Giggle Magazine-Tallahassee Aug/Sept 2014

GREATER

ut Our deb ! e u iss

TALLAHASSEE'S

PREMIER

PARENTING

MAGAZINE

happy family • happy communityTM

The New SAT First Field Trip Tips DIY Homework Station Decoding Common Core

plus

& more!

Meet the Pope Family!

Get the Facts on Food Labels Bye-Bye Boring Lunches!

AUG/SEPT 2014 • Volume 1 • Issue 1

www.gigglemag.com gigglemag.com | August/september 2014 1

PUBLISHER Nicole Irving ART DIRECTOR Allison Raber MANAGING Editor Dana Kamp ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Jessica Kerr executive assistant Sayeh Farah Contributing Writers Tania Cowling, Selena Garrison, Nicole Germany, Kelly Goede, Tara Griffin, Allen Haynes, Jen Hillan, Nicole Irving, Dana Kamp, Lisa Katz, Alexis King, Helen Kornblum, Danielle Michels, Olivia Pitkethly, April Tisher, Lauren Zika Contributing Photographers Shandon Smith with Lifeprints Photography, Terri Smith Photo Interns Nicole Germany, Alexis King, Haley Ponnock, Lauren Zika

Mission Statement Giggle Magazine is a modern and refreshing parenting publication that brings together families and their community. We make it our mission to find the joy and humor in parenting, focus on key topics and issues that relate to today’s parents and give parents the resources to be engaged, connected and present with their children during these important years.

Irving Publications, LLC reserves the right to edit and/or reject any advertising. Irving Publications, LLC is not responsible for the validity of any claims made by its advertisers. Nothing that appears in Giggle Magazine may be reproduced in any way, without written permission.

Opinions expressed by Giggle Magazine writers are their own and do not necessarily reflect the publisher’s opinion. Giggle Magazine will consider all never before published outside editorial submissions. Irving Publications, LLC reserves the right to edit and/or reject all outside editorial submissions and makes no guarantees regarding publication dates.

irvingpublications Mailing address

Physical address

5745 SW 75th Street 101 SW 140th Terrace Unit 286 Suite C Gainesville, FL 32608 Jonesville, FL 32669 p. 352.505.5821 f. 352.240.6499 toll-free phone 888.749.2150 toll-free fax 877.857.5140

gigglemag.com giggle@irvingpublications.com Giggle Magazine is a registered trademark property of Irving Publications, LLC. All rights reserved.

Giggle Magazine is published by Irving Publications, LLC. © 2014

from the publisher

MEET JESSICA!

I am overjoyed to present you with the inaugural issue of Giggle Magazine: Tallahassee!

Giggle Magazine began five years ago out of my son’s nursery. In between bottle feedings, diaper changes and carting my two older sons, then 3 and 4 years old, to playdates, I had an out-of-this-world idea that instead of going back to my Monday – Friday, 9 – 5 job, I would start a magazine to share the joys of raising my children in our community. So, there I sat at my computer, burning the midnight oil while simultaneously doing 2 a.m. feedings. I found myself immersed in my new role as a publisher and momma. It was amazing…and exhausting (I won’t lie, there were a lot of tired eyes.)

Today, I couldn’t be more excited to share Giggle Magazine with you. It will be your best friend in this journey of raising a family. We are your go-to source for all things “parenting” in the Greater Tallahassee Area. You will find heartwarming stories, parenting tips and trade secrets, things to do and see, expert advice and pertinent information on topics ranging from grandparenting to pregnancy, as well as DIY projects for your home and yummy new recipes. And it’s all delivered in an award-winning, colorful and fun package!

This is the perfect issue to kick off our Tallahassee adventure! Our Back-to-School issue, featuring adorable Miss Roxanne on the cover, is full of back-to-school tips, your August/September calendar and so much more.

I am thrilled to welcome you to Giggle Magazine! Sit back, relax and stay awhile…the laundry can wait. Promise!

Nicole Irving, Publisher nicole@irvingpublications.com

Age: 8 Favorite book: "Flat Stanley" Favorite food: Macaroni and cheese

roxanne

Favorite movie: Any of the "Diary of a Wimpy Kid" movies Favorite activity: Drawing with colored pencils

Cover Cutie!

meet our

Like us on Facebook /GIGGLEMAGTALLAHASSEE

4

Extra, Extra: Roxanne prefers to wear her brother's clothes instead of her own. She also likes to come up with new ideas to make money. She has created a new drink to sell to the neighbors and one time she had a yard sale with her brother's toys.

follow us on Twitter @GIGGLEMAGTALLY

gigglemag.com | August/september 2014

Visit us on Pinterest /GIGGLEMAGAZINE

JESSICA KERR

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Jessica Porter Kerr was raised in Tallahassee and graduated from Leon High School and Florida State University. She is a multi-generation Seminole, with a die-hard garnet and gold mentality. Having degrees and backgrounds in social work, education, healthcare and retail, her true passion is certainly realized in her ability to connect and interact with the people in her community.

Married to John Ashton Kerr, they have three beautiful children together - Ashton (6), Emory (5) and Hayes (3). After living for a time in Texas and Georgia, Jessica wholeheartedly believes there is no place quite like Tallahassee.

"Raising our children in Tallahassee, surrounded by our family and dear friends, was never a question for John and me. There was no alternative.

This is our home."

Jessica truly appreciates the need to inform and involve the greater Tallahassee community, as a mother, wife and Tallahassean, through Giggle Magazine!

Follow us on Instagram @GIGGLEMAGTALLY

August * September 2014 happy family • happy community

16

TM

life

learn

6 lifesavers

37 family learning

8

8 School Year Routines to Start Now

two cents

38 homeschool corner

Fun Science Projects You Can Do At Home The Happiness Curriculum

Their Extracurriculars: What They Really Cost You

happy community

10 happy family

The Pope Family

50 COMMUNITY CALENDAR

12 The parent life

Welcome to the Neighborhood!

14 grandparents

conception 2 college

40 expecting

13 Just the two of us

Couple Communication: Easier Than Riding A Bike?

Parenting Again: Finding Yourself in the Role of Caregiver

Pregnancy Secrets No One Tells You

15 GIGGLE STAMP

Gifts for Grandparents Day

41 infant

Fill 'Em Up...Bottle Prep 101

forks & spoons

42 TODDLER

26 in the fridge

Snack Time!

28

Boost Math Skills

44 early years

Preparing for a Fantastic First Field Trip

28 LUNCH BOX

Bye-Bye Boring Lunches!

10

Breakfast of Champions: Using Cereal to

45 kids

What to Do in Case of an Emergency

health

46 tweens

30 get Pretty

Back-to-School Teacher Fashions

The Talk: How to Lead Your Child Down the Road to Good Health

48 teens

32 get healthy

The New SAT Test

Get the Facts on That Label

Child and family photos by Terri Smith Photo. Food photo by Giggle Magazine.

happy home 33 Our Space

Front Door 34 organized Chaos

'Twas the Night Before School 35 make it. fix it. clean it.

What's Up with Upcycling?

features 16

16 Back-to-School 2014!

DIY Homework Station • Teachers Sound Off • Your Child's Education School Accessories for Every Grade • Common Core • Homework Helpers Hidden Costs of the School Year

10 32 28

Photo by Terri Smith Photo

gigglemag.com | August/september 2014

5

life

L I F E S AV E R S

8

School Year Routines to Start Now

BY DANA KAMP

While we are relishing our last lazy summertime moments and moving our minds toward the back-to-school madness, let’s add some organization (and sanity) to this school year with these Lifesavers Routines.

1

Hold family meetings on Sundays.

Even if only for 20 minutes before everyone heads off to bed, gather and talk about the upcoming week so all family members know what is happening and when.

This is a great time to review school project due dates, appointment times and carpool days.

2

Apply sunscreen every day.

We all know we’re supposed to do this, but rarely do we make the time each morning as we rush to get out of the house on time. Make it easy to remember by putting a container of sunscreen with a hand pump on the bathroom sink. Help your kiddos get into the habit of brushing their teeth, slathering on sunscreen and combing their hair before they leave the bathroom.

Try this great kid-friendly sunscreen by Aubrey! Aubrey-organics.com

This can be done by taking a family walk to school, taking Fido for a quick run, or just putting on some fun music and dancing in the living room! Do something to get those heart rates up and check it off your to-do list!

6

Look at your family’s schedule for the week ahead (see #1). Plan a self-serve crockpot meal for the night everyone is running in different directions, a family meal concocted by your teenager the evening he doesn’t have practice and will be home first, and a pizza night when you know you’ll be getting home late from a swim meet. A little planning ahead goes a long way when parents are tired and tummies are growling.

5

Sign the kids' planners at a set time/place every day.

Designate a place for planners to be dropped by each child so you can read through and sign them while the kiddos are clearing the dinner table or taking showers – whatever works best for your evening schedule. No more finding out about a school play the day of the performance!

gigglemag.com | August/september 2014

6

Designate laundry days.

Keep laundry from piling up and taking over your weekend by assigning certain clothing (and children, if they are old enough to help) to specific days. This way, everyone knows when to make sure their dirty socks or stinky gym clothes are in the laundry room!

7

Create an afterschool homework/activity schedule.

Whether your children are in an afterschool program, with a babysitter or home with you, make the afternoon efficient so the evening doesn’t become a stressful nightmare for the whole family. Begin an afterschool routine now that includes homework, a snack, some active time and some down time – in whatever order best suits your children and your schedule.

8

Set guidelines for tech time.

Most students will need to use some kind of computer or tablet for homework assignments and research each week of the school year. By setting family guidelines for time spent on gadgets outside of schoolwork, you are avoiding future conflicts and making everyone’s tech time fair. ✽

© 2014 iStockphoto LP. All rights reserved

3

Exercise in the morning.

4

Plan meals to match each day's schedule.

What would you do if... your child wanted to ride his bike to elementary school with his friends?

"It is not as easy of a decision for parents today, as it was for our parents. I grew up riding my bike on Thomasville Road. Back then, I feel like drivers had fewer distractions than there are today. If I had to make the decision today, the answer would be no."

Sara Britton Jacobs – Mommy of two "In order for me to consider allowing my children to ride their bikes to school, I would consider the following factors: distance to school, age of child, availability of sidewalks on the route, intersections crossed and existence of a buddy system."

Sara Bayliss – Mommy of three

gigglemag.com | August/september 2014

7

life

t w o ce n ts

Their Extracurriculars: What They Really Cost You

5 Tips for

Saving

 Often you can save 1030 percent on the cost of registration by registering early.  Many programs offer scholarships for a few students and/or give students the opportunities to get sponsorships to help cover some of the costs.  Since young children often want to try out a variety of activities, check out courses offered through a local community center or department of parks and recreation. The classes are usually low in cost and typically run from two to four months, giving your child plenty of time to decide whether or not he likes the activity.

by selena garrison

Extracurricular activities are an enjoyable and important part of childhood, and can help kids develop both physically and socially. These activities lend children the opportunity to learn the value of teamwork, improve physical endurance, develop artistic skills and gain confidence. The downside is that extracurricular activities can consume excessive amounts of family time and resources. There are several points to take into consideration when deciding on activities for your kiddo.

