Syracuse parent august 2013

AUGUST 2013

Tools of the trade Must haves for your child’s return to school

Do you have ‘fresh air’ to spare?

Local couple shares experience as volunteer hosts to NYC child

BACK TO SCHOOL ZONE

Think outs the ide bag

healthy family

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

Let’s pack that back-to-school lunch!

By Susan Branning, RD, CDN “Back to School” may mean shopping for clothes and school supplies, but also it means trying to figure out what you will pack for your child’s lunch. While your goal may be to provide a healthy and tasty, yet economic meal, that might not be the easiest task to accomplish.

Whether you are packing a lunch five days a week or only one, try these tips that will not only keep your child satisfied, but also provide you with peace of mind knowing that you packed a safe and nutritious meal:

1. Apply the My Plate Concept Imagine your child’s lunch on a plate.

Aim for variety by having half of the plate as whole grains and lean protein, and the other half as fruits and vegetables.

2. Include Your Child in the Decision While you may not want your child to dictate what will be packed for lunch, including them in the decision will give them a sense of choice and they will more likely be satisfied. Offer them options such as “Would you like yogurt and a banana or pudding and an apple?”

3. Convenience vs. Cost

Many parents wonder if they should spend the money on single-serving foods that are readily available in stores such as carrot sticks, apple slices, crackers or pretzels. While these items make packing a lunch quicker and easier, they can also be more expensive than their multi-serving counterparts. If you want to save some money and have the time, pack these items the traditional way using containers or plastic bags. However, if you can afford these products which

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2013 Season

4. Keep it Safe

No matter how nutritious the lunch you pack, what’s most important is keeping it safe. By keeping lunch at a safe temperature, you will be preventing potential foodborne illness. An insulated lunch tote and icepack or frozen beverage box should keep food cold until lunchtime. Some lunch totes include ice-packs that fit easily and don’t take up much space, leaving enough room for lunch.

These are worth the small investment.

Susan is a Registered Dietitian and Manager of the Clinical Nutrition Department at St. Joseph’s Hospital Health Center. For more information, visit the St. Joseph’s Health Connections blog at www.sjhsyr.org/blog/healthconnections.

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4 Zip Line rides, A Go Cart ride & Miniature Golf

can make life much easier for your busy schedule, then take advantage of them.

Valid 2013 Season Only

code 456

what’s inside

meals in minutes 5 Fast & easy meals and snacks

to get your family to the table

24 Getting kids involved 25 School time transition

learning curve 4 Making the grade for

parent-teacher relationships

contents

paws and effects 14 Whiskers’ wisdom: Back to school is bittersweet

19 Canine Carnival

dollars & sense 27 Buying school clothes without busting your budget

Coloring kids

from the editor 6 To everything,

there is a season

calendar 7 Here is what’s happening around you this month

family FYI 8 Avoiding mosquito bites 9 Signs of bullying 10 Make your dorm room your own

12 Morning rush 20 Going green while you’re in the sun

22 Kids rope course 22 Did you know?

23 Get creative and enter for a 26 Painted wings & giant strings

safety zone 16 School bus safety

chance to win!

cover story 13 Do you have

“fresh air” to spare?

healthy family 2 Let’s pack that

back-to-school lunch

18 Food, nutrition & health 21 Think outside the paper bag

tools of the trade 15 What will your kids need?

Coloring contest on page 23 AUGUST 2013 SYRACUSE PARENT

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learning curve

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

Making the grade for parent-teacher relationships Once a school year begins, many students spend more time in the classroom with their teachers than they do at home with their parents. That's especially true in dual-income households where both parents work outside of the home.

Though many parents would love to spend more time with their children, doing so can be difficult when both parents must go to work every day. Because kids spend so much time with their teachers, it's important for parents to work toward building a strong parent-teacher relationship. Such a relationship fosters communication, which can help a young student do his or her best in and out of the classroom,

something that's a goal for parents and teachers alike.

Parents interested in developing a strong relationship with their kids' teachers can take several steps to make that happen.

Meet your child's teacher at the beginning of the year.

Teachers have many students come in and out of their classroom on any given day, so it can be hard for teachers to initiate a relationship with parents. Parents have significantly fewer children to look after, so they should take the first step toward building a relationship with teachers. Introduce yourself at the onset of the school year, providing phone numbers and email addresses where you can be reached. Let the teacher

Join us at Feats of Clay for creative fun at Summer Camp!

Feats of Clay offers a fun and truly unique environment where you can unleash your inner artist and create fabulous "feats" painted by you!!

• Meet New Friends • Healthy Snacks • Fun Games

33206

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Aug. 6-8 and Aug. 13-15

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SYRACUSE PARENT AUGUST 2013

know you're available for discussion any time during the school year and that you look forward to the coming school year and working with the teacher as the year progresses.

Attend "Back to School Night." School events like an open house or a "Back to School Night" are a great way to help kids grow acclimated to their school. But such events also make great opportunities for parents to learn more about their kids' teachers than they might have learned during their introductory meeting. Such events may allow teachers to explain the curriculum for the upcoming year, and teachers may feel encouraged when parents show an active interest in such events.

Prioritize parent-teacher conferences. Parent-teacher conferences are a great opportunity for parents to speak to their children's teacher one-on-one. Unlike an introductory meeting or an open house at the beginning of the school year, a parent-teacher conference allows parents and teachers to specifically discuss students in private.

Teachers may provide insight into how a child is performing and behaving in the

classroom, offering advice as to how to improve that performance or suggestions as to how to encourage kids to keep up the good work. Such conferences may be your only opportunity for a oneon-one, in-person discussion about your child, so make sure you're on time and that you don't miss these conferences. Your child's teacher will appreciate it, and you can use this as an opportunity to ask any questions you have about your child.

Keep the channels of communication open.

If it's been awhile since you've spoken to your child's teacher, don't be afraid to email the teacher to check in or see if you can lend a helping hand. In addition, if your child really enjoys a teacher's class, don't be hesitant to share that with the teacher. Teachers appreciate compliments just like other professionals, and parents should express their gratitude to those teachers who are working hard to make learning fun for their youngsters.

Establishing a strong relationship with a child's teacher can help parents ensure students are making the most of their time in the classroom.

meals in minutes

fast & easy meals/snacks to get your family to the table

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Rice krispies treats Total Time: Prep Time: Cook Time: Yield: Level:

30 min 10 min 20 min 12 Easy

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Ingredients:

Oven-Baked Zucchini Fries

Three zucchini (one pound) 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese 1 pack Shake & Bake coating mix 1 small egg

Total Time: Prep Time: Cook Time: Level:

23 min 10 min 13 min Easy

Ingredients:

Directions:

3 tablespoons butter or margarine 1 package (10 oz.) regular marshmallows OR 4 cups miniature marshmallows 6 cups rice krispies cereal

Using low heat, melt butter in large saucepan. Add marshmallows and stir until completely melted, then remove from heat. Add rice krispies cereal, and stir until well coated. Evenly press mixture into 13-by-9-by-2-inch pan coated with cooking spray using buttered spatula or wax paper. Let cool. Cut treats into 2-inch squares and serve.

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Pepperoni Pizza Bagels Total Time: Prep Time: Cook Time: Yield: Level:

15 min 5 min 10 min 4 Easy

Ingredients:

4 plain bagels, halved 24 slices pepperoni 1/2 cup shredded mozz. cheese 1/2 cup marinara sauce

Directions:

Heat oven to 450ºF. Trim the zucchini -cut crosswise in half, then cut each piece into 1/4-inch sticks. Add cheese to coating mix in shaker bag; shake gently to combine. Whisk egg in medium bowl. Add zucchini; toss to coat. Use tongs to place 1/4 of the zucchini in shaker bag; close bag and shake to evenly coat.

Spread onto baking sheet sprayed with cooking spray. Repeat with remaining zucchini. Bake for 12 to 13 min. or until golden brown, turning the baking tray 180 degrees after 7 min to facilitate even baking.

