Giggle Magazine-Jupiter December/January 2024

J U P I T E R ' S

P R E M I E R

P A R E N T I N G

M A G A Z I N E

DECEMBER/JANUARY 2024 Volume 1 • Issue 3 gigglemagazinejupiter.com

THE

oliday ISSUE

2023

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE MOMS SHARE THEIR TRICKS FOR CAPTURING THAT HOLIDAY SMILE! TAKING A TRIP DOWN

CANDY CANE LANE BURSTING THE BUBBLE

WHY WE WASH OUR HANDS

DECK THE HALLS CARD GAMES FOR THE HOLIDAY SEASON

ARTIFICIAL SWEETENERS ARE THEY SAFE FOR CHILDREN?

WAIT A MINUTE! HOW TO STOP YOUR CHILD FROM INTERRUPTING

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PUBLISHER & EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Nicole Irving ART DIRECTOR Aníbal Rodríguez VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES Shane Irving WEBSITE EDITOR Julia Bauer COPY EDITOR Hannah Shelton CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Julia Bauer, Nicole Irving, Lindsey Johnson, Crystal Ladwig, Katie Osterhout, Cole Purvis, April Tisher, Tracy Wright

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Phone: 352.505.5821

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Giggle Magazine is published by Irving Publications, LLC. © 2024

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.

ADVERTISING For more information on advertising with Giggle Magazine, please visit irvingpublications.com, call 352.505.5821 or email shaneirving@irvingpublications.com.

2021

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2021

GIGGLEMAGAZINEJUPITER.COM | DECEMBER/JANUARY 2024

2021

A GAYLORD HOTELS ORIGINAL EXPERIENCE

GAYLORD PALMS FULL PG

The holidays spring to life in ICE! at Gaylord Palms!

Our signature attraction is a whimsical masterpiece of scenes from “A Charlie Brown Christmas” carved out of 2 million pounds of boldly colored ice.

NOV. 17 - JAN. 3 ChristmasAtGaylordPalms.com © 2023 Peanuts Worldwide LLC

publisher's letter

operation reconnect Put your phone down…put your phone down… PUT. YOUR. PHONE. DOWN! If this phrase rings loudly in your home too, then you know my struggle. And while my teens could sadly say the same phrase to me and their father at times, the absurd amount of time that my kids spend on their devic es over a holiday break is rather sickening. Without practices, homework, studying, games and class time occupying their schedules, their downtime turns into a power marathon of scrolling, texting and gaming. Well, this momma has a plan!

I mentioned it casually the other day to my trio of kids, and I am sure it wasn’t taken too seriously at the time, but, while we are on our holiday vacation this year, my plan is to have them UNPLUG while high up in the mountains. That’s right, once we arrive, the phones will... I mean they MUST … be put away, for at least 90% of the trip (at least that’s the initial thought). I am sure you are thinking yourself, “she has gone mad” and “she is ruining her own vacation time” and I couldn’t agree with you more, as both are true, but I have a plan.

The plan is called “operation reconnect.” I know I am not alone when I say this year just FLEW by and flew fast! With one in college, one applying to colleges and one deep in the high school trenches, this momma is realizing her time with her baby birdies is fleeting and they will all soon be fleeing the nest. I miss them already, and they are still creating dirty laundry on the daily in my home. So, “operation reconnect” is my way to get us all to fully immerse ourselves in family fun and build memories while I still can.

It won’t be easy at first, but my plan is to have phones put away for 90% of the day while we are all together. Meals, car rides and activities must be phone free. And, since I am their “emergency contact”, it should be easy to contact me with an emergency, since I will be standing right there… can’t pull that one kiddos! I also know they don’t take photos… gotcha! So, they won’t need them to capture memories, I got that on lock down. I want them to live life through their own lens, look up and see what is happening around them, and talk to each other and hear their laughter, before they scatter and move onto their next adventure.

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GIGGLEMAGAZINEJUPITER.COM | DECEMBER/JANUARY 2024

Visit us on Pinterest /GiggleMagazine

I can’t wait to share how this goes. I see it happening one of two ways. Either we will all reconnect, and it will go very smoothly, or they will rebel and leave me in the mountains until springtime. Either way, it’s definitely an adventure in parenting I am willing to try for the greater good!

This holiday season, I hope that you are able to slow down, connect and make new memories with your families and friends. Cheers to a beautiful 2024!

Nicole Irving, Publisher nbirving@irvingpublications.com

Follow us on Instagram @gigglejupiter

GIGGLEMAGAZINEJUPITER.COM | DECEMBER/JANUARY 2024

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december ● january 2024

27

features

13

15

27 Taking a Trip Down Candy Cane Lane From tree decor to stocking stuffers, this sugar concoction is here for the long haul as a part of our holiday celebrations and festive traditions.

29 Handmade Hanukkah! Make Your Own Menorah!

Whether you’re looking for a kid-friendly version or something more understated, these menorahs are sure to please this Hanukkah!

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GIGGLEMAGAZINEJUPITER.COM | DECEMBER/JANUARY 2024

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happy family • happy community™

conception 2 college™ 46

EXPECTING

Eating Right After Baby: The Postpartum Diet 47

INFANT

Hic-Cup! Understanding This Common Condition in Our Babies 48

TODDLER

Can Ear Tubes Help My Toddler?

50 EARLY YEARS

Wait a Minute! How To Stop Your Child From Interrupting 51

parents' corner 11

#PARENTHACKS

Moms Share Their Tips for Capturing that Holiday Smile!

forks & spoons

35

12 IN THE KITCHEN Artificial Sweeteners: Are They Safe for Children?

health 13 GET HEALTHY Some Things Last Forever...

But Do We Want it to be Chemicals?

15 GET HEALTHY Bursting the Bubble: Why We Wash Our Hands

39

47

16 GET PRETTY Embrace the Season with These Holiday Trends

25

giggle stamp

17 2023 Holiday Gift Guide

happy home

KIDS

Got Milk? The Growth of Calcium Deficiency in Children 52

TWEENS

Let Them Learn the Hard Way 54 TEENS

The CLT: A New SAT and ACT Alternative

25 CRAFTING WITH KATIE Fishtail Pine Tree

special needs 35 Focus on the Future

learn 36 HOMESCHOOL CORNER Let’s Travel the World!

39 FAMILY LEARNING Deck the Halls: Card Games for the Holiday Season 40 FEATURED TEACHER Ryan Brown

happy community 55 CALENDAR December/January 2024

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on the cover: 2023 HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE PAGE 17 MOMS SHARE THEIR TRICKS FOR CAPTURING THAT HOLIDAY SMILE! PAGE 11 TAKING A TRIP DOWN CANDY CANE LANE PAGE 27 ... AND MORE!

COOL TOYS! For kids of all ages!

LEARNING EXPRESS

LOGGERHEAD MARINELIFE CENTER

HELLO BRANDING AD

352.240.3762 | shophellobranding.com LOGO DESIGN | BRANDING PACKAGES COLLATERAL MATERIALS | PROMOTIONAL PRODUCTS

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# parenthacks

parents' corner | #parenthacks

We all know that the hardest job you can have is being a parent! The days are definitely long and the years are astonishingly short. Some days you might feel like you’re going through the struggles alone. But, we are here to share some tips and tricks from local parents that can make being a mom or dad a little less stressful!

Turn That Frown Upside Down!

Moms Share Tricks for Capturing a Holiday Smile!

Offer Chick-fil-A for a smile!

- KATHY WILLIAMS

“Gotta yell “poop” and I tell the girls to fake laugh or make their dolphin sound. Either way, we get laughs!”

“After waiting in line to see Santa with our super excited oldest daughter, when it was time to sit on Santa's lap she literally screamed and climbed over my husband's shoulder to get away from him. We decided traumatizing our kids for just a picture wasn't worth it. Unpopular opinion, I know, but we never did holiday character photos again.

Her first picture with the Easter bunny was at school in 1st grade, and it happened only because she knew the person who was dressed up.”

- BONNIE RODRIGUEZ

“Fart noises work wonders! Even at 12 and 7, it’s one of the only ways we can get a genuine smile.”

- AMY SCHWARTZ

– CAITY PASALODOS

Bribery! I always have a treat in my pocket for when they are done!

"When my son was 2 (this wasn't for a Santa photo, but a photo we spent a lot of money on), my photographer whipped out a lollipop and that kid couldn't have smiled any bigger the whole time."

- STEVIE-LEA DOYLE

- TRACY WRIGHT

*Santa photo by Michelle Grabow

“When my son was one we sat him in a chair and had Santa sneak up behind him…one of my favorite photos. But honestly, I also love a crying Santa photo...because it’s so real.”

- MICHELLE GRABOW

GIGGLEMAGAZINEJUPITER.COM | DECEMBER/JANUARY 2024

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forks and spoons | in the kitchen

Artificial Sweeteners:

Are They Safe for Children?

BY LINDSEY JOHNSON, MS, MCHES, CF-L1

We often hear how Americans consume too much sugar, contributing to a decline in health, hyperactivity, tooth decay and problems with insulin resistance. Our diet includes more processed foods, which are sweetened to make them more palatable. There are many artificial sweeteners on the market. Are they better? Are they safe for our children?

Types of Artificial Sweeteners

In the United States, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulates sugar substitute products. Other countries, including those in the European Union, have additional options for artificial sweeteners that are not found here.

Artificial sweeteners (also known as “non-nutritive sweeteners”) are mostly created with chemicals in a lab and are 200-700 times sweeter than table sugar, according to Johns Hopkins Medicine.

Despite their strong sweetness, these sweeteners don’t contain calories or sugar.

The artificial sweeteners currently on the market in the United States include: • Acesulfame potassium (Sweet One, Sunett) • Advantame • Aspartame (NutraSweet, Equal) • Neotame (Newtame) • Saccharin (Sweet 'n Low) • Sucralose (Splenda) There are also sugar alcohols allowed in the U.S. market such as xylitol, erythritol, maltitol and sorbitol. These are not labeled as food additives by the FDA. These sugar alcohols are also created synthetically in a lab, but often from sugars themselves.

