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The first of lasts
When we launched Giggle in 2009, I was in the trenches of parenting three little boys under five. Diapers, car seats, pacifiers, sippy cups, smooshy little cheeks and baby kisses. Our youngest was just 14 months old when the first issue came out. He has grown up in the pages of the magazine and has been a muse to many articles and ideas we have written. Well, that bouncing little bundle of love is starting his senior year in high school within weeks, and well, I am not okay.
This first day of school will be his last “first day.” And, it will also be my last “first day” of school and the beginning of many lasts as he is the final of our troop to graduate high school and venture into the next set of adventures. His older brothers have already been launched fully into college mode and adulting, and yes, those days were also hard for me, but this one hits differently. There is something to be said about letting go of the “baby” and well, I am so not ready to let go. This phrase has stuck with me during my parenting journey, and it strikes a nerve more recently but it is so true what they say, “The days are long, but the years are short.” And, short they were.
Of course, he does not hold the same sentimental feelings, or at least he hasn’t
shown it. He is like, “LET’S GO!”... senior year is here! And despite the sinking feeling in my stomach, I am so proud of him and beyond excited for him to experience all the pomp and circumstance of the senior year festivities and the excitement of what is to come, but, it’s bittersweet. And, like a good mom, I have worn all my feelings visible for all of them to see and cried way too many times to count (and the year hasn’t started yet!). I really need to pull myself together, or, do I? I mean, this is it, empty nesting is coming, and it came too fast. I need time to process and adjust. Was 17 years enough time to get them ready? Did I succeed at this parenting journey? Are they… am I... going to be okay?
I can only hope that if we have done everything almost right, we will launch our kids into the real world equipped with everything they need to be successful and productive members of society. Manners and study skills, life skills like how to take the garbage out and how not to wash whites with reds. Maybe they picked up on some of those basic culinary cuisines like grilled cheese, scrambled eggs and how to properly boil water for pasta. If we have done everything almost right, they will thrive. They will flourish. They will make mistakes (big and
small), fall and get back up, grow and learn and spread those wings and fall in and out of love many times. If we have done everything almost right, they will know that their home is always there for them, that our hugs and love are endless, we will always answer the phone and the pantry will always be stocked with their favorite snacks. If we have done everything almost right, they will be okay.
So, while I know there will be plenty more tears shed and moments of lasts, I will also try to embrace my son’s “LET’S GO!” attitude as we venture into this season together, knowing I did everything almost right… and that we will all be okay.
There is nothing bigger than a first day of school smile! It’s Back to
School Time!
Scan this code to submit your kiddos!
From preschool to college, those first day photos are something to be cherished. Submit their photo to be featured in our exclusive “First Day of School Photo Gallery” in our next issue!
Pregnancy and Birth Myths, Traditions and Lore
Why Does My Baby Spit Up?
That’s What Friends Are For: The Importance of Friends
Help Your Kids Make Sense
Keep Your Tween Healthy
TEENS Florida’s New Teen Driving Law: Building a Safer Road Ahead
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!
TRACY BROWN WRIGHT
As a mom with a soon to be school senior and 8th grader, it’s definitely way too fast! Plus, I will not be looking forward to early morning drop offs and afternoon pick ups.
Miss the lazy days!
ERICA OWEN
On a scale of ‘freedom at last’ to ‘I miss my little chaos gremlins,’ how excited are you for the first day of school?
I love the routine of school, but for me this summer has gone by way too fast. and late mornings for lunchboxes and alarm clocks.
STEPHANIE LYNN
Summer is over too quickly! Not enough time with my kids. They're starting freshman and senior year, a bittersweet milestone.
SARAH GRAVES
Summer wasn't long enough. I don't want to think about school yet.
ALLISON SENKARIK
Back to school is bittersweet for me. I'm happy to get them back into a routine but they're growing up way too fast!
ANIBAL RODRIGUEZ
Summer is a nice break for my wife and I from the daily grind of getting the kids up, getting their lunches ready, dropping them at school and picking them up, not to mention helping them with homework and activities afterwards. I am going to miss the simplicity of summer!
forks and spoons | in
Fizz, Foam and Flavor: The Timeless Charm of a Root Beer Float
BY NICOLE IRVING
Sweet, creamy and the perfect treat for any day, the root beer float has secured its spot as one of the most beloved drinks throughout history!
The first root beer float was actually created with a little inspiration from nature. According to the website Historyoasis.com, Frank J. Wisner, the owner of Cripple Creek Brewing in Colorado, was inspired by the snowcovered Cow Mountains. Their white peaks sparked the idea to create a drink that resembled the winter view. With just two simple ingredients, root beer poured over vanilla ice cream, the root beer float that we know of today was born.
The drink gained popularity during the Prohibition era (1920-1933) and was originally named by Wisner as the “Black Cow Mountain” in ode to the mountains that inspired it, said Historyoasis.com. With the ice cream bubbling at the top after mixing with the carbonated drink, it quickly became popular as a legalized substitute for beer during that time. It has since become the catalyst for other creamy fizzy drinks like the Coke Float!
Did You Know…
The longest line of root beer floats was recorded by the Guinness Book of World Records on July 24, 2019. According to their website, 1,020 root beer floats were lined up at the City Creek Food Court and once they achieved their goal, they were given away to the audience in celebration of Pioneer Day.
How to make the perfect root beer float:
1. Chill glass
2. Add scoops of vanilla ice cream first
3. Then, top with your favorite root beer
4. Want it less foamy, tilt glass to the side while pouring in the root beer
A ripe peach will have vibrant colors across its skin, a bit of a soft feel when gently squeezed and give off an intense sweet peach aroma when sniffed. If your peaches are firm and are void of scent, chances are they aren’t ripe yet and need to be left out a few days to ripen to perfection.
Nutritional information
Packed with antioxidants, vitamins and minerals, peaches are a great snack and addition to your diet.
According to Healthline, a medium sized peach contains the following nutritional benefits.
Peaches are in season from late May to September, with the sweetest picks coming in July and August.
One of the stars of the season, peaches can compliment any dish with its sweet and tangy flavor.
Where are peaches from?
While Georgia is known for its peaches, South Carolina and California also boost amazing peach pickings.
Sweet and Savory Fresh Peach Salsa
3 cups fresh peaches, cut in cubes
1/2 cup organic sweet corn
1/2 fresh jalapeno, seeds removed, diced fine 1 cup cheery tomatoes, cut in quarters
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
1/2 cup fresh red pepper, diced
1/2 cup fresh green pepper, diced
1 tablespoon fresh mint, minced
1 garlic clove, minced
Juice of fresh lime
Salt and pepper to taste
White Peaches vs Yellow Peaches
While yellow peaches are more popular in the U.S., white peaches definitely hold their own, thanks to their low acidic rate and high sugar content. White peaches are on the sweeter side and are great for making jams while yellow peaches are more versatile and work well with savory meals or sweet desserts.
Donut Peach? Who knew!
With their roots stemming naturally from China, the donut peach, is growing in popularity and can be found readily available in grocery stores like Whole Foods and Fresh Market. These flat peaches are extra sweet with a hint of almond flavor and are a fun and nutritious treat!
Add peaches to your…
Cottage cheese
Smoothie
Yogurt
Ice cream
Waffles
Salad
Cheese plate
Recess Matters: Why Daily Physical Activity Is Essential for Learning
BY LINDSEY JOHNSON, MS, MCHES, CF-L2
In this fast-paced world that is pushing academic excellence at every turn, traditional school activities like recess and physical education (P.E.) have often taken a back seat to classroom learning. With school hours limited, the choice to increase academics and skimp on activity time seems like a logical solution to get ahead, but science suggests otherwise.
Benefits of Physical Activity in Youth
When reviewing the benefits of movement and free play, coupled with children’s shorter attention span (and need to wiggle), recess becomes a necessity to break up the school day. It is not time wasted, rather time invested in the physical, social, emotional and academic development of children. They return from play more focused and able to approach academic endeavors with greater concentration.
Research from the University of Nevada, Reno shows that even 20 minutes of walking around can increase oxygen flow to the brain, making children learn more effectively, An article in Premier Education, a provider of physical education in the UK, reports that activity also increases energy, clarity and attention span, making children better prepared to engage in classroom activities. A study by Vasilopoulos and Ellefson shows that physical activity positively predicted academic achievement through emotional regulation among 7-year-olds and through behavioral regulation among 11-year-olds.
