Syracuse Parent May 2013

May 2013

Meet the

2013

healthy family Sun safety tips for families & kids

Syracuse Parent Cutest Baby Contest Winner

Elijah!

family FYI Pregnancy: What should I expect?

BABY EDITION 2013

dollars & sense

How to avoid a pricey prom

30729

what’s inside

family FYI 4 Diaper bag must-haves 10 What should I expect?

23 Pregnancy tidbits

meals in minutes

dollars & sense

healthy family

16 How to avoid a pricey prom

13 Have

remedy rumors

you smiled today?

18 Sun 5 Fast & easy

meals and snacks to get your family to the table

www dots 25 It’s always best to share! Here are some of our favorite links

from the editor 6 Eyeing the road ahead

calendar

12 Five child sleep myths busted

safety tips for families & kids

when they were kids

20 Nutrition and your child

from dad 17 When tragedy strikes, how

19 Match & win

do you answer the questions?

frame it 21 Craft project: Mother’s Day tote bags

contents

mommy spa giveaway 7 Want to be pampered?

Enter now!

toy box 26 Just for the babies

7 Here is what’s happening around you this month

learning curve 8 We’re in this together: Socializing vs. safety

22 Parenting: It’s not what, but how

pay it forward 24 Making a promise to spread awareness

safety zone 23 How to fit a life jacket correctly

Cover Photo

Pictured is Elijah Washington, of Syracuse. He was photographed by Raine C. Dufrane, owner of Raineydayz Photography. 430.3229 or visit raineydayz.com.

MAY 2013 SYRACUSE PARENT

3

family

FYI

some helpful information for your family

Diaper bag must-haves

1. Diapers, of course! Make sure to have at least three stashed, in case of accidents.

7.

Hand lotion for mom or dad to use after washing their hands or using sanitizer.

8.

A change of clothes – any experienced parent will tell you that diaper blow-out can ruin an outing without a backup outfit on hand.

2. Baby wipes – these can be used

for more than their original intent – they can be stain busters or be used to clean sticky fingers or dirty knees.

9. A blanket – which can be used to keep

baby warm on a breezy day, or keep sun out of their eyes on a sunny one.

3.

A multipurpose diaper cream to calm baby’s skin.

10.

Snacks – if a baby is at the stage where they can chew on a biscuit, throw a ziploc bag-full in; likewise a bottle of juice or water is good for baby’s hydration. And don’t forget the snacks for mom and dad too!

Might as well pack something to keep energized as you go through the day.

4.

Hand sanitizer for use when soap and water is not available.

5. Sunscreen for spur-of-the-moment visits to the playground or beach. Make sure it has a sun protection factor of at least 30 and is baby-safe.

6. A pacifier to comfort, though not all babies take a pacifier. A good substitute would be a favorite hand-held toy or teether. 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 2013 Program

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

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4

SYRACUSE PARENT MAY 2013

An active creative program for children ages 8-14

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Saturday performances July 20th & August 3rd

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

60

Deviled eggs Total Time: Prep Time: Cook Time: Yield: Level:

1 hr 40 min 20 min 24 Easy

meals in minutes

4

Ham pinwheels Total Time: 14 min Prep Time: 10 min Cook Time: 4 min Yield: 36 pinwheels Level: Easy

Directions

Boil a dozen eggs (about 20 minutes) and cool in refrigerator until chilled (about 40 minutes). Peel and slice the hardboiled eggs in half lengthwise. Remove yolks and place in a bowl.

Mash yolks with 1/3 cup ranch-style salad dressing. Mix in 8 ounces of cream cheese, 1/2 chopped onion and 1 finelychopped dill pickle. Fill the hollowed egg whites generously with the egg yolk mixture. Chill in the refrigerator until serving.

Sprinkle with paprika and a sprig of your favorite herb before serving.

Assemble ingredients: 1 pound deli-sliced ham; ½ pound thin american or swiss cheese slices; 8 ounce package cream cheese, softened and 4 gordita-style flour burrito shells. Lay burrito flat on a clean surface and cover with a thin layer of cream cheese.

Layer slices of ham and cheese on the burrito, avoiding the edges. Roll tightly lengthwise. Put extra cream cheese on the edge to seal. Cut the rolled up burrito into half-inch slices; place on a plate. They are ready to serve, or, if making them ahead of time, keep refrigerated. Tip: For a warm snack, put the pinwheels on a baking sheet under the broiler; cook for 4 minutes or until the tops start to brown. Cook Time 4 min. if serving warm.

10

10

Directions

Quick guacamole Total Time: Prep Time: Yield: Level:

10 min 10 min 4 Easy

Fruit lasagne Total Time: Prep Time: Yield: Level:

10 min 10 min 6 Easy

Directions Directions

Cut two avocados in half; take out the pit and scoop into a bowl. Add 1/2 teaspoon salt, four tablespoons salsa, 1 1/2 tablespoons garlic powder and 1 teaspoon lemon or lime juice.

Mash it together with a fork. Serve with nacho chips.

Easy meatloaf

Slice up a fresh pineapple into rings or drain canned slices. Put a dollop of whipped cream on a plate, spreading it out evenly.

Put one pineapple slice in the center of the plate. Cover with raspberries (either fresh or frozen). Slice bananas thinly; place a layer on top of raspberries. Add another pineapple slice.

Alternate raspberries and banana slices on top. Drizzle with chocolate syrup.

Ingredients

1 cup dried bread crumbs salt and pepper to taste 2 tablespoons brown sugar 2 tablespoons prepared mustard 1/3 cup ketchup

1 1/2 pounds ground beef 1 egg 1 onion, chopped 1 cup milk

Directions

and place in a lightly greased 9x13 inch baking dish.

