in numbers - be

sure your child stays with a group

or with a buddy.

• Map out a route and stick to it.

• Have your child carry a cell phone or

two-way radio to stay in contact.

• Stay in neighborhoods you know.

• Use reflective tape or glow sticks for visibility.

• Take a flashlight.

• Use sidewalks and crosswalks.

• Inspect candy. Throw away any unwrapped, loosely wrapped, or

otherwise suspicious items.

The Scariest Places in WV 1. WV Penitentiary, Moundsville, WV.

Listed as one of the Top 10 Most Haunted Places in America by the Travel Channel. Also featured on ABC Family's "Scariest Places On Earth". Offers ghost quest tours, chilling twilight hour tours, private paranormal investigations, and public ghost hunts.(Open to public ages 18 and older.) Hours vary. $$Admission. (304) 845-6200 or visit www. wvpentours.com

2. Trans Allegheny Lunatic Asylum, Weston, WV. Listed as one of the Top 10 Most Haunted Places in America by the Travel Channel. TALA is also known as the Weston State Hospital. Paranormal night tours or day tours, guided ghost hunts, private ghost hunts. Aberration Haunted House, Fall Fest, The Asylum Ball Cotume Party, and more. $$Admission. See ad on page 29. (304) 269-5070 www.trans-alleghenylunaticasylum.com

West Virginia Family Magazine  www.WVFamilyOnline.com

Feed Kids Before Trick-or-Treating.

A full stomach is good insurance against their snacking on sweets as they go from door to door.

Choose Healthier Candy. Offer to trade healthier treats for the candies they collect.

Throw a pizza party. Plan a Halloween-themed pizza party for your children and their friends. Kids could wear their costumes to the party, which could be in your home or at their favorite pizza place.

Camp out. Camp out with your children on Halloween night. Pitch a tent in the back yard, grill some hot dogs, and tell ghost stories.

Rent a Scary Movie. Make Halloween a movie night. Let your kids pick a scary film to rent and treat them to all the popcorn they want.

Give Them Toys. Halloween themed toys are a great alternative to candy.  September/October 2013

29

Family Pets

So Happy To See You: Why Pet Ownership Is Ultimately Good For Kids

By Christina Katz When my daughter wakes up in the morning and gets out of bed, a small ruckus of howls, barks, and a tap dance of doggy toenails on linoleum begins downstairs.

If you ask Samantha about it, she smiles knowingly to herself.

Her dogs, Daisy and Izzy, are over the moon to greet her every morning. This type of unconditional love is what most parents are after when we imagine what it might be like to introduce a pet into our home. Just don't expect this type of happy harmony to happen overnight.

West Virginia Family Magazine  1-304-472-4528

Dogs and cats are not the only animals that make great pets for kids. If you are looking in the fuzzy pet category consider an older dog, a pair of kittens, a guinea pig, a pair of gerbils, hamsters or mice, or even a rat. Remember that an older pet without special needs is usually going to adapt to busy family life more easily than a brand new anything.

In the non-fuzzy category consider hermit crabs, an ant farm, small lizards, non-poisonous snakes, multiple goldfish, one betta fish, or a pair of small birds. If you opt for carnivorous pets, just make sure you are up for the mealtime ritual that may not sit well with the squeamish. In other words, make sure you know exactly what you are getting yourself into before you flourish your debit card.

But once you are informed and ready to slide your plastic, pat yourself on the back as you remember this list of potential benefits of pet ownership for kids:

30

Chance to observe and learn about the habits of real, live animals.

Emotional support for kids who are depressed, have temporary or life-long disorders, or decreased immunity.

A reprieve from loneliness or social isolation.

Opportunities for physical activity with pets, which require regular exercise.

A boost in allergy resistance.

September/October 2013

Lessons in the power of non-verbal connection and communication.

Physical affection, as appropriate.

Increased empathy and compassion.

A daily stress relief outlet.

Companionship.

Opportunities to gradually take more responsibility around the house.

Be reasonable, of course. Your snake may not be much of a snuggler and your guinea pig may keep your child awake at night before those nightly rooting noises become comforting.

Because every child and every pet are different, assume your child is not yet old enough to care for pets without supervision, and monitor them both for thoroughness of care no matter what your child's age. So much of pet satisfaction comes after adjusting everyone's expectations to reality.

