Parent april 2014

April 2014

Sophia’s steps North Syracuse family shares a daughter’s journey with autism

Choosing a summer camp for your kids

Meet the

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Syracuse P4 a Cutest Babrent Contest W y inner

Alanna!

s u o m r o n E BE PLAY PARK

Find us at: Destiny USA Syracuse, NY (315) 741-5099 facebook/billybeezsyracuse bbzbb02@retailgroupamerica.com

LEVEL 3, across from Regal IMAX Theaters

Coming Soon... Summer Camp!

BUZZ

is about!

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Come inside and see what all the

Each Billy Beez indoor playground is filled with colorful murals, whimsical characters and giant play structures built around a maze of dizzingly high and wildly twisting slides. There are dozens of activities inside the playground that encourage physical, mental and social development through play.

Kids run, climb, bounce, crawl and play sports with the companionship of other kids. Along the way they’ll learn how to play fairly, share and make new friends - while challenging themselves physically and getting the exercise they need to be healthy.

Our Goal at Billy Beez is to provide your child a unique learning environment without video games or mechanical amusement rides. We want to build a better future for your child through safe and fun play.

BOOK YOUR BIRTHDAY PARTY NOW!

some helpful information for your family

family

FYI

Mother’s Day ready to bloom

Garden event to benefit Baltimore Woods Mother Nature is in her spring glory at Sycamore Hill Garden. Every year on Mother’s Day, the owners of these 30-plus acres of private gardens open their gates to the public in support of Baltimore Woods Nature Center.

Attendees can enjoy a full day in this garden setting while having a picnic, feeding the Koi fish, navigating the maze and sounding the gong and bells, all while admiring the flowers and flowering trees.

Bring mom and the family to the gardens from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday, May 11, for a special day celebrating nature.

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Tickets are $5 through May 3 and $10 after. Children 8 and under are free.

Pets are prohibited at this event. Visit baltimorewoods.org to purchase online tickets or for a list of ticket sale locations.

APRIL 2014 SYRACUSE PARENT

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Easter Bunny

cake

Ingredients

One box vanilla cake mix Water, vegetable oil and eggs called for on cake mix box Pink, purple and yellow food colors Two containers vanilla frosting Three cups flaked coconut Red licorice rope Jelly beans Pink colored sugar

Directions

Spray or grease bottoms only of two nine-inch round cake pans. Make cake batter as directed on box.

Divide cake batter evenly among three separate bowls (about one cup for each bowl). Dye each bowl a different color with pink, purple or yellow food color. Pour half of the purple batter into each of the 9-inch round pans. Pour half of the yellow batter over top of the purple layer in each pan. Pour half of pink batter over yellow batter in each pan.

Do not mix.

Bake and cool cake as directed on box for two nine-inch rounds. Cool 10 minutes. Remove from pans to cooling racks. Cool completely, about one hour. Place one of the cooled cake rounds on serving tray. Cut the remaining cake round using the template on this page.

Carefully frost cake with frosting. Sprinkle coconut over cake. Use licorice to outline bow tie and make whiskers and mouth on bunny. Use jelly beans for eyes, nose and to fill in bow tie. Use pink sprinkles to fill in pink of the ears. Store covered at room temperature.

BOW TIE EAR CAKE CONTEST Send a photo of your kids with your creative Easter cake to fjadran@eaglenewsonline.com.

If we choose your creation you will win two childrens’ admissions to Kidzclub Indoor Play and Party Place in Phoenix along with two Kidzclub T-shirts; kidzclubfun.com.

EAR

what’s inside

feature story 26

Sofia’s Steps: Autism Awareness in a family

family FYI 3 7 17 20

Mother’s Day in Bloom!

Garden event to benefit Baltimore Woods Gambling & your kids...

Talk early and often Sleep under the stars Choosing a summer camp for your kids

meals in minutes

contents

learning curve 13 We’re in this together:

Childcare and activity Q&A

22 Dos and dont’s for college admissions interviews

25 Passing along a family tradition – or curse

healthy family 12 Creating a healthy family 14 Your kids & peanut allergies

16 Commit to fully vaccinating your baby

5 Easter Bunny cake

from the editor 6

Summer camp is just around the corner

calendar 8 Here is what’s happening around you this month

Cover Photo

Pictured is Alanna Marie Bell of Syracuse, N.Y., in the photograph

by Raine C. Dufrane, owner of Raineydayz Photography.

430-3229 or visit raineydayz.com APRIL 2014 SYRACUSE PARENT

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from the editor

Summer camp is just around the corner It’s that time again – time to sign my kids up for summer camp!

Last year was their first time at Lourdes Camp in Skaneateles and they loved it, so we are doing a repeat this year.

It’s been a process trying to figure out when to have them attend the camp. I already know that they are only doing one week – two is too long for me to be away from them. But I want to make sure their friends are attending the same week so it has been a bit difficult, between trying to work out our schedules and the schedules of the parents of their friends.

What’s nice is that I don’t feel the same anxiety I did last year. They already have been to this camp, and Jacob now has the experience of overnight camp under his belt, so I feel confident that they will be secure in knowing what to expect.

The other thing that is nice is that they can now tell me what to pack, as well as what not to pack, this year. Last summer I had to rely upon a suggested list of items supplied by the camp, and found it to be somewhat excessive, especially when, I believe, the only time Jacob changed his shorts was after he (and other campers) fell off of a sailboat that tipped on Skaneateles Lake.

What’s nice about Lourdes is they give parents the opportunity to write letters ahead of time and bring them to the camp post office when they drop off their campers. Since there is no phone contact allowed, this is a great way for parents to let the kids know they are thinking of them and that they are glad they are having a good time with friends in the great outdoors.

My children really enjoyed the activities in which they participated, and are already planning their list of things to do this year. Although I missed them, I was happy that they were making some great memories and enjoying time away from my husband and I. It is a bit sad to know that they are ok with being away from us and are starting to spread their wings, but I am very proud of the fact that they are growing into confident, social kids that are looking forward to hitting the bunk beds at camp yet again this summer.

Stay up-to-date with us on Twitter, @SRYparent, and at facebook.com/SyracuseParentMagazine.

Jennifer Wing editor

Jennifer Wing can be reached at jwing@eaglenewsonline.com

Looking for more?

Scan, Like, or Follow Us Today!