Sugar alcohols don’t contain the same high levels of sweetness as artificial sweeteners and are used most commonly in gum and hard candies. Sugar alcohols may cause bloating, gas and diarrhea.

The third and newest group of artificial sweeteners are categorized as novel sweeteners or plant-derived noncaloric sweeteners. Some examples include monk fruit, stevia, tagatose and allulose. These sweeteners are not a significant source of calories or sugar and are primarily derived from plants. They are typically less processed than the artificial sweeteners and have a flavor closer to regular sugar.

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GIGGLEMAGAZINEJUPITER.COM | DECEMBER/JANUARY 2024

Why Would Someone Choose Artificial Sweeteners Over Table Sugar?

Because artificial sweeteners are calorie and sugar-free, they are often consumed by those who are trying to lose or maintain weight as well as those who closely monitor their blood sugar.

Artificial sweeteners do not create the spike in blood sugar that table sugar does, making it a popular choice for those with diabetes. The absence of additional calories also helps people enjoy sweetness without adding those empty calories.

How Safe are These Alternatives?

According to the Mayo Clinic, previous research dating back to the 1970’s showed a link between artificial sweeteners and bladder cancer in rats. However, more recent studies have determined that these findings do not apply to humans. Additional research on longterm daily use of artificial sweeteners suggests there may be a link to higher risk of heart disease, stroke, and overall death, but it’s possible these are caused not by the sweeteners but other lifestyle choices.

Additional studies are currently underway studying the communication between the brain and gut with long-term use of sugar substitutes. These studies are seeking to discover if these sweeteners may impact the way the body regulates blood sugar, sugar cravings and the way people experience hunger.

Nemours Kids Health warns that children under 2 years of age should not consume sugar substitutes because these substitutes contain no nutrients. Very young children need plenty of nutrients for proper brain and physical growth. Most children older than 2 years old may safely consume six to eight ounces of a food or drink daily that contains sugar substitutes, provided they are consuming enough nutrients in their daily diet. Children over the age of 2 who have diabetes may have sugar substitutes if approved by their doctor. Anyone with phenylketonuria (PKU, a metabolic disorder) should not consume sugar substitutes because their body cannot properly digest them.

Naturally occurring sugars such as those found in fruit are the best bet as a sweetener. Besides making the food or beverage have a sweeter taste, the addition of fiber and nutrients make these choices the healthiest option for growing children. However, the occasional or minimal use of sugar substitutes does not appear to have a major impact on children's health. If your child is under two years old or has PKU, hold off on the substitutes. For other children, discuss with your doctor what they recommend for your child.

health | get healthy

Some Things Last Forever...

–– But Do We Want it to be Chemicals?

BY LINDSEY JOHNSON, MS, MCHES, CF-L1

Science has developed some ground-breaking products over the years that make life easier for us. However, some of these products hit the market only to find out later that there were long-lasting impacts to both human health and the environment.

In 1946, DuPont released Teflon, a type of nonstick cookware, to the market. This was the initial introduction of fluorinated chemicals called PFAS, an abbreviation for per- and poly-flouroalkyl substances.

While DuPont was the initial company to use PFAS chemicals, 3M became the largest manufacturer with its Scotchgard water repellent product. PFAS chemicals are used in a wide variety of non-stick and water repellent products.

As studies uncovered the potential harm of these chemicals, a class action lawsuit was brought against DuPont for withholding information about knowing potential dangers, water contamination and not notifying employees or environmental officials.

PFOS and PFOA are called “long-chain” chemicals because they contain eight carbon atoms. After the health concerns were identified, there was significant pressure from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to phase out these chemicals. While they are no longer produced in the U.S., they are not banned from imported products.

As a replacement, there are now “shortchain” chemicals that have six carbon atoms. Although the EPA and FDA have allowed these substances to be introduced into the market, there is a growing body of research that shows they also pose significant health hazards, including the possibility of certain cancers.

While the original Teflon was taken off the market, the current non-stick pans contain a similar compound.

What are the harms of these chemicals?

PFOS (an ingredient in Scotchgard) and PFOA (Teflon) have been linked to many health hazards. According to the Environmental Working Group (EWG), health effects include weight gain (in both children and adults), endocrine disruption, multiple cancers (pancreatic, liver, kidney, testicular), reproductive issues, low birthweight, weakened childhood immunity and elevated cholesterol.

How are we exposed?

Today, there are many products on the market that contain some formulation of these chemicals. While the original Teflon was taken off the market, the current nonstick pans contain a similar compound.

Water and stain repellent clothes and furniture are another common

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health | get healthy EWG, more than 200 million Americans may have dangerous levels of PFAS in their drinking water. In other words, these chemicals are everywhere.

Water Resistant Clothing

How can we avoid them?

Paint

Firefighting Foams Personal Care Products

Cosmetics

Photography

Non-Stick Cookware

pfas

Fast Food Packaging

Replace nonstick cookware with stainless steel, glass or cast-iron options.

Pesticides

Stain Resistant Furniture Stain Resistant Product

Microwave Popcorn Bags

The pollution caused by these sources allowed the chemicals to seep into the local water systems. According to the

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Remove food wrappers before heating up food.

Make popcorn in a popcorn maker or stovetop (skip the PFAS bags).

Avoid water or stain repellent clothing, furniture and rugs.

Check your clothing labels for information about PFAS or contact the manufacturer.

culprit. Some cosmetics and personal care products contain PFAS chemicals, meaning people are putting them directly on their skin. These chemicals are commonly found on food wrappers used for bakery goods and fast-food items.

With the presence of these chemicals on our food wrappers, they are soaking into our food, which we are then ingesting.

The EPA released a report in August 2023 that showed that PFAS contamination was discovered at 3,186 sites in 50 states, the District of Columbia and two territories.

There are 475 industrial facilities that might be polluting the air with PFAS chemicals, according to EWG. Military sites are another culprit as they continued using PFAS-containing firefighter foam for decades after knowing the hazards.

Due to the prevalence of these chemicals, it may not (currently) be possible to avoid them altogether. Unfortunately, they don’t break down in the environment so once they are introduced, they are here to stay.

While it might be virtually impossible to eliminate all exposure to PFAS, there are a few things you can do to minimize intentional exposure:

Replace any cosmetics or body care products with those free of PFAS. Consider a water filter. Research options that remove PFAS. Do NOT boil your water to sterilize it. Boiling can actually increase PFAS level.

Request PFAS report from local public water source.

Military sites are another culprit as they continued using PFAScontaining firefighter foam for decades after knowing the hazards.

The pollution caused by these sources allowed the chemicals to seep into the local water system.

GIGGLEMAGAZINEJUPITER.COM | DECEMBER/JANUARY 2024

While it may not be feasible to eliminate all potential exposure to PFAS (due to its overwhelming presence), being aware of the products adding hazards to our health and environment (and reducing or eliminating use of them) can help reduce the risk for yourself and others.

health | get healthy Pets, our warm and fuzzy friends, can also be transmitters of unwanted germs and disease. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), some of the germs and diseases that can be spread from animals to humans include E. coli., Salmonella and unwanted parasites among several others. Always remember to wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling animals or items and surfaces they regularly come into contact with.

Silent Spread: Germs on the Move Beyond the confines of individual spaces, the dangers of neglecting handwashing extend to communal areas and everyday objects. Every doorknob, elevator button or shared device becomes a potential breeding ground for germs. Neglecting hand hygiene in public spaces contributes to the silent spread of infections, creating a chain reaction that can affect not only individuals but entire communities.

Bursting the Bubble: Why We Wash Our Hands

BY COLE PURVIS

In the hustle and bustle of daily life, the importance of proper hand washing often takes a backseat. However, the consequences of this seemingly harmless neglect can be farreaching and, in some cases, dangerous to you and your loved ones. From a trip to the bathroom to meal prep in the kitchen, let's unmask the dangers of forgoing handwashing and explore the best practices for maintaining optimal hand hygiene.

The Bathroom: A Breeding Ground for Bacteria

Kitchen Contamination: A Recipe for Disaster

The bathroom, a sanctuary of personal privacy, can just as easily become a breeding ground for bacteria and viruses.

Neglecting to wash hands after using the bathroom is akin to rolling out the red carpet for these microbial invaders.

Harmful pathogens such as E. coli and norovirus thrive in this warm and humid environment, eagerly awaiting an opportunity to wreak havoc. Fecaloral transmission can always pose a harmful (and gross) health risk, and your unwashed hands can serve as accomplices in the spread of infectious agents.

The kitchen, where culinary magic unfolds, can transform into a danger zone when hands are not properly washed.

Raw meats, notorious carriers of bacteria like Salmonella and Campylobacter, can contaminate utensils, cutting boards, countertops and other things they encounter. Without diligent handwashing, these pathogens can infiltrate your meals, turning your kitchen into a breeding ground for foodborne illnesses. The consequences range from mild stomach discomfort to severe, potentially lifethreatening infections.

The Best Defense: A Thorough Hand-Washing Routine Now that we've peeled back the layers of danger, let's explore the best defense against these unseen threats: a robust hand washing routine. It's not just about a quick rinse under running water; effective handwashing involves a systematic approach to eliminate germs.

The CDC outlines five simple steps to effective handwashing: 1. Wet your hands with clean, running water (warm or cold), turn off the tap, and apply soap.

2. Lather your hands by rubbing them together with the soap. Lather the backs of your hands, between your fingers, and under your nails.

3. Scrub your hands for at least 20 seconds. Need a timer? Hum the “Happy Birthday” song from beginning to end twice.

4. Rinse your hands well under clean, running water.

5. Dry your hands using a clean towel or air dry them.

GIGGLEMAGAZINEJUPITER.COM | DECEMBER/JANUARY 2024

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health | get pretty

EMBRACE THE SEASON WITH THESE

Holiday Trends

BY NICOLE IRVING

Jolly and Bright Dashing Diva GLAZE Semi-Cured Gel Nail Strips $14 | dashingdiva.com

Lanolips Tinted Balm Spice $13.50 | lanolips.com

This season, your beauty regime would not be complete without gorgeous swirls of rich reds, snowy whites and the refreshing scent of peppermint. We picked out our top nine beauty trends of the season just in time for the holidays.