In fact, studies show that physical activity can improve:
• Emotional regulation
• Behavioral regulation
• Attention
• Memory
• Learning
• Stress
• Anxiety
• Focus and concentration
• Fatigue
• Overall psychological well-being
In addition, free play (such as that performed during recess) has additional benefits:
• Improved coordination
• Confidence and sense of self
• Cognitive flexibility
• Creativity and imagination
While recess may look chaotic to an outsider, a lot is happening during that time for the behavioral, psychological and academic development of students.
What’s the Current State of Recess in Florida Schools?
Florida’s mandates for recess and physical education are better than most. Florida Statute 1003.455 requires the following:
Recess:
• Grades K-5: At least 100 minutes of unstructured free-play time per week with at least 20 consecutive minutes per day.
P.E.:
• Grades K-5: At least 150 minutes per week, at least 30 minutes of consecutive activity per day. Also applies to sixth grade if part of an elementary school.
• Grades 6-8: One semester of P.E. daily for each academic year.
• Grades 9-12: One P.E. credit along with a Health class.
If your child needs additional opportunities for activity, there are many options you can employ, both inside and outside of the home.
In terms of recess, Florida is near the front of the pack. Only about 20 states have any recess policy, with only 6 of them having a mandated number of daily minutes, including Florida. While Florida’s 20 minutes is common among the states with mandated minutes, they are not quite as robust as California (30 minutes/day) and Arkansas (40 minutes/day).
Many states let individual school districts dictate the amount of P.E. in their schools or have less specific requirements than Florida. A 2006 study of states with mandated minutes versus states that did not have specific guidelines found that the mandated schools had approximately 105 minutes of elementary school P.E. per
week versus approximately 64 minutes per week in non-mandated states. Florida’s 150 minute per week requirement is more robust than these averages.
Although Florida places importance on recess and physical education, the statute does not apply to charter or private schools, giving those schools the autonomy to create their own scheduling.
Ways to Incorporate More Movement
Although statutes mandate that schools provide recess and P.E. for elementary school children, some students may
use that time involved in less active endeavors. If your child needs additional opportunities for activity, there are many options you can employ, both inside and outside of the home.
Inside the home:
PROS Easily accessible, low to no cost
CONS Parent must commit to enforcing
SOME OPTIONS TO CONSIDER
• Playing in the yard
• Create obstacle courses
• Have races among siblings or parent / child races
• Enlist help with chores: vacuum, gardening, scrubbing floors
• Minute to Win It: Set a timer for 1 minute and complete as many squats / jumping jacks / laps / push-ups etc. and aim to consistently improve score
• Shoot hoops
• Swim in the pool
• Go for a walk
• Have a dance party
Outside the home:
PROS Other adults are in charge (not dependent on whether you feel like doing it that day), some have a regular schedule, may give you some free time
CONS May incur a cost, requires transportation and parent scheduling
SOME OPTIONS TO CONSIDER
• Join a sports league
• Take a gymnastics class
• Enroll in a kids program at the gym
• Visit a rock climbing facility
• Go to a trampoline park
• Play at a local park or playground
• Have a playdate with friends
In whatever way it happens, physical activity in and out of school is vital for children’s development. If you aren’t currently active yourself, set a good example and get involved in active movement with your child. It can be as simple as taking a walk together. Get moving and remember to have some fun too!
Meningitis Unmasked: What Every Parent Needs to Know
BY COLE PURVIS
Meningitis might not be on every teen’s radar, but it should be. Though relatively rare, this illness can become dangerous and even life-threatening within hours. The good news? It’s also highly preventable with the right knowledge and a little proactive care.
What is Meningitis?
Meningitis is the inflammation of the protective membranes (called meninges) that cover the brain and spinal cord. It’s typically caused by a viral or bacterial infection, though in rarer cases, fungi or parasites can be the culprits.
The tricky part? These symptoms can feel like the flu at first. That’s why it’s so important to act fast if you or a friend feels suddenly, seriously ill.
How Can Teens Protect Themselves?
Vaccination is the #1 way to protect against meningococcal meningitis.
The CDC recommends that all teens get the MenACWY vaccine at age 11 or 12, with a booster at 16. Some may also need the MenB vaccine, especially if they’re headed to college or are at higher risk for medical reasons. Talk to a healthcare provider about which vaccine is right for you.
Also important: basic hygiene. Wash your hands regularly, avoid sharing utensils or drinks, and be mindful of closecontact behaviors, especially in cold and flu season when immune systems are down.
And remember: if you or a friend starts showing symptoms, don’t wait. Get medical help immediately. Early treatment can save a life.
Manatee Tales Story Time
Embark on a magical journey under the sea . Join us every other Saturday at 10:30 a m for a mini tour, story time, and craft! Registration is required, scan the QR code to learn more and reserve a spot!
Now through September 28th
Loaded Down: How Heavy Bags Can Hurt Growing Backs
BY LINDSEY JOHNSON, MS, MCHES, CF-L2
In the morning rush to make it to school in time, you may have grabbed your child’s backpack and realized it was unusually heavy. Backpacks today are jammed full of books, notebooks and electronic devices - how much is too much?
Just How Heavy Are Those Backpacks?
As expected, average backpack weight increases with age, as students have more to carry with them to and from school. Younger students typically carry a lunch box, maybe a folder or two and small books to read at home. The average backpack for younger elementary students (Kindergarten through 2nd grade) weighs approximately five to eight pounds. As students hit upper elementary grades, they may start to have homework including tablets for school work, adding a little weight to their backpacks, increasing the average to eight to twelve pounds.
Middle school introduces more homework, involving additional books and folders, along with the greater likelihood of carrying a tablet or laptop. Many middle schoolers are also changing classes and carrying their backpacks throughout the day, loaded with books and folders for multiple subjects. This increases their average load to approximately 12 to 18 pounds.
By the time high school rolls around, heavy textbooks and laptops enter the scene if they haven’t already. Limited time between classes often means carrying books throughout the day. Sports gear may also be added to the load and many students may carry 15 to 25 pounds or more.
What Are the Risks of Heavy Backpacks?
Backpacks that are overweighted or worn improperly can cause many physical ailments. Most commonly it manifests in neck, back and shoulder pain. In fact, the U.S. Consumer Products and Safety Commission reports that more than 7,000 children were injured in 2003 due to overloaded backpacks, with some weighing up to 45 pounds. As many as 30-50% of adolescents complain of back pain related to backpack use and 10-19% of children miss school or sports activities as a result.
Not only can heavy backpacks cause discomfort but they can also affect posture and spinal alignment. The downward force of the backpack can cause spinal compression and lumbar curvature, particularly during growth spurts. Longterm overloading can also cause degeneration of spinal discs.
These heavy loads can also cause nerve impingement, leading to tingling and numbness in the arms and hands. This symptom can range from being mildly annoying to interfering with daily school and life tasks.
What Are the Recommendations for Backpack Weight?
Recommendations for the appropriate weight of a backpack is dependent on a child’s size, not their age or grade in school. The Journal of Clinical Chiropractic Pediatrics
and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommend that backpacks should weigh no more than 10 to 15% of a child’s body weight. This means that a younger child weighing only 50 pounds should carry no more than 5 - 7.5 pounds and an older 100 pound child should carry no more than 10 - 15 pounds.
Tips for Lightening the Load
For ergonomic safety, help keep your child’s load light and size appropriate. Routinely clean out the bag and remove items no longer needed. Keep personal items to a minimum to leave room for school essentials. Consider using a smaller backpack to prevent overloading. Select a bag that has two inch wide straps or larger to help distribute the weight and encourage your child to wear the bag using both straps. When feasible, leave heavy textbooks at home for homework purposes instead of carrying them back and forth. With a few small changes, you can ensure your child’s postural safety and reduce pain.
In 2003, more than 7,000 children were injured due to overloaded backpacks
U.S. Consumer Products and Safety Commission reports
Study in Style
Lash Looks That Rule the School
BY NICOLE IRVING
The Dreaded Report Card: What to Do When
It’s Less Than Stellar
The dreaded report card… it comes whether your child wants it to or not. Hopefully the results are not a surprise and you’ve been able to see some graded assignments along the way. Whether we expect it or not, it’s never easy to see struggling grades.
Before you panic and worry about college and career prospects, take a step back and put it in perspective. If your child is elementary age, the actual grades are less important than ensuring they are building a strong foundation. During these years, children are developing skills such as following directions, behavior control and respect as well as fine motor skills such as writing and cutting. They are also building the foundation for language development and basic math skills. If your child is struggling in one of the fundamentals, establish ongoing communication with their teacher about what’s happening in the classroom and how to get them back on track as quickly as possible so they can master the basics.