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SYRACUSE PARENT APRIL 2014

publisher

David B. Tyler 434-8889 ext. 302 dtyler@eaglenewsonline.com

editor

Jennifer Wing 434-8889 ext. 340 editor@syracuseparent.net

associate editor

Farah F. Jadran 434-8889 ext. 306 calendar@syracuseparent.net

ad sales

Linda Jabbour 434-8889 ext. 304 ljabbour@eaglenewsonline.com

business manager

Lisa Congdon

434-8889 ext. 303 lcongdon@eaglenewsonline.com

circulation manager

Lori Newcomb

434-8889 ext. 333 lnewcomb@eaglenewsonline.com

creative director

Sean Haney

434-8889 ext. 331 art@eaglenewsonline.com We want your news! Contributions can be sent to Farah Jadran, Associate Editor, Syracuse Parent Magazine, 2501 James Street, Suite 100 Syracuse, New York 13206. Original contributions become the property of Syracuse Parent Magazine. Contributions cannot be acknowledged or returned. To contact us please call 315.434.8889, or fax 315.434.8883 Syracuse Parent Magazine is a unit of Community Media Group LLC. Published monthly. Deadline for advertising and calendar events is the 10th day of the month preceding publication. Display advertising rates available upon request. Syracuse Parent Magazine reserves the right to refuse advertising for any reason. We do not guarantee any of the information, services, or products published in this or any issue. The opinions expressed by contributors do not necessarily reflect the opinions of this paper. Copyright © 2008 by Syracuse Parent Magazine. No portion of Syracuse Parent Magazine may be reproduced without permission from the editor.

some helpful information for your family

family

FYI

Gambling & Your Kids‌ Talk early and often Did you know that less than half of parents ever discuss gambling issues with their children and that only 13 percent of parents believe that their child actually gambles for money (Decode, 2009)?

In reality, research shows that approximately 68 percent of youth between the ages of 14 and 21 reported having gambled in the last year, while 11 percent admitted to gambling twice a week or more (Welte, 2007).

The scariest part is that 2.1 percent of these youth already meet the criteria for problem gambling, and 6.5 percent fall into the category of at-risk or problem gambling (Welte, 2007).

As a parent, the most important thing you can do to prevent your child from developing a problem with gambling is to talk to him/her early and often. The younger a child starts gambling, the more likely he or she is to develop a problem.

Here are some things you can bring up: • Gambling is not a way to make money. • Gambling activities and establishments are businesses. They are set up so that the “houseâ€? makes money. • The law of probability shows us that the longer you spend gambling, the more you will lose. • There are consequences aside from risking money associated with gambling — lost relationships and jobs, a drop in grades, mood changes and

depression, increased likelihood of participation in other “risky� behaviors and more.

So the next time your family sees a billboard for a gambling activity or a movie character participating in gambling activities, use that as a teachable moment. At this time you can bring up the dangers associated with underage gambling and explain why you are opposed to youth gambling.

You can also visit DontBetYet.com to download activity sheets and watch a video about problem gambling with your children.

If you’d like to learn more about youth gambling and problem gambling, or are interested in scheduling an educational session at your next parent group meeting, contact Cheryl Thomas at Prevention Network, 471-1359, or visit PreventionNetworkcny.org. You can also visit KnowTheOdds.com and NYProblemGambling.org.

School Riding Camp Syracuse of Dance Learn to ride...and so much more!

Camp sessions available:

July 22-25 July 29- Aug1 Aug19-22

Dance Camp & Classes for

3-6 year olds

315.345.2189

472-0235

Classes for all ages and levels of ability.

Studio is located in the University/DeWitt Area www.syracuseschoolofdance.com

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www.sorrellhillstables.com

Ballet • Jazz Modern • Hip Hop Tap • Musical Theater Specials

Sorrell Hill Equestrian Center 8FTU 4PSSFMM )JMM 3E 8BSOFST /:

6 week session starts 6/23

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Learn To Dance This Summer:

APRIL 2014 SYRACUSE PARENT

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Hercules Candy

calendar

Company

here is what’s happening around you

Tue April 1 NANO DAYS.10 AM to 5 PM. April 1 through 6 at the MOST, 500 S. Franklin St.,

? Bring the kids to watch us make candy!

Syracuse. Volunteers from the community set up tables throughout the museum where they engage visitors in exploring the four key concepts of nanoscale science, engineering and technology: Nano is Small and Different, Nano is Studying and Making Tiny Things, Nano is New Technologies and Nano is Part of our Society and Future. Demonstrations are free with exhibit admission, which is free for members and costs $10 per adult and $8 per child ages 2 to 11 and senior 65 years or older. 425-9068.

Call First.

? Chocolate Carrots, Lambs & Chicks. ? Easter Baskets made from Chocolate. ? Bunnies made from Antique Molds. ? Peanut Butter filled Bunnies. ? Prize Drawings every Month! ? Homemade Cream Eggs.

Wed April 2 PULLING THREADS. 10 AM. Stitchers get together at the Baldwinsville Public Library to work on quilts, sewing projects, crochet, whatever you’re interested in! Tables available to lay out projects. 33 E. Genesee St., Baldwinsville. 635-5631.

Win an Easter Basket in April!!

Thu April 3 CENTRAL NEW YORK ROCKET TEAM. Challenge material pickup, 3 to 5 PM. The

JOIN OUR CANDY BAR CLUB

209 West Heman St. East Syracuse, NY

MOST, 500 S. Franklin St., Syracuse. Workshop will provide information, demonstrations and materials for the 2014 CNY Rocket Team Challenge, which is set for June 7 at Syracuse University’s Skytop field. The event is free for teams of no less than four students from grades four through 12, although there are limits on the number of teams. Visit most. org/rockets/index.cfm or email eventcoordinator@most.org for more information.

Hercules Candy Company



St. Matthew’s School

209 W. Heman St.

St. Matthew’s Church

Sat April 5

Yates St. Ellis St. W. Manlius St.

35774

Byrne Dairy

Silver St.

463-4339

Hours: Mon.-Fri. 10-8 Sat. 10-6 • Sun. 12-5

www.herculescandy.com

Staff on call 24 HOURS A day!

TAP INTO THE MOST. 6:30 to 9:30 PM. The MOST, 500 S. Franklin St., Syracuse.

People holding VIP tickets can enter a half-hour earlier and have access to a special area with additional drink and food samples. Enjoy free samples of beer, wine, hard cider and food from area venues to raise money for MOST programs. Two bands will perform and college basketball games will be shown on big screens throughout the MOST. Regular tickets cost $55 in advance and $60 at the door. Limited VIP tickets cost $80 in advance and $85 at the door, if any are left. You can buy tickets in person at the MOST or online at most.org/tap/index.cfm. 425-9068.