Dr. Bronner’s 4-in-1 Peppermint Organic Sugar Soap $9.89/ 12 oz. | Target

Hempz Candy Cane Lane Herbal Hand Cream $6 | Walgreens

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Native Candy Cane Body Wash $6.97 | Walmart

IT Cosmetics Confidence in a Serum Gloss in Self-Assured $26 | itcosmetics.com

Charlotte Tilbury Magic Water Cream $100 | Sephora

INC.redible Stripe It Lucky Candy Cane-Shaped Bath Bomb $3 | Walmart

GIGGLEMAGAZINEJUPITER.COM | DECEMBER/JANUARY 2024

*Photos provided by manufacturer

Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Flawless Lip Blur in Ruby Blur $35 | charlottetilbury.com

giggle stamp

2023

Holiday

2023 HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

GIFT GUIDE

Are you finding it hard coming up with some last minute gift ideas this holiday season? We got you! We have curated our top picks of items for everyone on your list. From tiny tots to grandma and grandpa, shopping will be a breeze this holiday season!

Mindful Happy Hearts Board Game

$45 | mindfulandcokids.com

Dreamroo Travel Makeup Brush Holder

kids

$9.99 | dreamroo.com

Match & Learn Cookies™ $24.99 | Target

Magic Adventures™ Telescope $99.99 | Target

Build-a-Slice Pizza Cart™ $59.99 | Target

Dreamro Sprinkler Animal Toys $19.99 | dreamroo.com

*Photos provided by manufacturer

DIY Garden Kit for Kids Bright Stripes iHeart Art Paint by Numbers $19.99 | Amazon

Reversible Octopus Plushie

$39.95 | growandmake.com

$15 | Amazon

GIGGLEMAGAZINEJUPITER.COM | DECEMBER/JANUARY 2024

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PERSONALIZE HERE

Bricklettes

Starting at $45 | bricklettes.com

Kids Chopper Mill® Mountain Mittens with Custom Name Patch $59 | choppermill.com

Coalatree Hammock $49.99 | coalatree.com

Pix Brix

$29.98 | Amazon

Make it Real Mini Pottery Studio

kids

$29.99 | makeitrealplay.com

Colette Porcelain Vase

PERFECT FOR TWEENS AND TEENS!

$42 | riflepaperco.com

iWALK Mini Portable Charger for iPhone $25 | Amazon

$29.99 | kidscrafts.org

Alpaca Sleeping Bag / Nap Mat $79.99 | bixbee.com

The Sun and the Planets

by Patricia Geis

$29.99 | bushelandpeckbooks.com

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GIGGLEMAGAZINEJUPITER.COM | DECEMBER/JANUARY 2024

Pacas Men’s Golf Socks From $36 | pacas.com

Carbon Billfold 6

$205 | porsche-design.com

*Photos provided by manufacturer

Pawsome Pet Tags Craft Business

giggle stamp 2023 HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

Italian Olivewood Box CheeseGrater

$44.99 | seasonandstir.com

Just Add Bourbon Gift Box by ekuBOX $98 | ekubox.com

Cocktail Shaker Set by Barillio $52/3-pairs | pacas.com

$89 | Amazon

parents

Pacas Women’s Crew Socks

Leather Cover for Apple AirPods Pro® - Brown $35 | withitgear.com

K’Lani Hair Tie Bracelets $18.99 | Amazon

Hydrangea Ring Dish $18 | riflepaperco.com

American Roadtrip Jigsaw Puzzle $34 | riflepaperco.com

*Photos provided by manufacturer

Pickleball Organizer Bag From $24 | georgieandlou.com

Coastal Grandmother Gift Box by ekuBOX $278 | ekubox.com

14.25'' Nostalgic Ceramic Tree Dip Platter - Green $44.99 | mrchristmas.com

GIGGLEMAGAZINEJUPITER.COM | DECEMBER/JANUARY 2024

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giggle stamp

BUY

LOCAL

2023 HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

The Real Ones 19" Sea Turtle Plush - Rainbow

BUY

LOCAL

$16.99 Loggerhead Marinelife Center/shop-marinelife.org

Sitting Hooded Manatee

BUY

$16.99 | Manatee Lagoon/shopmanateelagoon.com

LOCAL

BUY

LOCAL

BUY

LOCAL

Stomp Rocket® Stomp and Catch™ $34.99 | Learning Express Toys and Gifts

Make it Real Mini Pottery Studio BUY

$39.99 | Learning Express Toys and Gifts

LOCAL

parents

Sony - WH-1000XM5 Wireless NoiseCanceling Over-the-Ear Headphones $399 | Best Buy

West Bend Popcorn Makers From $24.99 | westbend.com

BUY

Turtle Tracks

LOCAL

$12.99 Loggerhead Marinelife Center/shopmarinelife.org

Kobe Manatee Headed Home

Timex Men's Marlin 40mm Watch

18” Ceramic Tree – Pink

Nikon - Z fc 4K Video Mirrorless Camera

$17.99 | Manatee Lagoon/ shopmanateelagoon.com

$165 | Amazon

Babushka Slippers

Acrylic Serving Tray $164 | lynnliana.com

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$139.99 | mrchristmas.com

GIGGLEMAGAZINEJUPITER.COM | DECEMBER/JANUARY 2024

$999 | Best Buy

*Photos provided by manufacturer

$74 | baabushka.com

2024 Education

Guide Your guide to early childhood education, private schools, charter schools, homeschooling and afterschool programs.

GIGGLEMAGAZINEJUPITER.COM | DECEMBER/JANUARY 2024

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Giggle Magazine's

2024 Education Guide Charter Schools Believers Academy Inc. 5840 Corporate Way, #100 West Palm Beach, FL 33407 (561) 340-2507 believersacademyinc.org

2024

Education guide

Gardens School of Technology Arts 9153 Roan Lane Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33403 (561) 290-7661 mysota.net

Forest Trail Academy 2101 Vista Pkwy, Suite 226 West Palm Beach, FL 33411 (561) 537-5501 foresttrailacademy.com

The Learning Academy 18370 Limestone Creek Road Jupiter, FL 33458 (561) 296-1776 tlacad.org

Generations Christian Homeschool 11337 Okeechobee Blvd. # B Royal Palm Beach, FL 33411 (561) 508-3579 generations.school

Montessori

Grace Homeschool Connection 3937 Holly Drive Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33410 (772) 285-4665 gracehomeschoolconnection.org

Florida Futures Academy 1760 Congress Ave. West Palm Beach, FL 33409 (561) 215-0933 flfutures.org

ABC Montessori of Jupiter Farms 17963 103rd Terrace N. Jupiter, FL 33478 (561) 575-9616 abcmontessorijf.com

Palm Beach Preparatory Charter Academy 3525 S Congress Ave. Palm Springs, FL 33461 (561) 623-6935 pbpca.com

Acreage Montessori 5700 140th Ave. N Royal Palm Beach, FL 33411 (561) 784-0078 acreagemontessoriacademy.com

Renaissance Charter School at West Palm Beach 1889 Palm Beach Lakes Blvd.

West Palm Beach, FL 33409 (561) 839-1994 westpalmcharter.org Renaissance Charter School at Summit 2001 Summit Blvd.

West Palm Beach, FL 33406 (561) 228-5240 recssummit.org SLAM! Palm Beach 2845 Summit Blvd.

West Palm Beach, FL 33406 (561) 434-2162 middle.slampalmbeach.com Somerset Academy Lakes 2845 Summit Blvd.

West Palm Beach, FL 33406 (561) 641-4449 somersetacademylakes.com Surfside Academy of Palm Beach Gardens 8788 N Military Trail Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33410 (561) 627-6170 Surfside Academy of West Palm Beach 801 Village Blvd., Ste. 303-304 West Palm Beach, FL 33409 (561) 697-4775

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The Franklin Academy 5651 Hood Road Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33418 (561) 348-2525 pbg.franklin-academy.org

Guidepost Montessori at Riverside 10300 Riverside Drive Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33410 (561) 223-1202 Guidepost Montessori at Palm Beach Gardens 353 Hiatt Drive Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33418 US (561) 835-5381 New Generation Montessori WPB 722 Newark St. West Palm Beach, FL 33401 (561) 408-6002 montessori.page/wpb/ Turtle River Montessori • Elementary - Junior High 926 Maplewood Drive Jupiter, FL 33458 • 18 months - Kindergarten 740 W Indiantown Road Jupiter, FL 33458 turtlerivermontessori.com (561) 745-1995

Homeschool Action Academy Palm Beach 3932 RCA Blvd., Suite 3204 Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33410 (561) 220-0888

GIGGLEMAGAZINEJUPITER.COM | DECEMBER/JANUARY 2024

My Village Learning Center 4484 SW Citrus Blvd.

Palm City, FL 34990 (772) 200-5290 myvillagepsl.com Palm Beach Virtual School 9482 Mac Arthur Blvd.

Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33403 (561) 790-9820 palmbeachschools.org/students_ parents/palm_beach_virtual_school The Andersen Academy 900 E Indiantown Road Jupiter, FL 33477 (561) 831.9800 theandersenacademy.com

Private and College Preparatory Baldwin Prep School 200 Castlewood Drive North Palm Beach, FL 33408 (561) 844-7700 baldwinprepschool.com Fusion Academy 11300 Legacy Ave., Suite 220 Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33410 (561) 766-4096 fusionacademy.com Oakstone Academy Palm Beach 345 S Military Trail West Palm Beach, FL 33415 (561) 585-7800 oakstonepbc.org Oxbridge Academy 3151 N Military Trail West Palm Beach, FL 33409 (561) 972-9600 oapb.org

Palm Beach Day Academy • PreK2 - Grade 3 1901 S Flagler Drive West Palm Beach, FL 33401 (561) 832-8815 • Grades 4-8 241 Seaview Ave. Palm Beach, FL 33480 (561) 655-1188 pbday.org The Batt School 11981 US Highway 1 Juno Beach, FL 33408 (561) 625-BATT (2288) battschools.org The Benjamin School • Main Address & Lower/ Middle School 11000 Ellison Wilson Road North Palm Beach, FL 33408 (561) 626.3747 • Upper School 4875 Grandiflora Road Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33418 (561) 472-5998 thebenjaminschool.org The Greene School 2001 S Dixie Highway West Palm Beach, FL 33401 (561) 293-2888 thegreeneschool.com The Harvey Academy School 1 Main St. Tequesta, FL 33469 (561) 768-9250 theharveyacademy.com The Pine School 12350 SE Federal Highway Hobe Sound, FL 33455 (772) 675-7005 thepineschool.org The Weiss School 4176 Burns Road Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33410 (561) 627-0740 weissschool.org

Private: Religious Affiliation All Saints Catholic School 1759 Indian Creek Parkway Jupiter, FL 33458 (561) 748-8994 allsaintsjupiter.org Arthur I. Meyer Jewish Preparatory School 5225 Hood Road Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33418 (561) 686-6520 meyerprep.org

Berean Christian School 8350 Okeechobee Blvd.

West Palm Beach FL 33411 (561) 798-9300 bereanchristianschool.org

St. Ann Catholic School 324 N Olive Ave. West Palm Beach, FL 33401 (561) 832-3676 stannwpb.org

Children's Enrichment Center 815 E Indiantown Road Jupiter, FL 33477 (561) 746-8646 cecpreschool.org

Cardinal Newman High School 512 Spencer Drive West Palm Beach, FL 33409 (561) 683-6266 cardinalnewman.com

St. Clare Catholic School 821 Prosperity Farms Road North Palm Beach, Florida 33408 (561) 622-7171

Emersion School at Cypress 8151 Okeechobee Blvd.

West Palm Beach, FL 33411 (561) 282-5860 emersionschools.com/emersioncypress

Children's Enrichment Center 815 E Indiantown Road Jupiter, FL 33477 (561) 746-8646 cecpreschool.org

North Campus 430 Center St. Jupiter FL, 33458 (561) 745.3035 ext. 7014 Mandel Jewish Community Center 5221 Hood Road Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33418 pbg.jcconline.com Mary Mother of the Light Academy 46 Willow Road Tequesta, FL 33469 (561) 203-2424 mmolacademy.org Palm Beach Christian Academy - Downtown 1101 S Flagler Drive West Palm Beach, FL 33401 (561) 671-5795 pbchristianacademy.org Palm Beach Christian Academy - Gardens 4891 PGA Blvd.

Palm Beach Gardens, Florida 33418 (561) 671-5795 pbchristianacademy.org Palm Beach Christian Academy - Jupiter Farms 13475 W Indiantown Road Jupiter, FL 33478 (561) 671-5795 pbchristianacademy.org Palm Beach Christian Academy - Lake Park 625 Park Ave. Lake Park, FL 33403 (561) 671-5795 pbchristianacademy.org

Kidz Exploration Center-Early 311 First St. Jupiter, FL 33458 (561) 747-1449 kidzexploration.net

The King’s Academy 8401 Belvedere Road West Palm Beach, FL 33411 (561) 686-4244 Tka.net

Kidz Home Academy 241 Cypress Drive Lake Park, FL 33403 (561) 848-5275

The One School - Jupiter 2250 Central Blvd.

Jupiter, FL 33458 (561) 747-1109 templebetham.com/one-school

Oceanside Academy - A Children of America Preschool 5937 Roebuck Road Jupiter, FL 33458 (561) 746-2889 coaoceansideacademy.com

Trinity Christian School of Palm Beach County 9625 N Military Trail Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33410 (561) 253-3950 tcspbg.org

Peter Pan Preschool 3576 Ruby St. Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33410 (561) 622-3628

Daycare and Pre-School

Prosperity Day School 11080 Prosperity Farms Road Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33410 (561) 694-0079 prosperitydayschool.com

Bluffs School, Inc 1430 Marcinski Road Jupiter, FL 33477 (561) 775-1430 bluffsschool.com

Spanish Academy Little Minds, Big Dreams 860 Jupiter Park Drive, Suite B1 Jupiter, FL 33458 (561) 703-5393 littlemindsbigdreams.com

Bright Horizons at Abacoa 1033 Dakota Drive Jupiter, FL 33458 (561) 365-3198 child-care-preschool.brighthorizons. com/FL/Jupiter/abacoa

Storybrooke Preschool Academy 10106 W Indiantown Road Jupiter, FL 33478 (561) 748-2150 storybrookeacademy.com

Challenge Island (561) 899.6176 challenge-island.com/ palmbeachcounty/ Chesterbrook Academy Preschool 3932 RCA Blvd., Suite 3201 Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33410 (877) 224-2087 chesterbrookacademy.com

Thelma B. Pittman Jupiter Preschool 17593 Cinquez Park Road W Jupiter, FL 33458 (561) 746-7120 tbpittman.org Tiny Turtles Preschool of Jupiter 601 N Hepburn Ave. Jupiter, FL 33458 (561) 747-6916 tinyturtlespreschool.com

Visit our website for a copy of this education guide plus many other guides, coloring sheets & family activities.

Education guide

East Campus 125 South Pennock Lane Jupiter FL, 33458 (561) 972-4521

The Jewish School and Camp of the Arts 844 Prosperity Farms Road North Palm Beach, FL 33408 (561) 624-7004 jewishcampofthearts.org

Growing Minds Prep Academy 920 Townhall Ave. Jupiter, FL 33458 (561) 744-9299 growingmindsprepacademy.com

Looking for free downloads?

2024

Jupiter Christian School West Campus 700 South Delaware Blvd.

Jupiter FL, 33458 (561) 746.7800 jupiterchristian.org

St. Mark’s Episcopal School 3395 Burns Road Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33410 (561) 622-1504 stmarkslionspbg.org

Tree Top Academy 6769 Church St. Jupiter, FL 33458 (561) 747-5111 treetopacademy.com

BACK OOL to SCH ide gu

nts’ The pare to the guide dented unprece year! school 2020

GIG

GLE

’S G

delic d i n n i o us e rs UID

E TO

1

The directory was generated through research of area early childhood education centers, private schools, charter schools and homeschooling.

Inclusion in this directory should not be mistaken as an endorsement by Giggle Magazine or Irving Publications, LLC. Every attempt has been made to be comprehensive and accurate.

School administrators are encouraged to send an email to nbirving@irvingpublications. com with corrections for possible inclusion in future editions of the Giggle Magazine Education Guide.

GIGGLEMAGAZINEJUPITER.COM | DECEMBER/JANUARY 2024

23

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happy home | crafting with katie

CRAFTING

with Katie

Fishtail Pine Tree

BY KATIE OSTERHOUT

Photos courtesy of Katie Osterhout

Winter is full of many wonderful things: cozy sweaters, lighting the fireplace, holiday celebrations, sparkling lights, cuddling with family and of course holiday scents! Our go-to is always pine, and our winter craft focuses on that seasonal smell we love so much. We’ve created these cute fishtail pine trees to decorate the playroom, a perfect touch for the Florida home!

GIGGLEMAGAZINEJUPITER.COM | DECEMBER/JANUARY 2024

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happy home | crafting with katie

Materials For this project you’ll need:

a. Green construction paper b. Rhinestones, sequins, glitter

glue, markers - anything you want to decorate your tree with

1

c. Glue, ruler, pencil, scissors d. Star for the top of the tree (can be a foam sticker, or cut from paper)

3

Instructions 1) First, you’ll need to trim your

paper down to make a square.

Fold the top right corner down to meet the bottom left side and press the crease. Trim bottom section so you have a complete square. Keep the paper square folded in half for the next step.

2) Use a ruler to draw lines (approx.

2

4

5

3/4” wide) from the open side to the crease. Leave about 1/2 space inch from the crease.

3) Cut along these lines until you have a square made of strips.

pointing down, start gluing the tip your strips to the inside row to create the fishtail pattern.

5) Add your decorations and star!

This would be beautifully displayed on a wall or even secured to a present for an extra special presentation. Happy Holiday from our creative household to yours!

26

We’d love to see your book activities! Share with us and tag creative_household or post #creativehouseholdfl to show off your fun!

GIGGLEMAGAZINEJUPITER.COM | DECEMBER/JANUARY 2024

Photos courtesy of Katie Osterhout

4) With the “top” of the tree

TAKING A TRIP DOWN

CANDY CANE LANE

BY NICOLE IRVING

There is no denying that this sweet red and white treat is a staple of the holiday season! And, to make sure there are enough candy canes to go around, the candy industry has got us covered with over 1.76 billion treats being produced each year. From tree decor to stocking stuffers, this sugar concoction is here for the long haul as a part of our holiday celebrations and festive traditions.

WHERE DO CANDY CANES COME FROM?

It isn’t exactly clear when and where the candy cane came to be, but according to the website Always a Treat, the tradition of the candy cane began in 1670 when “the choirmaster at the Cologne Cathedral in Germany gave his young singers sugar sticks to keep them quiet during the long Living Creche ceremony.

In honor of the shepherds featured in the story, he bent the candies into small shepherds’ crooks.”

DID YOU KNOW?

Eating a candy cane is an art and everyone does it differently. According to a survey from Candy and Snack Today, a National Candy Association publication, 58% of U.S. consumers eat the straight end first, with 30% eating the curved side first and 12% breaking it into pieces.

Peppermint is a cross between spearmint and wintermint and is America’s most popular mint flavor, according to the UC Division of Agriculture and Natural Resources.

COLOR PERFECTION!

The candy cane wasn’t always the traditional red and white palette you see today. “For 200 years, the candy cane came only in one color: white. The red stripes we know today did not appear until the turn of the 20th century,” according to the website Always a Treat.

FLAVOR-FULL

HOME IS WHERE THE CANDY IS

There is a Candy Cane Lane in Santa Claus, Indiana!