During the middle school years, students begin learning independence and have additional responsibilities throughout the school day, such as changing classes. During this phase, students begin separating in their course loads for classes that are appropriately leveled for each student. This is a good time to start figuring out what track your child is on. Their grades can be a good indicator of the best level for them, but the good news is these grades don’t show up on their college transcript.
Once high school rolls along, all grades are reported on a transcript when applying for college. While that can be intimidating to some students, it is a motivator for others.
However, grades are not the only factor colleges consider when assessing applicants. While important, extracurricular activities, standardized test scores and essay submission are also part of the equation. A few bad grades does not mean your student will not be accepted to college or get a good job.
Step 1:
Thoroughly read the whole report card on your own.
Upon opening the report card, take time to read it slowly and thoroughly. Besides just looking at the grades, take time to read teacher comments and (if applicable), the grade for individual pieces that make up the final grade (homework, class participation, tests). Before discussing with your child, take time to fully digest all the information. It can be easy to see the bad grade and become immediately panicked or agitated, but it’s important to sit with it first to understand it as best you can.
Step 2:
Consider contributing factors.
If a grade is less than stellar, consider any contributing factors. Did your child have an illness or vacation that kept them out of school for a period of time? Did they
miss this particular class frequently due to sports schedules? Is this a subject they have struggled with in the past? Are there any major life circumstances that could impact schoolwork (move, divorce, death, birth of a new sibling)? Has your child mentioned this class or teacher before? If so, what was their feedback? Does your child have a learning disability? If not, do you suspect they may have one that is not yet diagnosed?
Step 3:
Talk to your child.
When discussing academic performance with your child, it’s important to stay calm and rational. Ask as many questions as you need to understand what is happening in that subject. These questions will vary based on the specifics of the class and the grade level. Some questions might include:
• “How do you feel about this grade?”
• “Did you feel adequately prepared for tests?”
• “Did you turn in all of your homework assignments? On time?”
• “What do you feel was your biggest challenge in this class?”
• “Did you routinely participate in classroom discussion?”
• “Is there anything else going on at school (or elsewhere in life) that’s affecting your ability to concentrate?”
Step 4:
Talk to the teacher.
Once you’ve talked to your child, it might be time to discuss with the teacher. Ask the teacher what they’re seeing at school. Is your child actively engaged? Could they improve their grade by better adherence to homework? What’s the best way to study for a test in their class? Does your child seem lost? Does the teacher have office hours? Do they have any tips or suggestions for how your child could improve? Does the school offer peer or adult tutoring?
Step 5:
Create a plan for improvement.
Working with your child (and potentially the teacher), create a strategy for how to improve in that class. If the teacher has office hours, encourage your child to visit the teacher during that time and ask questions. If homework was part of the problem, ensure that your child does their homework every night and turns it in on time. Have them review their study notes or study procedure with the teacher before a test. Quiz them when studying.
Ensure your child has the tools they need to be successful. While the goal is improvement in a class, be realistic in your expectations. If they earned a “D” on this report card, they aren’t likely to bump up to an “A” in the next grading period. Praise their effort if you see them trying. Grades are an assessment tool to demonstrate how well a student understands and applies the concepts learned in a certain class. While striving for good grades is important to create more opportunities, remember that grades aren’t the only indicator of success. Your child may learn more from the experience of overcoming an obstacle in the class than they do from the course content itself. This lesson of hard work and determination is equally important.
10862 SE Sea Pines Circle | Hobe Sound 2 BES | 2 BATH | SEA PINES
This charming home offers the perfect setting for grandparents to be near their growing family. Nestled in a friendly 55+ community, it features an open living area, spacious primary suite, and versatile second bedroom. A private florida room and low-maintenance yard provide a peaceful outdoor retreat, while the one-car garage adds extra convenience. With easy access to parks, shopping, and family visits, this home is designed for comfort and connection.
Back To School?
EveryParentPBC.org
EveryParent apps are here to help you get your family ready — and stay ready — all school year long.
Markers 10 Pack with LEGO Star Wars Lightsaber Gel Pen
$27.99 | Target
$24.99 | Amazon
S is for School
$11.99 | Amazon
BY NICOLE IRVING
School supply shopping just got a lot more fun with our top picks for a every age and grade! From dorm room essentials to preschool picks, we have got you covered!
$19.99 Amazon
Stonz Cruiser Original Toddler Shoe
$59.99 | Amazon
|
End Table with Blue Tooth Speakers and USB charging port
$63.31 walmart.com
LEGO® Molded Pencil Case
Comotomo Toddler Tumbler
LEGO® Gel Pens 10 Pack $32.50
Amazon
LEGO®
Vera Bradley Cord Organizer $45 | verabradley.com Vera Bradley Collegiate Plush XL Throw Blanket $95 | verabradley.com
Vera Bradley Bity Bear Bag Charm $35 verabradley.com
Uniball
$68 / $93
ACT exam
Book fairs
Class birthday party supplies
Class holiday party supplies
Class rings
Club participation fee/dues/supplies
Clothes and shoes
College applications
Costumes for plays
End of the year sports banquets
Field trips (possibly 3-4 a year)
Gas
Grad Bash ticket
Laptop
Letterman jacket
Locker adornment
Mid-year school supply replenishment
Musical instrument rental
Guide to the Hidden Costs of School
BY NICOLE IRVING
Class is in session, and we seasoned parents know what that means! It’s that time where we are asked to cough up a bit more than couch change for those important miscellaneous items our kiddos need to get through the school year. From class trips to prom, class rings to SAT exams and college applications, the never-ending request marathon for must-haves and financial obligations will start flooding in. For those newbies, and even you seasoned parents, we have updated our curated list of the most common and potential financial obligations you may encounter through the year for you to get a handle on… and start planning for. Good Luck!
$20 and up
$20 - $40
$20 - $30
$399 and up
$10 - $100
$400 and up
$35 - $100/ each
$20 - $50
$20 and up
$20 and up
$30 and up / per tank
$120 and up
$200 - $1500
$200 and up
$25 and up
$10 - $50
$19 - $69/month
Prom/Homecoming attire, dinner, transportation
PTA/PTO dues
$150 - $1000/each event
$5 and up
Parking spot decoration
Safety patrol belt/trip
SAT exam
School carnivals/carwashes
School fundraisers
$50 and up
$30 - $50
$5 - $1000
$68
$5 and up
$5 and up
School lunches ....................................................................................................Free and up
School photo packages
School spirit attire
School supplies
Science fair project supplies
Senior class trip
Senior lifestyle photos
Sporting event tickets
Sports equipment
Sports physicals
Teacher appreciation/end of year gifts
Teacher holiday gifts
Yearbook
$26 and up
$25 and up
$25 - $250
$15 and up
$500 and up
$100 and up
$8 and up
$50 and up
$50 and up
$5 - $30
$20 - $30
$90 and up
CRAFTING with Katie
BY KATIE OSTERHOUT
new friends, teachers and activities.
Make a custom superheroe for a teacher or friend at school
Materials
• Construction paper - a variety of colors
• Popsicle sticks - bonus if you can find colored sticks
• School glue
• Craft scissors
• Markers
Directions
1) Start by preparing your pieces: capes, faces and masks
• Cut triangle shapes for the cape. Size will vary based on the size of your sticks.
• Cut circle shapes for the head (we used a medicine cup for tracing).
• Cut small rectangles for the mask.
2) Glue the rectangle to the face circle
3) Glue the “cape” triangle to the back of the stick
4) Glue the “face” circle to the front/top then the mask on top
Here are some fun way to use your superheroes:
• Make one for your teacher and bring on the first day of school
• Make one for a close friend or crossing guard
• Make a set for your family
• Incorporate them into table decor for your first day of school breakfast table
• Use it as a bookmark
5) Add extra embellishments of your choosing: Try a chest “logo” with letters for their initials or spell out names. Add rhinestone, glitter glue or felt for added sparkle (and powers!). We’d love to see your superheroes! Share with us and tag creative_household or post #creativehouseholdfl to show off your fun!
Wishing all your kiddos a wonderful school year ahead!
Photos courtesy of Katie Osterhout
With all of the additional activities that your children are doing during the school year, it’s a good idea to be prepared for any situation.
Pencils Down, Wallets Ready: Creating a Crisis Fund for the School Year
BY AMELIA BOWLES
The back-to-school rush is always full of chaos, and it’s easy to overlook some of the important things. One thing you shouldn’t forget to do this year? Start an emergency fund. Most financial experts suggest that you have an emergency fund worth three to six months of your yearly living expenses. But you may want to consider starting an additional, smaller fund for those pesky expenses that might pop up during the school year, staying prepared for anything.