In a separate small bowl, combine the brown sugar, mustard and ketchup. Mix well and pour over the meatloaf.

Bake at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) for 1 hour.

Serve with mashed potatoes or rice.

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).

In a large bowl, combine the beef, egg, onion, milk and bread OR cracker crumbs. Season with salt and pepper to taste and place in a lightly greased 5x9 inch loaf pan, OR form into a loaf

Ready In: Prep Time: Yield:

60 min 10 min 8

60

MAY 2013 SYRACUSE PARENT

5

from the editor

publisher

David B. Tyler

Eyeing the road ahead May is National Bike Month, and, this spring, I’m biking more now than I thought I ever would.

At a young age, I found that I lacked the coordination and balance to be a serious biker. Many cycling trips around the neighborhood resulted in me skinning my knees and bruising my dignity. I found running to be much more to my liking – if I fell while running, I was already close to the ground, minimizing my injuries.

While skiing in March I tore my ACL, a major stabilizing ligament in my knee.

I’m not ashamed to say that when the doctor informed me that I had severed it completely, I cried, knowing that surgery and rehab was ahead for me.

I immediately began to seek out ways to speed up and maximize my rehabilitation, both before and after surgery. Running was out, as well as many of my exercise classes at the gym. In fact, anything that could cause me to further injure my knee by twisting or rotating it was not on the table during this crucial time.

So, what was I to do? Not only did I want to be able to strengthen the muscles around my knee prior to surgery, but I also wanted to be able to keep myself fit during the months of rehab that would follow the operation to repair (replace) my ACL. The answer was simple: I could bike. The doctor informed me that cycling was a great, low-impact way to keep in shape while strengthening my knee.

So, since I am somewhat neurotic about my workout, my family and I shopped around and purchased a stationary bike – a racing model that is like the type found in cycling classes. As I tentatively perched atop the seat for the first time after my injury and began pedaling, I felt an overwhelming sense of relief – there was minimal pain at the beginning, followed by that wonderful feeling of my muscles working in concert, fluidly and effortlessly.

For the first time since my injury, I felt more in control of and optimistic about my recovery. Since then, I have increased my time on the bike, and seen the results of my efforts.

To say that I was glad I was injured would be ridiculous. If I could go back to that moment in time and avoid the injury, I would. But I’ve found a new activity I love, and have shown my children that you can take something negative like an injury and, with hard work, turn it around and make that process become something positive.

It’s as Albert Einstein said: “Life is like riding a bicycle.

To keep your balance you must keep moving.” I’ve already moved on from this injury, with the wide-open road to recovery ahead.

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

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SYRACUSE PARENT MAY 2013

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.

here is what’s happening around you

Wed May 1 NOOK HD/HD. 7 PM. Bring your NOOK HD or HD+ and learn about the many features of these dynamic interactive devices at this 1-hour tutorial. Device must be registered before class. RSVP at the NOOK counter or call the store at 449.2948. Barnes and Noble, 3454 Erie Blvd East, DeWitt.

449.2948.

Thu May 2 NOOK SIMPLE TOUCH/GLOWLIGHT. 7 PM. Bring your NOOK Simple Touch or Glowlight and explore the many features of our easy to use eBook Device must be registered before class. RSVP at the NOOK counter or call the store at 449.2948. Barnes and Noble, 3454 Erie Blvd East, DeWitt. 449.2948.

CARD MAKING. 6 PM. Join in and be creative with card making. Registration require at www.onlib.org. East Syracuse Free Library, 4990 James St., East Syracuse.

STORYTIME WITH MISS COLLEEN. 10 AM. Story time with books and activities. Ideal for toddlers and preschoolers. Barnes and Noble, 3454 Erie Blvd East, DeWitt. 449.2948. Also on May 9, 16, 23 & 30. 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM FISHING DERBY. 8 AM to Noon. Ages 4 to 15 (14 and younger must be accompanied by an adult). Prizes will be given for the “longest fish” in two different age categories. A casting contest will also be held. Bring your own reels, bait, tackle, buckets, etc. Held rain or shine. A concession stand will be open.

Van Buren Park Pond. Connors Road, Baldwinsville. Registration requested. townofvanburen.com/

Sun May 5 ELEMENTARY STUDENT EXHIBIT. 10 AM to 6 PM. In a collaborative effort benefiting their school art programs, teachers at Meachem and Seymour Dual Language Academy are featuring some 100 works created by their elementary students. Szozda Gallery, 501 W. Fayette St., Syracuse.

Mon May 6 TEEN E-BOOK PROJECT. If you are interested, submit your favorite family recipe, along with a poem, story, or even just some information about yourself and your family. All submissions will be due by May 11. Our target date for online publication is late Spring 2013. Come see Gary Jones, our teen librarian, or call for additional information. Soule Branch Library, 101 Springfield Road, Syracuse.

calendar

Wed May 8 COMMUNITY YOGA. 5:30 PM. Gentle Community Yoga Group Class for all levels. Just drop in. $8. North Syracuse Community Center, 700 South Bay Road, North Syracuse. 458.8050.

Pizza and Early Literacy. 6 PM. Traditional story time programming combined with educational computer games designed to promote early literacy in ages 3 to 5 with free pizza and juice. Registration requested.

Robert P. Kinchen Central Library, The Galleries of Syracuse, 447 S. Salina St., Syracuse.

Thu May 9 THE WIZARD OF OZ: WHERE IS HE NOW? BY RICHARD MICKELSON. 6 to 8 PM. Stop by and meet local author Richard Mickelson. He will be signing copies of his latest book, “The Wizard of Oz: Where Is He Now?”. Barnes and Noble, 3454 Erie Blvd East, DeWitt. 449.2948.