IT’S IN THE NUMBERS!

Today, one can find candy canes in just about any flavor at specialty stores. Traditionally, candy canes come in a sweet and refreshing peppermint flavor. According to the UC Division of Agriculture and Natural Resources, “candy canes get their distinctive taste from the oil secreted under the leaves of Mentha piperita, the bright green herbaceous perennial herb known as peppermint.”

Candy canes have…

50 calories 0 protein 0 fat 0 Cholesterol 12 grams of carbohydrates *nutritionalvalue.com

FAN FAVORITES!

y sdaandy e u T onal C ay i N at a n e D C

Candy canes are the #1 holiday candy of Louisiana and Oregon according to a candystore.com 2022 survey of over 16,000 people!

Oregon

SPECIAL DAY 28

GIGGLEMAGAZINEJUPITER.COM | DECEMBER/JANUARY 2024

BIGGER THE BETTER!

ITS OWN

National Candy Cane Day is celebrated on December 26 in the United States.

THE

Louisiana

Geneva, Illinois pastry chef Mr. Alain Roby took home his third world record in December 2012 after he created a 51-foot candy cane that was reported to be made of 900 pounds of sugar, which was the new world record for the longest candy cane, according to the World Record Academy.

He also earned world records for tallest cooked sugar building and tallest chocolate sculpture!

HANDMADE

Hanukkah!

M A K E YO U R OW N M E N O R A H !

BY COLLEEN MCTIERNAN | CREATIVE BY ASHLEIGH BRAUN AND DELIA ALBERT

Get crafty this holiday season with DIY menorahs! Whether you’re looking for a kid-friendly version or something more understated, these menorahs are sure to please this Hanukkah!

Wood Block Menorah SUPPLIES • Ten 2-inch wood blocks (found at Hobby Lobby) • Drill • Paint • Paintbrushes • Hot glue gun • Hanukkah candles • Safety goggles INSTRUCTIONS Have a parent drill a hole about a half an inch deep in the center of nine of the blocks; this will be used to hold the candles in place. Be sure to use a drill bit that corresponds to the width of your candles. Remember to wear your safety goggles!

Use the paint to decorate each of the blocks as you like. Keep in mind that the block without a hole will be stacked below another block, so the patterns should match.

Once the paint has dried, use the hot glue gun to glue one of the drilled blocks on top of the block with no hole; this will create your shamash.

Once dry, glue four blocks on one side and four on the other side of the shamash.

Let glue set and then insert candles into the drilled holes.

GIGGLEMAGAZINEJUPITER.COM | DECEMBER/JANUARY 2024

29

The Menorahsaur SUPPLIES • 9 small dinosaur toys • 9 birthday candle holders • One 4-inch by 16-inch routered signboard (Found at Hobby Lobby) • One 2-inch wood block (Found at Hobby Lobby) • Hammer • Nails • Spray paint (We used silver, dark blue, blue and light blue) • Hot glue gun • Hanukkah candles • Safety goggles INSTRUCTIONS Have a parent create a small hole for the candle holders on the top of each dinosaur by puncturing through the plastic using the nail.

Hold the dinosaur steady and tap the nail into the back using the hammer. Remember to wear your safety goggles!

Remove nail so that hole is visible.

Place hot glue on the bottoms of the candle holders and insert into the holes, being sure to hold each candle holder straight until the glue is dried.

Once the glue sets, spray paint the dinosaurs, the wood base and the wood block (be sure to do this step outdoors!). We used silver spray paint for the base and the block and dark blue, blue and light blue for the dinosaurs to create an ombre effect.

Let the spray paint dry and apply a second coat if needed.

Once dry, hot glue the wood block to the middle of the wood base.

Use your hot glue gun to glue eight of the dinosaurs to the wood base (four on each side of the wood block) making sure to maintain even spacing throughout.

Glue the ninth dinosaur on top of the wood block; this one will serve as the shamash.

Place the candles into the candle holders and enjoy!

(For ours, our shamash dinosaur held the candle in his arms.)

Remember to always supervise children while crafting!

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special needs | language matters

Focus on the Future

BY CRYSTAL LADWIG, PH.D.

People have a lot of misconceptions about those who are blind or have low vision. Many are surprised to learn that having a visual impairment doesn’t necessarily mean that someone is completely blind or without sight. Some people who are considered legally blind can still see. However, they may have limited vision at night, low light perception, blurred vision, or reduced visual fields (meaning they can’t see to the sides, top, or bottom like most people typically can).

Independent Living People who have visual impairments can function well independently as they grow up. Some may use assistive aids like a cane, technology tools or service animals.

Depending on the type and severity of vision loss, some people will be able to read print, although the print may need to be enlarged. There are also things that parents can do to help their children learn skills for independence.

Think about what it’s like for your child to navigate around the house. Is there anything in the environment that may pose as a barrier to their independence?

Keep furniture and commonly used items in the same place so your child can maneuver and find things easily. Add tangible cues to items to help your child sort through the space. For example, if you have a gallon of milk and a gallon of tea in the fridge, put a sticker on top of the milk cap and teach your child to feel for it. Then, your child can pick out the drink they want independently.

It’s important for parents to learn about their child’s specific vision loss. How much can they see? What can be done to help children maximize their use of residual vision (the vision they do have)?

As you talk with your child’s doctors, ask about long-term vision. Is your child’s condition likely to worsen or stay the same?

Keep this in mind as you plan for your child’s future independent living needs.

It’s important for parents to advocate for their children who are blind or have low vision. This includes educating your child in much the same way you do other children: read to them, set high expectations, and nurture and support their educational endeavors. Speak up and let educators know what works well for your child, what doesn’t, and what goals you have for your child’s future. When they’re old enough, include your children in those conversations.

Finally, when able, advocate for people with low vision by talking with your children and others about the use of canes, etiquette, and service animals.

For example, someone should never take a person who is blind by the arm.

Instead, the person who is blind will (if needed) can take someone else by the arm to be guided.

When service animals are working, it’s not play time. Help others learn to leave the animal alone.

In school, orientation and mobility specialists can help children learn to navigate their physical world. Other specialists may teach Braille and help general education teachers make accommodations in classes so students with low vision can participate fully.

As you raise your child and work with doctors and therapists, a focus on the future will help your child feel respected.

Over time, teach them to advocate for themselves as they become independent, successful adults.

Education & Advocacy

GIGGLEMAGAZINEJUPITER.COM | DECEMBER/JANUARY 2024

35

learn | homeschool corner

Let’s Travel the World!

BY CRYSTAL LADWIG, PH.D..

One of the best things about homeschooling is our ability to travel. Since we can learn from anywhere, trips to the beach, local springs, the Santa Fe Zoo or trips with our spouses all lend themselves to learning on the go. Yet, for most homeschoolers, some trips are a bit out of reach. Thankfully, virtual field trips help solve that problem.

What is a Virtual Field Trip?

A virtual field trip is more than simply visiting a website or looking at pictures of a destination. It’s meant to be more immersive and experiential. It’s a collection of websites, videos and virtual reality experiences that help our kids dive deeper into a place or activity. That’s especially meaningful to most homeschoolers who enjoy the ability to support their children’s interests in specific topics. You might be surprised at just where you can go!

Bring Science, History and Literature to Life

Some virtual field trips are designed specifically for exploration. For example, the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s “MetKids” website includes an interactive map so kids can walk through the museum and stop to view specific exhibits. Or, perhaps, you’d like to walk through the White House or Smithsonian museums to see priceless artwork as you tour the halls of history. Other sites use YouTube or live webcams to provide ondemand access to places your child may dream of going.

For example, your child may go on a virtual walk through the Grand Canyon or see the sights of Paris.

Virtual field trips are not limited to your computer. Many apps also allow you to explore your world. Stellarium works well on computers and phones to explore the heavens. This program allows you to see the stars in your area, track satellites and zoom in on distant stars. Many others include virtual experiments in science labs.

Planning for the Future

Kids naturally think about their futures. From their earliest years, people ask them what they want to do when they grow up. As they age, the question shifts to thinking about what they want to do after high school. Virtual field trips help kids learn more about the jobs and careers they’re interested in. Amazon offers career tour, farmers demonstrate what life on a farm is really like. See what it’s like to work for an airline. The possibilities are endless!

Incorporating Virtual Field Trips into Your Lessons

Like any field trip, virtual field trips work best when they’re linked to something else your child is studying. These links can occur at the beginning of a new topic of study to set the stage for what’s to come, during a study to gain more depth of knowledge and understanding, or at the end to help bring it all together.

As you select virtual field trips for your children, consider your child’s interests, learning styles and the larger lessons you want to teach. Preview possible virtual field trips with your child in mind.

Can they go on the field trip independently? Will you be there to “guide” them? What do you want them to learn when they’re done? Considering these as you plan will help you incorporate virtual field trips into your lessons in meaningful ways.

36

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learn | family learning

Deck the Halls:

Card Games for the Holiday Season

BY COLE PURVIS

The long-awaited winter break is a time for peace, relaxation and quality time with our family and loved ones. As the holidays quickly approach and temperatures begin to drop, we can expect more time indoors with our friends and family, and an excellent way to make the most out of this precious time is by playing a card game.

UNO

Old Maid

Speed

Spoons

UNO is a classic card game that has been entertaining families for generations. The rules are simple, and players of all ages can enjoy it. The objective is to get rid of all your cards by matching the color or number of the previous card played. Special action cards like “skip,” “reverse” and “draw two” add an element of strategy and excitement to the game. UNO is a great choice for family game night and is available for purchase at a variety of retail stores. For those that do not have access to a deck of UNO cards, try playing Crazy Eights, a similar game played with a standard deck of cards.

Old Maid is a timeless favorite that is perfect for younger kids. The game comes in a variety of unique designs but can always be played with a standard deck of cards, with one card designated as the "Old Maid." Players take turns drawing cards and forming pairs. The goal is to avoid being left with the Old Maid card at the end. It's a fun and lighthearted game that's sure to make everyone laugh.

