Giggle Magazine-Gainesville-August/September 2017

alachua

county’s

PREMIER

p a re n t i n g

M AGA Z I N E

AUG/SEPT 2017 | Volume 9 • Issue 3

5 bake sale recipes that will turn a profit!

GET READY WITH OUR fun GUIDE!

quick DIY planter pots!

p

Don't fear

THE MUST-HAVE KITCHEN GADGET FOR EASY DINNERS

lus

DECODING THE GAME S KNOWN A

GAGA!

experiments on pg. 64!

www.gigglemagazine.com gigglemagazine.com | august/sep tember 2017 1

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gigglemagazine.com | august/sep tember 2017

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Hello,

Mama!

You can now get the No. 1 parenting resource in Alachua County delivered to your home!

Giggle Magazine is offering all Alachua County readers a free 6-issue (one year) subscription!

SUBSCRIBE ONLINE T O D AY AT

Gigglemagazine.com

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PUBLISHER & EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Nicole Irving CREATIVE DIRECTOR Allison Raber ASSOCIATE DEPUTY EDITOR Colleen McTiernan GRAPHIC DESIGNERs Emily Purvis, Claire Stortz Vice president of sales Shane Irving PRODUCTION COORDINATOR Alison Walker ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE April Tisher executive assistant Sayeh Farah ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT Ashleigh Braun DISTRIBUTION COORDINATOR Patty Skelton Contributing Writers Trace Ferguson, Selena Garrison, Nicole Irving, Colleen McTiernan, Olivia Pitkethly, MA, LMHC, Christopher Pregony, Danielle Spano, April Tisher EVENT PHOTOGRAPHER Kara Winslow Contributing Photographers Sincerely Gone Photography

Mailing address

headquarters address

5745 SW 75th Street 101 SW 140th Terrace Unit 286 Suite C Gainesville, FL 32608 Jonesville, FL 32669 Gainesville Office: p. 352.505.5821 Tallahassee Office: p. 850.254.9704 Fax: 877.857.5140

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

Giggle Magazine is published by Irving Publications, LLC. © 2017

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.

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For more information on advertising with Giggle Magazine, please visit gigglemagazine.com or call 352-505-5821.

Creating happy, healthy smiles, one child at a time.

Providing specialized dentistry for children and adolescents in a “child-friendly� environment, we focus on preventive care to help each child have a healthy smile that will last a lifetime.

Serving infants, children and teens in Gainesville and surrounding areas State-of-the-art digital technology Latex-free office Now accepting insurance from Humana, Delta Dental PPO and Solstice

Dr. Robert N. Mixon, D.M.D., P.A. Dr. Michael G. Gooch, D.M.D. Dr. Andrew C. Gooch, D.M.D.

Haile Plantation Village Center 5209 SW 91st Drive, Gainesville, FL 32608 and Northwest Professional Center 4910 NW 27th Court, Gainesville, FL 32608

352-335-7777 www.kidsonlydentalplace.com Hours: Monday-Friday 8:00am-5:00pm

Education Matters! We are proud to be Board Certified Pediatric Dentists. gigglemagazine.com | august/sep tember 2017

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publisher's letter

balancing act When my kiddos were little, I raised my hand for everything I could to be as involved as possible at their school. From room mom (for three kids!) to chauffer for field trips, I always helped in any way I could. As my days have gotten busier with work, my hand hasn’t been able to go up as much. Actually, I am not sure it even went up at all this past year…

It is a common theme among today’s busy parents. We constantly have to make choices as to where and when our time can be spent. We end up sacrificing this for that, spreading ourselves thin, and feeling guilty about not being able to attend everything on the calendar. Add to that guilt the puppy dog eyes you get when you just can’t break away for that last-minute field trip.

D o n' t for ge t ! can s You i g n up fo free r a subs c rip t giggle ion a maga t zi ne. c om!

Whether you are a stay-at-home parent, corporate world traveler or business owner, there is nothing more important than being actively involved in your kids’ lives, which includes being present and engaged with their school. But how do busy parents balance it all?

Meet the teacher As soon as you know your who your kiddo’s teachers are, plan a one-on-one with them to learn about any scheduled field trips. You may be able to plan now to chaperone one or two!

MEET OUR

Commit to what you can If you can’t commit to room parent duty, see if there is anything little you can do from home or volunteer just for the party helper role.

COVER CUTIE!

Look for variety Look for other ways to keep a pulse on what is going on, such as book fairs, dances, recitals and band concerts. These are all great ways to be stay involved in your child’s school life.

Engage and be present Put the phone down and engage with your kiddos when volunteering. Chances are they will want to show you off and show off what they have done.

Be a guest speaker If your time is super limited, talk to the teacher about being a guest speaker as another way to get involved in your child’s class.

Share a lunch See if your school will allow you to come and eat lunch with your kiddo. Schedule it on your calendar as you would any other important client lunch.

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What is your favorite book?

"Because of Winn-Dixie"

Always remember, everyone has different schedules and availably.

Do what you and your family can do. Don’t compare your world to anyone else’s.

Good luck! You all have an A+ in my book!

How old are you?

What is your favorite school subject? Math What is your favorite afterschool activity? Cheer

Nicole Irving, Publisher nicole@irvingpublications.com

What is your favorite sweet treat? A milkshake

Like us on Facebook /GIGGLEMAGAZINE

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follow us on Twitter @GIGGLEMAGAZINE

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Visit us on Pinterest /GIGGLEMAGAZINE

Follow us on Instagram @GIGGLEMAGAZINE

Photo by Sincerely Gone Photography.

Don’t compare

Kayley

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gigglemagazine.com | JUNE/JULY august/sep 2017 tember 2017

AUG ● SEPT 2017

happy family • happy community™

conception 2 college™ 76 expecting

Forget Me Not 78 infant

Hello, Baby!

32

80 TODDLER

Ready and Able

82 early years

Hands Are for Playing 84 kids

Rub a Dub

86 tweens

16

Middle School Success!

88 teens

Promoting a Healthy Body Image

COUNTY’S

PREMIER

PARENTING

MAGAZINE

GIGGLE MAGAZINE 3 AUG/SEPT 2017 | Volume 9 • Issue

health

10 Two Cents Child Support

Basics 12 lifesavers From the Bump to

the Pump

38 get moving Preventing Sports Injures in Kids 42 get healthy Bug Off 44 get MOVING Fit and Fun

14 the parent life "But

Mommy said I could!"

16 a day in the life Tiffany

Thomas

forks & spoons 20 lunch box A Week of Simple & Healthy School Lunches 22 in the kitchen Making Life Easier, One Meal at at Time

46 get pretty Bad Hair Day? Not Anymore!

50 get pretty Freshly Blended

happy home

62 Keep Your Family Safe

learn 68 family learning Start Off

on the Right Foot 70 FEATURED TEACHER Emily

Quesenberry 72 your schools Everyone is Heading Back to School

56 make it DIY Planter Pails 58 fix it Salvaging Old Clothes 60 clean it Making Homework

Feel Less Like Work

24 delish Let Them Eat Cupcakes!

fe a t u res 29 52 64

giggle stamp

Back to School 2017-2018 Let's Play Gaga!

Science Fair Success!

happy community 90 Aug/Sept Calendar

BAKE SALE RECIPES THAT WILL TURN A PROFIT!

GET READY WITH OU R FUN GUIDE!

DON'T FEAR

THE MUST-HAVE KITCHEN GADGET FOR EASY DINNERS QUICK DIY PLANTER POTS!

p

life

| GAGA BALL

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SCIENCE FAIR | BACK-TO-SCHOOL

Family photo courtesy of Tiffany Thomas. Backpack photo courtesy of manufacturer. Sandwich photo by Allison Raber.

ALACHUA

lus

NG DECODI E THE GAM AS KNOWN

GAGA!

Experiments on pg. 64!

GIGGLEMAGAZINE.C OM

om1

www.gigglemagazine.c TEMBER 2017 | AUGUST/SEP

Find our cover stories!

Back to School 2017!

PAGE 29 Don't Fear the Science Fair!

PAGE 64 5 Bake Sale Recipes that Will Turn a Profit!

PAGE 24 The Must-Have Kitchen Gadget for Easy Dinners PAGE 22 Quick DIY Planter Pots PAGE 56 Decoding the Game Known as Gaga!

PAGE 52

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9

life | two cents

Child Support Basics

BY SELENA GARRISON

When you dreamed of what your family’s life would look like, child support issues were probably not part of that picture. However, many families find themselves in situations where state intervention in the management of child support is needed. If you find yourself in this situation, you may feel overwhelmed and not know where to start. This quick guide will help walk you through the child support process.

In Florida, the Child Support Program is managed by the Department of Revenue. The purpose of the program is to help children get the financial support they need when it is not being provided by one parent or the other.

According to the Department of Revenue, the program’s services include locating parents and assets; establishing paternity; establishing and modifying child support orders; monitoring and taking action to help parents comply with child support orders; receiving and distributing child support payments; and educating and assisting parents and the public.

The Department of Revenue is currently providing child support services to nearly

1 million children in the state of Florida, collecting over a billion dollars in child support each year.

You can apply for child support services if you are the parent or caregiver of a child who needs child support or if you are a parent who is owed unpaid child support.

You will automatically receive services if you have recently applied for or currently receive public assistance from the state. You might also automatically receive services if you received public assistance or child support services in the past. To apply for services, you can visit your local child support office (5719 NW 13 St., Gainesville, Florida) or call 1-800-622-KIDS (5437) to have an application mailed to you.

Once you have signed up for services and established paternity (if needed), you will likely be asked for your current income information and federal income tax returns for the past three years, a completed financial affidavit, and a completed paternity declaration. Once all of the necessary information is received, your case will be started within 21 days.