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Directions:

Heat oven to 350ºF. Place bagel halves, inside facing upward, on baking sheet sprayed with cooking spray. Top with marinara sauce, cheese and pepperoni. Bake 10 minutes or until cheese is melted.

Total Time: Prep Time: Cook Time: Yield: Level:

55 min 10 min 45 min 48 Easy

Ingredients:

Hey, mom & dad!

Do you have a go-to snack or meal that’s right for back-to-school season? If you want to share ideas with other parents in CNY, send it in and we might just feature it in a future edition! Email fjadran@ eaglenewsonline.com with your recipe and a photo of it (if available). Happy cooking!

Peanut-raisin granola bars

Directions:

2 1/2 cups rolled or quick-cooking oats 1 cup dry-roasted peanuts 1 cup raisins 1 cup sunflower seeds 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon 1 14-ounce can sweetened condensed milk 1 stick unsalted butter

Preheat oven to 325ºF. Line 15-by-10-inch rimmed baking sheet with foil and coat with cooking spray. Melt butter. Mix oats, peanuts, raisins, seeds, cinnamon, condensed milk and melted butter in bowl. Spread evenly on baking sheet and bake 45 minutes or until golden. Cool slightly, then lift from baking sheet using foil and turn over onto cutting board. Peel off foil and cut into bars.

AUGUST 2013 SYRACUSE PARENT

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from the editor

publisher

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

To everything, there is a season As far as my family is concerned, fall is already here. With practice for football and cheerleading starting Aug. 1, I find myself scrambling to get fall physicals together, sports gear purchased and rides to and from practice organized.

Don’t get me wrong – August is my favorite month of the summer, with high temperatures and blue skies But it is also the beginning of the end of the season, reminiscent of the way Sundays are – you don’t have to work, but it’s hard to fully enjoy it because work (or, in this case, fall) is looming right around the corner.

I’m sure many parents are with me when I say that time is passing at an unbelievable rate. The kids are growing before my eyes, both physically and mentally. I look forward to seeing what this school year will bring, what new experiences, hopefully more good than bad, will be in store for our family.

It’s hard to let go of the feeling that the kids are passing me by as they move down the road toward their future. They’re testing the waters, gaining independence step by step, which is necessary, but no less painful for me. Sometimes I even savor it, like when I don’t have to be on top of them any more at the mall.

But there are times that I wish their childhood, like the summer, would slow down a bit. They have plenty of time to be adults, worrying about what the future holds. Right now, I’d like them to not worry about anything more than chasing down the ice cream truck or where their other flip flop is.

But, time marches on, and a lot of the time it feels like it’s carrying the kids along with it.

That’s why it’s important to take time to live in the moment, whether it’s grilling burgers and hanging on the deck or taking a swim at Green Lakes.

So we will enjoy the fine weather while it’s here – and look forward to the upcoming fall, I guess.

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

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SYRACUSE PARENT AUGUST 2013

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.

here is what’s happening around you

Thu Aug 1 BREWERTON ANIME CLUB FOR TEENS.

4 PM. Are you an anime or manga fan? Join our club to meet other fans, share your favorite books and check out new library comics. NOPL Brewerton Library, 5473 Library St., Brewerton. Free. Registration requested at www.nopl.org or 676-7484.

Fri Aug 2 ANNUAL MACEDONIAN FESTIVAL.

St. George Macedonian Orthodox Church, 5083 Onondaga Road; stgeorgemoc.org. Take in the folk dances and ethnic food and participate in the festivities highlighted by a traditional wedding performance and pig roast on Saturday. Tour of the beautiful church. Event runs through Aug. 4. Free.

GRAVITATIONAL BULL JUGGLING PROGRAM.

2 PM. Come see the amazing antics of Gravitational Bull Juggling with Dave and Kyle Fultz. NOPL North Syracuse Library, 100 Trolley Barn Lane. Free. Registration Required at www.nopl.org or 458-6184.

Sat Aug 3 CANINE CARNIVAL.

10 AM to 2 PM. Long Branch Park, 3813 Longbranch Road, Liverpool; pmawf.org. This event includes a variety of pet related vendors, rescues, demonstrations, raffles and more.

Proceeds benefit the Priscilla Mahar Animal Welfare Fund. Free.

COPPERLINE: A TRIBUTE TO JAMES TAYLOR.

7 PM. Landmark Theatre, 362 S. Salina St., Syracuse; landmarktheatre.org. The members of Copperline lead you through decades of JT’s most memorable songs. Ticket prices vary.

Sun Aug 4 BAVARIAN FEST.

Noon to 6 PM., Long Branch Park in Liverpool; bavarianclubalmenrausch. org. This event is filled with great live

music, dancing, terrific German food and drink, Schuhplattler and folk dance performances, and plenty of Gemütlichkeit! Free.

ASIAN ELEPHANT EXTRAVAGANZA.

10 AM to 4:30 PM. Rosamond Gifford Zoo, 1 Conservation Place, Syracuse; rosamondgiffordzoo.org/ Asian-elephant-extravaganza. Asian Elephant Extravaganza is an opportunity for the Rosamond Gifford Zoo to celebrate the Asian elephant collection and highlight their intelligence, strength and size. Crafts and biofact stations will also be available for families to enjoy and learn more about Asian elephants and their endangered status.

Mon Aug 5 MAKER MONDAYS: STOP MOTION MOVIE LAB.

3:30 to 5 PM. Learn to make a stop motion movie using our iPads, digital cameras, or even our green screen!

For students entering grades 6-12.

Registration Required.

Tue Aug 6 FIRST STEPS.

9:30 AM. Every Tuesday and Wednesday. Calling all Toddlers” First Steps is an action packed, language building program that features music, movement, rhymes and stories.

For children who are good walkers.

300 Orchard St., Fayetteville. 6376374. www.fflib.org.

SUMMER KICKBALL LEAGUE.

5:30 to 7:30 PM. Come play kickball in the green space outside the library.

300 Orchard St., Fayetteville. 6376374. www.fflib.org.

Thu Aug 8 FFL KILL-A-WATT ENERGY CHALLENGE.

6:30 to 7:30 PM. Join the first ever Kill-a-Watt Energy Challenge! This program will run over six weeks and participants will be asked to attend as many meetings as possible.

Designed for family teams. All ages.

Co-Sponsored by the CNY Regional Planning & Development Board.

calendar

Registration required. 300 Orchard St., Fayetteville. 637-6374. www. fflib.org.

Sat Aug 10 TOWPATH DAY.

10 AM to 4 PM. Camillus Erie Canal Park will be celebrating “In the Good Olde Summer Tyme” for all ages, families and groups. Festivities will include the 3rd Annual Camillus Rotary Mule Skinner 5K Run/Walk, traditional old fashion crafts, wagon rides, boat tours over the aqueduct, steam engine exhibit, crafters, raffles and great food. Kids will enjoy face painting, make and take items, ice cream and butter making. Enjoy the petting zoo featuring Alpacas. Free admission & parking. www.eriecanalcamillus.com.

SMARTPLAY.

10: 30 AM to Noon. Smartplay is a free play environment that promotes discovery, creativity and the development of early literacy skills. Children ages 5 and below. 300 Orchard St., Fayetteville. 637-6374. www.fflib. org.

Tue Aug 13 MAKE YOUR OWN COMIC.

1 to 3 PM. If you are a fan of comics, graphic novels, or manga, then join us and learn how to make your own.

For students entering 6-12th grade in the fall. Registration required. 300 Orchard St., Fayetteville. 637-6374. www.fflib.org.

Wed Aug 14 STAR WARS MOVIE MARATHON.

10:30 AM to 9 PM. Drop in to watch Star Wars- Episode 1: the Phantom Menace, Episode IV: A New Hope, Episode V: The Empire Strikes Back, Episode VI: Return of the Jedi. See the full calendar for more specific run times. 300 Orchard St., Fayetteville.