Sat May 11 CURIOUS GEORGE VISITS STORYTIME. 11 AM. Join us for a special Storytime featuring a tale of Curious George, with a guest appearance by Curious George himself. Barnes and Noble, 3454 Erie Blvd East, DeWitt.

449.2948.

calendar continued on page 9

MOMMY SPA GIVEAWAY

If you’re a mom, then you know every day is your day. But the calendar only sees it as one day a year and with that in mind, we want you to have a chance to be pampered and really take some time to relax! Email us your name, phone number and mailing address to fjadran@eaglenewsonline.com with subject name as “Syracuse Parent Mommy Gift Giveaway” by 5 p.m. Monday, May 6, for your chance to win a $50 gift card to CNY Laser. The winner will be picked at random, and yes, we will want a photo of you with your kids for the June edition so we can publish it and congratulate you on winning! Good luck!

MAY 2013 SYRACUSE PARENT

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Socializing vs. safety As a new mother finding her way around the labyrinth of parenthood and the best approach to raising happy and well-adjusted children, I have come to realize that one of the greatest challenges we all face is finding the best avenues to have our children meet and interact with others. From the youngest age, children are fascinated by and delighted with the companionship of other youngsters.

My parents’ first house was situated on a cul-de-sac in San Antonio, Texas. My best friend, Valerie, lived in the house next door. We would spend endless hours sitting on the curb examining the stones beneath our feet or washing our babies in a blow-up rubber pool. When we felt particularly daring, we would bravely sit side-by-side on our matching plastic three-wheel tricycles and venture up and down the driveway.

During that era, no one had bicycle helmets, knee pads or special garments designed to spare our skin from the potential harm of the glaring Texas sun. We pranced around in diapers, wearing hats designed to keep the sun’s glare from being a nuisance, and whatever remnants remained of sunscreen that was applied before our first romp through the sprinkler. Once we eventually made our way indoors, we would head to one or the other’s “great room,” where we would play endlessly in a sea of scattered books, toy and blocks.

A community swimming pool was not far away but far enough to require transportation by car. We would sit in the back seat, buckle our seat belts, and off we would go.

Several of the mothers in the neighborhood created a “playgroup,” and once a week, one of four would be on duty, while the remaining three would head to the grocery store, to an exercise class or to the hairdresser.

I make reference to the events of my early childhood only to illuminate a day gone by and the now current socialization issues we face as mothers. Understanding that nothing

remains the same, today’s parents face unique challenges in helping their children to socialize with others. Rightly so, a child’s safety is paramount.

M ega

n Cole m

an

W e

r ’re How one successfully i n t h i s to g e t h e incorporates that component into a child’s day to day existence is probably a parent’s greatest quagmire. Whereby my parents played kickball and rode their bikes with the admonition to “be home in time for dinner,” my siblings and I were only allowed to do the same under the watchful eye of another parent. In today’s world, playgroups under the supervision of one mother appear to be rare.

As a working mother, I am available every day to drop off my daughter at pre-school. I have a wonderful caretaker who retrieves her at the end of school; she also has my infant son in the car, so the entire backseat is occupied with bodies and equipment. Even if she wanted to give other children a ride home from school, it would prove next to impossible.

With all the worries in the world taking up any extra room we may have in our vehicles, we can’t dwell on concerns for too long. Since the beginning of this conversation we’ve been having in Parent, it’s been made clear that it takes a village to raise our families. We must seek refuge in the love and care of our family, friends, caregivers and our community.

Then, and only then, will we be able to enjoy the journey of parenthood and watch our children learn and grow with confidence.

Megan Coleman is CNYCentral’s Content Managing Editor and news anchor for the 5 and 6 p.m. NBC 3 newscasts. Follow her on Twitter at @MegsNewsFlash.

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8

SYRACUSE PARENT MAY 2013

here is what’s happening around you

KIDSIGNMENT SALE. 10 AM. Shoppingtown Mall, DeWitt. Do you have outgrown children’s clothes, baby accessories and/or toys? Turn that all into cash, while helping to support a great cause. Event runs through Sunday, May 19. For more information, visit www.fflib.org.

Tue May 21 INCLUSIVE EDUCATION: HOW WILL YOUR CHILD BENEFIT? 7 PM. GiGi’s Playhouse, Driver’s Village, Cicero. The Down Syndrome Association of CNY, Inc. is sponsoring a presentation featuring Tom Bull, director of field relations, teaching and leadership at the Syracuse University School of Education regarding inclusive education. Full inclusion, co-teaching/push-in therapy services and advocating for your child are some of the topics which will be discussed.

The presentation is free and open to the public! If you have questions please call Rebecca Currado at 278.0056.

Sat May 25

North Syracuse Family Festival. 11 AM to 5 PM. Free entertainment for young and old. Bounce house, giant slide and obstacle course for kids; small horse rides; child ID safety. If you have questions, call Charlotte at 458.0375 and to register for the Teddy Bear Parade, call Teresa at 458.0850. Lonergan Park, 524 S. Main St. (behind Stickley furniture), North Syracuse.

Tue May 28 JUDY’S BOOK CLUB. 7 PM. Join Judy and the group by the fireplace as they discuss Beautiful Ruins by Jess Walter, gloriously inventive and constantly surprising — a story of flawed yet fascinating people navigating the rocky shores of their lives while clinging to their improbable dreams. Barnes and Noble, 3454 Erie Blvd East, DeWitt.

449.2948.

SOCIETY OF CHILDREN’S BOOK WRITERS AND ILLUSTRATORS GROUP. 7 PM. Welcome, Central New York children’s writers and illustrators! Come for a discussion at our children’s stage. A great way to get information and connect with local authors and illustrators. Barnes and Noble, 3454 Erie Blvd East, DeWitt. 449.2948.