Your pets will likely grow attached to your kids first. But if you are an affectionate, caring, consistent pet parent, and you play your treats right, your animals just might have a little unconditional love left over for the person who pays the bills.  Christina Katz is an animal lover who has cared for guinea pigs, cats, dogs, fish, gerbils, sheep, even ponies, but never snakes. Her pet-loving daughter loves little dogs, but she is strictly a big dog fan.

Do Pairs Of Pets Make Sense?

If your family travels, you might want to consider whether or not it makes sense to get two pets, if they are the type to keep each other company (think cats but not betta fish).

Consult local pet experts before you buy to make sure that the two animals will actually give each other the time of day. If you are mixing types of pets or pets of different ages, you might be able to negotiate a trial run but be realistic. You might have to just dive in to dual pet ownership and sort out the consequences yourself.

Back-to-School Directory Listing Hospitals/Health Care z Buckhannon Medical Care 11 N. Locust Street, Buckhan- non, WV 304-471-2511 z Community Care of WV - School-Based Health Centers www.communitycarewv.org z Davis Health System 812 Gorman Avenue, Elkins, WV 304-636-3300 www.davishealthsystem.org z Pediatric and Teenage Dentistry of Morgantown 3000 Hampton Center, Suite B, Morgantown, WV 304-599-5000 www.dentist4kids.org z Preston Memorial Hospital 300 South Price Street, King- wood, WV 26537. 304-329-1400 www.prestonmemorial.org z St. Joseph’s Hospital 1 Amalia Drive, Buckhannon, WV 26201. 304-473-2000 www.stj.net z Stonewall Jackson Memorial Hospital 230 Hospital Plaza,

Weston, WV 26452. 304-269-8167 z Thomas E. Condron, D.D.S. 234 Court Street, Clarksburg, WV 26301. 304-623-4984 z WVU Healthcare Children's Hospital at Ruby Morgantown,

WV 26506 304-598-4835 • 800-842-3627 www.wvukids.com/

Shopping/Food

z Looking Glass Consignment Two locations! Location 1: 244 West Main Street, Bridgeport, WV 304-933-3037 (across from RiteAid). Location 2: 312 West Main Street, Clarksburg, WV 304-969-9334 (across from Court House). http://lookingglassbridgeport.com z Middletown Mall 9329 Middletown Mall Road, Fairmont, WV 26554. 304-363-3230 z Meadowbrook Mall 2399 Meadowbrook Road, Bridgeport, WV 304-842-5441 www.meadownbrookmall.com z Morgantown Mall 9500 Mall Road, Morgantown, WV 26501. 304-983-6200 www.morgantownmall.com z Sam's Pizza Rt 20, Southfork Center, Buckhannon, WV 26201. 304-472-0281.

Field Trips/Family Entertainment

AfterSchool Programs

z Morgantown Dance Studio 5000 Greenbag Road, Mor- gantown, WV 26501. 304-292-3266 www.morgantown dance.org z Randolph County Community Arts Center 2 Park Street, Elkins, WV 26241 304-637-2355 www.randolpharts.org z Sunbeam Early Learning Center 1654 Mary Lou Retton Drive, Fairmont, WV 26554 304-366-8590 www.sunbeamearlylearningcenter.com z Saint Paul United School of Music 1564 Mary Lou Retton Drive, Fairmont, WV 26554 304-366-3758 Email: stpaulunitedmethodist@gmail.com z Songbird Learning Center 305 Songbird Lane, Fairmont, WV 26554 304-366-3722 http://learningoptions.us z The Wow! Factory 3453 University Avenue, Morgantown, WV 26505. 304-599-2 WOW (2969) www.TheWowFac toryOnline.com z WVU Community Music Program PO Box 6111, Mor- gantown, WV 26506 304-293-5511 http://music.wvu. edu/community_music_program

Education/Schools z Heritage Christian School 225 Newton Street, Bridgeport, WV

26330 304-842-1740 www.hcswv.org z Highland Adventist School 1 Old Leadsville Road, Elkins, WV

26241 304-636-4274 www.highlandadventistschool.org z LearningLand Daycare & Preschool 1017 Fairmont Ave, Fair

mont, WV. 26554 304-333-0186 www.learninglandwv.com z Monongalia County Technical Education Center 1000 Mississippi Street, Morgantown, WV 26501 304-291-9243. www.

mtecwv.edu. z OIC Training Academy Fairmont, WV 304-366-8142 email:

oicfmt@oicwv.org www.oicwv.org z Pierpont Christian Preschool (Min. of Pierpont Church of the