637-6374. www.fflib.org. calendar continued on page 11

AUGUST 2013 SYRACUSE PARENT

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family

FYI

some helpful information for your family

Avoiding mosquitoes and keeping your kids bite free While kids want to be outside playing in the nice weather, one thing they don’t want is to get bitten by mosquitoes.

Mosquito bites can make kids itchy and uncomfortable.

More importantly, they can also lead to serious illness.

Mosquitoes can spread diseases like West Nile Virus (WNV) and Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE). Although the majority of people bitten by a mosquito do not become sick, you should minimize your family’s risk of being bitten because both WNV and EEE are potentially serious illnesses.

Follow these tips to keep safe and enjoy the outdoors: Tip 1: Protect your family when outdoors. Mosquitoes are most active be-

Syracuse School of Dance Performance Opportunities:

Tip 4: Mosquito proof your home and keep them from breeding.

Install and repair the screens on windows and doors to keep the mosquitoes out of the house. Mosquitoes need pools of water to breed. Get rid of standing water from kid pools, storm drains, and other places on your property.

To learn more about what you can do to keep your family mosquito-bite free and reduce your risk of mosquito-borne disease, visit the Onondaga County Health Department at ongov.net/health/mosquitoborne.html, call 435-3280, or on Facebook at facebook. com/ongovhealth.

Will Your Child Be Prepared for Kindergarten?

• NYS approved curriculum that aligns with the Common Core Standards and the Early Learning Guidelines • Physical education, music and library programming • Promotes sharing, cooperation and learning through play • Half-day options available • Early and late care available for preschoolers

Ballet • Jazz Modern • Hip Hop Tap • Musical Theater Open House and

Registration

To schedule a tour please call 445-2040 ext. 120

September 4, 2013 5:00 - 7:00 pm

472-0235

33201

Classes for all ages and levels of ability.

Studio is located in the University/DeWitt Area www.syracuseschoolofdance.com SYRACUSE PARENT AUGUST 2013

apply repellent on their own.

The JCC Early Childhood Program Helps Ensure the Answer will be YES!

"Winter Celebration" for children and teens "In Concert 2014" for advanced students

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tween dusk and dawn. When your family is outdoors during these times, wear longsleeved shirts, pants, shoes, and socks.

Tip 2: Choose the right insect repellent and use it safely.

Be sure to choose an EPAregistered insect repellent that contains DEET, Picaridin, Oil of Eucalyptus, or IR3535. Always follow the manufacturer recommendations for use. Do not put the repellent directly onto children. Put it on your hands and apply it to children.

Tip 3: Make repellent use a habit.

Just like sunscreen, insect repellent should be a regular part of your family’s routine when heading outdoors. Children should not be allowed to

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By Jackie Shostack, MSEd, CHES, Public Health Education Supervisor

School Year 2013-2014 STARTS September 3rd!

5655 Thompson Rd, DeWitt • 315.445.2040 • www.jccsyr.org

family

FYI

Learn the early warning signs of bullying Children grow and develop their personalities in various ways. While many youngsters are teased or receive some good-natured ribbing at some point in their school careers, some teasing can eventually turn into bullying.

The National Education Association estimates that 160,000 children miss school every day due to fear of attack or intimidation by other students Bullying can take many forms, and learning the warning signs as a parent can help prevent harassment and potentially dangerous situations.

Verbal: If your child reports being called names, being the recipient of racist, sexist or homophobic jokes, or being spoken to in an offensive or suggestive way, this can be a form of verbal bullying.

Cyber: Social media, email and text messaging has become a way for bullies to spread malicious messages or photos. In the era of digital media, this type of bullying has increased considerably.

Physical: Some bullies engage in physical attacks, including hitting, kicking, spitting, or other forms of physical confrontation. Destroying personal property also is considered physical bullying.

Indirect: Gossiping and spreading rumors about a person is another form of bullying.

This type of bullying may go hand-in-hand with cyber bullying.

Signs your child is being bullied Parents can recognize certain signs that their child is being bullied at school. Bullied children frequently make excuses to avoid going to school. While the desire to stay home is something many children may express, those who are bullied may do so much more frequently. Bullied chil-

dren tend to avoid certain places and may be sad, angry, withdrawn, or depressed. They may have trouble sleeping or experience changes in appetite, and bullied youngsters’ academic performance may suffer. Also, parents may notice that children return from school missing some of their belongings.

Signs your child is the bully Parents may not want to imagine their children bullying other students, but bullies do exist. Children who bully other kids have strong needs for power and negative dominance. They may find satisfaction in causing suffering to others. Some signs that your child may be a bully include: • Easily becoming violent with others.

• Having friends who bully others • Blaming others quickly • Comes home with belongings that do not belong to him or her • Getting in trouble with teachers or school administrators There are ways parents can teach their children to act properly when faced with a bully.

First, parents should explain that bullying is not the child’s fault and he or she does not deserve to be picked on. Next, parents can let children know that being assertive but not violent with bullies may diffuse the situation, as some bullies thrive on the fear of their victims. If the bullying behavior continues, the student should speak to an adult or authority figure.

Parents of bullies may need to be especially mindful of their children’s behavior. Counseling could be necessary to determine what is compelling kids to bully other students.

10/31/13

AUGUST 2013 SYRACUSE PARENT

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family

FYI

some helpful information for your family

How to make a dorm room your own Children spend roughly 17 to 18 years living under mom and dad's roof. When the time comes to go away to college, young men or women find themselves on their own for the first time in their lives. Once youngsters move into their dorm rooms, many attempt to add a few personal touches to their new home.

All too often a college dorm room is drab and uninspiring. Universities tend to make dorm rooms sparse so they are easy to maintain.

Very often walls are made from concrete or brick, and the space may not be very large. In addition, dorm rooms are often shared with a roommate, and the idea of spending semester after semester here may not be so appealing.

Students tend to arrive on campus with fixed budgets and not a lot of spending money for new furnishings, so dorm rooms often become populated with garage-sale

finds and hand-me-downs.

This may only add to the room's poor aesthetics.

Making a dorm room your own does not require a lot of money or know-how.

It starts with a vision, a few comforts from home and some collaboration with your roommate. The following are a few tips for young men and women looking to turn their dorm rooms from drab to fab.

Know the dorm rules before making any permanent changes. Rather than face fines at the end of the school year, know what you can and can't do to your room before making any changes.

For example, schools may frown on holes in walls or other structural changes, so invest in stick-on hooks for hanging photos on walls.

Consider using a dorm room planning web site. Certain web sites enable students to share a collaborative shopping cart with roommates so they can coordinate colors

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and avoid buying two of the same items.

Remember, the bed is the pivotal piece of the room.

Most dorm rooms fit little more than two beds and two desks. Therefore, the bulk of your design will come from outfitting your bed with a comforter that adds color and life to the room. If you haven't yet decided on a color scheme with your roommate, you may want to opt for neutral colors, or even basic black-and-white, which will blend with anything.

Invest in other creature comforts. A nice area rug and a few decorative lamps can remove the institutional feel of overhead fluorescent lights and cinder block walls.

Task lighting enables you to get work done at your desk or to read on the bed.

Consider curtains to add a homey feel. While blinds certainly have their utility, fabric curtains can help absorb noise and also make a dorm room feel more like

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home. If your dorm room has an attached bathroom, hang a shower curtain and use thick towels to make the space seem more like home.

Carve out a spot for a mini refrigerator. Students should not survive on cafeteria food alone. Bring a mini refrigerator for those late-night cravings. This will save you from overpaying at vending machines or at the nearby convenience store.

Ask Mom what laundry detergent she uses. Smells can trigger powerful memories and emotions. Washing linens and clothing with the same detergent used at home can make school feel more familiar.

Don't forget photos.

Frame photos of friends and family members and place them around your area of the dorm room. This way you will have familiar faces smiling back at you when you need a little pick-me-up.

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BLESSED SACRAMENT SCHOOL

3 year olds through 6th grade Elementary School Accredited by the Middle States Commission Offering Faith, Knowledge, Discipline, Morals, and Dividends for Life since 1931.