Sun April 6 WOMEN MAKE THEIR MARK. 2 PM. Baldwinsville Public Library will present “Women Make Their Mark,” a celebration of women in the arts. Local artists will be bringing their creative talents to the library for an afternoon of entertainment. The program includes local singer/songwriters Joanne Troy Perry, Hanita Blair and Wendy Sassafras Ramsey, as well as actress Lynn Barbato and poet, Nancy Carpenter. Light refreshments will be served. 33 E. Genesee St., Baldwinsville. 635-5631. bville.lib.ny.us.

Thu April 10

CAMILLUS

601 North Way Phone: 487-1541

LIVERPOOL

8086 Oswego Rd. Phone: 652-1070

www.pediatricassociatesny.com

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SYRACUSE PARENT APRIL 2014

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FREE

Prenatal Consultation!

CENTRAL NEW YORK ROCKET TEAM CHALLENGE. Material pickup, 3 to 5 PM at the MOST, 500 S. Franklin St., Syracuse. Workshop will provide information, demonstrations and materials for the 2014 CNY Rocket Team Challenge, which is set for June 7 at Syracuse University’s Skytop field. The event is free for teams of no less than four students from grades four through 12, although there are limits on the number of teams.

Link to most.org/rockets/index.cfm or email eventcoordinator@most.org for more information.

MYSTERY READERS’ CLUB. 10 AM. Baldwinsville Public Library. April’s mystery for discussion is “Tempest in the Tea Leaves,” by Kari Lee Townsend. You can ask for the Mystery Book Club’s books at the Circulation Desk during the four weeks before the meeting. 33 E. Genesee St., Baldwinsville. 635-5631. bville.lib.ny.us.

calendar Fri April 11 BREAST FEEDING SUPPORT GROUP. 10:30 to 11:30 AM. The monthly meetings will provide an opportunity for parents to get together informally, talk about worries and concerns and share experiences. Mothers and mothers-to-be can make new friends in the community with similar needs and questions. The program is free, but please register at maxwellmemoriallibrary. org. For additional information and any questions, contact Trameca Campbell at bellyosopregnant@gmail.com. Maxwell Memorial Library, 14 Genesee St., Camillus. 672-3661.

Sat April 12 “ISLAND OF LEMURS: MADAGASCAR.” 2 and 4 PM. (8 PM showing on April 12, 19 & 26) Movie opens in the Bristol IMAX Omnitheater. Narrated by Morgan Freeman, it takes audiences on a spectacular journey to the remote world of Madagascar, the only place where lemurs live in the wild. Lemurs arrived in Madagascar as castaways millions of years ago and evolved into hundreds of species, but all are now endangered as residents cut down the trees in which they live. For members, IMAX tickets cost $6.50 for adults and $5.50 for children 2 to 17 and seniors 65 and older. For nonmembers, IMAX tickets cost $10 for adults and $8 for children 2 to 11 and seniors 65 and older. 4259068.

AUTISM WALK SUNDAY, APRIL 27 LONG BRANCH PARK • LIVERPOOL

SATURDAY IMAX SPECIAL: “GREATEST PLACES.” 5 PM. April 12, 19 and 26, at the MOST, 500 S. Franklin St., Syracuse.

Take a trip around the world from the comfort of your Bristol IMAX Omnitheater seat and view the landforms, wildlife, ecosystems, people and cultures indigenous to seven distinct geographic types.

Cost: members, $6.50 for adults, $5.50 for children 2-17 and seniors age 65 and up. For nonmembers, $10 for adults, $8 for children 2 to 11 or seniors age 65 and up. 425-9068.

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SENSORY FRIENDLY TIME. 5:30 to 7:30 PM. The MOST, 500 S. Franklin St., Syracuse. Staff turns down the noise, turns off flashing lights, and shuts off the air compressors so people with sensory processing challenges can enjoy the museum. The museum also offers quiet areas where participants can sit, relax, and regroup. Cost: $5 per person for nonmembers, free for members.

425-9068, ext. 2143.

Mon April 14 2ND MONDAYS CLUB. 6 PM. For kids in grades 3 to 6. On the second Monday of every month, come to the Baldwinsville Public Library for free pizza! Activities. What will we think of next?

33 E. Genesee St., Baldwinsville. 635-5631. bville.lib.ny.us.

Tue April 15 STAR PARTY: LUNAR ECLIPSE! Midnight to 2:30 AM. This is the first lunar eclipse we’ve had in several years, and it will be visible in its entirety for us in New York State. Watch the moon get covered by the earth’s shadow and turn a deep shade of orange or red. Saturn and Mars will be in good viewing positions as well. $5 for members, $15 per family; $8 for nonmembers, $25 per family.

Call 673-1350 to register. baltimorewoods.org. Baltimore Woods Nature Center, Marcellus.

REGISTRATION 9:15AM WALK STARTS 10:00AM

KOHL’S Autism & Related Disorders Program

KohlsAutism.com APRIL 2014 SYRACUSE PARENT

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calendar Tue April 15

here is what’s happening around you (Continued from page 9)

BOOKS FOR BREAKFAST. 9 AM. Baldwinsville Public Library.

Join in on the conversation about some of the best books out there.

This month The Burgess Boys by Elizabeth Strout will be discussed.

33 E. Genesee St., Baldwinsville. 635-5631. bville.lib.ny.us.

Sat April 19

to tour the MOST exhibits for free after the event. RSVP to jrcafe@ tacny.org by April 17 with the number of people attending.

MOVIE: “THE BOOK THIEF.� 1:30 PM. Come to the Baldwinsville Public Library and join in on all the fun (and free) activities we have planned. 33 E. Genesee St., Baldwinsville. 6355631.

EARTH CLIMATE DAY. 10 AM to 5 PM. The MOST, 500

THE GREAT FAMILY LOG ROLL-OFF. 1 to 2:30 PM. Join in on some good old log rolling fun! Search under logs with your families to discover who lives in these moist habitats and score points along the way! The scores will be totaled at the end to see who unearthed the most critters; but be sure to place the log back where you found it or face point deductions! $5 members, $15 per family; $8 nonmembers, $25 per family. Call 673-1350 to register. baltimorewoods.org. Baltimore Woods Nature Center, Marcellus.

TACNY JUNIOR CAFÉ SCIENTIFIQUE. 9:30 to 11 AM. “The Snowball Earth,â€? at the MOST, 500 S. Franklin St., Syracuse.