Once your case has been started, the Child Support Program will help you to establish a child support order, outlining the amount and type of support the non-custodial parent is required to provide for their child(ren). In Florida, the amount of child support a parent is responsible for paying is outlined in Florida law and depends on the income and assets of both parents, the child and parent’s health insurance, child care costs, and the standard needs of the child (housing, electricity, food, clothing, etc.). Child support obligation also

Establishing Paternity If paternity for the child has not been established, genetic testing will be required. These tests can be scheduled by appointment at a local Child Support office and generally take less than 30 minutes.

A swab is used to collect skin cells from the inside cheek area of the mouth for the mother, the child and the man believed to be the father. The samples are sealed and sent to the genetic testing lab, along with a picture of each person. The lab sends the results to the Child Support office about two weeks after the DNA samples are taken and then they are mailed to the mother and alleged father.

takes into account the number of children requiring support.

While the process of establishing and receiving child support may seem overwhelming, your local Child Support Office will be there to help each step of the way. For information on methods for paying and receiving child support, you can visit FloridaRevenue.com and click on the “Child Support” tab at the top of the page.

TIMESHARING Before determining the amount of child support payments, you have to determine which parent will be the “majority parent” and which will be the “non-majority parent,” unless you plan for equal timesharing. Whoever has the child the majority of overnights is the majority parent. After this determination is made, the child support amount to be paid by the non-majority parent will be calculated based on income. In some cases, the majority parent may still have to pay the non-majority parent due to their respective incomes. * This does not constitute legal advice. If you have questions specific to your situation, contact your attorney.

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RESOLVING DIVORCES COLLABORATIVELY

Trained in the Practice of Collaborative Law

Pledge not to litigate • Voluntary exchange of information • Cost effective Commitment to respect both parties’ shared goals • Negotiate without having courts decide issues

Divorce • Child Support • Paternity • Custody • Domestic Violence • Post Judgement F LO R I DA S U P R E M E C O U R T C E R T I F I E D FA M I LY M E D I ATO R

Law Office of Jennifer Kirkhart Curcio Family Law, Collaborative Law, Criminal Law

352.327.1201 | 2835 NW 41st Street | Suite 240 | Gainesville, FL 32606 | www.curciolawfirm.com

gigglemagazine.com | august/sep tember 2017

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life | lifesavers

From the Bump to the Pump How Do Working Moms Do It?

BY OLIVIA K. PITKETHLY, MA, MHC

The number of breast-fed babies in Florida continues to rise.

In 2014, 48.7 percent of 6-month-old babies were breastfed, according to the CDC Breastfeeding Report Card.

That is up from 37.5 percent just seven years prior. And 62 percent of mothers with infants are in the workforce. So, how do moms balance breastfeeding with employment?

Fortunately, there is a law for that. It is called the Break Time for Nursing Mothers Law. Under the Fair Labor and Standards Act (FLSA), employers are required to provide reasonable break time for an employee to pump breast milk for one year after their child’s birth. Employers are also required to provide a private place, other than a bathroom, for the mother to pump. Working moms should speak directly to their supervisor about their needs, which may include a place to store breast milk.

If your supervisor is not willing to accommodate you, speak to those higher up, including your company’s human resources division. If you work for a company with fewer than 50 employees, however, you may not be covered by the Break Time for Nursing Mothers requirement of the FLSA.

Megan Atwater was a mother of a preschooler when she found out she was pregnant with twin girls. “Finding a comfortable, safe space was super important to me,” she said. “Feeling like someone was going to walk in or that I would be interrupted caused me anxiety. I started to bring this up with my supervisor before I even went on maternity leave because I know there is a shortage of spaces.”

To ensure safety and comfort, always lock the door before you begin pumping.

If the room or door has a window, close the curtain or cover it with paper. For added security, place a sign on the door requesting privacy while you pump. To make your pumping experience more pleasant, be sure to practice at home first so you can work out any kinks before you get to the office.

u What ypoack! In addition to a breast pump, working moms should s h o u ld remember to pack storage bags, bottles and/or a cooler. Consider wearing two-piece outfits with lightweight shirts that can easily be removed or pulled down to pump. “Have an extra shirt and a blanket just in case you may need it one day,” said Floyd. “You want to be prepared for any oopsies.”

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For additional resources, including area support groups, visit La Leche League’s website at LLLUSA.org.

Ericka Floyd is a first-time mom to a baby boy and can relate to the discomfort.

She finds support and empathy in her co-workers and encourages others to do the same. “Pumping at work can be very uncomfortable, especially when you’re a first-time mom,” she said. “You should open up to your co-workers about your new breastfeeding mom experiences. That way, when it’s time to pump, everyone will understand.”

Atwater said she pumps once every two hours to keep up her supply, even if she has just fed her girls. She said making pumping a priority has been the most challenging task of all. She uses a pumping bra that frees up her hands for typing or making phone calls while she pumps.

Although pumping at the office may seem intimidating at first, with a little athome preparation and support from your employer, it can easily become a part of your regular workday.

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life | the parent life

“But Mommy said I could!”

Managing Parenting Differences

BY OLIVIA K. PITKETHLY, MA, LMHC

Take a look around your neighborhood, playground or child’s school, and you will see a variety of parenting styles. The “helicopter” parent who monitors every step the child makes, not only knows the names of her friends, but also her friends’ parents, and makes sure the child stays fed and hydrated every hour on the hour. There is also the “free-range” parent who allows the child to run free with minimal supervision, shoes optional, trusting the child will make the right decisions and take care of herself.

These are two extreme examples of parenting, and neither one is right or wrong. But what happens when the helicopter parent and the free-range parent are parenting the same child?

Again, these are extreme examples, but differences in parenting decisions occur in every family. Here are five questions to ask yourself the next time you and your parenting partner are at odds.

 Do you have an audience?

 Where is my partner coming from?

 Is it worth arguing over?

 Am I giving my partner enough credit?

If you find yourself disagreeing with a decision your partner has made, look around to see who is watching or listening. While subtle disagreements are OK for your kids to see, a full discussion of differences can be confusing for a child. Plus, it is almost impossible to have an adult conversation around your children without interruption. Instead, excuse yourselves to a separate room and discuss it privately.

You want the kids to go to bed at 8:30 p.m. Your partner allows them to stay up an hour past their bedtime to finish a movie. Sure, it is not ideal, but it rarely happens, so is it worth addressing?

Probably not. Keep your battles to ones that REALLY matter to both of you.

 Am I being a team player?

You and your partner are on the same parenting team. Work together instead of against each other. For instance, if you and your spouse are disagreeing about healthy eating choices for your kids, figure out a compromise, such as reserving sweet treats for after dinner or a weekly ice cream date as a family. Come together to work on the issues.

I mean this literally. Take a look at your partner’s childhood, how his parents raised him and how these experiences have impacted his own parenting style. Is he making the same decisions his parents would have made, or is he doing something different? Have an open and honest conversation with your partner about your own experiences, too. Deeper understanding of each other will increase your intimacy.

There are plenty of times when I cannot figure out what to do next and my husband takes charge. And let me tell you, he does great. Sometimes he can communicate better with my son than I can, and other times I am more successful. We give each other a high five after a good parenting day, recognizing the other’s hard work along with areas in which we might need a little more practice.

Remember, our kids do not come with a manual on how to be the perfect parent — we are all just winging this parenting thing. So, forgive yourselves, learn from mistakes and do not forget those high fives!

Looking for more resources?

Check out the book "Partnership Parenting: How Men and Women Parent Differently — Why It Helps Your Kids and Can Strengthen Your Marriage" by Kyle Pruett and Marsha Pruett. $11.52, Amazon.com.

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life | a day in the life

Tiffany Thomas is a real estate broker and business owner.

She and her husband Matt Thomas have four children, Maddie (8), Lily (6) and twin boys Rhett and Davis (3).

Morning 5 a.m. Matt's alarm goes off, waking me up, too.

6 a.m. My own alarm goes off and I instantly grab my phone to read my emails and check social media as I stretch and yawn.

6:10 a.m. Roll out of bed,

shower and dress, and mentally prepare to tackle the day ahead that will commence when I open my bedroom door.

6:25 a.m. Matt brings me

6:30 a.m. Wake up our girls, Maddie and Lily, and make their breakfast.

6:45 a.m. Put on my

a day in the life of :

makeup.

Tiffany Thomas 16

gigglemagazine.com | august/sep tember 2017

Photo courtesy of Tiffany Thomas.

coffee because he knows that I need at least one sip of coffee before I’m approachable.

7–7:30 a.m. Make the girls'

lunches, fix their hair and help rush them out the door so Matt can get them to school on time.

7:30–8 a.m. Finish getting myself ready for work and get ready for the next round of kids that will be waking up shortly.

8–8:30 a.m. Wake the twins,

Davis and Rhett, and breakfast-making starts all over again while I get them both dressed and pack their lunches.

8:30 a.m. Get the twins in the car

and off to preschool, then drive myself to the office.

9 a.m. Greet the team and get right

into emails and returning phone calls.

9:30–10:30 a.m. Head in for the marketing meeting with Matt and our marketing director.

10:30 a.m. Input a new listing online

and submit for marketing material.

1:10 p.m. Oh man, I'm hungry. Did I

eat lunch?

1:15 p.m. Eat a granola bar while in the car driving to the next home.

3:30 p.m. Finish up home showings, then run back to the office to pull sales comparables for a home the buyer liked and start an offer for their review.

8:30 p.m. We read books to the kids, and sometimes the girls read to the boys!

4 p.m. Return any phone calls and emails I missed while showing homes.