Tours available. Call for an appointment.

33203

Providing your child with academic excellence in a positive and personal environment!

3219 James Street • Syracuse, NY 13206 315-463-1261 • www.blessedsacramentschool.org

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SYRACUSE PARENT AUGUST 2013

calendar NOPL BIG SALE: CICERO LIBRARY BARN.

10 AM to 3 PM. Find great deals on used books, media, and gently used library furniture, computers and electronics. All proceeds benefit the Northern Onondaga Public Libraries.

8 AM to 3 PM on Saturday, Aug. 17.

Find great deals on used books, media, and gently used library furniture, computers and electronics. All proceeds benefit the Northern Onondaga Public Libraries. NOPL Cicero Library Barn, 8686 Knowledge Lane. www. nopl.org.

CARING KIDS MAKE BLANKETS.

2 PM. Make fleece blankets for cancer patients at local radiology and oncology centers. The blankets will be placed in bags with other items to raise the spirits of people battling cancer. The bags are called “Bravery Bags” and Stupid Dumb Breast Cancer would love to have enough blankets to distribute to all the centers. This event is for children in first grade and up. Parents must stay in the program with their children. Lemonade and cookies will be provided. This event is free, but a suggested $5 donation per child is requested to cover the cost of supplies. For more information about Stupid Dumb Breast Cancer, please visit: stupiddumbbreastcancer.com.

Register. 637-6374.

Sat Aug 17 FAYETTEVILLE HIGH-SCHOOL REUNION.

10 AM to Noon. Reunion for FHS alumni. 300 Orchard St., Fayetteville.

637-6374. www.fflib.org.

Mon Aug 19 LIBRARIAN ONE-ON-ONE ASSISTANCE.

6 PM. One-on-one assistance on a topic of your choice. Please let us know what you would like assistance with when registering. Options include: -eBooks/eReader assistanceHelp with your smart phone, tablet or laptop-Software/application assistance. -Job search & career help (resume & cover letter help, finding

openings, exploring career paths, etc.) Makerbot demonstration/training. Research help. Registration required. 300 Orchard St., Fayetteville.

637-6374. www.fflib.org.

Tue Aug 20 THE WIGGLES: “TAKING OFF”.

6:30 PM. OnCenter Civic Center Theaters/The Crouse Hinds Theater in Syracuse. The brand new cast, featuring the first-ever female Wiggle, is excited to say “hello” and to entertain local children and their parents. The Oncenter Box Office (720 S. State St.), online via www.ticketmaster. com or by calling 435-2121.

Wed Aug 21 “CATS”.

Taylor Dayne, nationally recognized singer, songwriter and actor, will appear as Grizabella in the Broadway favorite “CATS,” opening at Merry-Go-Round Playhouse as part of the Finger Lakes Musical Theatre Festival on Aug. 21 in Auburn.

Tickets: 2551785 or by visiting www. fingerlakesmtf.com/tickets.

CICERO LIBRARY MAKER FAIRE.

Noon to 4 PM. The Cicero Library Maker Club is hosting a Maker Faire.

Did you make something cool this summer and want to show it off? Bring it in and stay to answer questions.

Registration required. NOPL Cicero, 8686 Knowledge Lane. www.nopl. org.

Thu Aug 22 NOPL CICERO SUMMER MUSIC SERIES: EXCELSIOR CORNET BAND.

6:30 PM. The Excelsior Cornet Band will bring the music of the Civil War brass band era to life at the Cicero Library’s Summer Music Series. The audience will enjoy patriotic tunes and popular songs by composers and bandmasters of the Civil War era. Sponsored by the Friends of NOPL Cicero. 8686 Knowledge Lane. Free. www.nopl.org.

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Fri Aug 16

AUGUST 2013 SYRACUSE PARENT

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family

FYI

some helpful information for your family

Make the morning rush to school a lot less hectic Weekday mornings during the school year can be hectic.

Parents who must get their youngsters ready for school while preparing for their own day often find themselves rushing through the morning and wishing there was just a little more time before they had to run out the door.

While parents can’t add another hour to the morning unless they wake up earlier, there are ways they can be more efficient in the morning. An efficient morning is typically a less hectic morning, and the following are a few ways families can work together to make more efficient use of their time on weekday mornings during the school year.

1. Get a head start the night

before. Perhaps the most effec-

tive way to make mornings less hectic during the school year is to accomplish as much as possible the night before. Instead of making kids’ lunches each morning, make them at night right before you go to bed. Along with your kids, lay out their clothes for the next day before they go to sleep each night. This way kids won’t waste time in the morning agonizing over what to wear, and they’re liable to put up less of a fuss in the morning if they had a hand in choosing their attire for the day.

2. Avoid turning your kitchen

into a diner each morning.

Breakfast is the most important meal of the day, but it also can be the most indecisive meal of the day. Kids likely won’t want to eat the same thing for breakfast

every day, but give them fewer options so you aren’t wasting time discussing what they are going to eat. The more closely your breakfast options resemble those of a diner, the more time your child is liable to waste choosing what to eat.

3. Limit time in the bathroom.

Spending too much time in the bathroom is another way families waste time on weekday mornings. Bathroom time should be limited to a set amount of time per person so everyone can get where they need to go on time. How much time adults and children spend in the bathroom each morning should depend on how many bathrooms you have and how many people are sharing those bathrooms. But even if everyone has their own private bathroom, try to limit the time you spend in the bathroom to 15 minutes per person. That should be plenty of time to shower, use the restroom and brush your teeth.

4. Locate must-have items

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before going to bed at night.

Your school-aged youngsters and you will need certain things before you can leave home every morning. Car keys, cell phones, wallets, eyeglasses and backpacks are a handful of items all of you will need at some point during your day.

Locate these items before you go to bed each night and place

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them in the same convenient place each night. This saves you the trouble of running around in the morning looking for lost car keys or wondering where your youngster’s eyeglasses ended up the night before.

5. Turn the television off in the

morning. Watching television in the morning can be very distracting, which can make it harder for adults and kids alike to get out the door on time in the morning. Kids might want to watch cartoons, which may keep them from preparing for school or brushing their teeth. And adults can grow easily distracted by news programs and morning shows, which will eat up time they need to get ready for the day ahead.

6. Gas up the car the night be-

fore. A pit stop at the gas station en route to school or the office will only add to the hectic nature of the morning. Check your fuel gauge each night before arriving home and refuel your vehicle if it’s running low. This gives you a little extra time to relax in the morning and reduces the risk that you or your child will be late for work or school, respectively.

Weekday mornings during the school year can quickly become frenetic. But a few timesaving tips can ensure you and your youngsters start each morning off a lot more relaxed.

Do you have ‘fresh air’ to spare?

Local couple shares experience as volunteer hosts to NYC child

By Tami S. Scott When empty-nesters Doug and Denise Nolan, of Syracuse, first heard about the Fresh Air Fund, they jumped at the chance to learn more.

“I was interested in it the minute I heard about it,” said Denise, a fourth-grade teacher at Palmer Elementary in Baldwinsville who credits colleague Pat Resseguie for spreading the word. “Several other staff members also got involved at that time.”

The Fresh Air Fund is a not-for-profit organization that offers a program for children who live in lowincome communities in New York City to have a

the beginning.”

The Nolans have been involved in the program since 2009, and they have welcomed the same child each summer.

Denise describes Lanasia, nicknamed Nae, as a perfect fit for their family.

“Our children love Nae as much as we do,” she said. “Both of them do as much as they can with us when Nae is here –

and rural areas. Some may have children, others may not. Financial profiles vary, as well as homes and communities.

Denise said because there aren’t many kids in her neighborhood, Nae spends most of her time during the weekdays with her, unless it’s a day when Denise’s daughter and/or daughter-in-law are available to get together. On weekends, the couple takes Nae on trips to the beach; they might go camping in the Adirondacks, visit theme parks, or just spend time hanging out around the house, reading.