Fri May 31 KNUFFLE BUNNY: A CAUTIONARY MUSICAL.6:30 PM. The Gifford Family Theatre will visit the store to present a reading of the popular children’s book, Knuffle Bunny: A Cautionary Tale by Mo Willems, complete with songs from the play, gigantic dancing laundry and a cuddly Knuffle Bunny. Barnes and Noble, 3454 Erie Blvd East, DeWitt.

449.2948.

30954

Fri May 17

calendar

MAY 2013 SYRACUSE PARENT

9

family

FYI

some helpful information for your family

What should I expect?

Women who have just learned they’re pregnant are about to embark on a whirlwind adventure. When that adventure culminates with the birth of a child, the family dynamic as you know it will change dramatically.

Women who are entering into pregnancy for the first time typically have a long list of questions concerning what to expect in the weeks and

months ahead. Fear, anxiety and uncertainty about which pains and pangs are normal and which are not are common.

Pregnancy is a learning experience for the mother and all involved, and many falsehoods surround pregnancy and add to feelings of insecurity.

Debunking some of the more common myths surrounding pregnancy can provide some peace of mind to expecting mothers and their families.

Skip that coffee?

Many of the prevailing pregnancy myths tell pregnant women what they shouldn’t do in order to keep their fetuses healthy and safe. It is well known that alcohol and cigarette smoke can have adverse effects on a developing baby, but what about that morning cup of joe?

It is always good to err on the side of caution, but assuming everything is toxic to the child may have you walking on eggshells. Many doctors agree that drinking less than 200 milligrams of caffeine per day is safe and will not risk a pre-term birth or contribute to low fetal birth weight.

Pay attention to teeth

Health exams and blood tests are routine for pregnant women, and new mothers may think they have everything covered with regard to their health. But one thing pregnant women seldom give much thought is dental health. During pregnancy, increased acidity in the mouth increases the risk of tooth

10

SYRACUSE PARENT MAY 2013

decay. So can vomiting associated with morning sickness. The Mayo Clinic advises that high levels of progesterone and estrogen can affect the bones and ligaments that support the teeth, causing teeth to loosen. Hormonal changes can also lead to bleeding gums and gingivitis. Although dental health may not come up in routine prenatal exams, it is important to stay current with dental appointments during a pregnancy.

Morning sickness Not every pregnant woman will experience morning sickness, and the name is a bit of a misnomer.

According to PregnancyStatistics. org, about 75 percent of all pregnant women experience the unfortunate side effect of morning sickness during the beginning of their pregnancy. These feelings of nausea and uneasiness may not be reserved for the morning, either. They can occur at any time of the day. In many cases, as the pregnancy progresses and hormones level out, symptoms of morning sickness abate.

Growing feet and more A woman’s stomach is not the only thing that will grow during her pregnancy.

Pregnant women often witness their bra and shoe sizes increase during a pregnancy. The feet also can grow while pregnant. Ligaments loosen to help with the birthing process, and this can affect ligaments in other areas of the body, including the feet. Feet may flatten and stretch out on the sides from added weight, and the resulting loosening of ligaments can cause a change in shoe size.

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Kids Circuit Training $5

MAY 2013 SYRACUSE PARENT

11

SPRING HAS SPRUNG WITH

remedy rumors by...

Miss Ronnie

Five child sleep myths busted

By Certified Child Sleep Consultant Kerrin Edmonds

(315) 214-3432 www.fantasyfaces.org

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SYRACUSE PARENT MAY 2013

Myth no. 1 - Putting rice cereal in a baby’s bottle will help them sleep longer.

This one has been around for decades. Many studies have proven that babies who were given rice cereal in their bottle did not sleep any longer than those who didn’t. Some parents have even found the opposite to be true – that babies who were given too much rice cereal or were given rice cereal at a young age suffered from indigestion and tummy upset.

Myth no. 2 - Keeping a baby/child up later at night will make them sleep in.

This one couldn’t be further from the truth. While on the surface this makes sense, we must think biologically, not logically, when it comes to our child’s sleep. If we allow our children to become overtired they release a hormone called cortisol, which is similar to adrenaline. This hormone makes it very hard for them to fall and stay asleep. Babies sleep better, longer and cry less if they are put to bed early in the evening. Babies who go to sleep late in the evening are often “overtired,” even though they seem to have energy. A typical and healthy bedtime, depending on how they napped during the day is between 6 and 8 p.m.

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FREE

As we parent our children in regards to sleep, there is a myriad of information, recommendations, myths, rules and even legends. It can be tough to sort through and make sense of it all, but by remembering to think biologically and not logically, most sleep myths can be busted. Here are five of the most common sleep myths.

Myth no. 3 - A baby should sleep through the night at 12 weeks.

While this would be nice, and does happen in some cases with some

babies, it can be an unrealistic expectation and just cause stress if it doesn’t happen for you.

It isn’t unreasonable for a baby to “need” a feeding during the night until around nine months of age.

Myth no. 4 - My child doesn’t need as much sleep as other children.

I hear this one a lot in my profession and while this might make a parent feel better about how little their child sleeps, it really isn’t true. It is true that some kids need/love sleep more than others, but usually this varies by only an hour or two; not huge amounts that I tend to see. It is not uncommon for children to fight sleep, but that doesn’t mean they don’t need it. I am confident that all children can be taught to be good sleepers ... and isn’t that what we want?

Myth no. 5 - You can sleep train a newborn.

In all reality you can’t sleep train or schedule a newborn. Sometimes an infant might appear to be on a schedule until it suddenly changes.

This is because our babies Circadian Rythmn or body clock is not biologically mature yet. This maturing starts around four to five months of age and this is when we can start scheduling naps, etc.