Identify your child’s interests

Pursue activities that your child wants to do rather than those that interest you. It seems simple, but you can save on costs by not suggesting additional activities on top of those he wants to try! Since kids can have many

8

É

Prioritize the activities

It is important for children to learn how to prioritize and plan their time between school and activities, just like Mom and Dad manage careers, activities and the family budget. Trade-offs will oftentimes need to be made for your child to participate in an activity. Involve him in the discussion about what can and can’t be done because of limited time and resources.

É

Figure out the true cost of the activity

When planning for a new activity, make sure to get the whole picture of how much the activity is going to cost. In addition to registration, participating in an activity may require equipment,

gigglemag.com | August/september 2014

food, group photos, uniforms, travel, etc. To figure out the overall cost, talk to other parents and coaches. Then budget 10 percent more to cover any extra costs that might come up. ✽ While a dance class may cost an average of $60 per month, recitals, costumes and competitions will bring additional charges.

Martial Arts classes may average $30-$60 per month, yet uniforms, travel and elite instructors may add more fees to that initial cost.

Youth sports tend to average closer to $400 per season after tallying the costs of registration, uniforms, individual equipment, travel and tournament fees.

 You may also be able to save on fees by volunteering as a coach, scorekeeper or concession stand worker.

Get the Kids Involved!

Younger children can round up toys for a yard sale, save birthday and holiday money, and participate in the designated fundraisers. Tweens and teens can sell their gently used clothing and accessories to local consignment stores, organize additional fundraisers or offer to do tasks for neighbors for a fee (mow lawns, walk dogs, wash cars, etc.).

© 2014 iStockphoto LP. All rights reserved

É

varying interests, consider taking advantage of free trial offers before investing in uniforms, equipment and registration fees.

 Visit your local new and used sporting goods shop to trade in the sports equipment from last season for the equipment needed for the new activity.

gigglemag.com | August/september 2014

9

life

happ y family

Favorite day trip: St. Teresa Beach. It is the best. No waves, lots of hermit crabs, sting rays, fiddler crabs to catch, creeks to play in, and calm and quiet. Our closest slice of Heaven.

Favorite vacation: Kauai. I am from Kauai and we brought the kids back three years ago when Kent was 4, Lilly was 2 and Banks was 1 (Blair was in my tummy, but we didn’t know yet). We spent lots of time with my family, snorkeling, eating Hawaiian shaved ice, playing on the beach and sightseeing. It was laid back and filled with lots of happiness.

The

Pope

Family

Bert, Jill, Kent (7), Lilly (5), Banks (3), and Blair (2)

Favorite family meal: We love Italian food.

Eating spaghetti with meatballs while singing “On top of spaghetti” is a weekly occurrence.

Favorite date spot: We have so many. A few local favorites are Bella Bella, Cypress, Masa and Avenue Eat and Drink.

Our family is most like: The Griswolds.

Fun, active, loving, busy, yet trying to spend as much time as we can with each other, embracing each moment and simply making the most out of each day. Some days, that just means making it until bedtime.

Movie in our DVD player right now: “Peter Pan.” Perfect for our little pirates and mermaids.

Mommy and Daddy’s favorite TV shows: “CSI,” “Royal Pains,” and “House Hunters International.”

10

The kids’ favorite books: “Baby Cakes,” “The Giving Tree,” Disney’s “Frozen,” “The Little Engine that Could” and the “Magic Treehouse” series.

Websites we love: Momastery.com.

Favorite sports to play/activities to do: We love to go on walks around the neighborhood and let the kids join us on their bikes or scooters. We love to spend time swimming, dancing and doing “shows,” where each little puts on a show while the rest of the family watches and cheers!

Favorite sports to watch: College football.

Go ‘Noles!

Pets: None…yet, but Mommy and the kids keep working on Daddy for a puppy addition.

gigglemag.com | August/september 2014

Favorite family activity: Swimming. We LOVE the beach and pool and could spend days in the water and sand.

Favorite picnic spot: Wakulla Springs. We love packing some food and heading down for a fun lunch and boat tour on the Wakulla river.

Photos by Terri Smith Photo

Occupation(s): Bert is a real estate broker with Bert Pope and Associates. Jill is a stay-athome mom and a consultant with Rodan+Fields.

What makes my kids laugh: Everything. They are very silly (like their Dad) and will do anything to make others laugh.

Funny jokes, playing a game of hide-and-seek, and a good tickle fight get them every time.

Why we love living in Tallahassee: It’s small town, southern charm. We love the canopy roads, how amazing this community is and the people in it and the slow-paced lifestyle.

Something that we want our children to have that we didn’t have growing up: Both Bert and I had wonderful childhoods. Growing up in Tallahassee and Kauai allowed us to have the Mayberry-type experience. We rode our bikes everywhere until dark, knew everyone in town and felt safe.

We hope our children can have similar experiences and memories. The one thing I didn’t ever get though (and asked Santa three years for) was a four-wheel Barbie Jeep. You can bet on it that my girls will get one. (I’ll finally have one) Ha! First word you think of when we say “family”: Forever. We will always have each other, forever and ever.

Must-have item: A good, solid village. A village of people made up of family members, amazing friends and trustworthy babysitters. It is the only way we are able to raise these four cool littles. We are surrounded by inspiring, supportive, creative and great people that are always willing to help out by leading our children by example.

Three words that describe our family: Energetic, Chaotic and Giving.

Anything else you want us to know about your family?

We are not perfect. In fact, we make a lot of mistakes, but our hope is for happy and brave kids with kind hearts, a strong marriage, and to appreciate this life and the many opportunities ahead.

Eating spaghetti with meatballs while singing “On top of spaghetti” is a weekly occurrence.

life

the p a r e n t l i f e

Welcome to the Neighborhood!

BY OLIVIA K. PITKETHLY, MA, LMHC

Many families move to Florida every year, for good reason. But with that move comes a period of adjustment, including feelings of anxiety, loneliness and sadness.

Whether you have moved for professional opportunities, your academic career or just to give your family a fresh start, you may have some difficulty adjusting to your new home, especially if you don’t know many people in the area.

Here are some tips to turn the unfamiliar into the familiar: Get to know the culture

Look for the places that give the town its real charm. Organic and eclectic restaurants, down-home diners and funky specialty stores are always fun to visit and a great way to meet the locals. Strike up a conversation – most people are willing to offer their take on their favorite place to eat or must-see attraction in the area. And with college football season around the corner, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to see your new town’s favorite team in action either at the stadium, a fun local restaurant or a neighborhood tailgate party.

Explore your world

12

What kind of groups did you belong to in your previous town? Before I moved I belonged to a few professional networking groups, so I did a little research and found one here. Don’t be afraid to go outside your comfort zone. At the prompting of a friend, I joined a moms group and it’s one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.

Meet other parents

Kids are a great motivator to meet new people. After all, they need friends too! Join your school’s PTA or attend a mommy-and-me class. Most of the parents I’ve met since I’ve moved have been in the same position themselves and can empathize with a newbie!

Lastly, while you may feel homesick for your friends and family, don’t isolate from the world. You can miss your loved ones, but don’t miss out on all the beauty that surrounds you. ✽

gigglemag.com | August/september 2014

Tips from our Giggle readers!

“I would tell any newcomers to introduce themselves to everyone.

Especially take advantage of meeting new people at your child’s events (school, sports, church, play groups, camps).” – Michelle G., Mommy of two

“Moving from a touristy city, I’ve really enjoyed experiencing nature here. The key is to find places that are quintessential to your new town, find something that you won’t find anywhere else.” – John O., Daddy of two

“It's been important to find our new favorite places like a park for the kids, where to see the best fireworks, a new pumpkin patch and Christmas tree lot. We are big on traditions and having these things makes it feel more like home.” – Corinne E., Mommy of three “Post something on Facebook asking your friends if they know someone in your new town who can give you advice. Twitter is a great source of information to get a feel for what’s going on in town. Research, research, research…that’s what worked for me!” – Cathy H., Mommy of two

© 2014 iStockphoto LP. All rights reserved

Florida is a wonderland for outdoor enthusiasts. Canoeing, tubing and fishing are just a few things you can do to keep active. There is an abundance of natural and recreational parks in North Florida.

Pack a bathing suit or pull on those hiking boots and visit one of the many wooded areas and springs where you can spot deer, rabbits and wild peacocks.

Join organizations and groups

life

j u st the t w o o f u s

Couple Communication:

Easier Than Riding a Bike?

BY OLIVIA K. PITKETHLY, MA, LMHC

When Taryn Buckley and her husband, Dante, are having issues, they take out their tandem bike and go for a ride. Riding in tandem takes timing, listening, speaking clearly and lots of teamwork.

You need to know when it’s time to switch gears, when it’s time to put on the brakes or recognize the obstacles that stand in your way. Just like marriage, if you can’t communicate effectively, the results can be disastrous.

Here are some tips to help you and your partner communicate, on and off the bike:

make a date to talk

When juggling work, kids and a household, it’s often difficult to find time to have a conversation, let alone a serious discussion. By setting a specific time to discuss a problem, like after the kids go to bed, you can give each other your undivided attention. Shut off the TV, turn on the lights and make eye contact when you talk. If possible, hold hands too. A light physical touch can help diffuse an otherwise tense situation and may remind you of the affection you feel for each other.

use "I" statements

Starting off a conversation with, “You really made me mad today” can put the other person on the

© 2014 iStockphoto LP. All rights reserved

Remember positive communication too!

Effective communication does not have to be limited to serious issues. Compliment your partner often: “That color brings out your eyes” or “I love to watch you play with the kids” are good examples. A simple “Thank you” or “I love you” can also go a long way.

defensive. It can also give the sense that your feelings are dictated by another’s actions. Own your feelings and try saying, “I felt frustrated today when you tracked mud into the house after I just finished mopping.”

listen closely

There’s a difference between hearing and listening. To ensure your partner knows you are listening to what he is saying, try paraphrasing what he just said. Using the example above, you can say, “It sounds like it really bothered you when I dirtied the floor after you worked so hard to clean it.” It will make your partner feel heard.

recognize the underlying issue

Muddy floors are one thing, but the messages we receive are something else. Perhaps the person in this example feels unappreciated by the one with muddy shoes. If this feeling, or any underlying issue, is a recurring theme in your relationship, then maybe it’s time to address that instead of the cleanliness of your home. A study found that seventy percent of couples who went to marriage counseling were positively impacted by the experience, so consider

bringing in a third party to provide some insight.

choose your words carefully

Take a lesson from your kindergarten teacher: no name-calling. Calling your partner a mean name puts him on the defensive again and will only escalate the argument. The same goes for cursing, so avoid it at all costs. Don’t use absolute words, such as “never” and “always” because most of the time it’s just not true. If you feel you’re only going around in circles and not really getting anywhere, come up with a “time-out” word. My husband and I use the word “pineapple.” When one of us uses it, we know it’s time to take a break from the conversation and come back after we’ve cooled off.

attack the problem, not each other

Remember you are both on the same team. You both want a happy outcome.

So figure out what you can both do to solve the problem. Get creative like the Buckleys who bought a tandem bike. When you work as a team, the possibilities are endless! ✽

gigglemag.com | August/september 2014

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life

g r a n d p a r e n ts

Parenting Again: Finding Yourself in the Role of Caregiver by april tisher

According to AARP, over 2.5 million grandparents are taking over the responsibility of raising their grandchildren in the United States. They may be co-parenting with their own children or they may have sole custody.