Speed is a fast-paced and competitive two-person card game that will keep you and a friend on your toes. The objective of the game is to be the first to get rid of all your cards.

Players take turns playing cards in ascending or descending order from a central pile, and you can play multiple cards at once if they follow the sequence. Speed requires quick thinking and nimble fingers, making it an exhilarating game for all ages.

Spoons is a lively and interactive game that tests both focus and reflexes. To play, you'll need a standard deck of cards and a set of spoons (one less than the number of players). The goal is to collect four of a kind, and when a player achieves this, they discreetly grab a spoon from the center of the table.

Once a spoon is taken, the other players must rush to grab one, too. The player left without a spoon loses the round. It's a fun and often chaotic game that will keep your friends and family laughing.

GIGGLEMAGAZINEJUPITER.COM | DECEMBER/JANUARY 2024

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learn | featured teacher

I am a native of Florida and have been a resident of Jupiter since 1982. I am the mom to two teenage boys, Ben (18) currently attending UCF and Troy (17) currently at Jupiter Community High School. Along with the two of them, I have two cats, S'mores & Charlotte, and two dogs, Coco and Sheamus. I have been in early childhood education since 2008 and have been with Tree Top Academy since 2012. I always tell new families to my class that my goal for your child is to make sure that they have a love for learning and school, and that I can't wait to see their growth throughout the year.

Why were you inspired to teach?

WHERE DO YOU TEACH? Tree Top Academy, located in Jupiter, FL WHAT GRADE/AGE DO YOU TEACH? VPK HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN A TEACHER? I am currently in my 15th year.

WHAT SUBJECT DO YOU TEACH? Working at a Reggio Emilia inspired preschool gives me the chance to teach the children based on what they are interested in, while incorporating the VPK standards into our daily routine.

I love to work with children and watch them grow. It truly is rewarding to see a child's face light up when they have their “ah-ha!” moment.

What is your favorite part of the school day?

I would have to say that my favorite part of the day is the moment that I open the class door. The children are so eager to get to class and start the day.

Do you have a favorite assignment/ project that you typically assign your students?

Since I work with 4- and 5-year olds, my favorite projects are the sentimental crafts that go home for holidays such as ornaments at Christmas, magnets at Valentine’s Day and questionnaires for Mother's Day.

How do you wind down from a long day of teaching?

I like to unwind by relaxing with my dogs and watching my favorite shows.

Do you know a teacher who goes above and beyond for his students? An administrator who is truly devoted to making her school a better place? Giggle Magazine wants to know!

Visit gigglemagazine.com to submit your favorite educator for a chance for him or her to be featured in one of our upcoming issues.

What is your favorite children's book?

My favorite children's author is Eric Carle and my favorite book of his is “The Very Hungry Caterpillar.”

What do you look forward to on the first day of school?

On the first day of school, I always love getting to know each of the children more.

Once we have established a routine and seeing how happy they are at the end of their day and telling their parents all about what they did really makes for a great start to the beginning of a school year.

If you could share 3 pieces of advice to parents of preschoolers about how to make school time amazing, what would it be?

The three pieces of advice that I want to give to parents are:

What hobbies do you enjoy?

1. Remember that they are little and there is always a chance for your child to learn through play.

I enjoy quality time with friends and family. I also love to travel and experience new places.

2. Encourage your children to learn and try new things.

Share a funny teaching moment.

3. Instill independence by giving them support and encouragement when they try new things, which will help make them want to try more at school too.

Since I work at a preschool, all the children call me Ms. Lauren, but last school year I had a couple of the children who didn't realize that my name was Ms. Lauren and, to them, I was known as “Ms. Lois” and “Ms. Leary.”

They were too cute when they said it, that I stuck with those names for the rest of the school year.

If you were a superhero, who would you be?

I wouldn't want to be your traditional

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superhero, but more like Mr. Rogers. He made everyone feel loved and he had a calm and nurturing presence to him.

GIGGLEMAGAZINEJUPITER.COM | DECEMBER/JANUARY 2024

What is your favorite thing about the holiday season?

My favorite thing about the holiday season is spending time with family. Being closed for two weeks at Christmas and New Year’s gives me a chance to spend time with my own two boys and family that lives in other states.

Photo by Leah Hartman Photography

Lauren Watrobsky

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conception2college™

EXPECTING Eating Right After Baby: The Postpartum Diet

INFANT | 0-1 Hic-Cup! Understanding This Common Condition in Our Babies

TODDLER | 2-3 Can Ear Tubes Help My Toddler?

EARLY YEARS | 4-5 Wait a Minute! How To Stop Your Child From Interrupting

KIDS | 6-9 Got Milk? The Growth of Calcium Deficiency in Children

TWEENS | 10-13 Let Them Learn the Hard Way

TEENS | 14-18 The CLT: A New SAT and ACT Alternative GIGGLEMAGAZINEJUPITER.COM | DECEMBER/JANUARY 2024

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c2c | expecting

{PREGNANCY}

Eating Right After Baby:

The Postpartum Diet

BY TRACY WRIGHT

You’ve had your baby, and all your focus is on your new bundle of joy. However, you have just gone through a grueling labor and delivery process, and your hormones are likely out of whack. That is why it is so important for new moms to focus on their physical and mental health — and a huge part of that is having the right nutrition. Whether you choose to breastfeed or not, the correct postpartum diet is necessary to help aid in recovery and well-being.

The postpartum period can be miraculous, but it can also feel like survival mode especially when it’s your first baby. According to the Wellnest’s Chelsey Amer, a registered dietician, the condition known as “postpartum depletion impacts most women because the body has devoted so many nutrients to growing the baby.”

This is even harder on moms who are breastfeeding. And let’s face it, sleep deprivation doesn’t help this process.

According to whattoexpect.com, a proper postpartum diet can help your body and mind and help aid in milk production.

The University of Pittsburgh Medical Center advises that breastfeeding moms consume an additional 500 calories per day.

“One way you can help your body is by fueling it properly through nutrition and supplementation. There are several key nutrients to focus on postpartum, especially in the early days,” Amer said.

According to Amer, the five key nutrients that are needed in a postpartum diet include: • IRON: The loss of blood during childbirth means you lose iron so getting it back into your body is essential. You can find iron in foods like lean meats, beans and tofu, Amer said.

• PROTEIN: According to the website ParentHelp123, protein is essential to help your body recover from childbirth. Protein-rich foods include dairy like milk and cheese, lean meats, tofu, nuts and seeds.

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• CHOLINE: This nutrient is especially important for nursing mothers as it plays a role in baby’s brain and nervous system development, said whattoexpect.com. Choline is found in eggs, meat, chicken, fish, dairy, beans, nuts and whole grains.

• VITAMIN D: This vitamin is essential for babies with nursing mothers, but a 2018 National Institutes of Health (NIH) study found that it can also help alleviate the symptoms of postpartum depression.

Sun exposure can provide vitamin D to mom and baby, but it can also be found in foods like eggs, dairy, fortified orange juice and cereal, and salmon.

• CALCIUM: The NIH reports that women loss bone mass while breastfeeding so it’s extremely important to be consuming an adequate amount of calcium per day.

Obviously calcium can be found in dairy products like yogurt and cheese, but you can also get the nutrient from broccoli and kale, says Amer.

In addition to these nutrients, whattoexpect.com recommends including a diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids, essential for boosting brain health in babies, and has also been shown to help reduce depressive symptoms in postpartum women. Opt for fish low in mercury like salmon and trout for themselves and their babies if they are breastfeeding.

It’s also important for new moms to stay well-hydrated. “[Mothers should] stay well-hydrated whether or not you’re breastfeeding. Aim for eight to 10 eight-ounce cups per day, plus water from other sources like fruits and veggies, to keep you from getting dehydrated,” said whattoexpect.com. “Even if your baby has moved on to formula, you still need about eight to 10 glasses of water a day as part of your recovery from childbirth and for overall health.”

Unfortunately, it may be difficult to focus on your own nutrition when your attention is on your newborn, and you may be sleep deprived or suffering from mood disorders. The University of Pittsburgh Medical Center recommends “preparing simple meals at flexible mealtimes.”

Whattoexpect.com also says it may be good for new mothers to continue to take prenatal vitamins even after childbirth to ensure they are receiving the correct mix of vitamins. It’s always vital that new moms discuss nutrition and vitamin options with their OBGYN especially if they have any concerns.

c2c | infant

{ 0 -1 Y E A R S }

Hic-Cup!

Understanding This Common Condition in Our Babies

BY TRACY WRIGHT

Sometimes even when our babies are in the womb, we can feel those adorable little bumps in our belly that are likely our little ones hiccupping! But once those babies come out, newborn and infant hiccups are very common and nothing to worry about, according to most medical experts. Still, they are probably more distressing for parents than babies. For me, I always worried it would prevent my babies from breathing easily or being able to go to sleep.

The Cleveland Clinic says that “hiccups are most likely caused by irritation to the diaphragm, the muscle at the base of the lungs.

Sometimes, that muscle starts to spasm or cramp…or it could be caused by increased gas in the stomach. If babies overfeed or gulp air during eating, that could cause the stomach to expand and rub against the diaphragm, generating those hiccups.”

Fortunately, a 2019 research study in Clinical Neurophysiology found that “typical bouts of hiccups don't cause significant changes in the respiratory rate, heart rate, or oxygen saturation of healthy infants.”

Hiccups are a normal part of infancy, and there are ways to try to deal with the condition. Some recommendations from Baptist Health and Cleveland Clinic include changing feeding positions, burping the baby, giving the baby a pacifier or waiting for the condition to stop on its own. Another common remedy I used for my babies for gas or colic (including hiccupping) is gripe water, which can be found over the counter in most drugstores.

To prevent hiccups, Baptist Health and VeryWell Family recommend: • Feeding smaller amounts more often and not overfeed.

• Try switching your baby’s bottle to make sure it’s a right fit for your baby and traps less air.

• Avoid high-energy play, such as bouncing, immediately after feeding.