9 p.m. We tuck everyone in to bed

4:30 p.m. Ask Matt what he wants for dinner and end up ordering takeout from Loosey's because my day is not even close to over.

5 p.m. Text one of the grandmas or our sitter (whoever is home with the girls) to see if they'll start dinner for the kiddos while Matt picks up the twins from preschool.

5:20 p.m. Scramble to finish last minute work to-dos so I can get home to the family.

10:45 a.m. Print info sheets and set appointments for home showings that afternoon for a buyer.

5:30 p.m. Lock up, leave the office and head home.

11 a.m. Emails never stop coming, and

greeted by the kids, who are always ready with hugs and excitement!

that’s good! I follow up with agents who showed my listings the previous day.

11:15 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Go

home to pick up our trailer and load it with furniture to stage a new listing. I meet my assistant at the new listing and stage/decorate it to help sell it quickly!

afternoon 12:40 p.m. Drop the trailer back off at home and freshen up.

1 p.m. Meet one of my buyers to show them homes on their list.

7:45 p.m. Matt and I try to convince the kids to come inside to start getting ready for bed. If I am successful at coaxing them back into the house, I help the girls with their homework while Matt tackles the boys’ bath time.

5:35 p.m. Arrive home and get

5:40 p.m. Discuss everyone’s day as Matt and I get food on the table.

evening 6–6:30 p.m. Try anything and

everything to get four kids who can’t sit still to eat!

6:40 p.m. Give up on them eating everything and say, "let's get out of the house!” We’re off to play in the driveway with scooters or go for a golf cart ride around the neighborhood.

and say goodnight, knowing full well we’ll see them shortly — usually within 20 minutes of closing their doors.

9:15 p.m. At least two kids come in our room and to tell us that they can't go to sleep, kicking off the “putting the kids back to bed” hour.

9:20 p.m. Instead of sleeping,

the twins are playing in their room.

Sometimes they even pull their blankets off their bed for play purposes!

9:30 p.m. Matt or I go in for a stern

talk with the boys and get them back in bed and *hopefully* off to sleep.

9:35 p.m. Matt and I watch something on Netflix, usually a show like “The Office,” while looking through our respective social media and email accounts.

11 p.m.

It’s past our bedtime, so we set our alarms and crash into bed, knowing that tomorrow will bring all the same challenges, smiles and satisfaction that today brought.

Want to submit a friend (or yourself!) to be featured in A Day in the Life? Send your information to Colleen@irvingpublications.com!

gigglemagazine.com | august/sep tember 2017

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Introducing Giggle Magazine’s newest community feature,

Our Unique Family!

Does your family go bike riding every weekend?

Do you do a big family road trip during the summers? Or maybe you like to do family dinners in your treehouse once a week.

Whatever sets your family apart from the crowd, Giggle Magazine wants to hear about it!

Submit your family’s unique story to Colleen@irvingpublications.com for the chance to be featured in a future issue!

Our bike-riding _______ family

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19

forks and spoons | lunch box

A Week of Simple & Healthy School Lunches

BY COLLEEN MCTIERNAN | PHOTOS BY ALLISON RABER

From arranging drop off and pick up schedules to getting the kiddos back into the swing of getting up early and doing homework, the beginning of the school year can be overwhelming! Just thinking about preparing lunches, let alone healthy lunches, can be enough to send you into a panic! But with these easy ideas, you will be able to send your kiddos into the cafeteria with confidence.

Monday

Breakfast for Lunch!

Ingredients • 2 whole wheat waffles • Banana • Peanut butter

Directions 1. Heat the waffles according to package directions, then spread about a tablespoon of peanut butter across the top of each waffle. Slice up the banana and place four slices on top of one waffle and four on the other. Sprinkle with almond slivers for an open-faced waffle sandwich!

Giggle Tip: Pack your child some plain yogurt topped with her favorite berries to complete the meal!

• Almond slivers

Tuesday

Buffalo Chicken Wrap

efore! ight b

Ingredients

Directions

• 1 chicken breast

1. Combine hot sauce and olive oil together in a small bowl and set aside.

• 3 tablespoons hot sauce (we recommend Frank's Redhot)

2. Cut the chicken into bite-size pieces and season with salt and pepper.

• 1 tablespoon olive oil • ¼ cup broccoli florets

3. In the meantime, heat a small skillet over medium-high heat. Add a teaspoon of olive oil to the skillet and cook the chicken for about 6 minutes. Add the hot sauce mixture to the pan and allow the chicken to absorb the sauce, about 2 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

• ¼ cup shredded cabbage or shredded lettuce

4. Over medium heat, add the broccoli to the same skillet and cook until tender, about 4 minutes.

Remove from heat.

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Whole wheat wrap • 1 tablespoon light ranch or blue cheese dressing • Shredded cheese of your choice

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Prepare this the n

5. Spread the dressing on the wrap, and then add the chicken, broccoli, shredded cabbage (or lettuce) and cheese. Roll tightly and cut in half.

Giggle Tip: Pack your child some celery sticks and baby carrots to complete the meal!

gigglemagazine.com | august/sep tember 2017

Wednesday

A Spin on the Classic PB&J Ingredients

Directions

• 2 slices of bread

1. Spread almond butter on each of your two slices of bread and then top with strawberries before combining the two sides. To add a bit of pizzazz to this sandwich, use sandwich cutters or even cookie cutters to give it a fun shape!

• Almond butter • Sliced strawberries

Giggle Tip: Serve with cheese cubes and sliced cherry tomatoes to complete the meal!

Thursday

Breakfast for Lunch, Round 2!

!

Ingredients

Directions

• Plain bagel thins

1. Place one slice of cheese on each bagel half. Place lettuce and a slice of tomato on one half, and turkey on the other, then combine. Cut the sandwich in half so it is easier for little hands to eat.

• Lettuce • Tomato • 3 slices deli turkey

Do not forget to use an ice pack or thermos to keep lunche fresh throughout the day s !

Giggle Tip: Serve with apple slices and pretzels to complete the meal!

• 2 slices Swiss cheese

Friday

Ham and Cream Cheese Pinwheels Ingredients

Directions

• Tortilla (leave out for a gluten-free version)

1. Lay your tortilla flat and spread cream cheese evenly across it. Cover the tortilla with the slices of ham — it is OK if the slices overlap! Place the pickle spears at one end of the tortilla, and then roll up your tortilla into log shape. Cut your rollup into 1-inch pieces.

• 2 thin slices of deli ham • Reduced fat cream cheese

c he e s e ead cream on, spr n the tortilla i s r e v ee of o *For gluten-fr stead ices in l s m a h e h t on

• 1 pickle spear (or a quartered slice of cucumber)

Giggle Tip: Serve with sliced grapes and your kiddo’s favorite cookie to complete the meal!

gigglemagazine.com | august/sep tember 2017

21

forks and spoons | in the kitchen

Making Life Easier, One Meal at a Time

BY COLLEEN MCTIERNAN

Say goodbye to your slow cooker and kick your stovetop pressure cooker to the curb. There is a new kitchen appliance in town, and it is a heavyweight!

Electric pressure cookers do the work of several appliances all in one handy package, opening up precious space in your kitchen cabinets and cutting down on the time you will have to spend washing dishes once you are done cooking. Sounds almost too good to be true, right?

What can it do?

What exactly your electric pressure cooker will be capable of doing depends on the brand you use, but just about all of them can cook rice, steam foods, serve as a slow cooker, brown foods and replace a conventional pressure cooker. Others can make oatmeal, baby food, stew and soup. There are definitely a lot of settings to explore, so if you do try introducing an electric pressure cooker to your kitchen retinue, give yourself some time to read the manual and experiment.

Not only do these new pressure cookers replace common appliances, they also cut down the time it takes to cook certain foods. In fact, with certain cookers, rice only takes about nine minutes to cook! And if you have been wary of using a conventional pressure cooker, the electric versions definitely take some of the uncertainty out of the mix. You do not have to watch them as carefully, and they usually have built-in timers so you know when your food is done.

However, they are more costly and can take slightly longer to cook your food than conventional pressure cookers.

What can you cook in it?

From boiled eggs to beans to deliciously tender meats, there is a lot that an electric pressure cooker can bring to the table. Some slow cooker recipes require that you brown your meat prior to placing it in the slow cooker itself.

Now what you thought was a simple, one-pot meal has dirtied more dishes than you were planning. With an electric pressure cooker on hand, you can use the “brown” setting to start cooking your meat and then switch it to the slow cooker or pressure cooker setting. No other appliances required!

Pot Roast & Potatoes

courtesy of T-fal’s Electric Pressure Cooker Recipe Book • 2 pounds beef sirloin tips or chuck roast • 1 leek • ¼ cup olive oil • 1 onion, diced • 2 carrots, diced • 2 garlic cloves, peeled and finely chopped • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce • 28-ounce can crushed tomatoes • ½ cup white wine • 2 sprigs fresh thyme • 4 potatoes, peeled and cubed • Kosher salt • Freshly cracked black pepper 1. Lightly season the beef with salt and pepper.

2. Cut the main portion of dark green from the top of the leek and trim the bottom of the root and discard. Cut leek in half lengthwise, wash and thinly slice.

3. Select Brown program. Heat the oil and add the beef. Braise on all sides for about 4 minutes or until lightly browned. Remove and set aside.

4. In the same oil, add the leek, onion, carrot and garlic. Cook on the Brown program for 3–4 minutes. Add the tomato, meat, wine and thyme.

Close the lid and lock it.

5. Select Pressure Cook program, High – Timer: 30 minutes.

6. Once it is done cooking, release the pressure.

7. Open the lid and add the potatoes. Close lid again.

8. Select Pressure Cook program, High – Timer: 10 minutes.

9. Once it is done cooking, release the pressure again. Open the lid. Serve.

Curious about trying out an electric pressure cooker for yourself? Consider one of the following!