“We have become very close to Nae and have a bond that is quite unique,” Denise said. “We are her summer family.”

“She took off her flip flops and just spun around and around on the grass, hands in the air, with her eyes closed and the biggest smile I have ever seen on her face. It was priceless.”

summer experience in the country. The children, ranging in age from 6 to 18, typically live in apartment buildings and are more familiar with a big city environment than the quiet, slower pace of a suburb or rural area.

“Our two children are married with children of their own,” Denise said. “I have summers off since I teach, and I thought it would be a wonderful thing to do. We have the space, the time and I love children. It was an easy decision for me, and my husband was on board right from

-Denise Nolan, Nae’s host mother

For more information about The Fresh Air Fund and its Volunteer Host Family program, visit FreshAirFund.org.

anything from picnics to the beach to just hanging out on the patio. Our grandchildren love her as well, and she is so good with them.”

Nae was 6 years old when she first arrived in Syracuse for a two-week stay with the Nolans.

She made an immediate lasting impression on Denise.

“We had just picked her up and had gotten home and walked into the house,” she recalled. “We have a slider in our kitchen that leads out to the backyard. She asked if she could go out, so I opened the slider. She took off her flip flops and just spun around and around on the grass, hands in the air, with her eyes closed and the biggest smile I have ever seen on her face. It was priceless.”

There is no such thing as a “typical” host family, according to the Fund’s website.

Families can live in the suburbs, small towns AUGUST 2013 SYRACUSE PARENT

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paws and effects

helpful information for you and your family pet

Whiskers’ wisdom: Back to school is bittersweet deserved accolades by purring and giving encouragement by meowing back to them.

It’s important to give them this positive reinforcement, so that I can get more treats later, along with the attention I have earned with all my hard work and cuteness.

Then, it’s time for a much-needed rest.

In order to do this, I give everyone my best grumpy face, then shut the world out by dropping my head to the floor, usually with a paw over my face or my back to the room.

But now, with the beginning of the school year coming, I know there is going to be another shakeup in my routine. In the morning, when the older people leave for work and the younger ones are getting ready for school, I might get a quick scratch and a “Bye, Whiskers!” as everyone leaves for

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the day. Sometimes I like to sneak out the front door while everyone is distracted in order to get extra attention.

The good news is that I’m left a bowl of food and water for the day, and blessed peace during which I can get in a good cleaning, some downtime on the sofa or sitting guard a the top of the stairs and some window gazing at the deck through the sliding glass doors.

Then it’s time for the big yellow bus to drop the kids off. When I hear it rushing past the house I go to the front door, ready to greet the little ones as they come in.

And what a great homecoming! They drop their backpacks and immediately give me a good scratching, a cuddle on the couch and, sometimes, a treat or two, So back to school time is bittersweet for me. I miss the attention during the day, but the time with the kids when they get home more than makes up for it because, apparently, they missed me as much as I missed them.

Whiskers is a 15-year-old blonde tabby who owns Syracuse Parent Editor Jennifer Wing and her family. He resides at the top of the stairs of their home in Manlius.

Ballet & Dance

Of Upstate New York, Inc. Official School of Syracuse City Ballet

Syracuse City Ballet Presents

Open House

Tuesday, August 20th 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm

“The Nutcracker”

Fall Classes Begin Wednesday, September 4 •Ballet •Jazz •Tap •Modern • Hip Hop •Creative Movement AGES 3 - ADULT Beginner - Professional KATHLEEN RATHBUN Artistic Director

Applications Available

th

AUDITIONS: September 14th & 15th PERFORMANCES: December 6th & 7th at the JOHN H. MULROY CIVIC CENTER

“Cinderella”

For more information 345-8342

www.syracusecityballet.com

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These last few weeks have been great – the kids are home during the day, so I get plenty of attention and treats. Now that they are older, they have iPods and cellphones with which to take videos starring me and candid photos of their favorite feline – me - to post on the Web. I don’t have to walk as much in my old age when they are home – they carry me here and there, cuddle with me on the couch and play with me with whatever toys are on-hand.

They also bring their friends over during the day sometimes. Then I really get to shine – everyone stops by to give me a scratch and tell me how “cute” I am. Since I like to be polite, I make sure they know I appreciate their much-

“An experience that captures the spirit.”

Studio is located at: 126 Terry Road, Westvale, NY 13219 at Robinson Church, lower level

400 Salt Springs Street • Fayetteville • 637-3961 www.icschool.org 14

SYRACUSE PARENT AUGUST 2013

www.balletanddanceofupstateny.com

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Applications now being accepted. Please call for an appointment and personal tour.

Prestigious Middle States Accreditation

For more information: 487-4879 or 677-3688

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Tools of the tr de Grade school

1. Softgrip Left-handed Pointed-tip Kids Scissors: From arts and crafts in the early grades to poster presentations in the later ones, your child will likely need scissors for at least one project this year.

These kid-friendly scissors are small enough that they’ll take up little space in a backpack, yet effective all the same.

2. Avery Big Tab Insertable Plastic Dividers, Double Pocket: Separating handouts for each school subject is a key way for your child to stay organized. With these double-pocket, three-ring dividers, your child can both separate and store all of his or her papers in one convenient location. And, the big labeling tabs let your grade school student find any given subject right away.

High School

3. BIC Mechanical Pencils, 0.7 mm: Whether its state exams, practice tests or the SAT itself, prepare your high schooler for standardized testing with a pack of mechanical pencils. They don’t require sharpening, so they’re the safest and most convenient option for testing and beyond. Most

3

importantly: Yes, they are No. 2 pencils.

4. Texas Instruments TI-84 Plus Graphing Calculator: Many high school math courses require your child to obtain a scientific calculator, but you shouldn’t need to purchase the newest product on the market. Many of the most advanced functions that graphing calculators can perform are not explained in high school anyway, let alone permitted when completing tests and assignments. Do be sure to check with your child’s school or teacher for specific requirements before making a purchase.

College

5. PNY Compact Attaché USB 2.0 Flash Drive: There’s nothing worse than accidentally kicking the power strip in the lab, shutting down the computer before saving that 10-page paper that’s taken two weeks to put together. Send a flash drive back to school with your child so he or she can easily back up all work before disaster strikes.

6. Beats By Dr. Dre Beats Studio

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Overthe-Ear Headphones: These noise-canceling headphones will block out any surrounding study group chatter or dormitory disturbances, letting your son or daughter study in peace.

Though pricey, they’re comfortable and stylish, and the folding design makes for easy portability.

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7. PaperPro Nano Mini Stapler: While college students complete and submit a great deal of work online or via email, plenty of professors still want hard copies of their work – and they want the pages stapled. In a large lecture hall with one stapler at best, your child will be the most prepared student in the room, not to mention everyone else’s best friend, with his or her mini stapler on hand.

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AUGUST 2013 SYRACUSE PARENT

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safety zone

the best ways to play while keeping danger away

School bus safety tips to impart to youngsters Each day thousands upon thousands of children board school buses to take them to and from school. Parents and caregivers entrust their children's well-being to the care of school bus drivers and aides. Although parents may worry about school bus accidents, such accidents are few and far between.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration advises that school buses are designed to be safer than passenger vehicles in avoiding crashes and protecting against injury. Buses are arguably the safest mode of transportation for getting kids to and from school. By keeping millions of cars off the roads surrounding schools, school buses contribute to less crowded roadways, which are less conducive to accidents.

Danger zone

Though parents may feel buses are most likely to be in accidents while in transit, experts advise that children are more likely to get hurt during pickups and drop-offs when they're in the "danger zone" of the bus. The danger zone is a 10-foot radius around the outside of the bus. Bus drivers and other motorists find kids in the danger zone are more difficult to see, and children can get struck by either the bus or oncoming cars that fail to stop when the bus is picking kids up or dropping them off.

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Knowing the safety rules

While a large part of protecting children is on the shoulders of the school bus driver, it is also vital for passengers to learn the basics of school bus safety. Kindergarteners or children who are riding the bus for the first time should be taught the rules of school bus safety.