Most basic baby sleep myths can be busted by remembering to think biologically instead of logically in regards to our children’s sleep.

Respecting and encouraging our children’s need for sleep is something every baby deserves.

Kerrin Edmonds is an infant and child sleep consultant certified by the Family Sleep Institute, the highlyregarded child sleep consultant certification program, and the owner of Meet you in Dreamland.

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

healthy family

Have you smiled today?

By Sue Karl Are you smiling and laughing enough? I hope so, but I don’t think so ... When did we all get so serious? How nice is it to see a young child dancing and giggling while they wait in line at the grocery store. But how often do we hear their parent tell them to stand still and be quiet? And what if you started to dance or giggle while you were in line? Oh, the looks you would get! Sad isn’t it?

Consider this, a staggering statistic: kids smile 400 times a day, adults only smile 20 times a day! Sure, smiling is still a novelty when you’re a kid, but really what makes us turn those smiles off as we age? Could we really have become so jaded that we reduce our beam wattage from 400 to 20 by the time we reach adulthood?

Consider the following data from Intelligent Life Magazine concerning the smile’s twin sister, laughter: 11 percent of laughter is a result of joke-telling; 17 percent is

from media (LOL cats, YouTube, etc.) and a whopping 72 percent arises spontaneously from social interaction. That says a lot about how we get our happy fixes. The fact is, we don’t smile or laugh enough as we age. If you are hanging around children like we do here in a children’s hospital we need to up the smiles and the laughter.

Did you know that laughter has been shown to boost hormones that can, in turn, reduce levels of stress? That laughter can help us release endorphins which help us to relax our muscles, decrease tension, boost our immune system? Laughter burns calories too. So does reading this column but that’s beside the point.

What can you do to add more laughter into your day? Lots of things can turn that frown upside down. Start reading the funnies and using more humor in your interactions with your peers, your partner and your children. If you drop something or break something, make a joke about it. I

didn’t really like that plate anyway or that’s one less dish to wash. Stop taking yourself and life so seriously. Use a funny voice when your child has a chore they don’t want to do … please feed the dog … in an opera style voice … he’s really hungry sends a more pleasing signal than a sharp tone would.

Now we do have to be careful … laughter should never be used at anyone’s expense. Insensitive joking can be offensive and distressing. We also need to be mindful that children are just developing their sense of humor and cannot be included in joking the way that adults can.

Let’s try to smile more, add more humor and play into our daily interactions it can improve the quality of your relationships– as well as your connections with children, co-workers, family members, and friends. It can help us have a better day!

Sue Karl is a certified child life specialist at Upstate Golisano Children’s Hospital.

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CUTEST BABY FINALISTS

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Tell my mom I sent you!”

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dollars & sense

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

How to avoid a pricey prom The end of the school year is upon us and that means Senior Ball, Prom and other school dances are on the way. If you have a daughter or a son, this “fun dance” can get pricey, and it can get pricey fast! Since we want to help you make sense of your budget, we have come up with some ideas to help you save.

– Because prom dresses (like wedding

dresses) tend to only be worn once, people are donating them instead of hanging on to them. Your local Thrifty Shopper is likely to be stocked with many options for formal wear at a reasonable price. Also, it’s never too early to pick out that dress. Each year stores put prom dresses on clearance after the dance season, which means the deals are dynamite!

– Once you’ve found the dress, an inexpensive pair of shoes also

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can be found at a secondhand store or consignment boutique. Or that perfect pair of shoes might already be in your closet or a friend or family member’s.

Look at your options before you buy new!

– Hair appointments can be expensive for a formal affair. But if you already saved on the dress and shoes and plan to do your own makeup,

booking a salon appointment can be added to your budget. And if you’re still looking to save money, grab a set of hot rollers or use a curling iron for some simple curls. And sometimes a slick ponytail can do just the trick for your prom look!

– If you’re thinking about a salon

manicure and it’s not in your budget, you can give yourself one or grab a set of stick-on nails from your local pharmacy or beauty store.

– Tuxedo rentals

also can be pricey, but look for the best deal before committing. Many places offer deals around the prom and a coupon could be in your local paper too – all useful details!

– Riding in a limousine is a fun idea, but look at the cost and how it breaks down amongst the couples sharing the cost. What’s wrong with driving your own car?

Sometimes driving a friend or parent’s vehicle can be the best bet.

thoughts and family life lessons from our publisher Dave Tyler

from dad

When tragedy strikes, how do you answer the questions? of a little boy not so unlike my own son, John, with a little sister whose legs and life also were shattered in the explosions.

We waited, that Monday night, until the children were in bed before tuning into coverage of the tragedy. So while a city and nation were grieving these battered families, our children were blissfully unaware.

But the time will come soon when Abby, 5, will start asking questions. Her friends will talk of this tragedy at school. She may see images or hear radio reports.

She’ll hear, most likely, of little Martin Richard, and his little sister who lost her leg. In 2013, coverage is pervasive.

So how will I respond? How do you tell a little child, whose sense of evil involves characters in a Disney book, that there are real people who revel in the death of innocent children? How do you

make her aware that even when precautions are taken, we’re never truly safe? How do you do that without stripping away the innocence and confidence of a little girl? How do you do that without making her live scared?

As we sit in her bed to say goodnight, Abby’s inquisitive little mind often begins to run. She asks all the toughies. “Where do babies come from?” “Does everyone have a mommy and a daddy, ‘cause I know some kids who have two mommies?” “Why do all the basketball players have brown skin?”

“Are men smarter than women?”

Carrie and I try to be as honest as possible while keeping it age appropriate. We try not to confuse her and explain things in a way that answers the question without giving away some of the things she’ll learn over time.