T-fal Electric Pressure Cooker $99.99, Walmart

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gigglemagazine.com | august/sep tember 2017

Farberware 7-in-1 Programmable Pressure Cooker $59, Walmart and Walmart.com

Instant Pot 7-in-1 Pressure Cooker $99.99, Target and Target.com

gigglemagazine.com | august/sep tember 2017

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forks and spoons | delish

Let Them Eat Cupcakes!

Easy recipes and helpful tips to make your next bake sale a success

BY COLLEEN MCTIERNAN | PHOTOS BY SINCERELY GONE PHOTOGRAPHY

Consider using a 9-inch by 9-inch or 8-inch by 8-inch pan for thicker brownies to prevent the ice pop sticks from tearing holes in them.

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gigglemagazine.com | august/sep tember 2017

We used Funfetti mix for an additional hint of color in these festive cupcake cones.

Be sure to place all of your tasty treats in baggies to keep them protected from curious little hands.

You can also use Fruity Pebbles for a more authentic Rice Krispies Treat look.

Small wooden chipboards painted with chalkboard paint make great price tags. Display on miniature easels!

Turn the page for recipes! gigglemagazine.com | august/sep tember 2017

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forks and spoons | delish

Cupcake Cones M akes A B O U T 2 0 serv ings

• Cake mix (typically requires vegetable oil and eggs) • Flat-bottomed ice cream cones • Chocolate frosting • Vanilla frosting • Sprinkles Preheat oven to temperature indicated in package instructions and prepare cupcake mix. Place cones in muffin tin and fill each cone with about 3 tablespoons of mix.

Bake according to package directions.

Once cooled, decorate with frosting and sprinkles.

Froot Loop Treats

M akes A B O U T 12 serv ings • 4 tablespoons butter • 8 ounces marshmallows (4 ½ cups) • 5 ½ cups Froot Loops Melt butter and marshmallows together in a large pot until smooth, about 5 minutes. Pour mixture into a bowl with Froot Loops and mix well.

Spread the mixture across a 14-inch by 16inch cookie sheet using a greased spatula. Let set until cooled, then cut into squares.

Brownie Pops

M akes A B O U T 12 serv ings (D E P E N D I N G O N T H E S IZ E O F YO U R PA N) • Brownie mix (typically requires vegetable oil and eggs) • Cream cheese frosting

• Chocolate frosting • Sprinkles • Ice pop sticks Prepare brownies according to package directions. Once brownies have been baked and cooled, cut them into rectangles.

Insert a wooden popsicle stick into the bottom end of each brownie. Decorate with frosting and sprinkles.

Popcorn Bags M akes 1 5 serv ings

• Three 3.2-ounce bags microwavable popcorn • 1 package semisweet chocolate chips • 1 package white Wilton Candy Melts • Disposable snack bowls • Clear bags Prepare popcorn according to package directions, then empty each of the bags onto a sheet of parchment paper, discarding any remaining kernels.

Place 1 cup of the chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl and microwave in 20 second intervals until smooth. Melt the candy melts according to package directions.

Drizzle the popcorn with the melted chocolate and candy melts. Once hardened, scoop the popcorn into the snack bowls, place bowls into the clear bags and tie the bags closed with ribbon.

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CandyDipped Nilla Wafers M akes 12 serv ings

• 48 Nilla Wafers • 1 package white Wilton Candy Melts • 1 package red Wilton Candy Melts • 1 package teal Wilton Candy Melts Melt each of the candy melt colors separately according to package directions. Once the melts have become creamy and smooth, dip the Nilla Wafers into the mixture so that they are about halfway covered.

Let the wafers set on wax paper before packaging them in clear bags in sets of fours.

gigglemagazine.com | august/sep tember 2017

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Back to School Make sure both you and your kiddos are ready to head back to class this year with Giggle Magazine’s back-to-school guide. From must-have school gear for the kids to reminiscing about our own school trends, this fun guide will help prepare your whole family for another school year.

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29

It is that time of year again, folks. School is in session and it is time to begin the long financial journey of getting these kiddos through another year of school. Beyond the clothes and books, there are many arenas that will be emptying that wallet. So, we wanted to ease you into it as slowly as we could and get you prepared! We have made a list of the common costs associated with the school year and the average amount of money you may spend for each one. Good luck!

Book fairs....................................................................... $10 and up Class birthday party supplies........................................... $10–$40 Class holiday party supplies........................................ $10–$25 Class rings ............................................................................ $200–$500 Club participation fees/dues/supplies ………………… $5–$75 College applications………………………………………………… $30 each and up Costumes for plays....................................................... $10–$50 Field trips (possibly three to four per year).................. $10 and up Grad Bash at Universal Studios Orlando.................... $75 per ticket Laptop……………………………………………………………………... $200–$1500 Letterman jacket………………………………………………… $200 and up Locker adornment……………………………………………………. $10 Mid-year school supply replenishment...................... $5–$40 Musical instrument rental (recorders/ukulele)........... $7–$30 Prom/Homecoming attire, dinner, transportation ....... $100–$1,000 PTA dues................................................................................ $5 and up Safety patrol expenses (belt/Washington D.C. trip)..... $5–$1,000 SAT exam .............................................................................. $46–$60 SAT II exams………………………………………………………. $26 and up School carnivals/car washes............................................. $5–$25 School fundraisers........................................................ $10 and up School lunches (to buy at school)…………………………… $3 each, on average School photo packages................................................ $20–$200 School spirit attire…………………………………………………… $20 and up School supplies………………………………………………….. $25–$200 School T-shirts...................................................................... $5 and up Science fair project materials………………………………. $10–$30 Senior class trip ................................................................... $500 and up Senior photo packages ................................................ $5–$500 Sporting events ………………………………………………………. $5 and up Sports equipment ………………………………………………. $50 and up Sports physical..................................................................... $25 Teacher appreciation/end-of-the-year gifts..………... $5–$30 Teacher holiday gifts........................................................... $15–$50 Valentine’s gifts for friends…………………………………. $10–$25 Yearbook................................................................................ $20–$100

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We asked Giggle readers what they remembered as the big back-to-school trends back when they were students. Here is what they said!

– Amanda Gleason

“Gel pens!”

“Beanie babies”

“Pokemon cards, pogs, nano pets, trolls!”

– Angel Hilchey

“Slap bracelets and homemade friendship bracelets and pins!

Oh, and Slam books!”

– Jennifer Gomez – Ana McTiernan

– Shawna Mansfield

“Garbage Pail Kids”

“Friendship pins” – Leslie Costello

– Nicole Taft

– Misty J Penley

“Lisa Frank everything”

“Butterfly clips, Tamagotchi for sure — those little pets were a distraction!”

“Jelly shoes, jelly bracelets and swatch watches!!!”

“Pogs and polly pockets”

–Amy Mathewson Selph

– Julie Griffis

“Smelly stickers and pencils”

– Kathy D. Anderson

“Slap bracelets! I remember when they banned them from school.”

– Lauren Herchel

“Hypercolor shirts” – Karen Miner

5.

1.

6.

looking too cool

FOR SCHOOL Make sure your child is ready for the first day of school with these trendy backpacks and cute supplies!

2.

4.

7.

3.

B Dabbawalla Ditty Bag, $10, Dabbawallabags.com. C Trans™ by JanSport Super Cool Backpack in Tropic Gold Multi, $44.99, Target and Target.com. D Disney Princess Stainless Steel Water Bottle - Belle, $14.99, Zak.com. E YoobiTM Donut Tape Dispenser with Frosting Stickers, $5.99, Target and Target.com. F Yoobi™ Ice Cream Erasers, 3 pack, $2.99, Target and Target.com.

G Yoobi™ Pretty Paper Clips, 6 Pack in Gold, $2.49, Target and Target.com. H Marcus & Marcus Insulated Lunch Backpack, $24.99, Amazon.com. I Ziplt Monster Binder Pencil Case, $6.99, Target and Target.com.

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look ! e insid

9.

16.

8.

12.

15.

10.

13.

14.

11.

J Fiskars Sports Kids’ Scissors Blunt or Pointed Tip, $3.99 each, Target and Target.com. K Dabbawalla Shark Backpack, $42, Dabbawallabags.com. L SoYoung Raw Linen Grey Robot Toddler Backpack, $40, Us.soyoung.ca and Little Jill & Co. M DC Comics Batman Water Bottle with Loop, $9.99, Zak.com. N Dabbawalla Miss Kitty Lunch Bag, $30, Dabbawallabags.com. O Cat & Jack™ 9.5” Lunch Kit in Crayons, $12.99, Target and Target.com. P Snack in the Box, $9.99, Drinkinthebox.com. Q Cat & Jack™ 18” Backpack in Grey Space, $22.99, Target and Target.com

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GIGGLE STAFF SCHOOL PHOTOS

back when...

We've shared our school photos, now we want to see yours! Send your child's first day of school photo for the 2017 school year to colleen@irvingpublications.com for a chance to be featured in Giggle Magazine!