Christopher K. Junium, assistant professor of earth sciences in Syracuse University’s Department of Earth Sciences, will discuss how the Earth nearly froze solid twice, how it warmed after the snowball events and how life survived. The free presentation, which is sponsored by the Technology Alliance of Central New York, is aimed at middle school students with the goal of interesting them in a STEM career. A continental breakfast is provided. Underage attendees must be accompanied by an adult, and both are invited

S. Franklin St., Syracuse. Learn all about climate change and the impact it is having on the world and in Central New York.

Featured will be a keynote speaker, tabletop experiments demonstrating the effect of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere, information on using biomass as an alternative energy source and much more. All activities are free with exhibit admission, which is free for members and costs $10 per adult and $8 per child ages 2 to 11 and senior 65 years or older. 425-9068.

Mon April 21 WRITERS WORKSHOP. 2 PM. April 21 and 21. Baldwinsville Public Library. Professional poet and writer, Nancy Carpenter, will lead teens who love words through the creative process, with fun along the way.(Seating is limited and registration is required). For more information or to register, call 635-5631 or go to the online calendar at bville.lib.ny.us (look under Programs). 33 E. Genesee St., Baldwinsville. 635-5631.

Summer Fun Camps At CNY Gym Centre our experienced staff is focused on providing your child with a unique camp experience that he or she will remember forever. Boys and girls of all gymnastics backgrounds and skill levels will have the chance to develop new skills, make friends and above all have fun!

As You Grow n r a Le Camp Directory

Camp Exploration

Discover, Explore, Experience School Age Summer Camp at Learn As You Grow

Camps ďŹ ll up quickly! To register or for more information please call (315) 437-4535 or visit our website CNYgymcentre.com

Look out for information about our

April Vacation Camp

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• Professional Safety CertiďŹ ed Staff • Making Friends • Gymnastics • Sports & Games • Improving Self Esteem • Arts & Crafts • Facility Air Bounces & Trampolining • Boys & Girls Ages 3-12 • Kinder Camp • Half Day & Full Day Camps

/ 4ZSBDVTF t $JDFSP t INFANT, TODDLER, 4PMWBZ t AND PRE-K SUMMER PROGRAMS TOO! $BNJMMVT t 4ZSBDVTF t

ALSO OFFERING

www.learnasyougrowccc.com 10

SYRACUSE PARENT APRIL 2014

Shoppingtown Mall • 3649 Erie Blvd. E., Dewitt • 437-4535 Great Northern Mall • 4155 State Highway 31, Clay • 622-4600

here is what’s happening around you EARTH & ENERGY WEEK. 10 AM to 5 PM. April 21 to 27 at the MOST, 500 S. Franklin St., Syracuse. Learn about global climate change, the state of the environment and alternative forms of energy in a school break week full of activities at the MOST. Science educators will provide information on insects as bioindicators of a polluted environment, in connection with Dr. Entomo’s Amazing Arthropods exhibit. There will be an additional IMAX show at 11 a.m. each day. The talks are free with exhibit admission. Workshops: Free for members and costs $10 per adult and $8 per child ages 2 to 11 and senior 65 years or older.

For members, IMAX tickets cost $6.50 for adults and $5.50 for children 2 to 17 and seniors 65 and older. For nonmembers, IMAX tickets cost $10 for adults and $8 for children 2 to 11 and seniors 65 and older. 425-9068.

calendar

available. $50 per child for each day, or $225 for the week. Go to baltimorewoods.org/camp for the full scoop or call 673-1350.

Baltimore Woods Nature Center, Marcellus.

POETRY WORKSHOP. 2 PM. April 21 and 22. For teens 13 and older. Professional poet and writer Nancy Carpenter will assist teens who love words through a two-day workshop - with a lot of fun along the way! Registration is required; 635-5631 or bville.lib. ny.us.

Tue April 22 MOVIE: “FROZEN.” 2 PM. Come to the Baldwinsville Public Library and join in on all the fun (and free) activities we have planned. 33 E. Genesee St., Baldwinsville. 635-5631.

Wed April 23

SPRING BREAK ADVENTURE DAY CAMP. 9 AM to 4 PM.

LEGO PARTY. 2 PM. Baldwinsville Public Library. Kids of all ages. Bring your imagination and create something the library can display for the rest of the month. (Registration is required). 33 E. Genesee St., Baldwinsville. 635-5631.

Sat April 26 MOVIE: “CATCHING FIRE.” 1:30 PM. Come to the Baldwinsville Public Library and join in on all the fun (and free) activities we have planned. 33 E. Genesee St., Baldwinsville. 6355631.

Continued on page 24

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April 21 through 25. Bring on the mud! It’s time for spring break and that can only mean Mud Week at Baltimore Woods! Come for a week of exploration and adventure in the spring mud. Every day is a different theme. Sign up for a day at a time or all five! Camp runs from 9-4, before and after care is

APRIL 2014 SYRACUSE PARENT

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healthy family

Creating a Healthy Family

By Dr. Wendy Scinta

With the new year full of hope, many parents in Central New York have vowed (at least on paper) to improve their health. For most, it has probably been a struggle to keep those resolutions since January.

Why not tackle it as a family? Whether you have children struggling with maintaining a healthy weight, or kids who just need to move more and eat better, here are some ideas that can help you get 2014 off to a healthy start.

1. Make it a family affair. Have a family meeting, and

vow to get healthy as a household. Never single out or set different rules for one child that are not followed by the rest of the family.

What applies to one, applies to all.

2. Eat out less often. Research has shown that the more a

family eats out, the more the family weighs. Try to limit it to no more than once per week. To help you make good choices, look at menus online and decide what to eat before you go out.

3. Eat breakfast — that means everyone! Churning your child’s metabolism from the moment he or she wakes up will help concentration, energy and fat burning throughout the day. If they are running out the door, hand them a protein shake or bar.

4. Limit electronics time (exercise for it!) As parents become couch potatoes in the cold weather, kids become tater tots!

Most of us need to move more either way. Consider having the children exercise for their electronics time — 30 minutes of exercise for 30 minutes of gaming.

5. Sit down to dinner as a family at least once a week. The average American family sits down to dinner together

once a week. Work to beat those odds. Children who do have less drug and alcohol problems and perform better in school.

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6. Just eat. When did eating become a passive event we do while doing something else? Surrender the cell phones, turn off the TV, step away from the computer and just eat! The reasons are endless.