Whatever their specific case may be, their retirement years have now been filled with diaper duty and school pickup lines.

For Carol* and Dan*, when their young daughter’s marriage ended and she found herself in need of financial and emotional support for herself and her young daughter, they promptly stepped in to assist in any way they could.

stepfather and siblings during days off from school and during summer break, but her home is with her grandparents, where she always felt she belonged.

...her home is with her grandparents, where she always felt she belonged.

And, when their daughter had the opportunity to finish college out of state, Carol and Dan agreed to care for little Eva* while she was gone. Today, although their daughter is home from college and has remarried, Eva is being raised in the custody of her grandparents.

Carol shared that all of their relationships are in a good place. She and her daughter openly discuss Eva’s extracurricular activities, what school choices are being made and any health or behavioral issues. Eva spends time with her mother,

"It's really hard, but with the support of my family, community and his school we are making sure Corey has all he needs. I thought I would be retired by now and here I am doing PTA again!" said Mary. ✽ *Names have been changed to protect privacy.

Each situation is unique in its specific circumstances. Yet, Carol, Dan and Mary all agreed on several things.

Someone in their position should always remember that the child’s needs come first, and if you are a grandparent acting as a primary caregiver, be sure to legally become the official guardian.

Getting the documentation you will need in order to register your grandchild for school, get medical treatment for him and make all parental decisions will make this new role an easier transition for everyone.

Visit grandparenting.org or childwelfare.gov for more information on grandparents and their roles in the lives of their grandchildren today.

"Surely, two of the most satisfying experiences in life must be those of being a grandchild or a grandparent." – Donald A. Norberg

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gigglemag.com | August/september 2014

© 2014 iStockphoto LP. All rights reserved

“We had an open discussion with our daughter and son-in-law and decided together that it was best for Eva,” Carol explained.

When Mary’s* daughter’s mental health became unstable, she and her son, Corey*, moved in with Mary. Mary has taken the lead on raising her grandson, working full time to support the household, accompanying Corey on field trips, taking him to baseball practice and adventuring out to the mall for new video games on his list. Mary has legal custody of Corey, and although her daughter still has an ever present place in his life, his care is the sole responsibility of Mary.

if you're parenting again...

VE IT. WE

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f o r g r a n d p a r e n ts

W

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U

giggle stamp

LO

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great gifts for

U

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VE IT. WE

grandparents day Turn a precious photo into a unique 10.1 x 13.5, 252-piece puzzle. $24.95.

Withluvdesign.com.

Give Grandmommy a precious necklace personalized with her own initial or those of her grandchildren. $125.

Isabellegracejewelry.com

Add a warm touch to the grandparents’ home with an 8x8 distressed wood sign with free personalization and a rope loop for hanging. $24.99. Grandparentgiftcompany.com.

Send a monthly “box of happiness” containing items like family photos, hobby items, snacks and personal care products, complete with a personal note from the gifter! $19/month. Tandemlane.com.

Grandparents Day is Sunday, September 7!

Honor Nana and Grandad with a unique gift they will treasure for years to come!

Hold eyeglasses on this hand-carved statuette made by underprivileged artisans in India. $18.

Uncommongoods.com.

Have the grandkids’ names and birthdates stamped on this beautiful antique brass key chain. $24. Raisemyglass.etsy.com.

Celebrate your “Family Tree” with this 11x14 frame, personalized with your family’s information. $40. Facebook.com/ chicuniquedesigns.

The Fits for the Occasion Cookie Jar has a socket to add interchangeable, magnetic motif designs and an erasable area to add easy customization! $56.95. Placetile.com.

gigglemag.com | August/september 2014

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m e i t for s ' t i

Back to

School 2014!

It's time for new backpacks, new schedules and new friends! It's time for fun science projects, creative class performances and exciting field trips! It's time to get back in the groove and go back to school! Are you ready?

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PHOTO BY TERRI SMITH PHOTO

gigglemag.com | August/september 2014

gigglemag.com | August/september 2014

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DIY Homework Station Whether you have one child at grade school level or four, staying organized for homework time is a must. Here, we show you our simple and functional way of keeping your child’s homework and school materials in one place!

TIPS!

1. Make sure little ones can easily reach all their supplies.

2. Keep an updated calendar

present so they can check their own schedule daily.

3. Use colorful elements to make it look fun and appealing!

4. Keep it stocked, so come project time, you won’t be out of glue sticks.

5. Put digital and tech elements

6. Display a clock with hands and

numbers to teach time keeping.

7. Only put out kid-safe materials.

Metal Initial Letter, Old Time Pottery, $12.99.

Rachael Wall Basket (Small), World Market, $7.99.

Post-it® Notes Weekly Planner, Office Max, $15.29.

Dekad Alarm Clock, Ikea, $5.99.

Small Red Easel Chalkboard, World Market, $6.99.

Easy access to construction paper!

Photos & styling by Giggle Magazine.

away during the week. If needed for school, use on an “as needed” basis.

Teachers Sound Off!

Back-to-School Tips for Kids and Parents by kelly goede

Once August rolls around, we shake the sand from our feet, the pool water from our ears and start gearing our minds for the start of school.

Here teachers and school staff offer their tips and suggestions for helping your child (and you) have the smoothest back-to-school transition possible.

In the weeks before school starts, have your child practice writing in a writing journal. Also, have him read books and write about them in his journal. Visit the library and consult their lists on what your child should be reading at his age.

Melanie Boutin, 2nd Grade Teacher

Enroll your children ASAP if they will be attending a new school (only those who've moved, not simply transitioning from elementary to middle or middle to high). To prepare for returning to school: check high school websites or call the school to inquire about summer reading lists; practice math skills and use websites like freerice.com or collegeboard.com to build vocabulary; return to a schedule/routine before school starts. Rising seniors – register for the September ACT/SAT. Carmen Butfiloski, Guidance Counselor

Set up a regular bedtime and wakeup routine a couple weeks before school starts. Help with anxiousness by keeping a positive attitude. Share with your child the many opportunities they will have to learn new things.

Enthusiastically support school activities and communicate with your child’s teacher on a regular basis.

And read, read, read!

Tana Wenzell, Kindergarten Teacher

Have a dedicated space or clear the same area for doing homework each day.

Choose a particular spot where kids can place their backpacks and lunches. Freeze some dinners to consume during the first week of school until everyone gets adjusted. Prepare lunch boxes and clothing the night before. Send a brief note to the teacher describing the level and method of communication you prefer. Volunteer if possible.

Natalie Wong, 5th Grade Teacher

Buy an extra round of school supplies for each child and put it in their stockings at Christmas so they can start out in January with fresh pencils, crayons, markers, etc. With my own children, we have started the tradition of waking up early on the first day of school and having breakfast at Cracker Barrel to start off our year.

Amanda Clanton, EDEP Coordinator

Come to school with an open mind.

With schools growing there are bound to be class changes after the school year starts. If parents tackle the changes in a positive manner, the kids will do the same.

Also, check the homework folder each night. Those first two weeks have a lot of papers that need to be seen by parents and some need to be returned.

Kelly Anne Foster, 2nd Grade Teacher

Start your morning wake-up routine a few days at the end of the week before school starts so you can all get used to the alarm again and tweak what needs to be tweaked. After your “dress rehearsal,” go do something fun together to celebrate the end of summer and the beginning of the school year.

MacKensie Soto, Preschool Teacher

1. Stick to the basics.

Students will certainly need pencils, paper and a few folders to start the first week. Hold off on the rest of your school supply shopping until you have a list from your teachers, not just the generic list.

Teachers usually give you at least a week to get what they are asking for, and it will save you the hassle of returns/overpurchasing.

2. Get your lock.

Teachers will begin to assign lockers within the first day or two, usually first-come-first-served.

If your child specifically wants a top/bottom/ end locker, make sure he has a lock and has practiced opening it several times. It's always helpful to write down the combination or make an extra copy of the key for your child's homeroom teacher.

3. Attend "Meet the Teacher.” Due to lastminute enrollees, your child most likely will not get his schedule, but just taking a walk through the hallways of his new school will ease a lot of the first-day jitters and start familiarizing him with the general layout of the campus. It’s also easier for students to ask for help/directions from teachers when they've already been introduced.

Adam Fournier, 6th/7th Grade Science and Math Teacher

gigglemag.com | August/september 2014

19

Your Child's Education:

Staying connected by selena garrison

Research has shown that students benefit from having their parents involved in their education. In addition to the academic benefits of better grades, better attendance and higher graduation rates, students whose parents are actively involved tend to have better self-esteem, less drug and alcohol use, and less violent behavior.

Jump in and get involved when your child is young!

This kicks off a great parent-child-school connection that can continue as your child grows.

“The transition from informal to formal education, or prekindergarten and kindergarten to first and second grades, is an important time to be involved in your child’s schooling. Moreover, the positive effects of parents’ involvement in their children’s early elementary school years (first through third grade) are likely to persist into their later grades of middle and high school,” said Kate Fogarty, associate professor of youth development in University of Florida’s Department of Family, Youth and Community Sciences.

Preschool

In the early years, involvement may be as simple as helping in your child’s classroom, attending open houses, participating in class parties and checking in with the teacher periodically to see how your child is adjusting. You can schedule playdates outside of As your child school to increase the time you have with your matures, continue to child’s friends and to get to know the friends’ openly discuss what parents. At this point, you want to foster a love for kind of involvement he learning, so reinforce your child’s education by is comfortable with you making learning a fun part of everyday life. having in his school and

ggle Tip! i G

extracurricular activities.

He may even give you some new ideas!

gigglemag.com | August/september 2014

There are many ways to get involved during your child’s elementary school years. Most elementary teachers welcome volunteers. Let the teacher know you are willing to help and how. You can also consider being a room mom or dad. This may require planning class activities and parties, communicating with other parents and organizing carpools.

Getting involved in the PTA is another option that will allow you to network with other parents and teachers, raise funds for school projects and even lobby the school district for changes. This connection you form with your child’s school and other parents will help you stay knowledgeable about what is going on in your young one’s world.

Middle School

In middle school, kids are really looking for independence, but that doesn’t mean you should back off on your involvement! At this time, it is really important to know the people your kiddo is hanging out with, so offer plenty of opportunities for him to have friends over to your home. You can also stay involved by volunteering at the school, whether in the classroom, office, media center or other places you’re needed. Teachers still appreciate outside help in middle school, so let them know you are available for field trips, classroom assistance and at-home paperwork. You can continue to work with the school’s PTA and other parent involvement projects as well.

Offering to coach, lead or assist with any sports or activities your child may be doing outside of school will keep you connected and in handson mode.

High School

Your high school student may feel selfsufficient and not want Mom or Dad around all the time, but stay involved! Be the team mom or dad, providing snacks, drinks and schedule updates for your child’s sports team. Go to his activities, events, awards ceremonies, etc., and let him know that you care about what he has going on in and out of school. Continue to allow him time to have friends over to your house and know those friends’ families. Be familiar with your child’s teachers and guidance counselors and be proactive if you sense any issues starting to arise. Help your child as he considers his future past high school by taking him on college tours with other students, talking about his likes and dislikes, and focusing on his strengths, both academically and personally. ✽

© 2014 iStockphoto LP. All rights reserved

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Elementary School

school accessories

for every grade !