Allison Raber Kindergarten

Nicole Irving

Kindergarten

Shane Irving

Lynnsy Jones

Alicia Jaurequi

Third Grade

Fourth Grade

Kindergarten

High School Junior

High School Senior

April Tisher

Alison Walker

Trace Ferguson

Sayeh Farah

Colleen McTiernan

Claire Stortz

Preschool

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Emily Purvis

Kindergarten

gigglemagazine.com | august/sep tember 2017

Second Grade

Second Grade

Kindergarten

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Monday, August 7 – Friday, August 11

Pre-Planning (5 weekdays) First Day for Students

Monday, August 14

Holiday - Labor Day

Monday, September 4

Send Interim Reports Home

Wednesday, September 20

Holiday – UF Homecoming

Friday, October 6

End of First Nine Weeks

Tuesday, October 17 Friday, October 20

Teacher Workday/Pupil Holiday

Friday, October 27

Send Report Cards Home

Friday, November 10

Holiday – Veterans Day

Monday, November 20 - Tuesday, November 21

Pupil/Teacher Holidays

Wednesday November 22 – Friday November 24

Thanksgiving Holiday Send Interim Reports Home

Friday, December 1

* Wednesday, December 20 – Tuesday, January 2 Monday, December 18 – Tuesday, December 19

Flex Day/Pupil/Teacher Holiday Winter Holidays (10 weekdays) Classes Resume

Wednesday, January 3

End of First Semester

Friday, January 12 Monday, January 15

Holiday - ML King Day

Tuesday, January 16

Pupil Holiday / Teacher Workday Begin Second Semester

Wednesday, January 17

Send Report Cards Home

Thursday, January 25

Send Interim Reports Home

Wednesday, February 21

End of Third Nine Weeks

Wednesday, March 21 Monday, March 26 - Friday, March 30

Spring Holidays (5 weekdays)

April 2 * Monday, Monday, April 9

Teacher Workday/Pupil Holiday

Thursday, May 3

Send Interim Reports Home

Monday, May 28

Holiday - Memorial Day

Send Report Cards Home

Last Day for Students

Friday, June 1 Monday, June 4

Post-Planning

Tuesday, June 5

Post-Planning

be used to make up days cancelled due to hurricanes or other emergencies. * These days MAY For the 2017-18 calendar, they will be used in the following order: (1) December 18 (2) December 19 (3) April 2

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gigglemagazine.com | august/sep tember 2017

Math Help

Math Enrichment

Test Prep

Homework Help

Mathnasium of Gainesville, FL

(352) 519-4369

mathnasium.com/gainesvillefl Tower Square next to Publix 5835 SW 75th St., Gainesville, FL

gigglemagazine.com | august/sep tember 2017

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health | get moving

Preventing Sports Injuries in Kids

BY TRACE FERGUSON

Summer break is just about over, which means that your kids are gearing up to start the new school year! It also means that moms are running around in a frenzy trying to get everything on the school supply list. But, there are some things that you may not be prepared for. If your child is involved in sports or athletic clubs, there is always a risk of getting injured.

You should be as prepared as possible to prevent injuries, but it is also important to know what to do if your child does get injured this sports season.

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Preventing injuries According to the Nemours Foundation, kids younger than 8 years old are prone to injury because of their slower reaction time and underdeveloped coordination. But, older kids are also prone to injury since the force with which they play their respective sports is greater. Thankfully, there are a few measures that parents can take that can prevent injuries!

1

The first and probably most obvious precautionary measure is to use proper equipment. You should ask your child’s coach about all the gear she needs for her sport, such as helmets, mouth guards, athletic cups, padding, etc. Make sure that the equipment fits your child properly as ill-fitting gear can cause unnecessary injury. For example, shoes that fit poorly can cause shin splints, fractures or blisters. You should also talk to your doctor about shatterproof eyewear or contacts if your child wears glasses.

2

Before the season begins, take your kiddo to her doctor for a pre-participation physical exam to get an assessment of your child’s general health and physical condition before starting a sport. According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, sports physicals help identify any areas of concern for athletes, and can help prevent them from further injuring themselves if they have a condition that needs to be treated.

3

Stretching before playing is also crucial to preventing injuries.

Warmups before practice or the big game will help loosen up your child’s muscles and get her ready to play! Johns Hopkins Medicine advises that your athlete does both static and dynamic stretches. Static stretches involve holding the same position for a period of time, like touching your toes for 30 seconds, while dynamic stretches involve moving the body, like in jumping jacks.

Continued on page 4 0

The convenience of 13 primary care locations.

The expertise of UF Health.

We’ve grown to meet the needs of our community, which means easy access to the highestquality primary care for you and every member of your family. From checkups and annual physicals to management of complex and multiple health concerns, we’re here for you every step of the way. And we offer evening and weekend appointments to fit your busy schedule.

FIND THE LOCATION CLOSEST TO YOU UFHealth.org/primarycare Children: 352.265.2222 • Adults: 352.265.1234

Pediatric Primary Care • Family Medicine • Internal Medicine gigglemagazine.com | august/sep tember 2017

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Continued f rom page 38

WHAT TO DO IF YOUR ATHLETE IS INJURED Despite taking precautionary steps, sometimes injury is unavoidable. As a parent, it is important to keep your cool and take your little athlete to get examined by a doctor as soon as possible. Even if an injury seems minor, it is best to play it safe and see a doctor. According to the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, some of the most common injuries across all sports are sprains and strains, concussions, overuse injuries and growth plate injuries.

SPRAINS

After visiting the doctor, you can help your athlete’s sprain or strain with the RICE formula.

R I C E

Rest.

Do not use the injured body part! This will only delay the healing process.

Ice.

Place ice wrapped in a bag or towel on the injury to help reduce swelling within the first 48 hours. Your child can ice her injury every few hours for 30 minutes at a time until the swelling is gone.

Compress.

Leave your injury wrapped in whatever the doctor provided. After bathing, be sure your child takes care to re-wrap her injury when she is completely dry.

Elevate.

Elevate. This is especially true for ankle sprains. Be sure that your little one keeps her foot elevated when sitting or lying down.

CONCUSSIONS

Concussions are most common in sports like football, ice hockey, soccer, lacrosse and wrestling. According to the NCAA, females are twice as likely to get concussions in soccer, three times more likely to get them in softball (compared to baseball) and twice as likely to get them in basketball than men are. However, it can sometimes be difficult to tell if your child does have a concussion. According to Mayo Clinic, some symptoms of concussions to watch for are persistent headaches or neck pains, difficulty remembering or concentrating, slowness in talking or thinking, getting easily lost or confused, and nausea. Upon noticing these symptoms, take your athlete to a hospital right away to seek treatment.

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OVERUSE INJURIES

Overuse injuries occur from the overuse of a specific body part.

According to the Nemours Foundation, some examples of overuse injuries include swimmer’s shoulder, shin splints, little league elbow, anterior knee pain, etc. For these types of injuries, the RICE method is usually most effective, although sometimes a cast or crutches may be necessary.

GROWTH PLATE INJURIES

Last but certainly not least, growth plate injuries can occur after an accident on the field. The National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases classifies the growth plate as the area of “developing tissue at the end of the long bones in growing children and teens.” When the growth plate is fully developed, it is replaced by a hardened bone. If not treated, an injured growth plate can lead to crooked bones, shortened limbs or arthritis. Since they are still growing, growth plates are the weakest part of the skeleton. The long bones affected with this type of injury include the ones in hands and fingers, both bones in our forearms, bones in the upper and lower leg, and foot bones. For these types of injuries, get professional help as your child may need to see an orthopedic surgeon depending on the severity of the injury.

There is always a chance of getting hurt with any physical activity, but this risk should not stop your child from getting active! The best thing you can do as a parent is be informed so that you know what to do if an injury occurs.

!

*This information does not replace medical advice from your doctor.

CELEBRATE

UST!

WITH US RECEIVE

A PRIMARY BREAST AUGMENTATION COMPLETED IN AUGUST! FOR A FREE CONSULT (352) 332-1150

call today

OR VISIT DRTYRONE.COM gigglemagazine.com | august/sep tember 2017

41

l health | get healthy

Bug Off! Finding the right insect repellent for your family

feel or unpleasant odor. The only issue with picaridin is that, unlike DEET, it is relatively new so long-term health risks have not been studied.

BY APRIL TISHER

IR3535 (Insect Repellent 3535) is also relatively new to the U.S., having been developed by Merck in the ‘80s and registered with the EPA in the U.S. in 1999. It is a synthesized plant oil, which allows it to be considered a natural option.

In Florida, we don’t ever have a season that is truly bug free, however, we do have times that are buggier than others. Mosquitoes and ticks are the most popular annoyances, but we are also home to flies, ants, bees and chiggers to name a few. Besides being a nuisance, they can also carry diseases, so it is important to do your best to protect yourself and your children from getting bitten.

You have probably heard the usual advice: avoid going outdoors right before sunrise and at sunset, wear long pants and long sleeves, and use bug spray. There is an array of choices when it comes to buying insect repellent though, so what should you consider when purchasing one? The Environmental Protection Agency recommends that you first consider what exactly you need protection from. For those biting bugs like mosquitos and ticks, you need something with DEET or a similar compound.

DEET has been the most commonly recognized insect repellent since it was developed by the U.S. Army in 1946. It is highly effective at preventing insect bites for a long duration of time (up to eight to 10 hours in some concentrations), but it has an unpleasant smell and is greasy to the touch. When used as directed, it is deemed safe for long-term use by the EPA. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that children older than 2 months use a repellent with 10 to 30 percent DEET.

Some sources suggest natural or chemical-free options, such as eucalyptus, lemongrass, tea tree, lemon essential oils or the more well-known citronella. Since these natural options are not registered by the EPA, they are not evaluated for effectiveness in the same way as other products. A Consumer Reports study found that most were not as effective in repelling insects.

Pediatrician Dr. Phalyka Oum stressed that no matter what type of bug spray you are using, good coverage is the key. Only spray the areas not covered with clothing and be sure to wash it off when coming indoors for the day. Of course, as with any topical, some people may experience mild skin reactions after using any form of insect repellent.

Don’t settle for welts and itching being a part of spending time outdoors. There are safe and effective ways to protect against insect bites and the potential diseases they can carry!