Some schools offer a school bus tour prior to the new school year. This lets youngsters acclimate themselves with the look and feel of the school bus. This introduction also may include information about bus safety, but parents can also educate their children (and themselves) about using caution in and around the bus by following these guidelines: • Get to the bus stop 5 to 10 minutes prior to the assigned pickup time. Rushing lastminute can lead to injury, especially if you're chasing down the bus.

• Remain on the sidewalk or grass at the bus stop. Do not step off the curb into the street until the bus has arrived and is completely stopped.

• When boarding the bus, go directly to a seat and sit down.

SYRACUSE PARENT AUGUST 2013

Buckle up if there are seatbelts on the bus.

• Remain seated while the bus is in motion.

• Keep voices low so as not to distract the driver.

• Keep your head and hands in side of the bus, and never hang out of the window.

• Do not throw things on the bus or play rough with friends or classmates.

• Keep the aisle clear at all times.

• Be careful when getting off the bus. Hold on while going down the stairs.

• Only get off at your designated stop unless you have permission to get off elsewhere.

• When exiting the bus, walk at least 10 steps past the front of the bus and cross in front where the driver can see you.

Do not cross behind the bus.

• Wait for the driver to give you a signal

that it is safe to cross. Be sure to check that all cars on the road have come to a complete stop.

• Get to the sidewalk or off the street as quickly as possible.

• If you've forgotten something on the bus, do not run back and attempt to retrieve it. The driver might not see you and start the bus. Rather, call the bus company and see if you can pick it up at another time.

• Do not get into the cars of strangers waiting around bus stops, even if they offer to take you home.

Parents can arrange to meet with bus drivers so that they will recognize their faces. Adults also can encourage schools to host bus safety courses to further ensure their youngsters are safe.

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Limited space available for Fall 2013

AUGUST 2013 SYRACUSE PARENT

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healthy family

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

Food, nutrition and health for August

By Julie Mellen RD, CDE, CDN As I was thinking and researching a variety of topics to write about for August, I came across “Food, Nutrition and Health by the Month on the University of Nebraska-Lincoln website.

Who would have thought? So here is a summary of August’s Food and Nutrition Days:

Watermelon Day (Aug. 3)

Watermelon is fat free, no cholesterol and low in calories, very low in sodium, high in potassium and vitamin A . Two cups of diced pieces (oneeighth of a medium melon) provides only 80 calories.

Food safety tip: Always wash the outside of any melon under clean running water before cutting into it, use a clean knife on a clean cutting surface and wash your own hands with soap and water before cutting the melon. Once the melon is cut, it should be stored, covered, in the refrigerator. Don’t leave cut melon at room temperature longer than 2 hours total time.

Trail Mix Day (Aug. 31)

Farmers Market Week

(Aug. 5-11) This is a favorite of mine! What better way to enjoy the season than to stroll around a farmers market. In and around Syracuse, we are fortunate to have so many choices! Farmers markets give us the opportunity to buy local and support our local farmers and foods sold are at their peak nutrition and flavor!

Besides Farmers Markets, there are roadside stands and also Community Supported Agriculture (CSA). These are farms where you buy into a season’s worth of food. All you have to do is go once a week to pick up your food.

Get Acquainted with Kiwi fruit Month

Kiwi are Low in fat, saturated fat-free, sodium free, cholesterol free and a good source of fiber; high in vitamin

C, potassium and a good source of vitamin E. Two medium Kiwi’s provide 90 calories and four grams of fiber.

Family Meals Month

This is another one of my favorites!

Try to enjoy at least one meal a day together as a family.

Peach Month

Peaches are low fat, saturated fat free, sodium free, cholesterol free and a good source of vitamin C. One medium peach provides 60 calories and two grams of fiber

Catfish Month

Including fish in meals twice a week is a recommendation of many health organizations. Check the Website of the National Fisheries Institute, aboutseafood.com, to help you prepare safe, delicious and nutritious meals with catfish and other types of fish and shellfish.

Sandwich Month

Sandwiches can be eaten for any meal. The possibilities are endless.

Back to School Month

I can’t think about this just yet! Let’s enjoy the rest of summer! More on back-to-school nutrition in September!

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Trail Mix can be a healthy snack that includes multiple food groups.

Here is an easy sample recipe to try.

1/2 cup nuts (walnuts, almonds, peanuts, etc.)

1/2 cup dried fruit (try apricots, raisins, dates, cranberries, pineapple, etc.)

Throw in a hand full of dark chocolate chips and a hand full of whole grain cereal such as Cheerios or Wheat Chex and mix well.

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helpful information for you and your family pet

paws and effects

Canine Carnival boasts big bark Fourth annual event attracts thousands to largest dog event in Upstate New York

The Canine Carnival will also feature dog washing and grooming, Spay & Neuter Syracuse (SANS) will again offer micro-chipping for your pet. Veterinary Medical Center of CNY will have an emergency triage center on site for your pets.

Proceeds from the Canine Carnival go to the Priscilla Mahar Animal Welfare Foundation, a non-profit organization donating money to CNY animal rescues and welfares. To date, PMAWF has donated nearly $40,000 to animal welfares and rescues in CNY. This event is sponsored by Wegmans, and other sponsors such as Liverpool Village Animal Hospital, Veterinary Medical Center of CNY, C & S Companies and CNYcentral.

Canine Carnival 2013, a free event, will take place from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Saturday, Aug. 3, at Long Branch Park in Liverpool. Last year’s Canine Carnival event was a success with hundreds of animals adopted, more than 8,000 people in attendance and more than 70 vendors and rescues represented from as far away as New Jersey. This year, a rescue from Philadelphia will be in attendance.

This year will again feature hundreds of animals for adoption from dogs to cats to horses, animal demonstrations, horse carriage rides, a Red Cross Blood Drive, food, music and back by popular demand, our Sports and Kids Zone with Central New York sports teams It will be held rain or shine and attendees are encouraged everyone to bring your pets.

There is limited booth space is still available for rescues and businesses. If interested, please email Wayne Mahar at wmahar@cnycentral.com.

For more information please call 424-0009

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Where ............. REACH CNY, Inc. 1010 James St., 2nd Floor • Syracuse, NY 13203 When ............... Every 2nd and 4th Thursday of each month Time ................ 11:30 am to 1:00 pm

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The Breastfeeding Café is a free support group for all moms and moms-to-be where you can: • Chat and connect with other moms • Ask questions or just listen • Enjoy a free light lunch • Discuss what’s happening with you and your baby • Use a baby weight station to see how your baby is gaining • Get support from trained breastfeeding experts

(ext. 107 or 109). Or visit www.reachcny.org AUGUST 2013 SYRACUSE PARENT

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family

FYI

some helpful information for your family

Going green while you’re in the sun

Summer is almost over, but the sun protection does not end just yet. While we have been having a dreary season, UV rays are still present and that means protection is still a necessity.

Much of the public now recognizes the dangers of overexposure to the sun. Skin cancer ranks as one of the most common forms of cancer across the globe, and individuals are increasingly conscientious about protecting their skin from damaging ultraviolet, or UV rays. Certain natural sources might be able to reduce the risk of skin cancer.

There are a variety of different ways to lower your risk of developing skin cancer, many of which are natural.

Leafy vegetables: Spinach may not only provide Popeye with his strength, but it also may help reduce your risk of developing skin cancer. Researchers from Queensland, Australia found that eating leafy green vegetables plays an important role in reducing skin cancer risk as wearing protective clothing and sunscreen.

The study, led by Dr. Jolieke van der Pols from The Queensland Institute of Medical Research, was conducted over 11 years and studied 1,000 people from Sunshine Coast, Queensland.

Researchers discovered that participants who consumed at least three servings per week of green vegetables could cut their chances of developing skin cancer by up to 55 percent. It is believed the variety of nutrients found in the vegetables, including folic acid, vitamin A and C, as well as the carotenoids lutein and zeaxanthin, work together to fight cancer.