Personalized Lunch Boxes, Starting at $20, That's Mine Monogramming and Gifts. Chevron Monogrammed Notebook, $12, Sweetgrassprints.etsy.com. iWerkz Universal Portable Bluetooth Keyboard, $39.96, QVC.com. Dabba Walla – Game On! Soccer Lunch Bag, $30, Dabbawallabags.com. Animal House Gator Stapler, $14.99, Boston Warehouse; Bwtc.com. SOL REPUBLIC Tracks Collegiate Headphones, $129.99, Solrepublic.com. Converse School Dayz Pack, $35, c21.com. gigglemag.com | August/september 2014

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Animal House Hedgehog Pencil Holder, $9.99, Boston Warehouse; Bwtc.com. Paddlepak Water-Resistant Backpack-Pinch the Lobster, $25 ($30 for larger Whale and Shark version), Trunki.com and Nordstrom. BIC Kids Mechanical Pencils, $3.49, Office supply stores. Personalized Lunch Boxes, Starting at $20, That's Mine Monogramming and Gifts. Limited Edition Adelaide NYC Backpack, Large - $120; Small - $108, Adelaidenyc.com. Beatrix NY – Dieter the Monkey in Space Lunch Box, $34, Beatrixny.com.

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gigglemag.com | August/september 2014

Continued on page 25

Common Core: Understanding the New Standards

BY LISA KATZ

You have probably been hearing a lot about the new Common Core State Standards, but might not know exactly what they entail. What are they and why were they created?

T

he Common Core State Standards began in 2010 and have been adopted in 43 states, including Florida. The CCSS are a collection of standards that kindergarteners through 12th graders need to master by the end of each grade. These standards are in English language arts/literacy as well as in mathematics. By the end of each school year, the students will need to demonstrate a variety of problem solving, analytical and critical-thinking skills.

The idea behind forming the CCSS was to keep our students in the United States competitive with other countries. The ultimate goal is to prepare them for either college or a career in the workforce. This resonates with educators at every level, in many different types of schools, and even though private schools are not required to use the CCSS, many are choosing to use them as a guide or springboard to develop their grade level criteria.

The new standards are meant to give teachers a way to measure how well their students are doing. Many teachers and researchers do believe the CCSS is a step in the right direction for our children’s education.

“Common Core State Standards are not a magic bullet and certainly no substitute for effective teaching, but they are a powerful, indispensable weapon to reverse the decline in our national competitiveness,” said Jerry Haar, a professor of business at Florida International University, a senior research fellow at Georgetown University McDonough School of Business and a writer for the Miami Herald.

Although there is some skepticism with the new standards, the state of Florida is confident about helping their teachers implement these standards and any of the changes made to them. In the end, the goal is the same - to ensure that students will be academically successful and globally competitive. ✽

Since the Florida Board of Education began making changes to these standards, they have started to be called the Florida Standards. There have been 98 items added to the CCSS. The biggest changes surround the addition of cursive writing as well as calculus.

© 2014 iStockphoto LP. All rights reserved

“In 2010, the State Board of Education adopted the English language arts and math standards that some refer to as CCSS. Florida took a look at those this past year and strengthened them [in response to] a large amount of public interest,” stated Jennifer Hartshorne, the deputy communications director for the Florida Department of Education.

Teachers currently working in public elementary through high schools have had staff training in order to implement the standards for this coming school year. After learning the criteria of the new standards, some educators have mixed feelings about the level of difficulty of some required skills.

Students all learn differently and often at different paces.

For this reason, some feel it may be difficult to maintain the same expectations for each student.

The idea behind forming the CCSS was to keep our students in the United States competitive with other countries.

Visit Corestandards.org for detailed information and frequently asked questions regarding the Common Core State Standards. gigglemag.com | August/september 2014

23

homework helpers le Tip! igg

G Download an

r app on you e ic v e d mobile elp h to t le b or ta learn your child family e th even if o. is on-the-g

BY ALEXIS KING

Extra assistance with all school subjects and grade levels is now right at your fingertips. Be ready for this school year and check these apps and websites off your kiddo’s school supply list!

Preschool – ABC Preschool Playground Free by Sound House LLC. Kids can select from “doodle,” “play” or “learn” to enter different sections on this vibrant animated app.

Children can learn their ABC’s, numbers and letter sounds through fun games and lessons.

Elementary School – School A to Z by NSW Department of Education. This colorful interactive app is a back-to-school essential for kids who need a little extra help with spelling and math. School A to Z can work with any academic level as it can distribute problems by degree of difficulty.

Middle and High School – myHomework Student Planner

by INSTIN. This acts as a fully functional planner complete with class schedules, late work indicators and color-coded statuses. Students can better balance their time between studying, assignments and projects when it is all organized and visible wherever they are.

Hidden Costs of the School Year You’ve bought the school supplies, the lunch bag and the uniforms. Your child has all she needs for the new school year! As seasoned parents know, what you purchase in August will definitely kick off the year, but there are many (sometimes forgotten) costs that come up during the course of the year.

We’ve made a list of 25 common costs and the average amount of money you may spend for each one.

Yearbook............................................................. $20-$100 Field trips (possibly 3-4 per year)............ $10 and up Class birthday party supplies........................ $10-$40 Sports physical............................................. $25 Teacher holiday gifts........................................ $15-$50 Class holiday party supplies...................... $10-$25 Costumes for plays........................................... $10-$50 Book fairs...................................................... $10 and up Safety Patrol expenses (belt/DC trip)........ $5-$1000 School fundraisers....................................... $10 and up Afterschool care expenses: daily, weekly, monthly............................................................... $25-$500 School t-shirts.............................................. $5 and up Mid-year school supply replenishment...... $5-$40 PTA dues...................................................... $5 and up School carnivals/car washes......................... $5-$25 Musical instruments rental (recorders/ ukulele)........................................................ $7-$30 School photo packages........................................ $20-$200 Prom/Homecoming attire, dinner, transportation ............................................. $100-$1000

For educational assistance without an app store, try using educational websites.

• • 24

Teacher appreciation/end-of-the-year gifts.. $5-$30 Senior photo packages ................................... $5-$500 Grad Nite at Disney World ........................ $75 per ticket

Younger children may enjoy educational games like those found on Pbskids.org and Abcmouse.com.

Senior class trip ............................................... $500 and up Class rings ................................................... $300-$500

Older students who have heavy homework loads may need more of a study aid such as Sparknotes.com and Wolframalpha.com. gigglemag.com | August/september 2014

SAT exam ........................................................... $52.50

© 2014 iStockphoto LP. All rights reserved

Club participation fees/dues/supplies ...... $5-$75

l size!

actua

Nate Berkus Mega Clips (5 – Count), $2.99, Target. Sydney Paige – Raleigh iPad Sleeve, $15, Sydneypaigeinc.com.

Vera Bradley – Lighten Up Medium Backpack, $78, Verabradley.com. Crab Monogram Mouse Pad, $15, PinkWasabiInk. etsy.com. Beatrix NY – Mochi the Penguin Backpack, $42, Beatrixny.com . Sydney Paige – Valencia Lunch Bag, $17, Sydneypaigeinc.com. So Young – Blue Robot Backpack, $41.99, Soyoung.ca. BIC Kids Stylus, $3.49, Office supply stores.

Continued from page 22

gigglemag.com | August/september 2014

25

forks & spoons

i n the f r idge

Snack Time!

Why Do Kids Need Snacks After School?

by alexis king

Kids are so active during the day, burning more than three times the energy of adults per body weight.

(They are literally growing overnight.) When they come home from school, they have not eaten since about 11 a.m. (Some schools start serving lunch as early as 10:30.) Kids should be eating at least every 3-5 hours to fuel their high metabolism.

It's a good idea to have a snack with some protein, carbohydrates and fat like half of a peanut butter sandwich with a handful of grapes or some hummus with carrots or sweet pepper strips.

By the time children get home from school, they have already experienced hours of activities that can leave them pretty drained. At this point in the day, school-aged children need an afterschool snack to revive them and fuel them until dinner. Without this snack, they may feel lethargic, dizzy or distracted due to low blood sugar or hunger. Adding an afterschool snack or replacing an unhealthy one can lead to better performance and energy for late afternoon activities.

Try these yummy afterschool snack ideas!

Tropical Fusion Smoothies Ingredients 1 cup of frozen mangos 1 cup of chopped pineapples ½ cup of low fat vanilla yogurt ½ cup of cherry or cranberry juice ½ cup of ice

-Amber Wilhoit, RD, LD/N, CDE

14Healthier Snacks for Your Fridge

Procedure Add all ingredients to the blender.

Blend until the mixture reaches a smooth texture. Serve cold.

Grapes

Hummus and Pita Chips or Veggies

100% Fruit Juice

Sliced Fruit and Yogurt-Based Fruit Dips

Raw Veggies and Low Fat Ranch Dip

Cheese Sticks

Fruit and Veggie Smoothies

Applesauce

Bean Bake » Serve with blue corn chips and

Celery and Nut Butter of Choice

Reduced Fat Yogurt

Hard Boiled Eggs

Salsa and Low-Sodium Tortilla Chips

Almond Milk

Fruit Infused Water

salsa for a yummy addition!

Procedure Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Layer beans and shredded cheese over the tortillas, then roll them up.

Brush the tortillas with vegetable or canola oil and bake for 10 minutes.

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gigglemag.com | August/september 2014

EAT

T HIS, NOT T HAT!

INSTEAD OF

TRY

Sodas

100% Fruit Juice

Artificially Flavored Chips

Sweet Potato Chips

Doughnuts/Cookies

Whole Grain Cinnamon Toast

Snack Packs

Mixed Nuts

© 2014 iStockphoto LP. All rights reserved.

Ingredients Whole grain tortillas Reduced fat shredded cheese Organic refried beans Vegetable or canola oil

gigglemag.com | August/september 2014

27

forks & spoons

Bye-Bye Boring Lunches! by nicole germany

l u n ch bo x

sandwich-kabob

turkey quesadilla

You will need: Wooden blunt-end skewers, chopsticks or thin straws

You will need: Sliced turkey breast

Two types of block cheese (so you can cut them into fun shapes)

Fresh spinach

Lunch meat of your choice Various colorful veggies: cherry tomatoes, romaine lettuce and orange peppers Whole wheat bread Cookie cutters Ranch dressing Directions: Cut your cheese and bread into fun shapes using the cookie cutters.

Slice veggies into bite-size pieces.

Arrange the ingredients onto the skewer/stick/straw in a colorful pattern.

Include a small container of ranch dressing for dipping.

It can be a struggle to come up with new lunch ideas for a child who requests a PB&J every day. But with a little bit of creative thinking and some fun cookie cutters, you can say adios to those same old boring sandwiches and hello to a new outlook on everyday sandwiches!

Rockin' Ham & Veggie Spirals

1 cup Black beans Annie's Naturals, Organic Goddess Dressing 2 Tortillas Cookie cutters Directions: Sprinkle white cheddar cheese on one tortilla.

Add black beans and spinach.

Pull lunch meat apart into pieces and add to tortilla; place second tortilla on top.

Cook in a skillet on medium high or until browned.

Cut into fun shapes with cookie cutters.