Picaridin, also known as icaridin or by the commercial name Bayrepel, was originally developed by Bayer in the ‘80s, but has only been approved for use in the U.S. since 2005. It is as effective in repelling mosquitoes as DEET without the greasy

Bugging out?

If you are worried about sensitive skin and do not want to use traditional repellents, there are other options. Thermacell is a pocket-sized unit that essentially warms up pads soaked in a repellent that will provide protection from mosquitoes and flies for several hours. OFF also makes clip-on fans that can be used to repel mosquitoes for up to 12 hours.

Try one of these insect repellents!

OFF!® FamilyCare Insect Repellent II (Clean Feel)

$14, Avon.com

This formula uses picaridin to create a repellent that is virtually odorless and nongreasy.

gigglemagazine.com | august/sep tember 2017

$5.99, Target

Cutter® Backwoods Insect Repellent (Aerosol) $4.19, Walmart and Walmart.com

With 25 percent DEET, this repellent protects for up to 10 hours.

Photos courtesy of manufacturer.

Skin So Soft Bug Guard Plus IR3535® Gentle Breeze™ SPF 30 Lotion This combination sunscreen and insect repellent uses IR3535 and is recommended

by Dr. Oum.

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Non-topical Options

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health | get moving

Fit and Fun How to get the Whole Family More Active

BY CHRISTOPHER PREGONY, BS, CSCS

Doing activities as a family is a great way to bring everyone closer while getting the exercise we all desperately need. What you can do for activities largely depends on the age of your kids. As kids get older, the spectrum of activities they can participate in expands immensely. Tired of the same old routine? Here are some fun ideas to get everyone active together that are perfect for warm summer weekends!

Water balloon fight

Remember how fun it was to run around and peg your siblings with water balloons?

Water balloon fights are a great way to get the heart pumping with the family while making memories that will last a lifetime.

Get a few big buckets or coolers, a whole bunch of balloons and let the fun begin!

Waterslide kickball

This is the ultimate in family or neighborhood fun. It does require some set up and supplies, but is well worth it. The four bases are kiddie pools and the base lines are tarps that connect the bases. You will need stakes to hold the tarps down. It requires dish soap to make it extra slippery and, of course, a kickball! All the rules of kickball apply, but you have to jump in the kiddie pool to be considered safe. It is a lot of fun and quite the workout — talk about two birds with one stone!

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Fruit picking

There are several farms in the area that allow for picking. Blueberries, strawberries and apples are just a few of the options. It teaches kids where their food comes from and gives the food more value just from the effort it takes to pick. Plus, you will all get a good walk in as you search for the perfect fruits and berries.

Geocaching

Think of this as a high-tech treasure hunt.

Use a GPS receiver and a set of clues or coordinates to find a cache of hidden goodies that other geocachers have left behind. If you take your find home, be sure to bring something else with you to leave behind for future geocachers. This is a great way to put a fun spin on traditional hiking.

gigglemagazine.com | AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017

Photography

For those of you who have kids that are a little bit older, snapping pictures of nature can be a great activity for kids. It allows them to become more aware of their surroundings and gives them a chance to express their artistic side, all while giving them an excuse to get exploring outdoors. Take your kiddos on a hike to find that perfect photo of the springs, or go for an early morning walk to get pictures of the sunrise. You can get a few disposable cameras or some cheaper digital ones so everyone can participate.

Taking the time to be active as a family should be high on your list of priorities.

These types of activities are sure to build stronger family bonds while helping to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

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health | get pretty

Bad Hair Day? Not Anymore!

BY COLLEEN MCTIERNAN AND NICOLE IRVING

Let’s be honest. The start of the school year is a hectic time. Between adjusting to the school day schedules and all of those extracurricular activities, sometimes we just do not have enough time in the day to dedicate to ourselves.

Whether this means fewer showers or less time to groom, your hair is likely to suffer.

1 2 3 4

It’s a 10 Miracle Leave-In Product $18.52, Itsa10haircare.com Spray this leave-in treatment on towel-dried hair to enhance the natural body of your hair and add shine.

Alterna Haircare Bamboo Beach Tousled Texture Spray $22, Alternahaircare.com, Sephora and Ulta Use this product texturizing spray on damp or dry hair to give your hair volume and an effortlessly wavy texture.

Alterna Haircare Bamboo Beach Balm Air Dry $22, Alternahaircare.com, Sephora and Ulta Apply this styling cream to towel-dried hair for frizz-free definition and a lovely shine.

Garnier Fructis Style Smooth Blow-Dry $4.29, Garnierusa, drugstores nationwide Give yourself an easy, at-home blowout with this frizz-taming cream. Simply apply to your hair and blow dry!

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With these 13 products, you will be able to keep your hair clean and shiny with minimal effort, just what every momma needs to conquer the school year!

5 6 7

Garnier Fructis Sleek & Shine Zero Leave-In Smoothing Spray $6.99, Garnierusa, drugstores nationwide After shampooing and conditioning, spritz your damp hair with this smoothing spray to smooth out your hair and give it weightless movement.

Garnier Fructis Damage Eraser Liquid Strength Treatment with Protein $6.99, Garnierusa, drugstores nationwide Give your damaged hair a facelift with this daily leave-in or overnight protein treatment.

It’s a 10 Miracle Whipped Styling Balm $25.73, Itsa10haircare.com Nourish damaged hair while smoothing frizz and improving elasticity with this light styling balm.

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8 9 10 11 13 12 Kerastase Paris Aura Botanica Essence D’Eclat

$43, Kerastase-usa.com Made with jojoba, avocado, coconut and argan oils, this moisturizing mist boosts your hair’s softness and glow.

Kerastase Paris Aura Botanica Concentre Essentiel

$58, Kerastase-usa.com Before you hop in the shower, run this product through your hair to boost its softness and shine.

Kerastase Paris Aura Botanica Bain Micellaire

$43, Kerastase-usa.com The 96 percent natural origin formula of this shampoo removes dirt and impurities and revitalizes dull hair.

Kerastase Paris Aura Botanica Soin Fondamental

"I thought the pre-shampoo clay mask definitely made a difference in absorbing my hair's excess oil.

I tried the mask before bed and washed and blow dried my hair afterward. The next morning my hair was noticeably less oily and, furthermore, it stayed that way throughout the day!"

-Michelle R.

$45, Kerastase-usa.com This lightweight conditioner deeply nourishes your hair while helping to tame frizz.

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$13.99, CVS Use this mask after shampooing to protect your dry hair and give it a smooth texture.

After four minutes, simply rinse and then use your conditioner as usual.

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gigglemagazine.com | august/sep tember 2017

L’Oreal Paris Hair Expert Extraordinary Clay Pre-Shampoo Mask $6.99, Lorealparisusa.com, drugstores nationwide Have oily hair? This pre-shampoo mask is designed to absorb oil and purify the scalp, leaving you with a longlasting clean.

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health | get pretty

Freshly Blended

BY COLLEEN MCTIERNAN AND NICOLE IRVING

 EcoTools Color Perfecting Minis $7.99, Ulta and Ulta.com These color-coded sponges are designed to be used with their corresponding color correcting concealers for an even complexion.  L’Oreal Paris Infallible Blend Artist Contour Blender $7.99, lorealparisusa.com Use the tips of this sponge to draw on your contour and highlight lines, and use the flat sides to blend them in for an expertly sculpted finish.

The world of makeup certainly is a complex one. Gone are the days when picking out a makeup brush was limited to just a few options. Now the aisles of beauty stores are filled with odd little sponges making it difficult to decide what to put in your basket. Whether you are looking for an applicator to help you achieve a contour that would make Kim Kardashian jealous or just want something simple for your everyday look, these sponges are great tools to help get you started on your base makeup.

 The Original BeautyBlender $20, Sephora and Sephora.com The structure of this blender prevents products from being absorbed into the sponge when damp, giving you a streakfree finish without wasting all of your foundation or primer.  Flower Ultimate 3-in-1 Blending Sponge $10, Flowerbeauty.com Use the tip of this sponge to apply around the eyes and nose, the flat teardrop surface for contouring and the cupped base to seamlessly buff foundation.

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he Use t rs e blend dry r wet o ooth m for a s ation. c i l p ap

 Real Techniques Miracle Diamond Sponge $9.99, Ulta and Ulta.com This multifaceted sponge is designed to work on different areas of your face — the larger flat sides can be used to apply makeup to your forehead and cheeks, while the smaller flat sides are designed to be used around the eyes, mouth and brow bone.  Jane Iredale Flocked Sponge $5.50, Janeiredale.com This soft sponge is ideal for sensitive skin and can be used to gently apply both powder and liquid foundation.

To clean your makeup sponge: Dampen sponge, lather with soap and rinse under warm running water. Lay out to dry.

4 2 1 6 50

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Let's play

...and we don't mean music!

BY APRIL TISHER | PHOTOS BY SINCERELY GONE PHOTOGRAPHY SPECIAL THANKS TO TALBOT ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

Six years ago, my children and their schoolmates suddenly went gaga for something called gaga ball. The focal point of their recess stories were play-by-plays of that day’s gaga ball winner. At the time, I had no idea what gaga ball was, but this game’s popularity has only grown!

homas Cowart, director of construction and maintenance for Alachua County Public Schools, said that the first gaga pit to be installed by the school district was at Camp Crystal in 2007. The game was observed by the previous director at a camp up north, and he thought it would be a hit here.

He was right, and it took off from there.

To date, 12 elementary schools and two middle schools in the area currently have gaga pits, in addition to one at Camp Crystal and those at afterschool programs.

Although we can thank Alachua County Schools for the local obsession with the installation of gaga pits, it is hardly a new game and it is not native to the area.