7. Model good behavior. Are you eating in front of the TV with the remote in 1 hand and the other in a bag of chips? Do you binge when you have a bad day? Remember, the kids are watching you.

8. Get the junk out of the house. Out of sight, out of mind. Unless you have older teenagers, the only way the bad food gets there is if mom or dad brings it home.

9. Eliminate or strictly limit sugar sweetened beverages. With the exception of pulpy orange juice or fresh

squeezed juices you prepare at home, fruit juices and soda are high in calories and low in nutritional value. With the exception of special events, children should drink water and milk–period.

10. Don’t give up on fruits and vegetables. It may

take 10 or more exposures to a fruit or vegetable before a child develops “memory” of it. Be creative with smoothies, omelets and even sauces. But don’t give up!

Wendy Scinta, MD, MS, practices at Medical Weight Loss of NY in Fayetteville. More information can be found by calling 445-0003 or by visiting weightlosscny.com.

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SYRACUSE PARENT APRIL 2014

the ins and outs of educational and stimulating activities for your children

learning curve

A Childcare and Activity Q&A

It’s amazing what you can learn in five minutes, so we did just that with your local NBC 3 and CW 6 evening anchorwoman, CNY Central’s Megan Coleman! Read on and learn about her thoughts on this month’s topics.

What activities or camp does Olivia participate in for spring (and summer, when it gets here!)?

Olivia started going to a little summer camp when she was 2. I thought it was a great way to get her in a setting with other little kids. This will be her third summer with this camp. They do a storytime, various activities and there is a lot of interaction. They have a cute clean-up song that they taught her and since learning this song, she’s been good about cleaning up at home!

camping trip as a family vacation?

I have never been much of a camper, but we probably will go sometime soon because Olivia keeps asking about it. There is an older girl on the street who is 10 and Olivia always talks about how cool she is (because she’s older)! We have talked about setting up a tent in the backyard this summer for the girls, which will be our first step toward camping as a family. We even managed to make s’mores this winter indoors with a crème brulee torch!

With school and other activities in full swing, what are your thoughts on vaccinations as preventatives?

Has your family ever thought about taking a

Do you think more families should ask their

Meg

a n Col e

ma

Absolutely.

Autism has become so prevalent these days. Is it being diagnosed more and recognized more? No matter W what, it’s being e’r e in r discussed a lot this togethe these days. We have discussed the signs of autism with our pediatrician and have monitored them along the way to see if there were any signs at all. Early intervention is important. It’s definitely something people should be aware of and ask their physician what signs they need look out for.

Megan Coleman is the content managing editor at CNY Central and an evening NBC 3 news anchor. Follow her and start a conversation on Twitter at @MegsNewsFlash; we already do!

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We also go swimming quite a bit. My in-laws have a swimming pool, so we swim there a lot. Olivia started taking swim lessons last summer and she will keep doing that. It’s important to me as a mother to know they can swim and be safe in the water. This year, Henry will start getting closer to water as well.

I have always been a strong supporter for vaccines. My dad is a physician and we have had lots of conversations about this. There are many misconceptions out there, and especially online. There have been a lot of diseases out there that have been eradicated because of vaccines, and we didn’t always have them.

So, we definitely take the recommendations of our children’s doctors.

physicians about the signs of autism?

APRIL 2014 SYRACUSE PARENT

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healthy family

Your kids & pea Parents tend to be quite familiar with food allergies. In an effort to protect youngsters, schools have begun to crack down more regularly on foods that tend to cause allergic reactions, often placing restrictions on what children can bring in for lunches or snacks.

Parents and children who grew up around peanut and tree nut allergies are quite familiar with what triggers allergic reactions associated with such foods and the potential side effects of consuming these foods. But those who are less experienced with food allergies may not know what to expect.

According to the Mayo Clinic, being allergic to nuts is one of the more common food allergies and this is especially common among children. Many people who are allergic to peanuts are also allergic to other tree nuts, including walnuts, almonds and pecans.

As with any allergen, reactions vary from person to person. Some may experience mild symptoms, such as light rashes or swelling, while others may have severe reactions, including anaphylactic shock, which is characterized by shortness of breath, a severe drop in blood pressure, constriction of airways, and potential heart failure. According to Spire Health Partners, more than three million people in the United States have a nut allergy, and one-third of them will suffer from a severe symptom if they ingest nuts.

A peanut allergy occurs when your body mistakenly identifies peanut proteins as something that can be harmful. Just as your body might fight a cold, it releases chemicals from the immune system to fight off the peanut invader. The number of kids with peanut allergies has been increasing over the last 10 to 15 years, doubling in the last half-decade alone. It isn’t known why some people are prone to nut allergies while others are not. However, Dr. Michael C. Young, Assistant Clinical Professor of Pediatrics at Harvard Medical School and a practicing pediatrician at Children’s Hospital, has a few ideas.

Nursing mothers and very young children are eating more peanuts, particularly in the form of peanut butter, than ever before, something that Young feels could be causing a higher incidence rate of peanut allergies.

Young also theorizes that better hygiene may play a role, suggesting that because children have fewer infections (due to improved hygiene and routine immunizations),their immune systems are more likely to target other things, such as foods and

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healthy family

anut allergies environmental factors, resulting in allergies.

Although peanut allergies are prevalent and can be dangerous, there is no reason to act rashly. Young notes that approximately 20 percent of children will outgrow their peanut allergies by the age of 6, and he advises that it is worth having a child retested as they get older to gauge if there have been any changes in the status of the peanut allergy.

When dealing with peanut allergies, it is important to separate myths from facts.

- Direct contact is the most common cause of a reaction.

This results from eating peanuts or foods that contain peanuts. Cross-contamination, which occurs when peanuts unintentionally come into contact with other foods, is another common cause.

- Some people can have a reaction by touching peanuts with their skin. A rash may occur, but a very dangerous reaction will not result unless the peanuts enter the mouth or come into contact with the nose or eyes.

- An allergic reaction can occur from inhalation of peanut dust, such as peanut flour or ground shells during processing. Aerosol cooking sprays that contain peanut oil also can produce a reaction. It is important to note that the smell of peanuts will not induce an allergic reaction.

While being diligent in reading food labels and asking what ingredients are in prepared foods at restaurants is key for people with peanut allergies, so is avoiding potential skin contact.

This means thoroughly washing areas where peanuts or peanut butter may have been and ensuring other children wash up after lunch.

Peanut allergies are foremost on the minds of parents and educators.