But what is the answer to the question, “Why did someone

blow up that little boy?” What is the answer to the question, “Why did someone shoot all those little kids?”

What is the answer, when she asks, “Can that happen at my school?”

I want to say, “No. Your school is very safe. No one will harm you, or John, or your friends.” But while I hope that is true, more and more I fear that the world we live in is getting more dangerous for Abby and John and millions of other little children.

And just as I can hear Abby ask those questions of me, I can picture little Martin Richard asking those questions of his parents.

And I wonder what they told him.

David Tyler is the publisher of Syracuse Parent. He can be reached at dtyler@eaglenewson line.com.

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By David Tyler

As I was just starting my column for this month’s Syracuse Parent, a co-worker barged into my office to alert me to the two bombs that had gone off at the finish line of the Boston Marathon.

A few minutes later, another co-worker came in. She was obviously shaken by the news.

Her sister had run in the race and her mother had left the finish line area just before the explosions took place. With the cell phone blockage in place, she had been scurried out of harm’s way by the police, but was unable to connect with relatives for a 30-minute stretch that must have seemed like an eternity.

But what really brought it home for me was little Martin Richard, the 8-year-old boy who had waited at the finish line to give a hug to his father when he finished the race. Photographs show a picture

MAY 2013 SYRACUSE PARENT

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healthy family

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

Sun safety tips for families & kids cially for kids under the age of 18, who are at higher risk of skin cancer.”

“Our initiative is to keep kids active and healthy while they are in the sun, not to lock them indoors,” Dr. Brodsky said. “Like

bike helmets, swim shirts and sun hats are seen by kids as stylish accessories, while parents see them as necessary protection. By changing behavior now we can save lives later.”

Whether spring break activities

‘Dr. Amy’s’ mind-blowing facts about skin cancer:  One American dies every  Approximately 75 percent hour from melanoma of skincancer deaths are from  Only 32 percent of parents melanoma protect their children's eyes  One blistering sunburn doubles your risk of skin cancer with sunglasses

involve partying pool side or hitting the ski slopes, a sun protection advisory is global. To check the current UV index or to learn more about PSPF, refer to pediatricspf.org.

PEDIATRIC SUN PROTECTIVE FOUNDATION Founded in 2012, Pediatric Sun Protection Foundation (PSPF) is a non-profit organization based in Chicago. PSPF is committed to raising skin cancer awareness and providing resources and information for families, the community and medical field representatives. Why? "Because sun safety is cool." For more information on PSPF, visit www.pediatricspf. org, LIKE PSPF Inc on Facebook, or follow sun safety tips on Twitter @PSPForg.

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Spring Break season has already arrived – but it’s never time to take a break from sun safety.

In addition to toiletries and swimsuits, the Pediatric Sun Protective Foundation (PSPF) is urging parents to pack protective sun wear for their kids when heading to the beach or pool on upcoming spring break vacations.

“Most people have not been exposed to intense UV rays over the last eight months,” said Board certified dermatologist Dr. Amy Brodsky, Pediatric Sun Protection Foundation president. “Daily use of sunscreen only cuts melanoma chances in half, but SPF 100 sunwear offers complete protection. Families need to be more cognizant of sun damage espe-

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When they were kids 1

A

7

G

2

B

8

H

3

C

9

I

4

D

10

J

5

E

11

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Match & Win!

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F

This month, we’re challenging you (the parents) to pair up the adult and childhood photo of 11 of Central New York’s Familiar Faces in our When They Were Kids matching game. If you email us by 5 p.m. Tuesday, May 7, with all 10 Familiar Faces matched correctly, we’ll enter your name in a random drawing for a family prize package to Pole Position Raceway! So, set a good example for your kids, don’t cheat on the matching game and email your answers to fjadran@eaglenewsonline.com. Good luck!

MAY 2013 SYRACUSE PARENT

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healthy family

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

Nutrition and Your Child

By Amy Merwarth, RD, CDN

A healthy diet and physical activity help children to grow, learn, build strong bones and muscles, maintain a healthy weight and prevent obesity, reduce the chance of developing chronic diseases such as heart disease and diabetes and to feel good about themselves. Parents play a big role in developing children’s eating habits and physical activity habits. Be a powerful role model for your child and set good examples by eating healthy and being active.

Healthy Eating: What should my child eat?

Just like adults, children need to eat a variety of foods. Offer five servings of fruits and vegetables per day and choose healthy sources of protein, such as lean meat, nuts and eggs.

Serve whole grain breads and cereals because they are high in fiber.

Broil, grill or steam foods instead of frying them. Limit fast food and junk food and offer water and milk instead of sugary fruit drinks and sodas.

Some tips to help your child eat better include: – Use less fat, salt and sugar.

– Cook with fewer solid fats. Use olive or canola oil instead of butter or margarine. Bake or roast instead of frying. Keep the salt shaker off

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the table. Have fruits and vegetables on hand for snacks instead of salty snacks like chips. Limit the amount of sugar used.

– Follow guidelines set forth by the Choose My Plate campaign and reshape your plate – make half of it full with fruits and vegetables. The other half should be divided into a lean protein and whole grain with a side of low

fat dairy. Avoid oversized portions.

– Try to keep healthy food in the house for snack and meals. Give your children a healthy snack or two in addition to their three meals per day.

Read food labels carefully.

– Limit fast food, and order a side fruit bowl or salad instead of fries.

Ask for sandwiches to be prepared without the sauce. Order small sized portions to avoid super-sizing.

– Share food time as family time and eat sit-down family meals together.

Don’t forget physical activity Like adults, children should be physically active most, if not all, days of the week.

Experts suggest at least 60 minutes of moderate physical activity daily for most children. Walking fast, riding a bike, jumping rope or playing sports such as basketball or soccer are good ways for children to be active.