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Gaga translated literally is Hebrew for “touch, touch.” The game is believed to have originated in Israel in the ‘70s and was brought to the U.S. by Israeli summer camp instructors. At first glance the game looks a little like dodgeball, though not as rough.

It is played in an octagonal or hexagonal area called the gaga pit. There is no hitting above the waist and the ball is a softer, smaller version of your standard dodgeball.

It is a fast-paced game, and the players get a pretty good workout. It can be played as an individual or team game by players of any skill level or age. It involves running, jumping and striking a single ball with the hands. The winner is the last man standing after all other participants have gotten “out,” which, as in dodgeball, occurs when

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you are hit by the ball. It does typically need a moderator or referee because the games can get pretty competitive!

Installing an official gaga pit can be costly, anywhere from $500–$5,000 depending on the material, size and shape you are looking for. You can also build your own gaga ball pit, just be sure to use pressure treated lumber. Or you can purchase a kit and plans online. There are portable options available for spaces that cannot serve as a dedicated gaga pit. The floor or ground surface of the pit is usually concrete and needs to be smooth and free of debris. If built properly, a gaga pit can provide hours of fun and exercise for people of all ages for years to come. So, go gaga!

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GAGA PIT

GAGA BALL

5+ PLAYERS

"What do you like about gaga ball?"

"It's a really fun sport and I get to hang out with a lot of new people. [My brother] taught me how to play gaga ball and I forgive him for anything he's done mean to me" -Samantha

As taken from Gagaballpit.com

Designate a referee (non-player). The referee is the sole authority during play and is responsible for ensuring fair play and settling disputes.

"When I win."

-Nicholas

The referee begins play only after all players are standing in the gaga court and have indicated that they are ready to start the game. Many require the players to be touching the gaga pit prior to starting the game.

One player tosses the ball up in the air. Players yell "Ga" on the first bounce and "Ga" again on the second bounce, and the ball is then in play.

Players hit the ball with their hands only and may not carry or throw the ball — it must be punched or hit with a hand or fist.

Only one successive hit is allowed by each player.

Any player who is touched by the ball below the knees (or waist), either directly or by a rebound off the wall, is “out” and must exit the gaga pit. If the ball contacts the player above the waist, the player is still in.

If the ball goes out of the gaga pit, the last player to touch the ball is eliminated.

If a player catches the ball before it bounces, the player who had the last contact with the ball is eliminated.

Once the player hits the ball, he or she must wait until the ball touches someone else before hitting it again (no double touches). Only one successive hit is allowed by each player, until there are only two players left, then up to three successive touches are allowed by a player.

the winner is the last man standing after all other participants have gotten “out”

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"Everybody focuses on soccer and football and golf and stuff, and Gaga is a sport that's right out of the ordinary."

-Nathan

"It's a fun game that you can play with your classmates during recess."

-Emma

"It's a fun game and I like the competition."

-Ethan

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happy home | make it

B e s u re m a k to m in im e a d ra in a u m o f 5 g e h o le s.

Planter Pails by allison raber

Calling all green-thumbed gardeners! Have you been looking for a fun way to brighten up your entryway? Well look no further! These quick do-ityourself hanging planters are the perfect way to complete your garden.

Tips & Tricks

Remember to choose plants that grow out instead of up. Tall plants will have difficulty thriving in this type of planter.

Supplies • 2 metal pails, about 8 inches in diameter • 2 coco liners, sized to fit your pail • Mini chain, cut into three 8-inch lengths

Choose plants with a strong scent such as lemon thyme or citronella to help serve as a natural mosquito repellent.

• 8 mini S-hooks

Think about where you'd like to place your planters before purchasing any flowers. Select plants that will flourish in the available sunlight or shade.

• Potting soil

• Pliers • Ice pick • Flowers or plants of your choice • 2 shepherd’s hooks • Safety goggles

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Directions Step 1 Using the icepick, punch five holes in the bottom of each metal pail. These will allow any excess water to drain out, helping to prevent waterlogged plants. At equal intervals, use the ice pick to punch three holes around the top of the pail, just under the lip.

Step 2 Place the coco liner in the bottom of the pail and fill the pail about halfway with potting soil. Repot your flower or plant in the pail. Add more soil to the pail until it is just about full.

Step 3 Loop an S-hook through the hole in the top of the pail and attach a chain.

Clamp to secure with the pliers. Repeat for the other two holes. Use a single S-hook to connect the ends of all three chains together and clamp to secure. The pail will hang from this hook.

Step 4 Place the shepherds hook in your chosen location and hang your planter pail. Water and watch your hanging garden flourish!

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happy home | fix it

Salvaging Old Clothes

BY TRACE FERGUSON

We all have old clothes that we don’t wear as much as we used to. Sometimes the clothes are visibly worn down or sometimes they are just no longer in style. Either way, they usually end up collecting dust in the back of our closets. I like to think of this part of the closet as the clothing graveyard; once my clothes go there, they will never see the light of day again. So, what do you do with these longlost clothes? There are two options: fix them or toss them.

Consolidate your neglected clothes in “keep” and “get rid of ” piles. For the clothes that you are keeping, analyze their condition. It is common for worn clothes to have pilling, missing buttons or discoloration. Luckily, most of these problems can be fixed!

PILLED CLOTHING Pilled clothing can be annoying because you cannot lint-roll or pick off the fluff balls without possibly pulling threads. To fix this, take a disposable shaving razor and lay your garment down on a flat surface. Make sure to stretch the pilled area tight with one hand while using the razor to shave off the fluff with the other. Go over all the pilled areas on the clothing until it has no more visible balls of fluff !

MISSING BUTTONS For clothing with missing buttons, you will need some thread that matches the current stitching color on the clothing item.

Hopefully you kept the fallen button, but if not, your local fabric store is sure to have a variety of similar buttons (and hopefully

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a 40 percent off coupon as well). With a threaded needle, weave the thread through the button hole(s) in a secure manner and then stitch the button back on its original spot on the garment.

FADED DYE With enough washes, dye in clothing will fade over time. Thankfully, most black clothing is completely salvageable! You can purchase black powder dye from your local craft store to revive your washed-out clothes.

If your garment is made from cotton, linen, silk, rayon or nylon, then it will receive dye well. Unfortunately, 100 percent polyester or spandex clothing will not receive dye well, so you should avoid dying those items. To start the dyeing process, fill a bucket with very hot water. In a separate container, mix more hot water with the appropriate amount of black dye powder according to the package instructions. Mix the powder and water with a utensil that you do not mind staining. Pour the dye in the hot water-filled bucket and then submerge your garment in the mixture for up to an hour. Rinse the garment in warm water and then hang dry.

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DISCOLORATION Deodorant stains are also a culprit of discoloration in light and dark clothing alike. There are several remedies that can banish these stains from your clothes. Mix four tablespoons of baking soda and ¼ cup of warm water together until it becomes a paste. Then, rub a good amount of the paste on the stained area and make sure that it absorbs into the fabric. Let it sit for 30 minutes to an hour and then wash like normal. If the stain is still visible after washing, try grinding up three Aspirin pills and mixing them with ½ cup of warm water. Submerge the stained item in the mix and let it sit for two to three hours.

After, wash the garment like normal. Aspirin contains salicylic acid, which is useful for removing stains.

We can tend to give up on clothes that have imperfections or show signs of wear.

Hopefully, these tips will inspire you to revive your old clothes and make them (almost) new again. This will also help extend the life of your wardrobe and save you money on buying new clothes in the future!

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happy home | clean it

Making Homework Feel Less Like Work

BY OLIVIA K. PITKETHLY, MA, LMHC | PHOTO COURTESY OF OLIVIA K. PITKETHLY

Welcome back to school! New teachers, new friends, new activities!

Why not create a new space for your kiddo to continue to enhance his learning experience?

According to “Homework In America,” a 2014 Brown Center Report on American Education, homework for students in grades 3 through twelve takes an average of one hour per night and rarely exceeds two hours per night. I doubt they factored in the time it takes to actually get your child to sit down and complete his homework! Nevertheless, you can help him make his space a little more inviting with these ideas.

THE RIGHT TIME When does your child prefer to do his homework? (I can hear my own children shout “Never!” as I write this.)

Right after school? Before dinner?

After a shower? Recognize the time that your child feels most refreshed and clear-headed and have him tackle his assignments then. Some children may even benefit from breaking up their homework. They can tackle one subject at a time, taking breaks in between to eat dinner, shower, do extracurricular activities, etc.

No-distraction zone Your child should have a designated space free of distractions to complete his homework. The kind of space a child needs may depend on what grade level he is in. Elementary schoolers may need to be in a more central location so parents can easily offer assistance while attending to their own responsibilities, while students in middle or high school may do better with a more secluded space. Make sure the TV, phone and other electronics are out of sight, aside from a computer if needed.

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Giving your child a space of his own can help contribute to homework success!

Exercise in creativity If you want the space to be more inviting, enlist your child’s help. Help him to find his favorite place in the house, whether it is the kitchen table, his room or a sunny spot on the patio. Decorate the area with a splash of his favorite color. If he has chosen a common area in the house, create a mobile homework station for him. Transform a plain plastic filing cabinet on wheels by adding colorful contact paper on the top and funky labels for each drawer. You can also convert a few IKEA spice racks into decorative bookshelves by painting them and arranging them on the wall.

Finding the right supplies Have an ample supply of pens, pencils, erasers, highlighters, markers and paper in the designated homework area. For older children, keep a dictionary and thesaurus handy, especially if the space is free of nonessential electronics. If your child needs to use a tablet or computer, be sure to keep the chargers in an easily accessible space. Pin

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up a calendar to help your child remember important due dates or test days. Or, if your child would benefit from an even larger visual cue, consider creating your own corkboard calendar. Using ribbon, you can section the board off into a grid pattern with seven rows. Label each row with its corresponding weekday and pin up colorful reminders as needed.