Pour some of Annie’s Naturals into a small container for dipping. monster-ful sandwich You will need: Sharp yellow cheddar cheese 2 Green pimento olives

You will need: Sliced honey ham

1 Cherry tomato

1 Tomato basil soft tortilla

2 Slices of bread

Boar’s Head Savory Remoulade Cajun Style Mayonnaise

Toothpicks

3 tablespoons Cream cheese

Lunch meat

Circle cookie cutter

gle Tip Gig Don’t forg et your cold pack to keep ite ms cool until lunch time!

2 cups Chopped veggies (include your child’s favorites)

Directions: Use cookie cutter to slice bread into two circles.

Directions: Spread cream cheese and mayonnaise onto tortilla.

Add lunch meat to bread.

Place lunch meat on top of cream Add chopped veggies to tortilla.

Roll up tortilla and slice into four small spirals.

Cut cheese slices into triangles and place on top of lunch meat, so the cheese “teeth” are hanging over the bottom edge of bread and put second piece of bread on top.

Give the monster eyes by securing olives in place with toothpicks on top of the sandwich.

Put a cherry tomato under eyes for the nose. Roar!

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gigglemag.com | August/september 2014

Photo by Giggle Magazine.

cheese.

!

The key to getting your child to experiment with new foods is to display them in a fun way. Creating something that is visually appealing with various colors and shapes will be sure to intrigue your little ones. So get out those cookie cutters and start thinking outside the ordinary lunch box.

If you don’t want to use a type of skewer for young children, skip the sticks and feast without!

1 ½ cups White cheddar cheese

gigglemag.com | August/september 2014

29

health

get prett y

Back-to-School

Teacher Fashion!

The leader of the class needs a fresh start to the school year too!

Combine style and function with these great fashion looks!

BY DANA KAMP

Photos by Lifeprints Photography

30

gigglemag.com | August/september 2014

Crown and Ivy Capri Pant, $50, Belk. Nine West Vintage America Blouse, $59.50, Belk. Crown and Ivy Cardigan, $58, Belk.

Nine West Loafer, $59.99, Belk. Coach Tote, $248, Belk.

Michael Kors Watch, $225, Michaelkors. com. Ball Earrings, $7.99, Target.

monday

wednesday Free People Sweater, $68, Belk. Matty M. Leggings, $39, Belk.

Coach Crossbody Purse, $138, Belk.

New Direction Ballet Flats, $39.99, Belk.

Calvin Klein Dress, $89.97, Belk. Nine West Heels, $49.99, Belk.

Essie “Ballet Slippers� Nail Polish, $8.49, Target. Tiffany & Co. Bead Earrings, $150, Tiffany.com.

tuesday thursday AGB Maxi Dress, $88, Belk. Jessica Simpson Denim Jacket, $69, Belk.

Madden Girl Heels, $39.99, Belk.

Pandora Stackable Rings, $25 - $55, Pandora.com.

Jessica Simpson Bag, $98, Belk.

friday

Merona Tee, $9, Target. Chip and Pepper Jeans, $68, Belk.

Merona Scarf, $16.99, Target.

Michael Kors Watch, $250, Michaelkors.com. TOMS Shoes, $58, Cole Couture.

Ball Earrings, $7.99, Target.

gigglemag.com | August/september 2014

31

health

get health y

Get the Facts on That Label

BY JEN HILLAN, MSH, RD, LD/N

Buying the most nutritious foods for your family doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Most packaged foods have a Nutrition Facts label and an Ingredients list. Learn how to use these tools to make healthier choices for your family.

Serving Size Be aware of how many servings are in each container. In this example, one serving is one cup and the container has two servings. If your child eats the whole container, he’s actually eating two servings, so you will need to double the calories and other nutrient numbers. Check this information when comparing brands – not all brands of products have the same serving size. amount of calories Use this information to determine how many calories are in one serving and how many of those calories come from fat. In this example, one serving has 250 calories and 110 calories from fat.

That means almost half of the calories in this product are from fat! limit these nutrients Eating too much saturated fat, trans fat, cholesterol and sodium can increase the risk of some diseases. However, fat is an essential nutrient and children need it for growth and development. Fat intake should NOT be restricted in children under the age of 2 (unless directed

by your child’s doctor or registered dietitian). After age 2, offer your child foods that are lower in fat. get enough of these nutrients Getting enough dietary fiber, vitamin A, vitamin C, calcium and iron can improve heath and may reduce the risk of some diseases. Dietary fiber may also help prevent constipation. Higher percentages of these nutrients is a good thing! percent (%) daily value These numbers are based on a 2,000-calorie diet (which may be appropriate for adults and older teens, but NOT younger children). Use the Percent Daily Value numbers to determine if a nutrient is high or low in a serving of food. sugars This number includes both added sugar and sugar that is found naturally in a product. Fruit and milk products have natural sugars. Read the list of ingredients to find out if a food has added sugar.

SAMPLE LABEL FOR MACARONI AND CHEESE

Ingredients List

Ingredients are listed on a package in the order of weight, from the ingredient that makes up most of the weight of a food product to the ingredient that makes up the least.

Avoid or LIMIT these ingredients Trans fats

Added sugars

• malt syrup • maltose • maple syrup • molasses • nectars (such as peach nectar) • pancake syrup • raw sugar • sucrose • sugar • white granulated sugar

Other added sugars may be listed as an ingredient but are not recognized

by FDA as an ingredient name. These include cane juice, evaporated corn sweetener, fruit juice concentrate, crystal dextrose, glucose, liquid fructose, sugar cane juice and fruit nectar.

good stuff! choose more of these ingredients whole grains

• brown rice • buckwheat • bulgur (cracked wheat) • millet • oatmeal • popcorn • quinoa

• rolled oats • whole-grain sorghum • whole-grain triticale • whole-grain barley • whole-grain corn • whole oats/oatmeal • whole rye • whole wheat • wild rice

Aim to make half of your grains “whole.” Whole grains have dietary fiber and other vitamins and minerals important for good health. Many grains are refined, which means the fiber and many other nutrients have been removed during processing.

For more information on healthy nutrition, check out eatright.org, kidseatright.org and nutrition.gov.

 Jen Hillan is a pediatric dietician at UF Health. She also gives in-home cooking demonstrations as a Pampered Chef independent sales director.

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gigglemag.com | August/september 2014

Food label graphic from Fda.gov

• hydrogenated oil • anhydrous dextrose • partially hydrogenated oil • brown sugar • confectioner’s Saturated fats powdered sugar • beef fat (tallow, suet) • corn syrup • butter • corn syrup solids • chicken fat • dextrin • coconut oil • fructose • cream • high-fructose corn • palm oil syrup • pork fat (lard) • honey • shortening • invert sugar • stick margarine • lactose

get more of the

happy home

O UR S P A C E

T his Month: Front Door!

When her black front door needed a facelift, our publisher, Nicole, knew just the right color.

“I wanted something to scream, “Welcome!” and feel urban and fun at the same time.”

Natural Wood Wreath, $29.99, TJMaxx.

Many swatches later, she found the perfect shade of red. After a few coats of paint and some accent pieces like a new doormat, planters and lanterns, it was complete.

One last detail, and one of Nicole’s favorite accessories, a natural wood wreath!

These cute black planters were a great find at Target!

We love these glass lanterns we found at World Market!

Photos by Giggle Magazine.

Key Mat, $12.99, Target.

gigglemag.com | August/september 2014

33

happy home

ORGANIZED CHAOS Afternoons and especially evenings get complicated when you are dealing with more than one child and age group.

'Twas the Night Before...

School

BY helen kornblum

During summer, most families enjoy a holiday from tight scheduling.

Mid-August puts a damper on that luxurious sense of time because family activities must be adjusted to school schedules.

Review the typical afterschool activities that are important to your children. Some of these are mandatory and others are flexible. All of these may be difficult for kids whose time management skills are still works in progress. Decide together what will be in your family’s weekday evening agenda.

By now you have probably dealt with the preliminaries – medical appointments for immunizations or sports physicals, shopping for clothes and school supplies, purchasing agendas for homework assignments and creating a household system for sharing school flyers and permission slips.

• Complete homework.

Serious planning begins with the school’s calendar (online, if you don’t already have it). How will your child fit in time for music lessons, academic tutors, sports and volunteer work?

• Walk the dog.

• Play video games, watch TV, play with friends.

• Socialize on the phone.

• Practice musical instrument.

• Attend scout meetings, sports practice or other organized event.

• Take care of chores.

• Shower, prepare for bed.

• Read/relax before bedtime.

If evenings become an endurance contest and you feel that something’s going wrong, revisit all the calendars. Overfilled schedules need to be tamed. Look for cutbacks to reduce anxiety.

And go to bed early enough so you don’t oversleep!

• Keep your eyes on the calendars, be they consolidated into one document or individually maintained. Ask each person about his plans for the next day. Who needs a ride? Who is staying late for a special activity?

• Anticipate how your day will match their day. What supplies will each person need? (This is best done during a family meeting, perhaps on Sunday night.)

• Have everyone lay out school clothing before bedtime. Does a uniform need to be washed to avoid a 7 a.m. meltdown?

• Once you know the clan’s comings and goings, plan the menu. Shop for or defrost a dish that fits the day.

• Avoid showdowns in the bathroom by creating a schedule for night and morning showers.

• Decide who will take and make lunch and who will buy lunch. Clear the counter space needed for the lunch maker. Keep your lunch supplies well stocked.

• Talk about family preferences for rising and shining. Little ones are often larks, up early and ready to rock ‘n’ roll with sunrise. Many teens are night owls and don’t exactly “shine” early. Give them whatever support they need to rouse themselves from bed.

• Set a bedtime for each child, or at least an “in your room” policy.

Include a winding down time, which means a story for younger kids. Teens might enjoy your undivided attention for a conversation about what’s going on or what they have on their minds. ✽

 Helen Kornblum is a life coach and organizer in Gainesville, FL. She owns Natural Order Organizing. Her specialty is coaching teens and young adults who have ADHD or ADD.

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gigglemag.com | August/september 2014

© 2014 iStockphoto LP. All rights reserved.

i

You will bring calm to the castle if you consistently model the behaviors that fit your household.

happy home

M A K E I T. F I X I T. C L E A N I T.

What's Up With

Upcycling?

BY ALLEN HAYNES

There's a new trend sweeping across the South called upcycling. And you’ve already been doing it for years. Upcycling is simply converting discarded items into something useful and beautiful. So, if you ever used an old coffee can as a pencil holder, you’ve upcycled.

Unlike recycling – which breaks down items so they can be made into a new product, usually of lesser quality – upcycling doesn’t require material breakdown to create new life. And because items are still made of the same materials as when you started, your upcycled items are typically of equal or better quality than the original product.

Some of the most popular upcycled items in the past few years have been coffee tables, book shelves and wine racks transformed from pallet wood. Teenagers have even joined the upcycling fun of late with their popular inventions being backpacks, wallets and purses created from items like Capri Sun pouches and old jeans.

But not all upcycled projects are complicated. Here are a few you can make from everyday items found in your home:

© 2014 iStockphoto LP. All rights reserved.

MASON JAR SOAP DISPENSER Mason jars can be upcycled into almost anything, but using one as a soap dispenser is possibly the most useful upcycle you can create with one.