Tea: Years ago, researchers at the Univer-

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SYRACUSE PARENT AUGUST 2013

sity of Minnesota Hormel Institute tested a solution containing chemicals known as polyphenols. The solution, which was made from extractions from green tea, was tested on live mice that were exposed to UV light. The study found that a protein labeled JNK-2 is directly related to the development of skin cancer, and this protein could be blocked by the applica-

the skin, but some people worry about the side effects of chemicals used in popular sunscreens. Covering up the face and skin as much as possible is one way to reduce exposure to such chemicals. Wear a densely woven hat with a brim that features at least a two- to three-inch overhang, which can protect the face, neck, ears, eyes and lips from the sun. Dark-colored clothing also can help block the sun's rays.

Although it may seem odd to wear long sleeves and pants in hot temperatures, doing so can prevent UV exposure.

Aspirin: In 2013, new information was published in Cancer, the American Cancer Society's medical journal that linked daily aspirin therapy to a decreased risk for melanoma – the deadliest form of skin cancer.

According to the research, data was collected on nearly 60,000 white women ages 50 to 79 years.

The women were studied for 12 years, and the study found that the women who took 81 milligrams of aspirin daily had a 21 percent lower risk of developing melanoma than those who did not take aspirin. While it is still too soon to make the recommendation that all women should take aspirin daily, some doctors feel the benefits outweigh the risk for those with a family history of melanoma. tion of polyphenols. This application helps reduce the formation of skin tumors. While drinking tea has long been touted as a way to prevent various cancers, this study looks at the way the tea applied topically also can help.

Cover Up: Applying a sunscreen is one of the easiest and more popular ways to protect

Avoidance: The recommendation to avoid the peak hours of the sun is still a viable method to preventing skin cancer. Peak hours are between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. during the summer in the northern hemisphere. The hours may be different depending on where you live and your proximity to the equator. Remain indoors as much as possible during peak hours.

healthy family

Lunchtime: Think outside the paper bag Been brown bagging lately? In an effort to tighten our budgets, more and more of us are packing our own lunches for work and school. And we’re finding that the benefits extend beyond the household’s bottom line.

Making your own lunch gives you control over the quality of the food you and your family eats. After all, lunch provides an important portion of the day’s nutrition. By making attentive choices about what goes in each lunchbox, you can address specific areas of concern, such as fat and calories, while maximizing quality and taste.

At the Syracuse Real Food Co-op you can get healthy sandwich bread choices from Heidelberg Bakery and Rudi’s Organic Bakery. Stretch Breads from Pastabilities are an option especially if you get some Super Bean Dip to spread on it from the Deli Section.

In the Deli Section you can get made at the Co-op Deli sandwiches and wraps

for a healthful ingredient choice. Other additions to your Brown Bag can be Coop hummus, Co-op Guac, vegan sushi, grape leaves and cheese. For dessert, pop in a minicake from Sweet Praxis Bakery or tasty Lara Bars. And the list goes on.

But if you can’t quite commit to fullfledged BYOL status, start by bringing your own snacks and/or beverages.

Good snack options include nuts, fruits, yogurt, edamame beans, cheese cubes, and popcorn with nutritional yeast and/ or cheese powders.

Think outside the brown bag. Use reusable lunch bags and lunchboxes. Forgo those little plastic sandwich bags, too, and invest in a variety of containers for sandwiches, salads, leftover main dishes, chips, etc. You’ll also want a thermos or two for soups, stews, and casseroles, as Add an element of surprise when packing lunch for little ones or a partner.

Tuck a note or little non-food treat inside

like a new barrette or pencil for your preschooler or an interesting article.

Make extra dinner. If you have access to a microwave, you can pack just about any leftovers for your lunch. If not, consider that many people enjoy cold quiche or frittata, rice or even pizza.

This information is a reprint from the New Leaf newsletter of the REAL FOOD CO-OP located at 618 Kensington Road, Syracuse, N.Y.

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• Open Snow Days, Half Days, Holidays & Superintendent Days • Enrichment Classes Available • K-6th Grade • Homework Room Available Every Monday through Thursday

AUGUST 2013 SYRACUSE PARENT

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family

FYI

some helpful information for your family

New to WonderWorks Just for the Little Kids

Did you know?

The power of the pancake

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Children who were too young or small to go on the Canyon Climb Adventure ropes course at WonderWorks now have a ropes course of their own.

Sky Tykes is a ropes course for kids from ages 2-7 and 48” tall. The open and lowlevel design allows for easy parental guidance at any level of the course. Walk along side your child or simply step back and watch them take part in the fun as they are securely harnessed in.

The Sky Tykes ropes course features 10 exciting elements for children to climb, conquer and explore. The course stands three feet in the air.

Sky Tykes is directly beneath the Canyon Climb Adventure ropes course on the second level. The cost is $7.99+ tax to climb and included in the cost of a child WonderWorks admission for those 48” and under. *Closed shoes required for the Sky Tykes Ropes course.

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Pancakes are a staple in households all around the world. Easily prepared from a few basic ingredients, pancakes can be served throughout the day because of their versatility.

The question of who invented pancakes has frequently been posed. No one person can take credit for the pancake, as they have appeared throughout history in various civilizations and cultures. Historians say that the first pancake-type food may have been eaten by prehistoric people.

According to the Food Timeline, Ancient Romans enjoyed “Alita Dolcia,” or “another sweet.” This early version of the pancake included milk, eggs, and flour and sometimes honeys and fruit bits. Some of them resembled omelets and contained cheese and meat.

Many different peoples have created and consumed their own versions of a pancake.

Native Americans created course cornmeal “Indian cakes,” the French have very thin crepes and Germans still enjoy thick potato pancakes. Some people enjoy pancakes as a breakfast food, while for others they’re a savory dish served for lunch or dinner. Pancakes also may be topped with sweets and served as a dessert.

In North America, pancakes are served large and small and go by different names, including silver dollars that are bite-sized.

In New England pancakes are made thick and called flapjacks. Others refer to them as griddlecakes.

Whatever the name, pancakes have thrived through many centuries and are still consumed by millions year-round. By combining the simple ingredients of eggs, flour, milk and a leavening agent, anyone can whip up a batch of pancakes in mere minutes.

Calling all coloring kids!

Parents: If your boy or girl under the age of 10 has a knack for that crayon pack, hand over this page and they might just win one of two prizes that we’re giving away for the month of August! We will pick a “Star Coloring Kid” for two categories: Ages 7 to 10 and ages 4 to 7. The “Star” from each age group will win either a Family Four Pack to the Sterling Renaissance Festival or a Family Four Pack of tickets to Pole Position Raceway in Destiny USA. Mail your coloring entry with the child’s name, parent or guardian’s name and a phone number to Syracuse Parent Magazine, 2501 James St., Suite 100, Syracuse, NY 13206. Good luck!

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family

FYI

some helpful information for your family

Today's kids are busier than ever before. Commitments in the classroom coupled with a full slate of extracurricular activities have ensured that many of today's school-aged children don't have a minute to spare.

While it's important for kids to embrace extracurricular activities, parents know it's not always easy helping kids find the right activity that allows them to grow outside the classroom while still focusing on their responsibilities inside it.

In addition, kids' interests tend to change at the drop of a hat, so something they want to do today might bore them come tomorrow. To help kids choose and manage their extracurricular activities, consider the following tips.

Emphasize that schoolwork must come first. Kids get excited about extracurricular activities, especially ones involving sports where they get to spend time playing with their friends. But parents should emphasize that school still comes first and that, if schoolwork starts to suffer, participation in extracurricular activities will be put on hold until kids get their studies back on track.

Class load. Go over coursework at the start of the school year. Examine a child's

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course load before choosing an extracurricular activity. It's important to do this each year, as coursework gets more difficult as children get older. Just because a child could handle a couple of afterschool activities a week when he or she was in fifth grade does not mean such a schedule will be as manageable when the same child reaches high school. Go over coursework and requirements as early as possible, preferably before the school year starts, so you and your child can get a grip on what can and can't be handled with regards to extracurricular activities.