Why A School Year Emergency Fund is Important
Though you likely already have an emergency fund or have budgeted for school-related expenses, situations can arise where you might be left feeling uncertain. With all of the additional activities that your children are doing during the school year, it’s a good idea to be prepared for any situation.
Common Needs for an Emergency Fund
Sports-Related Injuries: Whether it’s a contact sport or not, injuries related to sports can happen. Injuries can include sprained wrists, broken bones, concussions, torn ACLs (Anterior Cruciate Ligament), etc. Your child might need doctor’s visits, hospital stays or even surgeries. Braces, boots, casts, crutches or wheelchairs could be necessary.
Sports Travel: Congratulations! Your child’s team has advanced to the district, regional, state or even national competition for their sport. But now you’ll have to think about travel expenses — hotels, gas or plane tickets and meals outside of your home.
Vehicle Repair: If your child drives themselves to school, you may not have factored in any repairs that may need to be done on any additional vehicle. Teens also can be more careless, causing the risk of accidents to increase. A parking lot fender bender can be an unexpected expense, and you won’t want to be caught off guard.
School Holidays: While you’re likely fully prepared for the additional childcare that summer requires — summer camps, trips to stay with grandparents, etc. — you may not be thinking about the holidays in between. Childcare might be necessary for extended holidays like the Thanksgiving and winter breaks. School Lunches: Sometimes, you forget to go grocery shopping — or you just forget that one key component of your child’s lunch routine. Having some cash on hand for the days where packing lunch just isn’t possible will help you and your child get through the day stress free (even when things don’t go according to plan).
• Testing Practice/Tutoring: Maybe your child is struggling in a particular subject or is having trouble or anxiety about SATs or ACTs. Considering an investment in your child’s future through a tutor or a testing course can make a big difference. However, you might not anticipate this difficulty for your child and an emergency fund can help remedy this unexpected expense.
• Project Supplies: Your child has been assigned a big project. Now all you can think about is the cost of the additional materials and supplies you’ll need to purchase. Whether it’s multimedia art supplies or visual aids for presentations, you’ll want to make sure that you have the resources to help them succeed.
No matter what, having an emergency fund can make a big difference when trying to support your child’s education and interests without stress instead of feeling torn while trying to stay within your budget. An emergency fund specifically centered around your child’s education can go a long way. And if you don’t end up using it? Roll it over into a college fund!
Transition Planning and Your Child’s Future
BY CRYSTAL LADWIG, PH.D.
Have you ever thought about what it will be like when you become an empty nester? This is a loaded question for parents of children with a disability. We must first ask ourselves whether we will become empty nesters, a question that becomes increasingly relevant during high school as we engage schools in transition planning.
What is Transition Planning?
Transition planning is a legal requirement under IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act) beginning by age 16. It includes a coordinated set of activities designed to facilitate movement from school to post-school activities. During this time, your child’s teachers, therapists, and support staff will work with you to focus on preparing your teen for adult roles in employment, education, community living, and personal relationships.
Early planning is essential. It provides time to develop necessary skills and experiences, allows for gradual independence building at a rate that is appropriate for your child, and creates opportunities for them to explore their interests and strengths. When done effectively, it reduces anxiety for both teens and families about the future.
IEPs and Transition Plans
Transition plans are created within the context of IEP meetings. They include additional elements, unique to your teen, to help prepare them for adulthood. Postsecondary goals will focus on education, employment, and independent living. Similar to other IEP goals, the plan will include specific activities and supports needed to reach those goals. Academic and vocational classes will be selected to align with your teen’s goals, and connections to adult service providers and community resources will be
included. To help create these personalized plans, the IEP team may include additional members such as a transition coordinator and vocational rehabilitation counselors who specialize in post-secondary planning, community connections, job training, and placement services. In addition to academic and vocational skills, transition planning includes life skills training. Teens are taught daily living skills, social and communication skills, and academic and cognitive skills that are specifically needed for independence.
Essential Questions
The most effective transition plans and activities, both formal and informal, occur when we take time to reflect on the teen’s skills, needs, and interests. Questions you may ask include: What are their strengths, interests and preferences? What type of postsecondary education or training is appropriate? What employment opportunities align with their abilities and interests? What level of independence can they achieve in daily living? Ask these questions periodically to keep services, plans and activities relevant as your teen’s needs and skills evolve.
Exploring Postsecondary Options
A critical outcome of the essential questions posed above is a determination of the postsecondary options most appropriate for your teen. Some individuals may pursue further education through traditional colleges with accommodations, vocational or technical schools, specialized programs for students with intellectual disabilities or online learning opportunities. Others may want to explore employment options right away. This involves learning about career options in your community, evaluating workplace readiness skills and seeking employment support services. Some teens with disabilities may not be ready for independent living and should prepare instead for continued support at home, in a group home or in the community.
The results of transition planning are as unique as your teen. Your actions at home and as part of the IEP team will guide your teen. Take time to reflect and include your teen every step of the way. The future is theirs!
Unpacking the Hidden Causes Behind Your Child’s School Anxiety
BY AMELIA BOWLES
While some children might experience some regular fear or nervousness surrounding the first day of school, true school anxiety is uncommon — and may require some additional help to correct. Understanding the signs and knowing ways to help can make your child’s relationship with school so much easier, allowing them to flourish in school — and maybe even enjoy it!
What is School Anxiety?
According to Medical News Today, “children with school anxiety feel an extreme amount of fear and worry regarding everyday attendance [which] can interfere with their ability to go to classes or do well in school.” School anxiety is more than just some worry over the first day or a big test — it’s a serious issue that should be dealt with.
However, school anxiety isn’t so easy to diagnose and can be confused with other conditions. Since it is not recognized as an official mental health condition, school anxiety generally has an underlying cause such as “depression, social anxiety disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, specific phobia, oppositional defiant disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD),” according to Medical News Today.
School Anxiety
According to Healthline, school anxiety can affect children of all ages. Causes can include “social anxiety, bullying, academic anxiety or testing, past or ongoing trauma, separation anxiety, generalized anxiety disorder or chronic health conditions” to name a few. Younger children might gravitate more towards tantrums or feeling sick while older children might gravitate more towards skipping class and other behaviors.
Recognizing the Signs
Because school anxiety can be linked to a myriad of causes, it can manifest itself in many different ways. If you believe that your child is experiencing any of the following symptoms, discuss them with your child, their teacher and their pediatrician. The Child Mind Institute has identified these behaviors as common signs of school anxiety.
• Sometimes, symptoms of school anxiety — like inattention and restlessness — can be confused with other conditions like ADHD, according to Children’s Mercy Hospital. However, school anxiety can lead to children becoming distracted, focusing on their worry or fear.
• Attendance Problems and Clinginess: When children have strong negative feelings surrounding school, this can turn into a refusal to attend school or exhibit excessive clinginess, according to the Child Mind Institute. Pretending sickness or floods of tears each morning isn’t normal and could be a sign of school anxiety.
• Disruptive Behavior: Another sign that could be misunderstood as another condition like ADHD, disruptive behavior can feel similar to school refusal. Children might have outbursts or refuse to follow classroom rules and instruction.
• Trouble Answering Questions in Class: If your child’s anxiety comes from a feeling that they have to be perfect at school, they may have trouble speaking in class or answering questions out of fear.
• Frequent Trips to the Nurse: Feeling sick at school and often asking to go or going to the nurse can be another sign of school anxiety. Children may feel relief just from getting to leave class, or they might think there’s a way that they’ll get sent home early. Either way, it shouldn’t be ignored.
• Obsessive-Compulsiveness: Arranging everything to be perfect or performing compulsive action such as handwashing, counting or other repetitions can mean that your child is dealing with school anxiety, especially if these actions are only performed at school.
Ways to Help
Recognizing the signs is just the first step. It’s also crucial to know how to help and when to consult a professional. Prevention is a good way to start. Encourage your children to talk about their feelings and mental health in your home. The age of your child might determine whether this exercise feels more like a game or more like a conversation, but either way it’s extremely important. Also, remember to be conscious about how you are talking about school around and to your child. If you are placing a lot of stress on high test scores or extracurricular activities, your child might feel anxiety and inferiority if they think they can’t meet your expectations, according to Healthline.
If your child’s symptoms feel chronic, even after opening up mental health conversations and changing your expectations around school, it may be time to consult a therapist. Talk to your child’s pediatrician and teacher about their behavior and discuss whether it may be best for your child to visit a mental health professional.