What you’ll need: • Mason jar with lid • Paint • Paintbrush • Nail • Hammer • Soap with pump dispenser Remove the circle part from the lid and separate the two pieces. Using your paint and paintbrush, apply at least two coats on each piece. Once it's dry, place your nail on the center of the circular lid. Using

your hammer, gently hit the head of the nail until it punctures the lid. Repeat this process a few times to make the hole large enough for the soap dispenser lid. Pour the soap into the jar and slide the soap dispenser top into the hole you created. Drop the rim of the lid on top of it and secure the lid to the jar. Now you have a Southern chic soap dispenser for your bathroom or kitchen.

the mixture. Continue stirring until it holds together. Finally, pour it onto newspaper to cool, then let your little ones make their own action figures.

Dryer Lint Clay Don't trash it! Instead, make clay from old dryer lint and create fun figurines.

What you’ll need: • Tape measure • Scissors • Old tie • Fabric glue • 2 key rings

What you’ll need: • 1 ½ cups lint from the dryer • 1 cup water • ½ cup flour • 2 drops orange or vanilla extract • Old newspaper Place the lint in a saucepan and cover it with the water. When the lint is saturated, add the flour and stir until it is smooth. Add the drops of orange/vanilla extract, and stir the flour into

CHIC TIE BELT Dad’s got plenty of old ties he doesn’t wear anymore. Instead of throwing them out, turn them into a new belt perfect for fall.

Starting from the narrow end of the tie, measure around your waist and cut the tie about 10 inches longer than the measurement. Seal the cut end with the fabric glue. With the seam side down, slide both rings onto the cut end. Fold the fabric back over itself and glue the rings in place.

Have you tackled some awesome upcycling projects with your kiddos?

We'd love to hear about it! Send a photo and short description of your family project to dana@irvingpublications.com and you might just see your family on our Facebook page! gigglemag.com | August/september 2014

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LEFT-HANDED BEING

IN A RIGHT-HANDED WORLD

BY NICOLE GERMANY

As a left-handed individual there’s nothing worse than getting stuck with the right-handed scissors or smudging your hand with ink as you drag it across a dry erase board. Luckily, August 13 is the official day for left-handers to celebrate their creativity and all that makes them unique.

In 1992, International Left-Handers Day was launched and is now celebrated worldwide. Every year the annual event strives to bring public awareness of the advantages and disadvantages of using the left hand over the right.

Tips For Raising Lefties:

• It’s important to work closely with children who are left-handed to help them master better handwriting techniques. Often teachers fail to teach left-handed students important techniques for writing such as pen grip and posture.

• Let them unleash their artistic side! Since left-handers use the right hemisphere of their brain more, things like emotions, music, art and perception come easier to them.

• Being left-handed may not be “right,” to some, but it’s important to teach your lefties there’s nothing wrong with being a little different. supplies for the classroom and homework.

Left-handed scissors and notebooks can be bought at leftyslefthanded.com.

• Don’t forget sports equipment! Golf clubs and baseball gloves are both available in versions specially made for lefties.

É For more lefty fun, visit lefthandersday.com!

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gigglemag.com | August/september 2014

FUN LEFTY

FACTS!

Left-handed athletes have more of an advantage in sports.

Seeing underwater is easier for left-handed people.

Left-handers are more creative when it comes to areas that are visual.

Five of the last seven presidents were left-handed.

It is believed that only 10 percent of the human population are lefties.

Someone actually created a SmudgeGuard, which helps left-handers everywhere steer clear of those unwanted smudges while writing.

Since Left-Handers Day was created, there have been more than 20 events in the United Kingdom to celebrate the day. Such events included lefthanded tea parties, left vs. right sports matches and left-handed pub games.

© 2014 iStockphoto LP. All rights reserved.

• Make sure lefties have all the appropriate

Did you know that some pretty important people are left-handed?

Albert Einstein, Bill Gates, Oprah Winfrey and even our current president, Barack Obama, have done some pretty big things with their left hands!

learn Fun Science Projects You Can Do At Home

f ami ly l ea r n i n g

by alexis king

Science is one of those subjects that will follow your children throughout school.

Every grade level concentrates on different branches of science. The great thing about this field is that we can use awesome experiments to teach the subject matter and get your kiddos excited about what they are doing (and learning)! Whether your kids are already total science lovers or it’s a subject they loathe, there are simple ways to get the entire family involved and enjoying science!

Family Science Projects Hands-on science experiments are the perfect way to combine family time and education. Pick an experiment that appeals to your child’s interests, then show her how science relates to it. Here are some fun and easy experiments you can try at home.

Birdie Bakery

© 2014 iStockphoto LP. All rights reserved.

This project is perfect for kids who have an interest in animals, nature or food.

Procedure Create treats for the birds in your neighborhood by starting a birdie bakery! To begin, tie yarn around pinecones so they can be hung. Thoroughly coat the pinecones with peanut butter. Next, fill a baking tin with birdseed and roll the pinecones in the seeds until the peanut butter is completely covered.

Try putting a different kind of seed on each pinecone to attract a variety of birds to your bakery. Finally hang the treats in an area that will attract birds but that is close enough for your child to check on every few days. When birds appear, you can ask your child thoughtprovoking questions that best fit with his age

Giggle Tip! Set up an area with newspapers or a plastic tablecloth for your experiment.

Your child gets a laboratory and you get an easier cleanup! group. For example, if you have a toddler, ask him what color birds he sees or how many birds are on each pinecone. For an older child, ask him to find out the names of the birds and some fun facts about those particular birds.

SUBJECT Ecology. Your child will learn about animal science, ecosystems, animal feeding habits, colors and descriptive words.

Materials Pinecones, yarn, peanut butter, birdseed and a baking tin.

Self-Inflating Balloon

This is great for kids who have an interest in chemistry or chemical reactions.

Procedure Teach your kids about chemical reactions! Stretch the balloon enough to loosen it, then put it to the side for later. Have someone hold the test tube and fill it half way with vinegar. Then use a funnel to fill the balloon with a teaspoon of baking soda.

Send in pictures of your little scientist performing these experiments for a chance to be featured on our Facebook page! Send photos to dana@irvingpublications.com.

Stretch the opening of the balloon securely over the test tube. Once there is a tight seal, lift the balloon so that the baking soda falls into the test tube. Watch the balloon inflate!

To begin a discussion about the experiment, ask your child what is occurring within the balloon that causes it to inflate.

SUBJECT Chemistry. Your child will learn about chemical reactions, density, acids, bases, gasses and expansion.

Materials Test tube, vinegar, small balloon, funnel and a teaspoon of baking soda.

Free Apps for Kids Try these fun and educational apps next time your little one asks for some tech time.

Toddlers and Kids: Earth & Science Games for Kids Heavy or Light – Kids Science Kids Science Game with Water Tweens and Teens: Science Trivia Game Free 100Q Quiz Basic Science Kids Science Quiz Free Kids Measurement Science Lite

gigglemag.com | August/september 2014

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learn

homeschoo l co r n e r

Homeschooling isn't always at home!

The Happiness Curriculum

BY TARA GRIFFIN

I’m really inspired by the science of happiness. Studying humans at their best and applying that knowledge. These are things we need to know. We teach our kids to read, to have good hygiene, to do math problems. Teaching them how to choose happiness is proving to be just as important to their success.

• Journal

Do you ever wonder why you remember random fun song lyrics and not random facts from a boring history class? Because dopamine (the neurochemical released by your body when you're happy) activates the learning centers of the brain.

(In layman's terms: A happy brain is a giant information sponge!) This year's curriculum will start with happiness and create an environment where learning can bloom.

• Focus on Strengths

Before the kids plow into a math, science, history or writing lesson, our day will begin with the following:

• Be Thankful In your journal, write or draw five things for which you are thankful.

Keeping a gratitude journal for as little as three weeks results in better sleep and more energy, and an increase in happiness by as much as 25 percent. What a nice way to begin the day!

• Simplify Write a daily schedule in your planner.

find out more...

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Happily meditating in the Butterfly Garden.

Do something you are good at first, then something you need to work on.

If you feel good, and confident, you will be more open to learning a new or difficult thing.

My son's guitar teacher suggests it for music.

Play something you like and then play the piece you're working on. It works. Last year we did a variation of this in our school. We called it the "Hard Thing, Fun Thing” schedule. But this year we're going to flip it. We're going to experience the "Fun Thing, Hard Thing” schedule to increase happiness, and therefore, learning.

• Exercise Exercise every day.

We already do this daily because we like it.

Regular exercise is associated with improved mental well-being and a lower incidence of depression. We will go for a walk, ride bikes, play sports, take fitness classes, play at the playground and do yoga together.

• Meditate Take a meditation break every day.

Focusing on positive words and feelings trains the brain to be more positive. Being positive will create happiness and attract happier friends. We will do guided meditations, or just sit quietly, repeating the word happy, peace, joy or love to ourselves for a few minutes. Sometimes a little reset goes a long way.

Read “The Energy Bus For Kids”

by Jon Gordon.

gigglemag.com | August/september 2014

Check out the research of Shawn Achor (Harvard lecturer, author and my favorite TED-talker ever!) at goodthinkinc.com.

A happy kid is a teachable kid.

In our world, most people try to become successful so they can be happy. But research is proving that the opposite is true. When you flip the formula and become happy first, you will use more of your brain, learn more and be more productive and more successful. This is science that I can't wait to pass on to my kids. ✽

Read “Siddhartha”

by Herman Hesse and find guided meditations for kids at buddanet.net.

Watch “Hackschooling Makes Me Happy”

by Logan LaPlante on ted.com.

Find more resources at projecthappiness.org

Photos courtesy of Tara Griffin.

Knowing what you plan to accomplish, and then single-tasking instead of multitasking has been proven to increase happiness. This serves the additional purpose of record keeping, which is required of homeschoolers.

Spend three minutes writing about a positive experience from the past 24 hours.

Re-living a positive experience makes your brain experience it again, increasing dopamine, increasing happiness. Plus, it's good handwriting practice, and provides a fun means for the kids to look back on happy moments in their lives later.

conception2college  expecting Pregnancy Secrets No One Tells You

 infant | 0-1 Fill 'Em Up...Bottle Prep 101

 toddler | 2-3 Breakfast of Champions! Using Cereal to Boost Math Skills

 early years | 4-5 Preparing for a Fantastic First Field Trip

 kids | 6-7 What to Do in Case of an Emergency

 tweens | 8-12 The Talk: How to Lead Your Child Down the Road to Good Health

 teens | 13-18

Photo by Terri Smith Photo

The New SAT Test

gigglemag.com | August/september 2014

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expecting

“I developed a lovely p r eg n a n cy PUPPs-like rash this time around. I say “PUPPs-like” because it doesn’t seem to fit the bill entirely. It comes and goes, but holy cow, the itchiness! I also think the differences between my pregnancies has been pretty unexpected. I thought they'd be similar, but so far they are not. And here's the real TMI part: The difficulty going to the bathroom after my c-section was something no one warned me about, and was way worse than the nurses told me it would be. As by dana kamp far as physical complications of a c-section birth, that was by far the worst. I was surprised by so many things.”

Pregnancy is an experience like no other. And like -Alison Hightower, most amazing experiences, it involves unexpected Mommy of 1 (Baby #2 due October 3) twists and turns throughout the journey. Some of our Giggle readers shared their own pregnancy surprises to shine a little bit of light on what unusual side effects can occur when a little human is growing

inside your tummy.