Requirements. Get a grasp of the commitment required of a given activity.

Extracurricular activities

SYRACUSE PARENT AUGUST 2013

require various levels of commitment. Varsity sport participation, for example, typically requires daily commitment and often requires kids to participate on weekends or even the sport's "off-season," which may include summer vacation. However, volunteering with a local charity likely won't require such a large commitment and such charities often allow volunteers to choose their own schedules.

Parents and their children should consider the level of commitment an extracurricular requires and choose the activity they're most comfortable with.

Social time. Don't overlook the social benefits of extracurricular activities. When helping kids

How to help kids choose an extracurricular activity

choose an extracurricular activity, it's important to leave the ultimate decision in their hands.

After all, kids won't get much of the experience if they're reluctant to participate. However, parents should not overlook the social benefits of extracurricular activities. Consider those benefits when helping kids choose activities, especially if they're likely to choose solitary activities like learning a musical instrument. It's good to encourage such interests, but also try to encourage a balance between solitary activities and ones that encourage socialization with peers, such as a sports team, debate club or volunteering with other students at a local charity.

Having fun. Don't forget the fun factor. Extracurricular activities are not just supposed to instill character, they're also supposed to be fun. If kids aren't having fun or showing any interest in a given extracurricular activity, then help them find another one. Kids need time to have fun away from school just like adults need time for fun away from the office. Weigh how enjoyable a given activity figures to be for your youngster before signing them up.

family

some helpful information for your family

FYI

Transitioning from summer to school time ly my children and I transition through a new summer routine. Gone for me now are the days of elementary school as my youngest now transitions into middle school. My middle child will always thankfully stay in the middle, while my oldest has now become a senior!

Where has the time gone? It seems like yesterday they were all so small and we would cuddle together on the couch to watch a movie or read a book. Now they seem to be growing up!

As I become more intentional in recognizing the meaning of transitions, I realize that transition’s can become routine and we can unintentionally make them part of life’s daily activities and race through them just to get through the day or the week. “Back to School� again will instill a change in our family schedule, but I have learned to slow down through all of life’s transitions and enjoy the ride.

As a single mom of three kids, and an entrepreneur who runs two businesses, life seems to be full of adjustments.

Summer, however, seems to be the most difficult for me in managing the transition to the new family schedule.

Just as school comes to an end, the change in the daily routine for my children seems to instill havoc on my schedule. How dare it, right?

Everything seemed to be running like a well-oiled machine, and summer arrives! I do adore the extra time with my children and all the new summer activities, and eventually we seem to transition into a new daily family schedule.

Then it happens again, rather suddenly, a transition to “Back to School!�

But didn’t summer just start? It all seems to happen so fast, especially how quick-

We only have so many “Back to School’s� with our children, and how we intentionally get through each of them will help develop the story of our children’s grown up lives.

Leisha Doherty can be reached at leisha@herheartbeat.com.

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learning curve

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Painted wings and giant strings‌ There are growing pains that stretch a child’s muscles and bones, and there are growing pains that stretch a mother’s heart.

A year ago at bedtime, my son requested a bulletin board for his bedroom. This one request morphed into a detailed list of other changes he wanted to make.

Most of the changes were the removal of things – the “Cars� decals on the walls and curtains in the windows. “I’m into different movies now,’� he explained.

A framed print of Curious George, his empty newspaper bag and the ducks sailing downstream in paper boats?

He was ready for it to come down, but wanted it “somewhere I can still go and see it.� We decided George could be curious in the laundry room for now.

There was the Star Wars Shock Trooper shield I made him out of cardboard and aluminum foil for a summer camp costume day. He didn’t want to throw it out because he “knew how hard [I] worked on it.� I assured him it was OK with me if he didn’t save it. Eventually he decided it could go too.

A Dumbo decoration that once hung in his father’s childhood room, a trio metal car wall hangings ... gone. A picture of himself exploring his grandparents’ yard, a “Star Wars� poster... gone.

Amidst all these decisions he climbed into his reading chair and made himself small.

I know the smaller he tries to

e n B e rg a m o - M o K ar or

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mo e the r’s perspectiv

become, the bigger the thoughts, the bigger the emotions he’s working through.

The tears remained right on the surface but never quite fell as he exclaimed in heartrending tones, “Can’t you see all this baby stuff has to go!�

And then he adds something else. He tells me he doesn’t want to get rid of everything, but he doesn’t want to keep it either. “Growing up is hard, isn’t it Bunny?� I ask him. Because even if he’s purging bits and pieces of his little-boy years it doesn’t mean I have to give up his little-boy nickname ... not yet. “Yeah, it is.� “You don’t have to do it all tonight.� “OK.�

The room makeover took a month to complete. Like in “Puff the Magic Dragon,� painted wings and giant strings made way for other toys. His room reflects his new interests – ones that weren’t chosen for him by his parents.

Now I look forward to him sharing those interests with us.

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dollars & sense

making, spending & saving - tips and techniques for family finances

Buyingschoolclotheswithoutbustingyourbudget Parents often note that kids seem to grow like weeds. Pants that once reached to the tops of a youngster’s feet quickly become too short, while once-loose shirts may soon become too snug. Many parents find themselves regularly in children’s clothing departments stocking up on the basics, which can put quite a dent in already stretched-thin budgets.

Although children’s wardrobes are added to at various times of the year, the bulk of shopping occurs just before the school year begins. Though clothing can be expensive, families need not bust their budgets when shopping for kids’ clothing.

By shopping smart and concentrating on fashion staples, it’s easier to stretch money further.

Here are a few tips to stretch those dollars before choosing to stretch out those old trousers: Spread out purchases. Shopping early allows parents to make the most of sales. Warm weather clothing generally goes on sale in July to make room for new fall lines. Considering the first few months of school still may be warm, short-sleeved shirts will still have utility and are generally less expensive than sweaters and sweatshirts.

Staggering purchases also enables parents to develop a clothing allowance

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each and every month instead of having one large bill at a certain point in the year.

Parents can even add to their children’s wardrobes during the holiday season, when clothes tend to get reduced again for holiday sales.

Don’t discount hand-me-downs. It’s trendy to recycle clothing and also to be environmentally conscious by putting items to good use again and again. Aside from you and your wallet, no one will know if your child is wearing a secondhand pair of pants or a brand new pair. Many school moms are anxious to swap clothing with others to lessen their own financial burdens with children’s clothing. Start a clothing swap with a group of friends, and you may find you have more than you need in the way of clothes for the kids.

Take stock of what you already have. How many times have you run out to the grocery store for a missing ingredient only to find that very item buried at the back of the pantry? The same thing happens with kids’ clothes. Before taking kids clothes shopping, take inventory of their closets. Have little ones try on clothes to see which items still fit and which can be discarded or donated. Make a list of the items you need to cut down on impulse spending at the store.

Invest in the right high-quality piec-

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es. Spending a fortune for a trendy pair of pants that may end up getting ruined on the playground is not the best way to shop for kids’ clothing. However, investing in a quality pair of shoes that will last much of the year is a good investment. Know when to splurge and when it’s okay to shop at the discount store.

Stock up on staples. A straight-leg cut of jeans, some solid colored polo shirts and an A-line dress or skirt are some classic foundation pieces for children’s wardrobes. Such items tend to last longer than trendy items that may only last a few months before the next trend arrives.

Learn to layer. Layering items can make pieces look like new by putting them together in different combinations. Layering a summer T-shirt under a fall hoodie gets use out of two different season’s worth of clothes. It also enables kids to be comfortable during unpredictable weather.

Leave it to the kids. Parents often worry about what other parents will think of their own children’s clothing. Children do not typically worry about such things until their pre-teen or teenage years. You may spend less money on clothing simply because your child has a few favorite shirts and pants he or she wears over and over.

That’s less laundry for you and less money you have to spend on new clothes.

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