Apple Dip Recipe

Ingredients: 8 ounce package cream cheese 1 tablespoon vanilla extract 1/2 cup brown sugar Directions: Stir together the cream cheese, brown sugar and vanilla extract until the sugar has dissolved, and the mixture is smooth.

Dip apples into the dip mixture and enjoy.

fun and low budget crafting projects for parents & kids

frame

it

Mother’s Day tote bags Canvas bag in a color of your choice; paint in three colors and a sponge for each one; paper towels and a nearby sink!

Make it: Lay out your tote bag and choose the colors for your flower. Use the sponge to cover your child’s palm with paint and press it five times in a pinwheel shape to create a flower. Use more paint as needed so the “petals� are bold.

After you finish your petals, wash your hands and switch to your color of choice for the flower’s center. Use the sponge to paint the center and another one to paint the stem and leaf. You can personalize it one step further by painting on the word mom on the bag too! Let the bag dry for at least two hours and then fill the bag with mom’s favorite things!

The bag will not only hold mom’s gifts for the day but also it will serve as a great everyday tote bag!

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PCA performs noninvasive services, including fetal, transthoracic and transesophageal echocardiography, EKG services, stress/exercise testing and MRI/MRA.

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learning curve

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Parenting: It’s not what, but how

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I just got back from lunch with some male colleagues. We entered a sensitive topic of raising girls and how a father should engage around the physical maturing process of their daughters.

They were not willing to leave it to “women’s business.” These men were going to be fathers to their daughters. Great s a M c M or r is e re s conversation. In these topics h T there are usually a lot of questions about what to say, how to say it and when to say it.

As these wonderful, thoughtful fathers engaged this sensitive topic, I was reminded that mindful and intentional parents will generally figure much of Bare-footing it this out. They will find their way with some mistakes and stumblings but they will find their way. What I was struck by and am reminded of was this. Parenting isn’t so much about what we do but significantly more about how we do it.

I can belittle my child by asking them for the fifth time to pick up their backpack or I can ask them to pick up their backpack with respect and dignity.

These fathers could choose to avoid this challenging topic as so many have. These fathers are dialoguing about honoring and respecting their daughters and their journeys. That is awesome.

Will it be awkward? Probably! However, by honoring their daughters, these fathers are bringing sexuality into a respectable place and not a secret place. This communicates to young girls that they do not need to hide who they are. This communicates respect and dignity not shame.

Why do we act shocked when kids make bad choices? Isn’t that why they have parents? Why are they shocked when they don’t listen to us? Hasn’t this been happening for millennia? This is part of the dance. Where is the surprise?

Anyway, when children make mistakes and, by the way, they are suppose to make mistakes, it is part of their job title, it’s part of our job title to correct or redirect or teach. Do we communicate value or a burden? Do we communicate shame?

Do we communicate capability or disappointment? How did you feel as a kid? It wasn’t that long ago. I remember how crushed I was when I was belittled for a mistake and how it shut me down often from trying.

Parenting is more than communicating life skills. It is about molding and shaping a human soul. Children are not as resilient as some would say. Sure, kids bounce back but the messages that we leave are the messages that they are building their life on top of and the foundation from which they will make their decisions.

safety zone

How to fit a life jacket correctly Many people assume that simply wearing a life jacket or another personal flotation device is enough to provide adequate safety while enjoying activities on the water. But just as important as wearing the PFD is that it fit properly.

Selecting a life jacket is not a one-size-fits-all scenario. Nor are all life jackets suitable for all types of water sports and other marine activities. The amount of buoyancy the jacket provides is relative to the activity and the size of the person wearing the jacket. Furthermore, it is unwise to think that children can simply wear an adult life jacket in a pinch.

According to the Pennsylvania Fish & Boat Commission, life jackets that are too small or too large can come off or ride up in the water. A jacket

family that rides up can end up rising over the mouth and nose, making breathing difficult. The proper fit of a life jacket is one where the jacket is snug, but not suffocating. All of the zippers, ties, straps, snaps, and other connection points should be correctly secured.

Those who have experience in the water can test out the fit of a life jacket by walking into the water up to the neck.

After lifting up the legs and tilting the head back, the person should be able to float comfortably and not have to put any effort into staying above water.

Furthermore, the life jacket shouldn't obstruct the mouth. The person should also be able to swim easily on the back or side without restriction of the arms.

In terms of children and life jackets or flotation vests, the Division of Boating and Oceanic Recreation of Hawaii says that fitting children with PDAs is one of the most frequently asked questions of boating safety educators.

Typically, children 12 years and younger are expected to wear a life jacket at all times

when in a boat or around the water. This means kids will spend significant time wearing the life jacket, so it should be comfortable and fit properly.

According to DOBOR, children's life jackets are typically designed around three sizes. An infant device is for children under 30 pounds. A child’s small is appropriate for children 30 to 50 pounds. A youth size is right for children 50 to 90 pounds. Larger children may graduate to a small adult's size. Life jackets for young children may have a flotation collar that helps to keep the head upright, as a child's head tends to be his or her heaviest part of the body.

In addition, there will likely be a strap that secures between the legs to prevent the vest from riding up.

All life jackets should be replaced when they start to fade to the color of the inside label. This can indicate that their safety protection may have started to deteriorate.

In addition to properly fitting a life jacket, it is important to practice being in one in the water.

While life jackets may keep adults and children afloat, they may not keep a struggling person face up. Therefore, it is adviseable to remain calm in the water while wearing the PFD. Life jackets can save lives when properly fitted and worn correctly. Also, many people prefer to purchase life jackets that are a Coast Guard approved device for added protection.