“I didn't know about having Braxton Hicks contractions and they came on when I was about seven months along.

“The My tummy was so unbelievably tight craziest things that and uncomfortable when they would happened were hair growing happen.” in places it never did before and -Cary Zamora, Mommy of 1 getting skin tags under my arms.

Pregnancy Secrets No One Tells You!

Thank goodness they went away.”

-Wendy Eckhardt, Mommy of 2

“I developed lovely swollen varicose and spider veins up my legs that never went away after my fourth child. But I wouldn't trade them for the world; they were the result of my precious littles. They're my Mommy Badges!”

-Ruth Shapiro Davis, Mommy of 4

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gigglemag.com | August/september 2014

“My hair color changed and (oh my!) the stretch marks. I had them everywhere; it looked like I had been mauled by a bear!”

-Kimberly Schofield, Mommy of 2

“I had unexpected high blood pressure (198/90) starting at 32 weeks, which lead to inducing my labor (thankfully) at 39 weeks. I had no prior hypertension issues, so it was definitely pregnancy-related. I also got acne on my back and shoulders. I didn’t expect either of those things to happen.”

-Barbara Happacher, Mommy of 1

© 2014 iStockphoto LP. All rights reserved.

“I never knew that I could get pregnancy-induced carpel tunnel syndrome. My hands and arms would completely fall asleep every night when I went to bed and sometimes during the day. I slept with braces on both arms to alleviate the pain. They never worked. It went away (literally) immediately after delivery, which I was told might not happen.

Thank goodness it did!”

-Jodi Bennett Hunt, Mommy of 1

“No one ever told me that I could literally feel sick for nine straight months.”

-Cyndi Johnson, Mommy of 2

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infant

ages 0 - 1

Fill 'Em Up...Bottle Prep 101 by alexis king

Preparing bottles can seem like the never-ending story of parenthood.

While mundane, it is important to follow proper guidelines because issues with sanitation, storage and preparation could contaminate the milk.

Incorrect measuring of powder formula can lead to health issues.

Adding too much water to powder formula can cause malnourishment issues such as water intoxication. The additional water dilutes the sodium in the baby’s blood, flushing it out of the body. On the other hand, using an excessive amount of powder formula in the bottle can cause constipation.

As these examples prove, practicing the proper way to prepare bottles can directly impact your baby’s health.

PREPARATION Powder Formula Bottle:

• Begin by sterilizing any new bottles and accessories. This step goes a long way in preventing bacterial contaminations.

• Fill the bottle with the specified

amount of clean, cool water. The measurements are listed on the label of the formula container. *If using liquid formula, this is ready to consume as is, so no water should be added.

© 2014 iStockphoto LP. All rights reserved.

• Measure out the powder formula

the hand expression method, you will massage your breast to produce milk. Manual pumps are handheld, portable devices you can use to help release milk. Automatic pumps run on electricity to express milk. All freshly expressed breastmilk can be given to the baby right away, remain at room temperature for up to six hours or placed in the refrigerator or freezer for later use.

STORAGE

There’s an app for that!

Storing Powder Formula Safely:

• Unopened formula containers should be

stored in a cool, dry place. Once opened, covered containers can be stored for up to one month. Powder formula does not need to be refrigerated.

• Unused prepared bottles should be labeled

by the date of preparation and refrigerated for up to 48 hours. Do not freeze prepared infant formula as this causes the fat to separate from the rest of the mixture and can negatively affect the quality of the formula.

• For short-term storage, use breastmilk

storage bags. For long-term storage, breastmilk can be saved in a capped glass or plastic container. No matter which form you choose, always label and date the container of milk.

• Store milk in the back of the refrigerator or freezer where temperatures are the coldest.

• To thaw frozen breastmilk, let it soften in

Breastmilk can be expressed into a bottle through hand expression, manual pumps and automatic pumps. To use

Giggle Tip: When traveling with breastmilk, keep it in small, clean bottles/bags stored in an insulated cooler with frozen ice packs.

For powder formula, bring clean or bottled water in a cooler to use for mixing with the formula.

for up to five days or in the freezer for foursix months.

then shake until the powder and water are evenly blended.

Breastmilk Bottle:

For an all-encompassing app: Try Feed Baby-Tracker & Monitor by Penguin Apps. It can also be used after the bottle stage to record your little one’s growth, development and more.

• Breastmilk can be stored in the refrigerator

Freezing and Thawing Stored Breastmilk:

Remember: If baby does not finish the prepared bottle within one hour, throw the contents out!

If you are breastfeeding: Try Baby Time

by Gedeon Lab to easily chart every necessary detail of the feeding, down to which breast you used and whether you nursed the baby or pumped and stored the milk.

Storing Breastmilk Safely:

using ONLY the scoop provided in the container and pour it in the bottle of water.

• Securely attach the cap and nipple,

Can’t remember baby’s feeding times?

• Breastmilk expands once frozen, so be sure to leave enough room in the container.

the refrigerator for approximately 12 hours.

Then place the container of milk into a bowl of warm water. If needed, run warm water over the container until the milk is completely thawed.

WARNING – Do not use the microwave to thaw or reheat milk. This can cause uneven heating of the bottle.

Baby Brezza® Formula Pro® Hassle-free formula preparation with the push of a button! $149.99 Target

gigglemag.com | August/september 2014

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toddler Breakfast of Champions!

ages 2 - 3

we mad e it!

Using Cereal to Boost Math Skills by tania cowling

One of the reasons Americans have taken to breakfast cereals is that they are quick and easy. Besides, cereals have been specifically designed so kids will like them: creative shapes, fun colors, sweet flavors and the box is entertaining while they eat.

Cereal is a great tool for mathematical learning, but think of the creative process this manipulative material offers to develop the senses and ingenious art activities as well. Try a few projects below and don’t forget to provide a clean bowl of cereal for munching!

■ Tactile Cards

Draw a number on several pieces of cardboard. Have the children glue O-shaped cereal inside the written number, matching the amount of cereal with the number value. After it’s dry, they can run their fingers along the shape of this number and begin counting skills, along with your help. Start with numbers one to five and increase numerals according to age and skill level.

Giggle Tip! Another way to teach number recognition is to look for number symbols every time you sit together to read a book or look at magazines.

Point to numerals and say the number name out loud. and sort by color or by the number of O’s between each marshmallow. Encourage the children to copy your model, and then make up patterns of their own. NOTE: Adult supervision is advised when using pointed sticks with young children. A variation to this activity is to glue cereal pieces on paper, creating specific patterns.

■ Geometric Cereal Shapes

■ Place Value Introduction

Insert three pipe cleaners into a piece of Styrofoam and glue place value labels on the foam base (Ones, Tens and Hundreds).

Take turns placing O-shaped cereal onto each pipe cleaner “pole” and having the opposite player guess the whole number.

A great way to teach place value and how to read larger numbers!

Children learn by doing, so as they play, mathematical skills can be mastered.

Think creatively by using cereal and foods to make their learning experience fun! ✽

É Tania Cowling is a former teacher, author of teacher resource books and freelance writer. View her books and work on taniacowling.com.

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gigglemag.com | August/september 2014

Photo by Giggle Magazine.

Cut out paper squares, triangles, circles and rectangles. You can show younger children how to correctly hold the scissors and help them cut out the shapes as well. Little ones ■ Egg Carton Math can glue pieces of cereal to fill each shape and Write the numerals 1-12 with a black marker inside the sections of an egg carton. when dry, can practice identifying each shape as you call out the name.

Give each child a cup of cereal and have him place pieces of cereal to correspond ■ Abacus with the number in each section. Count Unwind a metal coat hanger and string the pieces together in each egg cup. As O-shaped cereal onto the wire. Wind the children play this game, they are learning hanger back together. Use heavy tape to to recognize symbols for each number. cover any sharp edges. Kiddos can move the cereal along the wire to count and do simple ■ Making Patterns addition and subtraction problems. Make up Create a pattern model using bamboo word problems for them to do too. Here’s an skewers. Thread on mini-marshmallows example: Susan, Tina and John were walking and O-shaped cereal. Use colorful cereal

to the park (move three pieces of cereal across the wire). How many kids were walking? Susan’s mother called her home (take away one). Now how many kids are still going to the park? Rachael and Tommy joined them (add two pieces).

Now how many kids are there? Continue with the story until the child tires of this game, or start a different story.

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early years

ages 4 - 5

Preparing for a Fantastic First Field Trip by nicole germany

There’s nothing more exciting for a child than getting the opportunity to go on an adventure outside of the classroom.

Fields trips are a big part of the learning process for children, but it’s essential to make sure they understand everything that the trip entails, from the preparation before the trip to the transportation and expectations on the day of the trip.

to prepare for the event ›How

From the moment the permission slip is sent home, the excitement begins to build! It’s important for parents to encourage that excitement but also talk with their child one-onone about the kind of behavior that will be expected of him before and during the field trip.

trip. Many indoor arenas are chilly, so a sweater tied around the waist might come in handy. Outdoor field trips usually have better outcomes when sunscreen and bug repellant are applied before your child leaves home.

it’s less likely a student will misbehave when his parent is a chaperone, and the trip will be more enjoyable and less stressful when there are enough adults to break the children up into smaller groups.

“Discussing everything from how to act on the bus ride to making sure he knows to stay with the chaperone is a great way for parents to help in preparing the student for a field trip,” said Jeanie Sabback, a second grade teacher and mom of two.

Share in your child’s excitement for the trip by asking him to come up with questions about the place he’ll be visiting so he can engage and learn more during the trip.

Chaperones should remember that the children are watching their example and to be good role models by staying focused on their assigned group and keeping an eye on anyone who tends to wander.

Parents can also ask the teacher about the environment the students will be in so they’re knowledgeable of certain clothing requirements or necessary items needed for the

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a problemfree field trip ›Ensuring It’s natural for students to be eager to venture off into a new area, but keeping students together and interested in what is happening in front of them makes for a much better trip!

School staff and chaperones work together to ensure a smooth outing. Sabback encourages parents to try to be available to go on field trips with their child because

gigglemag.com | August/september 2014

No matter where the trip takes them outside the classroom, students need to be reminded that using manners and following the rules are necessary in every environment. Teachers and chaperones should emphasize the roles that safety, organization and positive behavior play in the overall experience of a great field trip. ✽

Manners

Don’t forget the magic words! “Please” and “Thank you” are always appreciated.

Mouths closed, ears open when an adult is speaking.

Inside voices are always best.

Clean up all trash left from your snack or lunch.

Learning outside of the classroom is just as important as learning inside the classroom. Pay attention!

Treat classmates, teachers and guest speakers the way you want to be treated.

Raise your hand before you speak.

Represent your school well and be on your best behavior so you’ll get the opportunity to go again.

© 2014 iStockphoto LP. All rights reserved.

Also, make sure your child understands that going on a field trip is a privilege for those students who listen and demonstrate good behavior in the classroom. Many schools require students with behavior referrals to stay at the school with another teacher during the field trip. Use this as an incentive for your child’s positive behavior in the weeks prior to the trip!

Must-Have

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kids What to Do in Case of an Emergency ages 6 - 7

by lauren zika

As a parent, your child getting injured or becoming sick seems to be a constant worry. What is the best thing for parents to do in any given health situation? When your son breaks his arm, where do you take him? When your daughter has a fever that is not going down, what do you do? In the moment, it may be difficult to calmly think of the best course of action.