• Keep your baby in an upright position for approximately 30 minutes after feeding.

• Ensure that your baby’s mouth is latched over the whole nipple.

There are some instances where excessive hiccupping may need a consult to the pediatrician. This is if the condition is being caused by gastroesophageal reflux (GERD), which causes stomach acid to back up into the baby’s esophagus, according to the Cleveland Clinic.

However, typically hiccups aren’t the only symptom of GERD. The Clinic says they may also be accompanied by “coughing, spitting up, irritability and crying, and arching the back, especially during or after a feeding.” If your infant has any of these symptoms, visit your pediatrician to discuss a more serious condition.

GIGGLEMAGAZINEJUPITER.COM | DECEMBER/JANUARY 2024

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c2c | toddler

{2-3 YEARS}

Can Ear Tubes Help My Toddler?

BY TRACY WRIGHT

We’ve all had kids with ear infections—the pain, high fever and lethargy are awful for toddlers and parents! Unfortunately, some kids are just more prone to getting frequent infections, which can be awfully uncomfortable for toddlers, and even worse, cause hearing or speech issues.

Middle ear infections, or otitis media, can happen when children develop colds or respiratory infections, according to Nemours KidsHealth, which is very common in toddlers. Fluid enters the middle ear which can cause an earache and discomfort. Mayo Clinic says the eustachian, or ear, tubes of young children “are narrower and more level than adults' eustachian tubes are. So, they're harder to drain and more likely to get clogged.”

A common treatment for frequent ear infections are ear tubes.

“Ear tube surgery can drain fluid from the middle ear, prevent future infections and help the child hear properly again,” as noted

by Nemours KidsHealth.

Ear tubes are “tiny, hollow tubes…usually made of plastic or metal…that surgeons place into the eardrums during surgery. An ear tube allows air into the middle ear. Ear tubes keep fluid from building up behind the eardrums,” according to the Mayo Clinic.

Ear tube surgery is done under general anesthesia where your child is carefully monitored by specialists. An ear, nose and throat

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(ENT) surgeon will perform the surgery where they place small holes into each eardrum and remove fluid from the middle ear, relieving pressure and hopefully preventing future infections. Per the Mayo Clinic, “ear tubes likely won't prevent all ear infections, but they can make them milder and happen less often.”

The risks for ear tube surgery are thankfully small, as noted by Nemours, “this is a very common and safe procedure, although there are risks with any surgery, including infection, bleeding and problems with anesthesia.”

Obviously, any kind of general anesthesia surgery on a child will make any parent apprehensive, especially with those as young as a toddler. However, your health care team should be able to prepare you well for the procedure, which typically only lasts about 10-15 minutes. Ask them about fasting, allergies, prepping for surgery and when you and your child should be at the hospital.

Try as best you can to help your child understand what will happen and assure them that they will take a short nap, and Mom or Dad will be there as soon as they wake up. It may be helpful to allow them to pick out a comfort toy for the surgery, and bring a special gift they will receive after the procedure.

After surgery, your child will wake up and likely spend a few hours in recovery and then they can go home, said Nemours KidsHealth. Ask your team about preferred diet and ways to help with any possible pain.

“Children might be sleepy and cranky for the rest of the day.

They also might feel like throwing up. Most often, children can go back to their regular activities within 24 hours of the surgery,” according to the Mayo Clinic.

Surgery to remove ear tubes is usually not necessary as they typically fall out on their own in about six to 18 months, depending on the type of tube used, said Nemours KidsHealth.

Consult your pediatrician if you think ear tubes will help your toddler with their ear infections.

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c2c | early years {4-6 YEARS}

Wait a Minute!

How To Stop Your Child From Interrupting

BY APRIL TISHER

You can just feel her excitement. She simply cannot control herself, and she has to tell you what she is thinking right now!

If you have children, or have ever met one, you know just how impatient they can be sometimes. It can be so hard for them to wait their turn to speak, whether in a classroom, at the dinner table or just in casual conversation. It is not uncommon for my own children to have full blown arguments over whose turn it is to talk to mom! If you often hear the words “I was talking first!” or find yourself in sticky social interactions where your child interrupts you or other adults talking, you may be looking for suggestions on how to squash that behavior.

Amber Tucker, a licensed marriage and family therapist in Gainesville, explained that children who interrupt are typically expressing their need or desire to be heard immediately. She has four steps to diminish the frequency of interrupting.

STEP 1 Have realistic expectations. When children are interrupting, they are typically thinking, "I need your attention now!" Whether they want mom to give them a cookie, or they want dad to watch them do a cool new trick, they believe that their needs are the most important thing in that moment. Your child is most likely not trying to disrespect you, but rather seeking your attention.

STEP 2 Set boundaries. When your child interrupts, tell her that you will give her your undivided attention in a moment. It is important to actually follow through with this; continue your conversation to a stopping point and then return your attention to your child.

Depending on your child's age, she may be able to only handle 30 seconds of waiting. If she is older, she may be able to wait 5 minutes.

STEP 3 Explain. When you return your attention to your child, this is a good time to briefly explain that when people are talking, it is important not to interrupt. Tell your child why it is important for her to respect this boundary. Keep this brief, as she has already been waiting to be heard.

STEP 4 Now you listen. By following through with your earlier promise to give her your attention, you teach her that her needs are important. Try to be fully present for her in those minutes.

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Tucker expressed the importance of being patient, both with ourselves and our children. We know that being interrupted is rude and impolite, but also remember that the need for our children to tell us everything may be short lived. So even if your child cannot wait her turn to blurt out what happened on her favorite TV show now, one day you may feel like you are pulling teeth to get more than a grunt when asking about her day.

The same respect you ask from your child when others are speaking should be shown to her when it is her turn to speak.

Listen to her and acknowledge that you are paying attention. If she feels like she is getting your full attention after waiting her turn to speak, it reinforces the behavior. If she still feels like she has to compete with another person, phone or task, she may not think it was worth the wait.

c2c | kids { 7- 9 Y E A R S }

Got Milk?

The Growth of Calcium Deficiency in Children

BY TRACY WRIGHT

Calcium deficiency is a growing trend worldwide, including in the United States. A study published in the journal Pediatrics showed that most children over 8 years old do not get a sufficient amount of calcium, which could increase their risk of developing osteoporosis at a later age. Osteoporosis affects about 10 million Americans and puts them at risk for breaking bones.

Evidence from a Mayo Clinic study shows that children are breaking their arms at a higher rate than they did a generation ago. The study’s researchers suggested that possible culprits could be less time in the sun, which would cause a vitamin D deficiency, as well as the consumption of less dairy products and more sweets and soft drinks. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) has advised that parents have their children’s bone health and calcium intake assessed by their pediatrician to ensure the prevention of broken or brittle bones.

“Childhood and adolescence are the most important times during a person’s life for building up bone mass. This process peaks especially during adolescence, and bones usually reach their maximum strength density by age of 18 to 20,” said pediatrician Olga Mas. “Eating for healthy bones means getting plenty of calcium and vitamin D-rich foods. Dairy products including whole or low-fat milk, yogurt and cheeses...are by far the best sources of calcium,” she said. “Most people can achieve the recommended dietary intake of calcium by eating three servings of dairy per day for children and four for adolescents.” You can also get your calcium from non-dairy foods such as broccoli, collard greens, almonds, and calcium-fortified orange juice, cereals and tofu.

As children head into adolescence and their teenage years, they may view these types of calcium- and vitamin D-rich foods as fatty and unhealthy, especially teenage girls, said Dr. Mas. It is helpful to remind them that low-fat dairy and skim milks can provide just as much calcium and vitamin D. Increased screen time also means that children are not going outdoors as often to receive vitamin D from the sunlight. A 2017 report from Common Sense Media shows that on average children up to age 8 receive a little more than two hours of screen time per day and 8- to 12- year-olds receive above four and a half hours per day. Less time for physical education in schools as well as concern for safe spaces for adolescents to play may also be impacting the rates of calcium deficiency as well as obesity.

“Getting regular physical activity, especially weight bearing activities, which involves walking, jogging or jumping is an important factor in building strong bones,” said Dr. Mas. Prolonged vitamin D deficiency can also lead to rickets, a condition that is a weakening of bones in the body. Signs of rickets include delayed growth, weakened muscles and bone pain.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that there are five cases of rickets per 1 million children 6 months to 5 years of age. This is surprising as rickets was said to be eradicated in the 1930s.

The AAP recommends that parents talk to their pediatricians at annual checkups to assess the calcium and vitamin intake of their child or teen and visit them immediately if they have concerns about their bone health or their child exhibits signs of a rickets condition.

Daily Recommendations for Children's Calcium Needs per the American Academy of Pediatrics Ages 1 to 3: 700 milligrams Ages 4 to 8: 1,000 milligrams Ages 9 to 18: 1,300 milligrams

Calcium Content of Calcium-Rich Foods per the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health

3 oz. of calcium-set tofu 163 mg

1 cup of oranges 72 mg

8 oz. of plain, low-fat yogurt 415 mg

1 cup of collard greens 357 mg

1 oz. of almonds 70 mg

GIGGLEMAGAZINEJUPITER.COM | DECEMBER/JANUARY 2024

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c2c | tweens Pack their own lunch.

Your responsibility as a parent is to have food available but children this age are able to pack their own lunches. They will have to learn how to pack enough food, how to pack filling and healthy choices and to remember to pack it and take it with them.

Learning opportunity: If your child forgets their lunch, do not bail them out. Let them figure out what to do and take some snacks from friends or be a little hungry. They will not starve by missing one meal and if they face the consequences of being hungry, they will be less likely to forget again.

Complete school assignments.

If your child is doing well in school, now is a good time to take a step back. Let them test out managing their own assignments. This includes when to get them done (right after school, after dinner, before bed) as well as planning ahead for projects, studying for tests, completing daily homework assignments and more. In the background, monitor their grades and make sure they don’t take a nosedive, but don’t bail them out if they forget an assignment.