Shattering the Silence of Eggshell Parenting
BY TRACY WRIGHT
Walking on eggshells, metaphorically, is never comfortable in a relationship, as it symbolizes having to tread lightly in communicating with someone else. The phenomenon known as “eggshell parenting” is not a new concept, but it has become more popular since mentioned by a famous psychologist, Jen Sage, on TikTok.
Put simply, “eggshell parenting refers to the type of parenting that results in children ‘walking on eggshells’ in response to their parent’s unpredictable behavior and outbursts,” said CharlieHealth.com. “All parents have a bad day from time to time or may struggle to remain calm and purposeful when their child is having an epic tantrum. Eggshell parenting refers to a pattern of unpredictable and abusive behaviors that leave children feeling insecure, afraid, and anxious.”
Sage explained that parents like this often have erratic behavior that be up and down, including their mood, rationale and anxiety which could lead to children to feel constantly in fear of what may come next. In turn, this creates “an emotionally/relationally/ mentally/physically unsafe and insecure environment” for children.
MentalHealthCenterKids.com says that eggshell parenting behavior may be characterized by:
• Unpredictability: It’s difficult for children to predict what may come next from their parent. They may be afraid of what kind of behavior is next because they can’t predict what emotion you may be experiencing.
• Emotional reactivity: Parents may have wildly changing moods or emotions, including overreacting to small situations.
• Inconsistency: Like emotional reactivity, parents may exhibit different behaviors to their child, like supportive and loving at one time, but cold and inconsiderate and even insensitive in others.
• Unrealistic expectations for their child: Eggshell parents may set standards for their child that may be impossible for them to meet.
• Lack of communication: Parents may find it hard to express their true feelings to their child, so, in turn, a child may not also reciprocate with their own communication. In addition, a child may fear what they get back from the parent.
• Excessive criticism: Eggshell parents may focus on a child’s negative behaviors and ignore their strengths.
Unfortunately, the effects of eggshell parenting for children can be far-reaching and last quite a long time. This includes anxiety due to having to deal with a range of their parent’s emotions, relationship avoidance due to the turbulence of their connection with that parent, and hyperviligance of their parent’s emotions, often leading to mental instability, according to Care.com.
More immediate effects can be “social withdrawal, fearfulness, sleep disturbances and difficulty concentrating,” Care.com said.
What Causes Eggshell Parenting?
CharlieHealth.com says, “certain people may be predisposed to being eggshell parents. Typically, parents experiencing mental health struggles are candidates for developing eggshell parenting styles. Mental health conditions, including anxiety [and personality] disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, and active substance use disorder, can impact a parent’s ability to regulate their emotions, which can impact their children.”
Someone who is an eggshell parent also may have had their own struggles in childhood and may be passing this onto their own children through their own behaviors.
“More often than not, eggshell parenting becomes the case if the parent has unresolved issues from their own upbringing. They may have lived in an unstable household, much like the environment that their child is immersed in,” said MentalHealthCenterKids.com.
“Because these issues of having grown up that way have never been resolved, the eggshell parent might not have learned how to manage their feelings in an appropriate manner.”
How to Break the Cycle
First and foremost, experts recommend that parents identify their behaviors contributing to their eggshell parenting. This includes being more self-aware and acknowledging their behavior as well as understanding their responses to situations.
Remember to be kind to yourself and try to repair the relationship with your child.
“Any day is as good as any to start forging that close connection with [your child.] Perhaps you can sit with them one day and simply ask how they have been doing recently; this would be a good start. You can also try to make amends by apologizing for your shortcomings as a parent and by making a commitment with them to communicate what you are feeling and thinking better,” said MentalHealthCenterKids.com.
Other ways to repair this cycle are being more mindful as a parent, avoiding stress, and accepting things you cannot change. Of course, all these practices are easier said than done, especially if you are dealing with your own past traumas. That is why it is imperative to seek external help to navigate these steps. Professional mental health counseling is often a necessary first step to break the cycle of eggshell parenting.
“Learning how to develop a new relationship with yourself and your children is a process –– and not one that will happen overnight. For many, this process will require the assistance of a licensed, trauma-informed therapist,” says CharlieHealth.com.
Eggshell parents may require individual therapy to cope with their childhood trauma as well as family therapy for them and their children.
“Counseling and psychotherapy can definitely make a positive impact on you and your family by not just helping you on how to stop being an eggshell parent but also by facilitating insight and action to be a more functional and emotionally stable human being,” said MentalHealthCenterKids.com
Crushing Senior Year — The Homeschool Way
BY CRYSTAL LADWIG, PH.D.
You made it (almost)! Your child’s senior year is here. Now you can sit back and relax, right? Not so fast! Even though most homeschoolers are relatively independent by this time, there is still a lot for you to do to ensure your teen is ready for the future.
Academic Completion and Documentation
Your child’s final high school requirements will depend heavily on their postsecondary goals. If they plan to attend college, be sure to review Florida’s graduation requirements and document that all necessary credits are met. While you have immense freedom to teach what and how you want as a homeschooler, colleges will still look for specific courses as they
seek to determine if your child would be successful at their institution. Typically, this involves reviewing the academic courses and extracurricular activities your child has completed before applying to college.
If your child intends to attend an alternative educational setting, such as a technical school, an apprenticeship or enter the workforce directly, collecting and documenting their activities will be equally important when they apply for admission or employment. Those may best be documented on the child’s official transcript.
Creating Official Transcripts
Unless your child is enrolled in a program that provides a transcript, you will need to create one yourself. Compile a comprehensive transcript with all
coursework and grades. Include any standardized test scores (ACT, SAT, CLT, PSAT, AP exams, etc.). List extracurricular activities, volunteer work, leadership roles and document any special projects, internships or independent studies. You may also find it helpful to have your evaluator review the transcript.
Exploring Options
If you haven’t done so already, this is a great time to explore options with your child. Identify colleges that align with your teen’s academic interests and career goals. Research admission requirements for homeschooled students and visit campuses to get as much information as possible. This may include phone calls with admissions counselors and attending prospective student information sessions. Consider factors like size, cost and available support services.
Seniors are sometimes so focused on finishing their final year that they forget to reflect on what they value for their future. Help your child explore career options. They may complete an online interest inventory, explore career paths in areas of interest, and research job market trends and growth industries. When they find a career that seems interesting, encourage them to speak with professionals in the field or even shadow them for a day.
Supporting Your Teen’s Emotional Transition
Don’t be surprised if your teen becomes a little anxious this year. The idea of independence is both exciting and frightening at the same time. Acknowledge that feeling nervous about change and big decisions is a normal reaction. Provide emotional support while encouraging independence and healthy coping strategies.
Looking Forward
Remember, learning and growth will continue long after graduation. Maintain confidence in your homeschool approach and your teen’s preparation for adulthood. Continue to provide support and guidance as they navigate new challenges independently. Then celebrate the unique individual you’ve helped develop through homeschooling!
!Many myths exist around determining a baby's gender, especially because they predate the technology we have now.
Pregnancy and Birth Myths, Traditions and Lore
BY TRACY WRIGHT
When it comes to pregnancy, we’ve all heard the old wives’ tales and popular myths. Interestingly enough, many of these can be found in some way, shape or form throughout the world, while some are unique to different countries. While the myths can be misleading, many cultures have incredibly special traditions and beliefs that benefit both family and baby.
Boy or Girl? Popular Myths
Many myths exist around determining a baby’s gender, especially because they predate the technology we have now that predicts the sex of the baby early into pregnancy. These include how a mother looks, how she carries her baby and if she experiences morning sickness.
“Girls steal away their mothers’ beauty. By contrast, if a pregnant woman grows more attractive through her pregnancy, she can thank the little boy in her womb,” Britannica.com cites a common myth. However, this is just a coincidence as surging hormones and less sleep usually have more to do with symptoms like acne, dark circles and other stressors.
Another myth suggests that the way a mother carries her baby determines the gender.
“Conventional wisdom says, if a woman carries her baby high in the uterus and her stomach has a round appearance, she is expecting a girl. Likewise, most individuals say a boy is carried low and relatively more sideways,” said University of Arkansas Medical System General Obstetrics.
“Although male babies tend to be bigger, that shouldn’t affect the way they lay within the uterus. How a woman carries a child during pregnancy is more dependent on the mother’s uterus, rather than the gender of the baby.”
Finally, people swear that women carrying females tend to experience more morning sickness than those with boys. While there have been some small studies linking extreme forms of morning sickness and carrying a female, there is no conclusive evidence suggesting that it’s true.