“If you ever feel like your child is having a life-threatening event, you should call 911 and have them take your child to the emergency room,” said Dr. Lindsay Acheson Thompson, a pediatrician and UF associate professor.

Less threatening situations may be solved with a phone call to your pediatrician’s office.

The doctor or nurse practitioner can answer your questions and point you in the right direction for treatment, if necessary.

To help inform you of what to do in some questionable situations, we created a list of possible ailments and injuries for young children and, with Dr. Thompson’s help, the proper medical care for each.

»»Broken bones: See a doctor as soon as you can in the emergency department or orthopedic after hours.

»»Burns: Call 911 if severe. Basic first

© 2014 iStockphoto LP. All rights reserved.

aid for minor burns can be done at home. *Remember to apply cool water, not ice, to a burn.

»»Difficulty breathing/ Severe food allergy: Call 911.

»»stitches/sutures: Any cut that does

not stop bleeding on its own should be evaluated for stitches. (“All wounds that need stitches must be closed by about 6 hours, so do not wait,” Dr. Thompson said.)

»»Long-lasting high fever: Only

temperatures over 101.5 degrees should be considered a fever. If the fever lasts more than four or five days, or the child has trouble eating and drinking, call a doctor. *Unless it is an infant under 3 months of age – then any high temperature should be evaluated.

»»unidentifiable rashes: Very

After Hours Care Where do you take your child for medical care at night or on the weekends? Having a thorough conversation with your child’s pediatrician is a great way to prepare for this scenario. A few questions to consider for your discussion: 1. What is your after hours office visit policy?

few rashes are life-threatening. Call your pediatrician and email or text photos for informal advice about the rash.

2. Should I call the regular office line, or is there an after hours hotline I should call to speak to a nurse?

When it comes to childhood injuries and ailments, the list is endless. The ones listed above are just a few of the most common ones. For life-threatening issues, it is best to call 911 immediately.

In less threatening circumstances, there are more options.

4. Are late-night visits covered by insurance? Are they considered regular office visits or as “emergency” or “specialist” visits?

“In almost all other situations, it might help to call your doctor’s office, even in the middle of the night, to see if they think you should go to the emergency room,” Dr. Thompson said. ✽

3. Will my child be seen by a pediatrician, a nurse or a medical student at the after hours visit?

5. What are some examples of situations you’d like to see handled at home? In the office? In the ER? 6. Where would you recommend I take my child for pediatric emergency care? Which local hospital will have the specific equipment and facilities children need?

Medical Disclaimer: Always consult your doctor before administering any medical treatment or procedure. gigglemag.com | August/september 2014

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tweens

ages 8 - 1 2

The Talk: How to Lead Your Child Down the Road to Good Health

BY DANIELLE MICHELS

We’re not talking the birds and the bees talk here, but this talk is one that is equally important. It’s the health talk, the conversation where we define what a healthy lifestyle will mean for our children and how it will impact their future.

Our modern media has done a great job of painting unrealistic pictures of what a healthy body looks like, leaving girls worried about every fluctuation on the scale and boys wanting to build muscle at rates faster than their bodies will allow.

consciously get up and move every day.

Create a family competition to see who can log the most activity in a month and provide a fun incentive for motivation.

So how do we introduce the concepts of a healthy weight and lifestyle to our children at such a sensitive age? Follow some of these guidelines to create a comfortable talking space and lay the foundation for your child’s healthy future.

Look in to kids’ gyms or sports groups in the community to give your child options for how she would like to stay active. The great thing about team sports is exercise doesn’t seem like a chore because it’s a fun and social activity. You can explain the benefits of exercise all you want, but unless you give your child the outlets and accessibility to actually participate, you’ll be all talk and no action.

2

1

Give them the resources

Scout out helpful apps and materials to help start a conversation. The app Charity Miles donates to the charity of your choice with every mile logged on your walk, run or bike ride. Finding things that encourage exercise, but with a twist other than weight loss is the best way to keep the conversation focused on overall health, not fat or weight talk. Also, getting a fitness tracker like a Fitbit for every member of the family is a good way to start a conversation about why it’s important to

Make exercise accessible

3

Lead by example

Tied in with talking and action, you also have to practice what you preach. Set the example for your child

by demonstrating how you value your own health. Make it clear that exercise is a priority in your day and invite your child with you when you go for a jog or take a class at the gym. Don’t forget that your child is watching and listening to you when you may not realize it. If you are constantly worrying about “dieting” and “losing weight” instead of eating for health, your child will follow suit. Also, make meal planning and grocery shopping a family affair. Sit down for 10-15 minutes a week and discuss meals for the week and create a grocery list.

Making the trip to the grocery store together is also vitally important since it will show your child how to compile a cart full of whole foods that can be made into delicious and healthy meals, with no need for the “ready-to-eat” junk. ✽

- Catherine Steiner-Adair, Ed.D., co-author of “Full of Ourselves: A Wellness Program to Advance Girl Power, Health and Leadership.”

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“Encourage your girl to eat in healthy ways, but don’t over-obsess over what she eats.

Listen to her opinions (about food, and other things) and show appreciation for her uniqueness, to help her develop herself into the person she wants to be,”

WHY INVEST

WITH GIGGLE?

1 INCREASE YOUR REVENUE 2 STRENGTHEN BRAND IDENTITY

3 WE ARE TARGETED TOWARD YOUR IDEAL CUSTOMER

After enjoying 5 years of success in our flagship location, Giggle Magazine has come to the Greater Tallahassee area!

With award-winning design and valuable parenting information, we will get your business in front of those who make the purchasing decisions for the family...women.

Upcoming issues October/November...........Reservation Date 8/29 December/January............Reservation Date 10/31

want to learn more about

how to get involved?

“Hi, I’m Jessica! I’m a native Tallahassee resident with a passion for local businesses. Contact me today to learn more about how I can help your business grow!”

Jessica Kerr Account Executive P 888.749.2150 F 877.857.5140 jessica@irvingpublications.com

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c2c

teens The New SAT Test

ages 1 3 - 1 8

The final version of the newly designed SAT is expected to be administered in 2016.

by lisa katz

The SAT test, owned by the College Board, is considered the most important and most influential college admissions test. This exam has also been regarded as one of the most stressful exams for which high school students have to prepare.

There was a recent announcement stating that new changes were going to be made to the SAT. These changes were made “to more closely reflect the skills and knowledge that current research tells us are most critical for college readiness and success,” said David Coleman, president of the College Board.

Here is a breakdown of the changes made by the College Board: Redesigned SAT

Reading and writing sections do not require students to cite evidence.

Evidence-based reading and writing is required.

Source documents do not represent a wide range of academic disciplines.

Source documents originate from a wide range of academic disciplines.

Vocabulary focused on words that are not commonly used in college and career.

Vocabulary focused on words that are widely used in college and career.

Essay measures students’ ability to construct an argument based on their background and experiences.

Essay measures students’ ability to analyze evidence and explain how an author builds an argument to persuade an audience.

Although there are significant changes made to the SAT test, the goal was to make this anxietyprone exam more relevant and straightforward.

Math section samples content from a wide range of high school-level math.

Math section draws from topics that evidence shows most contribute to student readiness for college and career.

Calculator permitted for full math section.

Calculator permitted only on some portions.

“We plan to make an exam that is clearer and more open than any in our history," Coleman said.

"We need to get rid of the sense of mystery and dismantle the advantages that people perceive in using costly test preparation." ✽

Reading and writing does not require data analysis.

Students asked to analyze both text and data in real world contexts, including identifying and correcting inconsistencies between the two.

Source documents drawn from texts that are not widely recognized and publicly available.

Each exam will include a passage drawn from the Founding Documents or the Great Global Conversation.

Scoring deducts points for incorrect answers.

Scoring does not deduct points for incorrect answers.

Essay is required.

Essay is optional.

Score scale of 2400.

Score scale of 1600 with separate score for essay.

SAT available on paper only.

SAT available in paper and digital forms.

“The exam will require students to have a stronger command of fewer topics,” Coleman explained.

Parents and students can visit collegeboard. org for test specifications and sample questions for each section of the test.

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Current SAT

parent app!

eyeGoes

iPhone image courtesy of eyeGoes.

Feeling nervous about your teen having more freedom or going off to college? Wondering how to make her feel safe in a new environment? eyeGoes is an app that uses a one-touch recording button to immediately capture footage during an emergency or potentially dangerous situation.

Marc Dwyer developed the app after his daughter moved into an on-campus dorm. Like many worried parents, Dwyer would stay on the phone with his daughter the entire time as she walked back to her room late at night from the library, to make sure she arrived safely. Now anyone using eyeGoes can feel safe without wasting mobile minutes. The audio and video coverage that is recorded is streamed directly to the smartphone user’s designated emergency contact. The app also uses GPS technology to provide the user's location and all video and audio recordings are preserved, even when the user's smartphone is stolen or destroyed.

happy community August

ca l e n da r o f eve n ts

August 16

September 7

August 1

8 p.m.

Ruby Diamond Concert Hall – FSU

Happy Grandparents Day!

6 – 9 p.m.

Railroad Square Art Park

August 18

September 11 – October 19

First Friday Gallery Hop

August 1

Splash & Jam (Free!)

8 – 11 p.m.

Tallahassee Community Center - Jack McLean August 3

TTDC Back-to-School Giveaway and Health Fair 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Celebrate New Life Tabernacle August 8

Splash & Jam (Free!)

8 – 11 p.m.

Tallahassee Community Center - Walker-Ford August 9

St. George Island Sizzler 5K Registration: 3 p.m./Race: 6 p.m.

St. George Lighthouse Park August 9

Tallahassee Movies in the Park 7 p.m.

Tom Brown Park August 15

Splash & Jam (Free!)

8 – 11 p.m.

Tallahassee Community Center - LawrenceGregory

LOL, An Evening of Comedy

First Day of School – Tallahassee Public Schools August 23

Wilderness50 Film Festival 7 – 9:30 p.m.

Unitarian Universalist Church of Tallahassee August 31

"The Urban Soul Experience" Starring Chrisette Michele and J. Holiday

“The Capital City Quilt Show” Exhibit Museum of Florida History September 12

Smart City Golf Classic 7:30 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Falcon’s Fire Golf Club September 13

Walk Run Roll 7:30 a.m. – Noon Myers Park

5 – 6 p.m.

Cascades Park Amphitheater

September 20

September

September 24

September 1

Happy Labor Day! September 5

Downtown GetDown and Seminole Block Party 6 – 10 p.m.

Kleman Plaza

September 6

FSU Football v. Citadel (Home) 7:30 p.m.

FSU Football v. Clemson (Home) Sesame Street Live

10:30 a.m. and 6:30 p.m.

Tallahassee Leon County Civic Center September 27

Capital City Bikefest

10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Tallahassee General Aviation Terminal September 27

Swing Dancin’ in the Street 6:30 – 9 p.m.

Knott House Museum

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Tax Free a c b k Shopping r tou Weekend o s Aug 1st-3rd y c n h a l P ! ool e schedul

Š 2014 iStockphoto LP. All rights reserved.

happy community

gigglemag.com | August/september 2014

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