Understanding what is involved in a peanut allergy can help everyone make informed decisions about protecting youngsters.

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healthy family

tips and ideas for keeping your family fast, fit, and feeling great

Commit to fully vaccinating your baby

By Karyn Johnson As parents, you have had to make many decisions about your children’s health and safety since the day they were born. One of the most important decisions is the decision to make sure your baby receives all of the recommended vaccines (shots) on time.

As we celebrate the 20th anniversary of National Infant Immunization Week during the week of April 26 – May 3, the Onondaga County Health Department would like to remind parents about the importance of immunizations.

Recent outbreaks of mumps, measles, and whooping cough (pertussis) in the United States remind us that the diseases we immunize against have not disappeared. While some diseases, like polio, are now unheard of in the United States; there are still

cases globally, and our children may get exposed to vaccine preventable diseases. The great news is that the risk of becoming sick from these diseases is significantly reduced when children are up-to-date on their vaccines. We can now protect our children against 14 different diseases by their second birthday!

Don’t put your child at risk. If you have questions about immunizations, talk to your health care provider. If your child is not up-to-date on his or her vaccines, make an appointment with your provider today. If you do not have health insurance, call the Onondaga

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Open House:

Summer Dance Camp July 21-August 14th Tuesday, June 3rd Tumble Camp 5:30-7:30 June 17-26 Winner of the Syracuse Bestie Awards Ballet Intensive with 2012 and 2013 for Sherri Campagni Best Dance Studio and Best Performing Arts Program August-18-22

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SYRACUSE PARENT MARCH 2014

Karyn Johnson is a public health educator with the Onondaga County Health Department. For more information visit onhealthyfamilies.com 36282

1216 Morgan Road Liverpool, NY 13090 315-457-3151 www.tawnmaries.com

County Health Department at 435-2000 for more information on getting low-cost or no-cost vaccines for your children.

Love them. Protect them. Immunize them.

family

FYI

Sleep Under the Stars Unplug and head outside. That is the idea behind National Wildlife Federation’s widely popular national family event, Great American Backyard Campout. In conjunction with Great Outdoors Month, the annual event encourages people of all ages to camp in their backyards, neighborhoods, parks and campgrounds, as a way to reconnect with nature. This year’s Great American Backyard Campout is Saturday, June 28.

“Kids need to experience camping, especially in their youth when the wonders of the outdoors can influence their future love for nature and wildlife,” said Maureen Smith, chief marketing officer for National Wildlife Federation.

“In addition to developing a deeper appreciation for the outdoors and the wildlife around them through camping in their backyard or at a local park, being in nature helps to burn off energy, stay fit, and be mentally focused for school, homework and all activities in their busy day.”

National Wildlife Federation provides

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The Great American Backyard Campout, June 28

everything you need to head out into the great outdoors. The Campout website has packing lists, recipes, nocturnal wildlife guides, exploration activities, nature games and more. For more information, please go to backyardcampout.org.

Now in its 10th year, Great American Backyard Campout is a part of National Wildlife Federation’s 10 Million Kids Outdoors Campaign. This three-year initiative seeks a future in which all children spend time outside each day, creating a generation of happier and healthier children with more awareness and connection to the natural world. National Wildlife Federation has worked to connect children and youth with nature for decades, inspiring children through Ranger Rick magazine, working with educators to get kids learning outdoors, and helping parents find new ways to engage their children outside.

National Wildlife Federation The National Wildlife Federation (NWF) is America’s largest conservation organization, inspiring Americans to protect wildlife for our children’s future. NWF programs educate and inspire people to protect wildlife and wildlife habitat. For more information: NWF.org.

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t’s For Children 18 months - 13 years Look Wha at Daily lunches & snacks served in our outdoor pavilion g Happenin nment Enviro Creative ay Camp D Summer 2014 Program 66 since 19

For More Information Call

637-6071

531 E. Genesee Street Fayetteville, New York 13066 Sheila C. Brittain, Director

(ORSES &ULL !CRE 3PORTS &IELD -USIC LED BY OUR OWN h-R 3ONGmOWERv 2ED #ROSS 3WIM ,ESSONS TAUGHT BY CERTIlED 73) 2ED #ROSS )NSTRUCTORS 3PORTS .ATURE 3TUDY ,AKEFRONT 3WIM ,ESSONS FOR Older Campers s 3WIMMING IN OUR OWN ON SITE HEATED in-ground pool s 3TATE OF THE ART PLAYGROUND s !LL GROUPS ARE LED BY CERTIlED TEACHERS s 2ECREATIONAL OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES s 7EEKLY SPECIAL EVENTS s %XTENDED HOURS BREAKFAST AVAILABLE s &OUR SUPERVISED EXCITING OPTIONAL overnights throughout the summer for grades one through seven s !ND MUCH MORE

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C.E.D.S. is accredited by the NYS Education Department and licensed by NYSOCFS Our Summer Day Camp is licensed by Onondaga County.

School yr. program runs Sept.- June for 18 mo.- Kindergarten.

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St. Margaret’s Summer Camp

family

Choosing a summer

Join us for a summer you will always remember!

Space Is The Place

Open to all Catholic School and Catholic Parish Children Summer Camp Hours: Regular Hours: 9am-3pm Extended Hours: 7-9am & 3-5:30pm

Weekly Camp Themes Week#1 June 30th “Welcome to My planet” Week #2 July 7th “One Step for Man Kind” Week #3 July 14th “Which Way To Mars” Week #4 July 21st “Where is the Watering Hole” Week #5 July 28th “What kind of Alien are You” Week #6 August 4th “Space Ships and More “ Week #7 August 11th “Off we go Into the Wild Blue Yonder”

Daily Activities include weekly themed activities, sports, out-door games, arts-n-crafts, swimming and more!

Campers will also go on field trips weekly. Breakfast, Lunch and Snack included in price

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1FS %BZ t 1FS 8FFL Field Trips extra $15 Call St. Margaret’s School for more information or to receive your summer camp packet. 455-5791

FYI

Though a lingering winter season does not often elicit images of youngsters building campfires or playing games in the pool, it’s a great time for parents to start thinking about summer camps for their kids.

Summer camp is often something kids look forward to, and something they will fondly recall long after they reach adulthood. For many kids, summer camp provides a first taste of independence, as youngsters spend significant time away from home without their parents for the first time in their lives.

But as great an experience as summer camp can be for youngsters, it can be just as difficult an experience if parents don’t find the right fit for their children. That’s why it’s wise for parents to start thinking about summer camps for their kids in winter and early spring, before camps start filling out their rosters.