Other Popular Myths
Certain cultures suggest that a pregnant woman should avoid stepping over ropes to avoid a nuchal cord, where the umbilical cord is wrapped around baby’s neck, according to Britannica.com. { PREGNANCY }
Another myth is that moms should avoid spicy foods so that the baby’s eyes don’t burn in the womb, which could cause blindness. Blindness can also be risked if a mom cuts her hair during pregnancy.
Of course, none of these myths are based on any scientific facts and are just superstitions that have been passed along for generations.
Finally, one of the more popular myths suggests that the lunar cycle can affect childbirth frequency. We have all heard that a “full moon” results in more childbirths. “Even some medical staff who work in labor and delivery wards believe this one, possibly reinforcing in the popular mind the plausibility for an actual connection. Despite extensive investigation, however, scientists have yet to identify an association between full moons and birth rates,” said Britannica.com.
Cultural and Global Traditions
While myths and superstitions abound across the world, many cultures also have special traditions to celebrate mom and baby. Several cultures emphasize the postpartum period as a way for new moms to rest and rejuvenate. Studies have shown that an emphasis on mom easing into motherhood (also known as the fourth trimester) helps improve physical and mental health as well as allowing parents and baby to bond, according to Stanford Medicine.
“[In Latin America,] to help ease them into motherhood, moms observe la cuarentena (“quarantine”) — a 40-day period when they recuperate from labor by abstaining from sex, physical activity and spicy foods,” said TheBump.com. “To let them rest and focus on caring for their infant, female relatives and friends pitch in with household responsibilities like cooking, cleaning and taking care of other children.”
Postpartum gifts are a popular tradition in many cultures, whether delivered by family or the government itself. For example, in Finland, “since the 1930s, new moms in Finland have received the ultimate care package from the state, filled with baby necessities like clothes, diapers, bedding, bibs and a first aid kit, all in a cardboard box that can do double duty as a crib,” said TheBump.com.
In Nigeria, “on the seventh day for a Yoruba girl and the ninth day for a boy, they’re given water (to have no enemies), palm oil (for a smooth, stress-free life), kola nut (for a long and healthy one) and salt and pepper (to keep things exciting and spicy).
Postpartum care [includes] a baby’s first bath, given to him by his grandmother. This first washing symbolizes that the mother isn’t alone is raising her child, and that the community will always be there to help her.”
Incorporating Different Traditions
While you may have your own traditions, you can always borrow some ideas from other cultures and adopt them as your own. Here are some special traditions from around the world:
• Tree of Life: According to Cordblood.com, in Ireland, they plant a tree to mark the baby’s birth. Visit Irishcentral.com to figure out which tree aligns with your child’s birth month.
• Protective charms: Many cultures use charms to help protect babies from “mal de ojo,” or the evil eye. I received a bracelet with this charm when I was a baby, in keeping with my mom’s Cuban culture. In Israel, Jewish folklore details a red string to ward off that evil eye, which can also be attached to a baby’s crib, according to CordBlood.com. Finally, in Ethopia, it is customary for newborns to be given bracelets or necklaces blessed by a priest and worn by the baby to “fend off evil spirits and negative energies,” said FirstCryParenting.com.
• In China, for 30 days after birth, moms rest with regular massages and food carefully selected for the mother to “balance the yin and yang in their bodies,” said Goodcells.com. After that period, families will throw a party known as “a Red Egg and Ginger Party” to celebrate their new arrival. Eggs are dyed red and given to the parents to symbolize prosperity and good fortune, and ginger is served in meals because of its healing properties, according to Givejoy.com.
• Bali has several interesting traditions for new babies, including a placenta ceremony where family members clean, package, wrap with cloth and bury the placenta outside. The placenta is considered to be a twin to the newborn and contains a protective spirit, according to ThreadsofLife.com. In addition, they do not allow babies’ feet to touch the ground for 210 days after birth, said ParentCircle.com. Once they do, they are considered to have crossed “over into the earthly realm.”
Whether you borrow these traditions, or make your own for your family, it’s always special to celebrate a new baby and your new family as well.
{ 0-1 YEARS }
Why Does My Baby Spit Up?
BY JENNIFER JENSEN
New moms be on notice… your baby will most likely spit up. It’s a fact of life. However, the good news is most of the time, it is completely harmless and the downside is it might require you to do a few more loads of laundry and have more burp cloths on hand.
“Infants spit up for a variety of reasons, but most often, it is due to an immature digestive system,” said Allison McAlhany, advanced registered nurse practitioner. If your baby is spitting up frequently, they could have gastroesophageal reflux (GER).
GER usually starts at two to three weeks of age and peaks at four to five months, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). Symptoms typically clear up by the time they are nine to 12 months old. However, as long as it is mild, there is no cause for alarm. McAlhany said they will eventually outgrow it once their muscles mature.
Other culprits leading to your little one’s frequent spit up include overfeeding, oversupply, a forceful letdown of breastmilk, or a milk protein intolerance, McAlhany added.
If your baby is spitting up, but seems happy and is gaining weight, there probably isn’t any room to be concerned. However, if your baby is projectile spitting up, losing weight or is inconsolable, your pediatrician should evaluate them, McAlhany said. Another cause of your baby’s spit up could be lying under the surface and be related to having pyloric stenosis, a stomach problem requiring surgery. Newborns who projectile vomit at least once a day should be checked out by their doctor, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP).
If you are breastfeeding, you may also notice that something you eat frequently might upset your baby’s tummy. “If there is something in a nursing mom’s diet that makes your baby spit up more, then avoiding that food may help,” McAlhany said.
If you are using formula to feed your baby, there is a chance it could be contributing to their spitting up. According to the AAP, about 5% of babies have a condition called milk-soy protein intolerance, which makes them unable to handle the proteins found in milk or soy formula. Spitting up might be a sign to speak to your pediatrician about trying a different formula.
About 5% of babies have a condition called milk-soy protein intolerance, which makes them unable to handle the proteins found in milk or soy formula.
-American Academy of Pediatrics
Your baby could have a food sensitivity. A common offender is cow’s milk products, the AAP says.
If you become concerned about your baby’s spit up tendencies at any time, contact your pediatrician at once. There are some simple little things you can do at home to try to prevent spit up. Try keeping your baby upright after a feeding and make sure you burp them well. Try limiting active play and tummy time directly after your baby eats allowing them time to digest. Introducing smaller, more frequent feedings could also prevent filling up baby’s tummy too fast and too full, which can cause your baby to spit up.
{ 2-3 YEARS }
That’s What Friends are for: The Importance of Friends for Toddlers
BY TRACY WRIGHT
The toddler stage comes with a host of fun and daunting stages— potty training, speech and motor development, and becoming a more independent child. And one of the most exciting parts is when your toddler begins to engage and play with other children, especially ones their own age. So, what does it mean for a toddler to make friends and how important is it?
You’ve heard the phrase, “you’ve gotta have friends,” and this is true at any age. While friendships look different at 2 or 3 years old than 23, they are still vital to development in children.
“[When a child makes friends, they are] picking up social skills that will become more important once [they] start school, even if every playdate now ends in a meltdown. [They are] learning how to feel comfortable with other kids… [and your child] gets to practice over and over what it means to be a friend — sharpening [their] conversational and problem-solving skills, developing empathy and playing more cooperatively,” said WhattoExpect.com.
But at this age, toddlers interact very differently than older children. You can tell if your child is interested in playing with other children their age if they exhibit the following behaviors, according to Good2KnowNetwork.org. These include:
• Trying to physically interact with another child (like embrace or kiss) or even jumping or falling down
• Smiling, laughing or making sounds at another child
• Playing repetitively with another child like taking turns with a toy
• Seeming to observe another child at play
It’s also important to note that every child is different. While some may want to jump into play with another toddler, others may want to hang back and observe or continue to practice parallel play alongside children.
“Toddlers need time to form their friendships. This means that they need to have many opportunities to interact with the same children to really get to know them,” said Smithsonian Early Enrichment Center. “Parents and teachers often worry if a child is shy and hangs back, but our research found that these children were just as likely to make friends, they just made them more slowly and more deliberately.”
So how can parents help their child make friends as a toddler? WhattoExpect.com has some key pieces of advice parents can follow.
• Look for possible playmates. This may be friends with children your age, other toddlers in a child’s preschool or activity setting, or kids your toddler may gravitate to on a playground. Don’t be shy about setting up a playdate with other parents, even if you aren’t close friends.
• Go slow. Don’t overwhelm your child with a long first playdate, keep the group small (perhaps just one-on-one at first) and read your child’s cues carefully. Be sure to make it around a time your child will be in their best mood (i.e., not near or interfering with naptime or meals).