Let them learn the consequences in a small, controlled way. If your child is currently struggling in school, find a small way to teach them to organize their work and get their daily assignments done on their own (but continue to provide support for tests and projects, as appropriate).

{ 1 0 -1 3 Y E A R S }

Let Them Learn the Hard Way

BY LINDSEY JOHNSON, MS, MCHES, CF-L1

No parent wants to see their child fail. Our protective instincts sometimes urge us to help our children avoid mistakes and bail them out of difficult situations. However, mistakes and failure are part of life — nobody is exempt. Learning how to prevent and recover from mistakes is a much greater lesson than teaching them that a mistake makes them a failure.

At this age, children are gaining independence and learning to do many things on their own. While they are learning, they will inevitably make mistakes, but sometimes this can help them learn how to do it better next time.

What are some “safe” ways to let my child learn?

While we want to give our children the opportunity to fail to teach character, resilience and how to improve skills, we don’t want to put them in physical or emotional danger. We want them to learn how to screw up in a way that will not cause long-lasting or severe harm. So, how can we let our kids experience frustration safely?

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GIGGLEMAGAZINEJUPITER.COM | DECEMBER/JANUARY 2024

Learning opportunity: A few missed assignments or poor tests will help teach them how to better prepare while not greatly impacting their understanding of the material. If there are consequences with grades, this is better to happen before they get to high school, when their grades are sent to colleges.

Let them be in charge of coordinating needs.

Has your child ever told you at 9 p.m. that they needed a snack for a school party tomorrow? Or a poster that they have to make and submit in a matter of hours? We’ve all been there. What is a common default? We run out late at night (frazzled and tired, possibly in our pajamas) to bail them out. How far in advance did they know about this project or party? Parents are busy, too!

Learning opportunity: Teach your kids to alert you as soon as they know of an upcoming need so you can plan accordingly.

If they tell you the night before, they are out of luck. They will have to make do with what is available at home. This will teach them planning skills as well as creativity. After all, we all sometimes must make do with what’s on-hand and this is an important life skill too!

Finding small, safe but significant ways to let your child fail is important to their development. They will learn problem solving skills if they have to improvise. If they are embarrassed or receive bad grades or feedback, they will learn on a small scale that they don’t like that feeling and will work harder next time to do better.

Talking through these experiences with them will show them that you care but they must learn responsibility.

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c2c | teens { 1 4 -1 8 Y E A R S }

The CLT:

A New SAT and ACT Alternative

BY JULIA BAUER

Standardized testing is often an alphabet soup — ELA, FSA, EOC, you name it. But the most infamous standardized tests are the SAT and ACT college entrance exams. However, there is a new test that is establishing itself as a member of the standardized testing alphabet soup: the CLT.

Essentially, it focuses on “testing the basics of a ‘classical education,’ namely logic, reasoning, and reading,” according to PrepScholar.

What Does it Cover?

The CLT is a two-hour test that is broken into three sections: Verbal Reasoning, Grammar/Writing and Qualitative Reasoning, according to the CLT website. Test scores range from 0 to 120, and each section is worth 40 points.

The Verbal Reasoning section is 40 minutes, and tests reading comprehension and analysis. This section uses classical literature passages, according to PrepScholar.

The Grammar/Writing section is 35 minutes. This section tests the skills needed to edit and improve a section of text.

In September, Florida’s state university system officially approved the CLT as an alternative college entrance exam to the SAT and ACT, according to the New York Times.

As noted by PrepScholar, the Qualitative Reasoning section is 45 minutes, and this tests logical and mathematical skills.

This section relies on logical thinking rather than mathematical calculation because this section does not require a calculator.

But what exactly is the CLT, and what does this mean for your child?

Should my Child Take it?

What is the CLT?

CLT stands for Classic Learning Test. According to the CLT website, this exam emphasizes “critical thinking and problemsolving” and provides “a reliable and comprehensive assessment of a student’s aptitude and achievement.”

Whether or not your child should take the CLT ultimately depends on the type of test taker they are. As with the SAT or ACT, some people love it, while other people hate it.

However, looking at how the CLT compares to the other college entrance exams can help you and your child decide if the CLT would suit them.

Unlike the SAT or ACT, the CLT is available to take online with remote proctoring, according to the CLT website. Also, there are CLT-specific academic scholarships associated with “small, private, and liberal arts colleges,” according to PrepScholar.

Another difference is that the CLT is shorter than the SAT and ACT, which are both three hours long, according to PrepScholar.

Additionally, the content on the CLT is different from the other college entrance exams because the reading section uses classical literature, and the math section includes more logic-based questions than the SAT or ACT. However, the College Board reported that “CLT has not published evidence of validity or predictiveness of college performance,” while “the SAT is a proven, valid predictor of college performance, based on years of published and accessible research and data.” It was also reported that “the CLT and SAT do not test math at the same grade level,” and the College Board “found that 25% of questions were below high school grade level.”

It is important to remember that the CLT is still new, and Florida is the first state to approve CLT scores as an alternative to SAT or ACT scores at all public universities. Therefore, where your child wants to go to college is an important factor to consider.

You can learn more about the CLT at cltexam.com.

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GIGGLEMAGAZINEJUPITER.COM | DECEMBER/JANUARY 2024

community | calendar

december/january Recurring Events NOW THROUGH SUNDAY, DECEMBER 10

NOW THROUGH SUNDAY, APRIL 14, 2024

EVERY SUNDAY

A Christmas Carol

TITANIC: The Artifact Exhibition

Maltz Jupiter Theatre jupitertheatre.org

Cox Science Center and Aquarium coxsciencecenter.org

Waterfront Market at Harbourside Place

This reimagined concept of the classic story is highlighted with dazzling special effects, traditional songs, strolling carolers and musicians, and will be sure to usher in holiday memories for years to come.

This event brings authentic artifacts recovered from the wreck site of the famous ship for viewing by the public.

10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Harbourside Place harboursideplace.com Enjoy outdoor dining and walk along the water and shop for handmade goods!

GIGGLEMAGAZINEJUPITER.COM | DECEMBER/JANUARY 2024

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community | calendar

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 1

Light up The Night: Tree Lighting with Santa Alton Town Center Waterfall Plaza by Lynora's 5 - 6 p.m. altontowncenter.com The tree lighting festivities will have holiday carolers, music, face painting and holiday cookies!

Register at: altontowncenter.com.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 1

There's Snow Place Like Jupiter and Tree Lighting Ceremony Abacoa Community Park 5:30 p.m. jupiter.fl.us This event will have 32 tons of real snow, a meet and greet with Santa and Mrs. Claus, bounce houses, food vendors, a live DJ and more!

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 9 AND SATURDAY, DECEMBER 23

Downtown’s Holiday Carolers Downtown Palm Beach Gardens 5 - 8 p.m. downtownpbg.com Get into the holiday spirit with caroling fun at Downtown Palm Beach Gardens. Enjoy a cappella holiday music as festive carolers stroll the property spreading holiday cheer through song.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 10

Holiday Cheers and Beers Brewfest Stormhouse Brewing 12 - 5 p.m. buschwildlife.org Stormhouse Brewing is partnered with Busch Wildlife to host this event where you can sample beers, enjoy live music and more.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 2

29th Annual Palm Beach Holiday Boat Parade

MONDAY, DECEMBER 25 Christmas

Parade begins at 6 p.m. and arrives in Jupiter at approximately 8 p.m. marinepbc.org Come and kick off the holidays at the 29th Annual Palm Beach Holiday Boat Parade, an event of the Marine Industries Association of Palm Beach County (MIAPBC) and a gift to the community.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 15 Last day of Hanukkah SATURDAY, DECEMBER 16

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 7 First day of Hanukkah SATURDAY, DECEMBER 9

Ring in the Season.

A Joyful Celebration Alton Town Center Waterfall Plaza by Lynora's 3 - 5 p.m. altontowncenter.com This celebration will have a meet and greet with Santa and Santa's Elf, appearances by angels and toy soldiers, holiday crafts, music, face painting, refreshments and so much more. Register at: altontowncenter.com

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Brunch with Santa Jupiter Civic Center 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. chasinadream.org You and your family can enjoy brunch with Santa and give back to our local children. All proceeds go to Chasin A Dream Foundation.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 17

Young Friends Beach Cleanup Ocean Cay Park 3 - 5 p.m. friendsofjupiterbeach.org Put on some sunscreen and help clean up 2.5 miles of beach from the Juno Beach Pier to the southern edge of Carlin Park.

GIGGLEMAGAZINEJUPITER.COM | DECEMBER/JANUARY 2024

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 26 First day of Kwanzaa SATURDAY, DECEMBER 30

Boardroom Night 6 - 9 p.m.

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community | calendar SATURDAY, JANUARY 20

Orpheus Chamber Orchestra 2 p.m. | Kravis Center for the Performing Arts kravis.org A performance by the Grammy® Award-winning Orpheus Chamber Orchestra and award-winning Japanese pianist, Nobuyuki Tsuji.

SATURDAY, JANUARY 27

Boardroom Night 6 - 9 p.m. | Ocean Magic Surf Shop oceanmagicsurf.com

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 31 New Year’s Eve

MONDAY, JANUARY 1 Last day of Kwanzaa

TUESDAY, JANUARY 30 WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 17

Wine in the Wild 2024 MONDAY, JANUARY 1 New Year’s Day

OPEN

Enjoy live local music, free beer from Tequesta Brewing Company with purchase of an OM Silipint, and free food from LILttle Moir's Hibiscus StrEATery!

5 - 7:30 p.m.

Busch Wildlife Sanctuary at Abramson & Schlaggar Reserve Support wildlife conservation and enjoy delicious food and beverages at this signature annual fundraiser.

The Phil Collins Experience 7:30 p.m. | Maltz Jupiter Theater jupitertheatre.org The music of Phil Collins and Genesis recreated by 13 of the most gifted musicians in the country.

HOUSE AD FOR SIGNING UP FOR NEWSLETTER/MAGAZINES

GIGGLEMAGAZINEJUPITER.COM | DECEMBER/JANUARY 2024

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15 YEARS AD