Nazarene) Morgantown, WV www.pierpontnazarene.org email: pierpontchristianpreschool@gmail.com z St. Francis Central Catholic School 41 Guthrie Lane, Morgan

town, WV 26508 304-291-5070 www.stfrancismorgantown.com z Sunbeam Early Learning Center 1654 Mary Lou Retton Drive,

Fairmont, WV 26554 304-366-8590 www.sunbeamearlylearning center.com

z The Clarksburg Children’s House - A Montessori Preschool

425 N. 4th St., Clarksburg, WV 26301 304-326-822 

This directory has been compiled to assist you. Every effort has been made to assure the accuracy of the information, however, West Virginia Family Magazine is not liable for damages arising out of errors or omissions. Please use the information provided to contact the business for more information.

September/October 2013

West Virginia Family Magazine  www.WVFamilyOnline.com

z Adaland Mansion & Historic Barn Philippi, WV 304- 457-1587 email: info@adaland.org www.adaland.org z Arts & Crafts Christmas Spectacular Mylan Park Expo Center, 500 Mylan Park Lane, Morgantown, WV 724-863- 4577 www.familyfestivals.com z Durbin & Greenbrier Valley Railroad 315 Railroad Avenue, Elkins, WV 26241. 304-636-9477 www.mountain rail.com. The Polar Express rides in Nov & Dec. Call Now! z Farm Discovery Center at Blackwater Falls State Park 1003 Blackwater Lodge Road, Davis, WV 304-259-5611 z Mountain Trail Rides 255 Freeland Road, Davis, WV 26260. 304-866-4652 www.mountaintrailrides.com z Mylan Park RV Parking 1.7 miles from I-79 www.mylanpark.

org z National Radio Astronomy Observatory Greenbank, WV 304-456-2150 www.gb.nrao.edu z Prickett’s Fort State Park Fairmont, WV 304-363-3030 www.prickettsfortstatepark.com z Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum 71 Asylum Drive, Weston, WV 26452. email: info@www.talawv.com www.talawv.com

z WV Wildlife Center French Creek, WV 304-924-6211 www.wvdnr.gov/wildlife/wildlifecenter.shtm

Family Services/Resources z Dear Teacher www.dearteacher.com z Education.com (School finder) www.education.com/ schoolfinder/ z My Child Care Guide (Child care locator) www.My ChildCareGuide.com z Parenting Special Needs (Bi-monthly on-line magazine)

www.parentingspecialneeds.org z Productive Parenting (Free daily activities for newborns to age 5) www.productiveparenting.com

z WV Birth to Three Region I RAU 1-800-619-5697 www.wvdhhr.org/birth23 z Family Resource Centers in WV www.wvdhhr.org/bcf/ eces_services.asp z Youth Health Services 971 Harrison Ave, Elkins, WV 26241 304 636-9450 www.youth-health.org

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School-Based Health Centers . . . . . healthy children make better students

Braxton County Braxton County Middle School Braxton County High School Clay County Big Otter Elementary School Clay Elementary School Clay Middle School Clay High School Harrison County Lost Creek Elementary South Harrison Middle School South Harrison High School West Milford Elementary Pocahontas County Green Bank Elementary/Middle Marlinton Elementary Pocahontas County High School Upshur County Academy Elementary Buckhannon-Upshur High School French Creek Elementary

Community Care's School-Based Health Services focus on a wide variety of Pediatric care. In the schools, we provide comprehensive pediatric care for children in pre-K through high school. Our medical personnel provide a family centered approach to improving the health and well-being of children. Research shows that healthy children perform better in the classroom.

School-Based Health Services (including, but not limited to): Vaccinations & Immunizations Childhood infections Well-Child exams & School sports physicals Chronic illnesses such as asthma, allergies, diabetes, obesity, sickle cell anemia and seizures Accidents & Injuries Attention Deficit Disorder (diagnosis and treatment) Nutrition counseling Vision & Hearing screenings 24-hour on-call physician coverage

West Virginia Family Magazine ď Ź 1-304-472-4528

Community Care of West Virginia is now the largest School-Based Health organization in West Virginia! We now serve sixteen (16) schools in five (5) counties (Braxton, Clay, Harrison, Pocahontas & Upshur). Plans are ongoing to add several additional schools this school year!

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School-Based Health Center Enrollment Packets and consent forms are available on our website at www.communitycarewv.org. We look forward to partnering with you and your community schools in helping to achieve healthier students. We invite you to visit our website to learn more.

www.communitycarewv.org www.communitycarewv.org

September/October 2013