• Be sure to keep plenty of toys and activities to go around. While sharing is a key part of friends and playtime that will develop over time, it’s best to try and share the love so children aren’t squabbling over those items.
• Be prepared for some rough patches. As referenced above, children may fight over toys or disagree on an activity or game, so it’s best to redirect activities when needed. Also don’t let your playdate overstay its welcome. End the time on high note and cut short if needed.
If you’re finding your child is having a hard time making friends, don’t give up. Keep encouraging playdates or find an activity for your toddler where they may meet new friends with like interests. If your child is in a preschool or scheduled activity, talk to a teacher or coordinator for more insight into how your toddler interacts with their classmates on a regular basis.
Finally, if you are very concerned about your child’s social interactions, talk to your pediatrician for their advice. They may be able to refer you to a specialist who can assist. While it may be a lot of work, your child making friends at an early age is extremely beneficial.
“Social experiences during the infant and toddler years set the stage for later friendships and peer relationships. Early interactions introduce children to important social skills like sharing, turn-taking, empathy, and back-and-forth conversation. As children get older, their earliest relationships will become a source of self-esteem that reinforces their sense of belonging,” said Good2KnowNetwork.org.
{ 4-6 YEARS }
Clever Curiosity
BY NICOLE IRVING
Children naturally become very curious at the age of 4, asking questions over and over a thousand times a day, driving most parents batty! Although it may get tiresome, this behavior is healthy and exactly what they are supposed to be doing at this age. By using books and nature to quench her curiosity, dealing with your 4-year-old’s questions becomes a little more fun!
Critter keeper
Have a little one curious about animals? Try getting a simple betta fish. Have him help feed it and change its water.
Gardening
How does your garden grow? Have your kiddo pick out her very own packet of flower seeds and a small pot. Help her plant and water it. She will be amazed when her plant starts to sprout!
Play catch
Florida is abundant with little lizards — or mini dinosaurs to the imaginative mind. Help him catch a lizard (safely) and place it in a safe plastic container with some leaves. Have him study it, name it and release it back into the wild. Then do it again!
Bird watching
Our backyards are full of wonderful, colorful birds. For a small investment, get a bird feeder, and take time during the morning (breakfast time) and night (dinner time) to sit outside with her and watch all the birds come to eat. Talk about the different varieties and colors, and have her give them special names. For a variety of birds, try getting different types of food.
Books
The “Curious George” series is great for questioning minds. This little monkey sure does get into trouble with his curiosity, but he always learns a great lesson in the end!
Curiosity Can Create a Bond
Never discourage your little ones from asking questions. Even at this young age, they trust in you, so if they feel that you listen to them, they will be more apt to confide in you later.
Always tell the truth on an age-appropriate level. Children remember everything and will most likely repeat your answer to someone. Make sure it is the right answer.
Help them seek the answers by showing them how to use the library, teaching safe internet practices and modeling how to ask adults (with supervision), like a librarian, for help. This will help them learn to seek answers on their own.
{ 7-9 YEARS }
Help Your Kids Make Sense of Money
BY SELENA GARRISON
Yesterday, I was in the bank drive-thru depositing some checks, when my almost-6-year-old piped up from the back seat, “Momma, why do you have to put your papers in that tube thing?” I explained that the “papers” were actually money that Mommy and Daddy got from working. We had to put them in the bank so that when we went to the grocery store later, I would be able to use my debit card to pay for our food and paper towels. “Oh, right,” he said. “We have to have money in the bank to use that card thingy.” Then he promptly returned to talking about things little boys talk about, and I reflected on the fact that he is always watching what I am doing and there are so many opportunities to teach him along the way.
Children learn about money management from their parents. Fortunately, you don’t have to be a financial guru to help your kids make good financial decisions. You just have to teach them a little bit at a time and get some help along the way. These sorts of lessons can be woven into everyday life. For example, when you are grocery shopping, you can teach about budgeting (we have $100 to spend on groceries today) and deciding between wants and needs (we have $7 left and can buy either a gallon of ice cream or a loaf of bread and peanut butter to make sandwiches for the week). When you are paying bills, you can talk to them about how much the cable bill costs and how many hours had to be worked to pay for it. When shopping for school clothes, you can have them choose between one name brand outfit and three generic brand outfits. These are all age-appropriate lessons that teach your kids how to begin making financial decisions in the real world.
By the time children are in elementary school, they are beginning to understand that money is limited. Help your children to understand how jobs and money work together to meet your family’s needs like in the examples above. At this age, children may want to hoard their own money, but they definitely won’t mind spending yours! This is a good time to start teaching them about wise spending and saving.
If you are interested in getting your child some outside resources to learn more about money, check out some of these great titles.
“The Everything Kids’ Money Book” by Brette McWhorter Sember
“How to Turn $100 into $1,000,000” by James McKenna, Jeannine Glista and Matt Fontaine
“Growing Money: A Complete Investing Guide for Kids” by Gail Karlitz and Debbie Honig
“Financial Peace Junior” by Dave Ramsey
You might consider reading them to learn a thing or two yourself!
A simple way to start this conversation is by getting a divided “piggy bank” with sections for saving, spending and donating. Each time they earn or are gifted money, help them decide how they want to divide it up. Then open a savings account for them at a local bank or credit union and teach them how to deposit their savings. This will give them a great head start on responsible saving and banking habits.
What about allowance?
Children need to learn that basic chores are just a responsibility of being a member of the family and not something they get paid to do. Instead of linking allowance to chores, give a basic allowance based on the child’s spending responsibilities. (This is money that you would normally spend on them anyway — lunch money, entertainment money, clothing money, etc.) If your child would like to supplement their regular allowance, allow them to do extra chores to save money for more costly goals (special trips, expensive shoes, a new video game, etc.). This not only teaches children that chores are just a fact of life, but it also allows them to learn to budget their money.
{ 10-13 YEARS }
Keep your Tween Healthy
BY NICOLE IRVING
Tweens are extremely busy creatures. Between their social calendars, school, extracurricular activities, work, family and sleeping, a tween can basically be considered a live version of the Energizer Bunny. These “bunnies” burn calories like nobody’s business. But, with fast food, busy schedules and self-esteem at play, being overweight or underweight may become an issue for these growing young adults.
The average tween male needs about 2,850 calories per day to keep going, and the tween female needs to consume an average of 2,350 calories.
But, it is what those calories are made up of that is most important. The Center for Disease Control (CDC) states that in the United States, the number of obese children and teens has continued to rise over the past two decades. Lack of physical activity and poor eating choices are the culprits.
Tweens need a balanced diet for brainpower and growth. They should be getting a diet full of protein, healthy fats, calcium and iron. Empty calories and low-fat foods are not their friends.
Healthy fats, such as nuts, avocados and olive oil are great for them.
The CDC states that childhood obesity can lead to heart disease, Type 2 diabetes, asthma and social discrimination. These serious ailments can plague a person for life, so it is important that we have our tweens get on the healthy path right from the start.
So, how do we get these ever so moody and disgruntled tweens to eat right and learn good habits? By making sure their food tastes good, looks good and is simple and quick for them to digest and move on.
If your tween likes pizza, try making it at home instead of ordering it. Pizza dough, skim milk mozzarella and fresh tomato sauce are all you need. Add some of their favorite veggies and there you go!
If your tween likes milkshakes, make him or her a protein smoothie with banana, dark cocoa powder, spinach, almond milk, Greek yogurt and acai seeds. Blend with ice and serve.
If your tween likes burgers, make homemade burgers combining lean meat, an egg and shaved carrots. Bake it in the oven instead of frying.
If your tween likes French fries, try organic sweet potato fries. Then try moving to just sweet potatoes.
If your tween likes soda, try sparkling water like LaCroix, Perrier or San Pellegrino.
Other ways to encourage healthy calorie intake in your tweens
Make their lunch daily
Limit eating out
Keep fresh and in-season veggies in the fridge
Practice what you preach
Purchase a water machine if your fridge doesn’t have a water dispenser
Avoid bringing unhealthy items into your home.
{ 14-18 YEARS }
Florida’s New Teen Driving Law: Building a Safer Road Ahead
BY COLE PURVIS
A new law is reshaping the road to getting a learner’s permit for Florida teens as of July 1, 2025, and it’s bringing major changes. Under the new Senate Bill 994, aspiring drivers aged 15 to 17 must complete a full driver education course — not just the old Traffic Law and Substance Abuse Education course (TLSAE) — to earn a learner’s permit. This update is designed to curb Florida’s high teen crash rates and instill safer driving habits early on.