The following are a few things parents should take into consideration when seeking a summer camp for their kids.

STAFF The right summer camp staff can make all the difference. Many children are understandably shy when arriving at a summer camp, as their friends from back home might not be joining them. That can make kids hesitant to participate in activities or less enthusiastic about those activities.

Good staff will know how to make kids feel welcome, which should help them come out of their shells and make the most of their summer camp experiences. The quality of staffs can vary significantly depending on the camp, so it’s important that parents ask camp representatives about their staffs before making any commitments. Ask how long the staff has been together and the types of training new and even veteran staff members

family

FYI

camp for your kids A day in the life When vetting camps for kids, parents should ask what a typical day is like once the season hits full swing.

Many parents want their youngsters to have a well-rounded experience, while others might want their kids to attend a more specialized camp, whether it’s a sports camp focusing on a particular sport or a music camp devoted to helping kids become better musicians.

Regardless of the type of camp parents are considering for their kids, they should ask about what daily life at the camp is like.

Ask to see schedules and how strictly camps adhere to those schedules.

When

considering specialized camps, ask the staff representative if kids will have the chance to simply have a little fun and which types of recreational activities are planned to give kids a break from what are often rigorous schedules.

Camp goals Parents also should consider the goals of each individual camp before choosing one for their kids. A camp should be dedicated to ensuring kids have fun, even when kids are attending more specialized camps that tend to be more strict.

In addition, parents should look for a camp that wants its attendees to foster relationships with their fellow campers. Camp can be lonely for some youngsters, especially those attending summer camp for the first time, but a summer camp that strives to promote friendship among its campers can reduce, if not eliminate, any feelings of homesickness.

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undergo before the start of camp season. Does the training include first aid and emergency medical training and certification?

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learning curve

the ins and outs of educational and stimulating activities for your children

Dos and Don’ts for college admissions interviews It’s college application time and your teen has taken the SAT or ACT, kept up his or her grades, written a stellar essay and completed all college applications. There is one more piece to the college admissions puzzle that could potentially gain your teen the acceptance he or she seeks: the college admissions interview.

“Not all colleges require a college admissions interview, but many of the competitive institutions do, as do some colleges’ departments or schools

Do spend time reflecting on yourself as a candidate for admission. The interviewer might want to learn more about your reasons for wanting to attend the college and the components of your background that would make you an ideal fit. There are no wrong answers in an admissions interview, since the interviewer simply wants to get to know you better. However, the more you prepare, the more polished you will come across.

ment about the college. Although the interviewer wants you to feel comfortable, treat this interview as you would a job interview. Come ready to answer a variety of questions about yourself in a direct and clear way.

Don’t be aloof or act too casual. Avoid cracking jokes, using inappropriate language or sharing too much personal information. Relax and be yourself, but remember that this is still an interview for college admission.

Do be prepared to ask questions. There is a good chance that you will be asked if you have any questions. Do your research about the college and the program or programs in which you are interested and develop a list of questions before your interview. Have them ready just in case.

Don’t waste valuable interview time asking about things you could learn elsewhere. While there may be time allotted for questions, choose those questions wisely. You could easily find out about the admissions process and extracurricular activities on the college’s website.

that require secondary admission,” said Candace Edwards of the Baldwinsville Huntington Learning Center.

“The admissions interview intimidates many prospective students, but we encourage them to approach this as an opportunity to put a face to a name, make a good impression and articulate face-to-face why they would be a great student at the college.”

Edwards offers a few tips to students as they prepare for the college admissions interview:

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Don’t present yourself as someone different than the real you. While you might feel tempted to embellish your résumé or act in a way you think might impress the interviewer, it is better to be honest about who you are and what you have to offer. That may even mean discussing lessons you have learned from challenges or failures.

Do act professionally. You should treat the admissions interview as a chance to share your goals, educational journey, future plans and excite-

“The admissions interview is a great opportunity and should not be a source of anxiety,” Edwards reminds students. “Look on the college’s website for any interview guidelines or tips, spend time preparing for the interview, and most important, put your very best foot forward.”

For more tips on effective interviewing, admissions success and more, contact Candace Edwards of the Baldwinsville Huntington Learning Center at 622-2515 or cbedwards1@aol. com or visit Huntington’s Resource Library at http://huntingtonhelps.com/ resource/library/.

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calendar Sat April 26

here is what’s happening around you (Continued from page 11)

WEEKEND WILDFLOWER WALKS. 2 to 3 PM. April 26

and 27. Baltimore Woods Nature Center’s premier woodland wildflower garden is a local treasure. Join caretaker Audrey Loewer for a pleasant walk through one of the wonders of spring. Each week new species will bloom, and Audrey will reveal their past and present medicinal and culinary uses. The garden is handicap accessible; please call ahead if you need assistance. Donations appreciated. Call 673-1350 to sign up. baltimorewoods.org. Baltimore Woods Nature Center, Marcellus.

Sun April 27 AUTISM AWARENESS WALK. 9:15 AM Registration. 10 AM Walk. The CNY Autism Society is hosting its 9th annual “One Piece at a Time” Autism Awareness Walk at Long Branch Park in Liverpool! Once again, there will be family-friendly activities at the park for walkers to enjoy, vendor tables to visit with opportunities to network, and light refreshments will be available. Register at cnyasa.org.

Ongoing THE CAMILLUS ARTISTS. April 1 through 29. Maxwell Library.

Share a love of art-making and an interest in exhibiting their work together in local venues. Formerly known as the Camillus Art Association, the guild is artistic home to many well-known figures, such as Dominick Ciarla, Margaret Delany, John Kosecki, Jean Madden, Beth Patton, Ceil Pigula, Alison Waters and many others.

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The exhibit at Maxwell Library, will include drawings, paintings in a variety of media and photography.

DR. ENTOMO’S AMAZING ARTHROPODS. 10 AM to 5 PM. Wednesday through Sunday. Continuing all month at the MOST, 500 S. Franklin St., Syracuse. Come face-to-face with bird-eating tarantulas, black widow spiders and cyanidesecreting millipedes. You’ll learn the deadly reputation of some of these insects is undeserved. Exhibit is open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Exhibit is free with regular admission, which is free for members and costs $10 per adult and $8 per child ages 2 to 11 and seniors 65 years or older. 425-9068.