FYI

Pregnancy Tidbits  Tuesday is the most

popular day for babies to arrive. It could be in part to the growing number of planned cesarean deliveries. Saturdays are the slowest day for births.

 More babies are born during the warm months than in the winter.  In 1970, the average age for a first-time mother in the United States was 21. By 2012, that figure had changed to between 25 and 29.  Baby boys tend to outnumber baby girls.

This number has remained steady for the last 60 years.  The average woman’s uterus expands up to five hundred times its normal size during pregnancy.

Pregnancy can be a miracle and scary at the same time. Getting the facts helps reduce some of the fear and anxiety many expecting women feel during a pregnancy.

MAY 2013 SYRACUSE PARENT

23

pay it forward

helping your community has never been easier

Making a promise to spread awareness CNY to see first Promise Walk for preeclampsia

By Farah F. Jadran It isn’t rare, but many mothers-to-be are unaware of a life-threatening disorder.

Preeclampsia is most often characterized by a rapid rise in blood pressure that can lead to seizure, stroke, multiple organ failure and death of the mother, baby, or both.

It occurs only during pregnancy and the postpartum period.

Because the awareness is lacking, Syracuse’s Lorelle Lashway is taking matters into her own hands.

“When I first learned that I had severe preeclampsia, I was in tears,” Lashway said. Although her pregnancy had been smooth up until this point, her protein count was high, her blood pressure was climbing and her platelets were low.

Lashway went to the hospital.

She was put on Pitocin (strengthens labor contractions during childbirth), and magnesium sulfate.

When her daughter Laelyn was born, full term (38 weeks and six days), at a mere 5 pounds, she was sent to the NICU with magnesium toxicity.

“She was referred to as the ‘mag baby,’” Lashway explained. Her IUGR (Intrauterine Growth Restriction) was another unexpected issue.

“The thing I remember the most about my experience was how blindsided I felt,” Lashway said. “How no one ever really explained what happened, and ultimately how traumatic this process had been for me.”

When she found the Preeclampsia Foundation, she said she learned just how lucky she was. “I knew that I had to become involved, and be an advocate, so that I could prevent someone else

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from feeling like I did.”

Now, the area’s inaugural Promise Walk is set for Saturday, June 1, at Onondaga lake Park, but not solely because of Lashway’s experience but also to celebrate the memory of Kristie Rubino.

Rubino passed away in August 2011 from complications from preeclampsia

and HELLP (hemolysis, elevated liver enzymes and low platelet count). Shortly after the birth of her son, Brody, Rubino passed away.

Remembering Kristie

Rubino’s mother, Nancy Maprafailo,

says she and her other daughter, Koren Rubino, are looking forward to the Syracuse Promise Walk (an event planned to be held annually) because they want to help pass on awareness.

“I’ve become a medium and start talking to pregnant women,” Maprafailo said.

Like Lashway, Maprafailo also had never heard of preeclampsia. “Kristie was so healthy and a go-getter,” she said. “She never slowed down up until the day she checked in to have the baby.”

Maprafailo says no one in the family was aware of this pregnancy disorder, but now they want to help others become informed.

“We’ll do anything we can to help the foundation and to help with the walk.”

For Lashway, her biggest challenge is getting people to understand the symptoms and risks of preeclampsia. But, it’s a challenge she’s ready to conquer. In addition to the walk on June 1, the event will include an opportunity to remember those who have lost their lives and activities for kids such as a bounce house and face painting.

“If we can help just one person or family understand what preeclampsia is, and recognize the signs and symptoms, I will consider this walk a success,” said Lashway.

For more information on the walk, visit promisewalk.org/syracuse or follow the event on Twitter at @SyracusePromise.

www dots

When you’re expecting, expect to learn something new! Here are a few sites we found for the mothersto-be in CNY:

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wk1 June 24-28 wk2 July 1-5 wk3 July 8-12 wk4 July 15-19 wk5 July 22-26 wk6 July 29-Aug. 2

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25

toy box

Just for the babies OneStepAhead Activity Play Gym

Big Scoop Bath Toy

Here’s a bath toy toddlers can gobble up! Kids love “goin’ fishing” with our fish scoop bath toy, with its easy, hold-on handle.

Gobble up the floating foam guppies, then pour them out and fish some more. Wet ‘em down, and they stick to the tub wall. For 12 months and up. BPA free.

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This play arch will engage babies with toys to swat at and spin. This model includes three dangling toys, spinning toys on both sides, and six hanging links for mixing things up. More portable than spaceship-style gyms, too!

Assembles and breaks down easily; carry bag included.

Assembly required. For ages 6 months and up. Part of the OneStepAhead Baby collection of classic, developmental infant toys. This baby gym develops both gross motor skills (reaching and batting) and fine motor skills (spinning, handling, clacking).

Sign About Book

Teach baby sign language, so he can communicate before he or she can talk. These charming board books show how to sign words baby uses everyday — like “wake up,” “wet,” “stroller,” “please,” and “more”. Based on American Sign Language. 12 pages each, with 40 signs per book. For babies eight months to three years. Child’s Play publishers offer easy-toread, comprehensive sign language books that get rave reviews from parents focuses on baby’s everyday experiences.

Birds of a feather...play together! Your little chick will love these chubby, cuddly activity toys, which are perfectly sized for little hands. They offer myriad textures and sounds to explore, and when baby shakes, squeezes, or rolls one, he’ll be rewarded with a pleasing rattle, crinkle, or chime.

Their clip-on links make them great travel toys; hang from the stroller, car seat, or play yard. Great value, too: for the price of some single clip-on toys, you get all three! Includes two birds and one owl toy. Part of Skip Hop’s Treetop Friends collection. For newborns and up.

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SYRACUSE PARENT MAY 2013

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Owl & Friends Baby Toy Trio

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