What’s the Law, Exactly?
Previously, Florida only required teens to take a four-hour TLSAE course. As of July of this year, anyone under 18 must complete a state-approved Driver Education Traffic Safety (DETS) course, either over a semester in class or at least six hours online, plus vision and hearing screenings, pass the Class E written exam, and obtain parental consent. After that, teens must hold their learner’s permit for at least 12 months — or until turning 18 — before moving on to the road test.
Why the Harder Rules?
Florida logs some of the highest teenage crash rates in the country. According to a 2023 report by the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, over 80,800 teen-involved crashes resulted in 111 teen-driver fatalities and 68 teen passenger fatalities. Statistically, Florida teens aged 18 to 19 crash at even higher rates than younger teens, though nationally 16 to 17-yearolds show the highest risk.
A key risk factor? Peer pressure.
Teens are two and a half to three times more likely to take dangerous risks when driving with other teens compared to driving alone, according to research conducted by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety. Additionally, one-third of serious crashes involve teens not wearing seatbelts or engaging in distracted driving, per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
These sobering numbers make it clear: a disposable four-hour online module isn’t enough. Florida leaders recognized that a comprehensive education program is needed to build safe habits before teens drive solo, especially during the “100 Deadliest Days” of summer (the period between Memorial Day and Labor Day), when crash rates spike.
A More Rigorous Approach
The DETS course is no light lift. Modeled after the Department of Education’s classroom standards, it includes:
• Road law and permit responsibilities
• Graduated Driver Licensing framework
• Vehicle control and traffic procedures
• Defensive driving techniques
• Drug, alcohol and distraction education
• Mental and physical factors affecting safe driving
Some programs even introduce rabidly immersive experiences, like Florida’s Teen Driver Challenge, a two-day, 12-hour event combining classroom time and hands-on drills in real cars, including skid control, evasive maneuvers, and emergency braking.
Why it Matters
Academic research supports this enhanced approach. A recent systematic review of 29 studies shows that technology-enhanced training (e.g., simulators) and parental engagement programs significantly improve hazard recognition and adherence to safe driving rules. Courses like the Teen Driver Challenge allow teens to log their behind-the-wheel hours and even earn insurance discounts.
Driving into the Future
Florida’s legislative overhaul isn’t just bureaucratic red tape, it’s a strategic, research-backed effort to reduce teen crashes and fatalities. By mandating more thorough courses, requiring long permit holding and targeting risky behaviors like distracted driving, Senate Bill 994 sets a new standard. Safeguarding teen drivers means parents breathe easier, teens stay safe and Florida roads gain an added layer of protection.
aug/sept
Recurring Events
The Gardens GreenMarket
8 a.m. - 1 p.m.
City Hall Municipal Campus pbgfl.com/278/greenmarket
Enjoy food, live music, shopping for fresh produce, pastries, flowers and more! This event repeats every Sunday.
Public Self-Guided Beach Cleanup with LMC
8:30 - 11:30 a.m. | Loggerhead Marinelife Center marinelife.org
Join Loggerhead Marinelife Center (LMC) for its weekly Public Self-Guided Beach Cleanup! Help keep the sand and ocean clean. LMC provides all necessary cleanup materials. This event repeats every Saturday.
Sea Turtles of the Palm Beaches Documentary at LMC
Saturdays at 10:30 a.m. | Sundays at 2:30 p.m. Loggerhead Marinelife Center | marinelife.org
Learn about the work Loggerhead Marinelife Center does to protect sea turtles and the ocean’s ecosystems with a 30-minute documentary, “Sea Turtles of the Palm Beaches.”
This event repeats every Saturday and Sunday.
Hatchling Release
8 - 10 P.M. | Loggerhead Marinelife Center marinelife.org
Visitors can see hatchlings on their journey to the ocean! This event also includes a presentation about sea turtles nesting behavior and their hatching process. Ages 10 and up.
This event repeats Monday through Sunday until the end of August.
Hatchling Discovery Program
6:30 - 8 A.M. | Loggerhead Marinelife Center marinelife.org
This event is an opportunity to witness a live sea turtle nest excavation while logging scientific data on a beach walk. Ages 10 and up.
This event repeats Wednesday through Sunday until the end of August and Saturday and Sunday until the end of September.
THROUGH AUGUST 31
Back to School Sales Tax Holiday
FRIDAY, AUGUST 1
Golf Cart Night in Abacoa
Downtown Abacoa
6 p.m. | Downtown Abacoa | abacoa.com/events
Gather your family and friends, hop on your golf cart and spend the night cruising around downtown with the community.
FRIDAY, AUGUST 1
Free Breastfeeding Support Group
Radiant Waves Chiropractic radiantwaveschiro.com
Bring your nursing pillow, pumps, carriers and questions and join in the FREE monthly Breastfeeding Support Group. Babies welcome.
TUESDAY, AUGUST 5
Splash into Storytime
9 - 10:55 a.m.
The Splash Zone at the Palm Beach Gardens Aquatic Complex
Come and join in the fun for a water-safety story time followed by open play at the Splash Zone. Stories will be read in English and American Sign Language.
Splash into Storytime costs $4.25/person for residents and $6.78/person for non-residents. Admission sales start at 8:45 a.m. and will continue until the Splash Zone capacity is met at 100 patrons. Entry can be granted as others leave.
TUESDAY, AUGUST 5
Free Sunset Fitness Series, YOGA
Alton Town Center, by Lynora’s 6 p.m.
Bring your mat, your friends and good vibes!
TUESDAY, AUGUST 5
National Night Out
Roger Dean Stadium | 6 p.m.
Join the Town of Jupiter for National Night Out. The fun kicks off with a parade featuring lights and sirens, followed by a free baseball game, toucha-truck area with public safety vehicles, bounce houses, fireworks and more. Fun for all ages.
FRIDAY, AUGUST 8
Screen on the Green
The Lion King (PG)
7 - 9 p.m. | Waterfront - The Great Lawn | wpb.org
Bring your blankets and lawn chairs and enjoy a free screening of “The Lion King” at this month’s Screen on the Green!
MONDAY, AUGUST 11
First Day of School: All Saints Catholic School Palm Beach County Schools
TUESDAY, AUGUST 12
Free Sunset Fitness Series, Zumba
Alton Town Center, by Lynora’s | 6 p.m.
Come with friends to dance your way to fitness at sunset!
Each month, Manatee Lagoon is offering a sensory-friendly atmosphere for guests by adjusting the lighting and sound levels and providing sensory-friendly kits with activities tailored to individual needs.
SATURDAY, AUGUST 16
Back-to-School Dance Party
Nordstrom Court, The Gardens Mall 10 a.m. - Noon
Kids will enjoy a fun filled dance session with Just Dance, Inc., arts and crafts, store promotions and more to kick off back to school.
SUNDAY, AUGUST 17
August 2025 Young Friends Beach Cleanup
4 - 6 p.m. | Ocean Cay Park | friendsofjupiterbeach.org Students can help clean 2.5 miles of beach from the Juno Beach Pier to the southern edge of Carlin Park.
MONDAY, AUGUST 18
First Day of School: Meyer Preparatory School
FRIDAY, AUGUST 22
Bat Night Hike
Riverbend Park | pbcnature.com | 7:30 - 9 p.m.
Join a naturalist on a walk and observe the change from diurnal to nocturnal in the park. In celebration of international bat night, we will dive into the fascinating world of bats and their importance to our state. Ages 8+. Registration required.
SATURDAY, AUGUST 23
“LIVE” Dino Safari Comedy Magic Show
Cox Science Center & Aquarium 11:30 a.m. & 1 p.m.
Join friends at the Cox Science Center for a dinosaur comedy magic show where prehistoric punchlines meet Jurassic jokes. Free with paid admission.
MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 1 Labor Day
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 5
Golf Cart Night In Abacoa
Downtown Abacoa
6 p.m. | Downtown Abacoa | abacoa.com/events
Gather your family and friends, hop on your golf cart and spend the night cruising around downtown with the community.
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 7
National Grandparents Day
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 11 Patriot Day
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 20
Busch Wildlife
Nordstrom Court, The Gardens Mall
10 a.m. - Noon
Kids will enjoy interactive stations and presentations, store activities, promotions and more.
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 27
“LIVE” Dino Safari Comedy Magic Show
Cox Science Center & Aquarium 11:30 a.m. & 1 p.m.
Join friends at the Cox Science Center for a dinosaur comedy magic show where prehistoric punchlines meet Jurassic jokes. Free with paid admission.
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December/January: Reservation Closing Date - 10/31
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