NIKON SMALL WORLD EXHIBIT. 10 AM to 5 PM. The

Nikon International Small World Competition has become a leading showcase for photomicrographers from the widest array of scientific disciplines. The Top 20 winning images will be on display at the MOST. Exhibit is free with regular admission, which is free for members and costs $10 per adult and $8 per child ages 2 to 11 and seniors 65 years or older. 425-9068.

OUT THERE: EXPLORING SPACE THROUGH AUGMENTED REALITY. Wednesday through Sunday.

Continuing all month at the MOST, 500 S. Franklin St., Syracuse Three screens use video game-style technology to create an interactive environment that delights and teaches augmented reality, the sun and artificial intelligence. Come and bounce behind an Apollo astronaut, paint the sun purple, and interact with a robot named (Free)W.I.L.L. Exhibit is free with regular admission, which is free for members and costs $10 per adult and $8 per child ages 2 to 11 and seniors 65 years or older. 425-9068.

the ins and outs of educational and stimulating activities for your children

learning curve

Passing along a family tradition – or curse At a young and tender age I was cursed.

Not once, but twice. e re This wasn’t a Disney princess-type curse either, where it was done by an evil queen and there was a cursebreaking loophole. No. These were real, and they were laid on me by my parents.

That’s right, my own parents. Each saddling me with a separate curse that e v Am cti would one day come home to roost. other’s perspe I distinctly remember the events surrounding my mother’s curse. She was changing the sheets on my bed. A task made twice as long by the menagerie of stuffed animals that lived on the bed. Rough estimate? Approximately 30.

“Some day I hope your child has as many stuffed animals as you do.”

Curse rendered.

And the day my father cursed me? It was during my teen years in the mid-1980s — an age of layered outfits. Not two, but three or four shirts worn at a time (turtleneck, Oxford shirt, polo or two, always with collars up). And each day I would toss not one, not two, but three or four shirts in the wash. Rarely were they turned right-side out. My dad, who often did the laundry, would say as g a m o- M o

or

Ka

er nB

he turned the clothes right side out (and after calling me out to the kitchen to help), “I hope some day your child tosses their clothes in the laundry inside out.”

Not-so-fast forward 20-odd years and the curses have manifested.

The descendants of those 30 stuffed animals live on my son’s bed. Some of them used to be mine because my mother made sure to pass them along. Curse fulfillment had assistance. Each time I change the sheets on his bed I can hear my mother’s laughter from her home an hour away.

And the laundry? Nary a week goes by when socks are not bunched in little balls, T-shirts are inside out and shirts that only touched his body for less than an hour fill the laundry basket.

As near as I can figure it, there is only one way to break these curses and it doesn’t involve true love’s kiss, or singing animals, or the perfect pair of shoes.

The other day while helping the boy clean his room, I said, “I hope someday your child doesn’t turn their clothes right side out and has 50 stuffed animals on their bed.”

And ... cue the singing animals.

Karen Bergamo Moore lives in Camillus with her husband and son.

She works in the communications office at the SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry, is active in Boy Scouts and enjoys running 5Ks with her son. Follow her on twitter at @kmoore623.

SUMMER PONY CAMP • 1/2 hr. Daily Private Lesson

with Professional Canterbury Trainer • Learn about Horse Care • Fun Arts and Crafts • Class is limited to Six Students

Pony Camp

9 a.m.–1 p.m., Tuesday–Friday, Weeks of July & August Develop your child’s horse riding skills through daily riding and instruction. We provide week-long camps from July through August for children ages 6 and older. Weekly horse topics and fun crafts in our separate classroom built in 2012.

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feature story

Sophia’s steps

North Syracuse family shares a daughter’s journey with autism

By Emma Grossman The word “autism” tends to come off as a scary, intimidating, and unfamiliar word to many people. For Kris Tamilia, of North Syracuse, these types of feelings were overwhelming when her daughter, Sofia, was diagnosed with autism when she was 2 1/2 years old.

The National Library of Medicine defines autism as a developmental disorder that appears in the first three years of life, and affects the brain’s normal development of social and communication skills. The difficulty with understanding autism is that every child is different.

Kris explained her daughter’s case: “I would say you know that at an early age things are different. For Sofia, she stopped talking, so you realize something is wrong.” After Sofia’s diagnosis, Kris and her family attempted to help Sofia understand things in different ways.

“You have to find what their niche is and how they accept things. You need to learn to make things make sense for them.”

Any parent could be devastated to find that their child was diagnosed with autism. At one point in time, Kris thought Sofia would never go to kindergarten and she thought she would never read a book. Now 11 years old, Sofia is doing math problems and reading books. Kris believes that such progress was made due to early

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intervention.

Not only did Kris, her husband Mario, their other daughter Gabrielle, and other family members help tremendously with Sofia—there were also special education teachers and therapists that helped. “When they are so little and they are doing therapy, you think ‘she’s never going to get there.’”

The Tamilia family has gotten “there” with great support from the Central New York Autism Society of America (CNY ASA).

This year the society will be putting on its annual “One Piece at a Time” Autism Awareness Walk on Sunday, April 27, at Long Branch Park in Liverpool.

The main goal is to raise awareness about autism and that is exactly what they have done since they first started.

The Tamilia family first began the walk as a group of four and has now developed into a group of more than 120 people! The spreading of awareness has made great progress since Sofia’s diagnosis.

People now know what the “puzzle piece” symbol of autism standing for the complexity and mystery of the autism spectrum means and inclusive classrooms in school have helped kids with autism learn and interact with other children their age.

Before the diagnosis of their daughter, Kris and Mario did not know any other parents of children with autism. “You feel like nobody could possibly un-

feature story derstand what we go through and we felt secluded” said Kris. But going to ASA meetings, they met parents who understood. Kris said “It was such a relief” to have others who could talk and laugh with you.

One of Sofia’s favorite things to do is to camp. With nine other families during the summer, the Tamilias pitch a tent and go camping. Sofia gets really excited when the camping trip is coming closer and packs all of her clothes and a refrigerator. She loves it so much.

Although the future of Sofia is unknown, Kris wishes Sofia will make great friends one day and will find and hold a job that she actually likes and will make her happy.

“Her father I worry about things

like will she get bullied in school? Will she ever have friends to play with? What will her life be like as an adult?” said Kris. “But you only have to spend a little bit of time with her to know she’ll be OK. She’s a great kid to be around. She’s always smiling and happy — unless Syracuse University loses a basketball game, then she’s not very happy. “ For more information on the CNY ASA “one piece at a time” Autism Awareness Walk please visit: cnyasa.org.

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