Repurpose old furniture When my son was entering elementary school, I inherited my late grandfather’s old writing desk and chair. I painted the desk in one of his favorite colors, lined the drawers with bright contact paper, changed out the hardware to something more modern and added a seat cushion for support. This way, he had his very own homework spot designed just for him. If you prefer not to disturb any of your current furniture, take a trip to a thrift store or a yard sale and give an old piece an update and a new home.

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giggle stamp | products we love

Keep Your Family Safe Carbon Monoxide Detectors

BY COLLEEN MCTIERNAN AND NICOLE IRVING

Every year, more than 20,000 Americans visit the emergency room as a result of unintentional carbon monoxide poisoning and over 400 are fatally poisoned according to the Centers for Disease Control. All gas-powered appliances in your home (gas furnace, stove, hot water heater, generators, etc.) create CO and can contribute to a leak. CO is odorless and colorless, so unless you have a monitor installed in your home, it is unlikely that you would notice it as symptoms of CO poisoning are often mistaken for signs of the flu. While everyone is at risk for CO poisoning, infants are even more susceptible, so it is important that you not only install a CO monitor in your home, but that it alerts you to low levels of CO before it reaches unsafe levels.

1. Nest Protect Smoke + CO Alarm

This combination smoke and CO alarm both speaks to let you know what is wrong (smoke or high levels of CO) and where in the house the issue is, and sends alerts to your phone so everyone in your family knows when there is an emergency. $119, Nest.com

2. First Alert Onelink Environment Monitor

Protect your family from unknowingly inhaling CO with this easy-to-use environment monitor.

When low levels of CO are detected, the LED ring will turn red, and when high levels are detected, a loud siren will sound. Aside from CO levels, the Onelink also monitors temperature and humidity. $99.95, Firstalertstore.com

3. Kidde Nighthawk™ AC Plug-in Operated Carbon Monoxide Alarm with Digital Display This plug-in carbon monoxide alarm uses a digital display to show you the levels of CO detected in your house, from 30 to 999 parts per million. It provides an updated reading every 15 seconds and will sound an 85-decibel alarm when unsafe CO levels are detected. It also features a battery backup to keep you and your family protected during power outages. $43.97, Homedepot.com

How to Prevent Carbon Monoxide Leaks

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Never use a gas stove to heat your house.

Do not leave your car running in your garage.

Ensure that gas appliances are properly vented.

Do not burn charcoal or use camp stoves indoors.

Never use a generator indoors.

Replace CO alarm batteries once a year and test alarms.

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SIGNS OF CARBON MONOXIDE POISONING

!

• Headache • Dizziness • Chest pain • Weakness • Nausea or vomiting • Blurred vision • Confusion

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Success!

Making the Science Fair More Fun for You and Your Kiddo

BY COLLEEN MCTIERNAN | PHOTOS

BY SINCERELY GONE PHOTOGRAPHY

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If your child is still struggling to come up with a topic, consider taking her to a museum, like the Cade or the Florida Museum of Natural History, to see if an exhibit sparks her interest.

SCIENCE

Science fair. Just the thought of these projects can send shivers down some parents’ spines. Although they might seem intimidating for kids and parents alike, the science fair is actually a great time for your kiddo to explore what interests her.

How does the science fair benefit your kiddos?

Aside from teaching the scientific method, science fair projects really force your children to exercise their brains. “The only thing that I think is bad is when you have parents who do the project for the kid,” Patty Lipka, director of experiential education at the Cade Museum for Creativity and Invention, said. Of course, that does not mean that you should not help your little one with her project at all! Parents can certainly help guide their child as she works through her project. Lipka recommends that parents keep their child on track with the goals of the project as per the rubric given by her teacher, but to otherwise try to stand back. “Keep assuring [your] student that I’m going to check your work, but if you’re getting stuck you need to say something,” said Lipka. Of course, make sure that your kiddo does not wait until the night before the project is due to tell you that she is stuck!

How can you help your child come up with a science fair project idea that she is really interested in?

Talk to your child about what she is interested in to help her find a topic that sparks her interest. “If a kid loves to skateboard, have them do it on force and motion, propulsion,” said Lipka. “Your kid likes to cook? Figure out something scientific with cooking, temperatures.”

If your child is interested in Legos, you can have your child build a car, she said. Then take it a step further and figure out how you can make it move. “You gotta give them a little nudge,” she said. “Very few parents actually have the kid who says ‘This is what I want to do,’ and are very disciplined, so that’s where the parent comes in a little bit.”

If your child is still struggling to come up with a topic, consider taking her to a museum, like the Cade or the Florida Museum of Natural History, to see if an exhibit sparks her interest.

You may also try watching a scientific documentary or series, like “NOVA,” or taking a trip over to the Kika Silva Planetarium if space excites her. If it is building and robotics that your child seems to like, take her to a MAKERspace or LEGOspace meeting at the Alachua County Library.

While science fair projects can seem overwhelming, often even more so for parents than children, remember that it is a time to really let your kids explore. “Parents, just take a deep breath, have a real strong cup of coffee, reward yourself with a Hershey bar later if you need chocolate, but just remember … that this too shall pass,” said Lipka. gigglemagazine.com | august/sep tember 2017

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se co n d to Per fec t for d er s! ra g fifth

Science.

Try piquing your elementary schooler's interest in science before the science fair comes around with these fun projects you can do together at home! {Experiment #1}

MINI FIRE EXTINGUISHER THE CADE WAY Courtesy of the Cade Museum

What you'll need: • Digital thermometer

Voila

!!

• Glass/jar • 2 tablespoons baking soda • 2 tablespoons citric acid or Fruit-Fresh Produce Protector

1.

• ½ cup tap water at room temperature • Birthday candles • Modeling clay • Safety goggles What to do next: Use your modeling clay to secure the birthday candles upright to your table.

2.

Combine baking soda and citric acid in jar. Use your digital thermometer to take the temperature of your dry ingredients.

Record the temperature.

Take the temperature of your water. Record the temperature.

Place the thermometer in your jar with the dry ingredients, then pour your water in the jar. Note how the temperature decreases as CO2 forms, creating an endothermic reaction.

Light your candles and bring the jar close to the candles, allowing the CO2 to pour over the candles. Due to the absence of oxygen, the candles will snuff out, creating your own homemade fire extinguisher! *Remember to always supervise children around open flame and chemicals.

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3.

photosy

n t h e s is

{Experiment #2}

1.

DOES LIGHT COLOR AFFECT HOW PLANTS GROW? What you'll need: • Four lamps with full spectrum light bulbs • Clear, blue, green and red cellophane • 4 cardboard boxes

2.

• Tape • Box cutter • 4 seedlings • Ruler • Safety goggles What to do next: Cut a 4-inch hole in the center of one side of each cardboard box using the box cutter.

3.

Cut out a slightly larger circle from each of the cellophane colors. Tape the cellophane over the hole.

Place one plant in each of the four boxes and then place each box under a lamp. Leave the lamps on during the day, but be sure to turn them off when you leave the house or go to sleep! Measure the plant’s growth each day (be sure to water them as directed) for seven days. On the seventh day, check to see if any one plant grew more or less than the others. *Remember to always supervise children while using sharp instruments.

5.

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learn | family learning

Start Off on the Right Foot Don't Let Behavior Disrupt the School Year

BY DANIELLE SPANO

It is back to school time, and for parents of children with a history of behavioral or academic issues, this could be a cause for concern. The Florida Department of Education follows a Multi-Tiered System of Supports that helps to identify students in need of academic or behavioral support. Teachers are to regularly assess students to determine early if a student is falling behind or is having social or behavioral difficulties. This positive behavior support provides instruction and intervention based on each student’s need. As a parent, you may know before the school year even begins that your child needs some assistance to make this year a success, and there are steps you can take to help.

Do not wait for the first day of school to begin your school year routines

A week or two before school starts, make bedtimes and wake up times the same as during the school year to get your child’s internal clock regulated with the school schedule. A 2012 study published by the American Academy of Pediatrics found that sleeping even a half hour more than usual results in a significant improvement in a child’s ability to control their emotions and behavior in school.

Set up a conference with the teacher

If necessary, have a meeting with the teacher alone first to discuss anything sensitive and then have a follow up with your child, as his success depends very heavily on his participation in the solution.

“What is really important is to help the teacher and the child learn that we are all on the same team,” Kathryn Kvols, author of “Redirecting Children’s Behavior” and president of the International Network for Children and Families, said. Talk about what he can expect from the class and the teacher and what will be expected of him. Use this opportunity to ask probing questions of your child and to help him identify his needs in

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the learning environment. He should express his personal needs, such as sitting closer to the front if he typically gets distracted when sitting toward the back. He will be much more forthcoming when given the opportunity to be included in his educational planning. Be sure to discuss his learning style. For example, a kinesthetic learner may need to move around. In this case, the teacher can have him pass things out or find ways to accommodate him without disrupting the class. If unknown, talk to the teacher about different learning styles and see which resonates with your child. Understanding how you learn is the first step to better absorbing information. For instance, linguistic and visual learners, who absorb the information better when seeing the words in writing, may benefit from getting notes from the teacher after a lecture if they do not do well with aural methods. Kvols said that teachers are becoming more accommodating and understand that all students do not learn alike.

Once class is in session, maintain consistency and stay involved

If your peppy pupil is full of energy, have him run around the block or in the backyard to burn off some excess energy before school in the morning. “Some children have an extraordinary need for power, so they end

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up getting into power struggles a lot at home and school,” said Kvols, who holds degrees in psychology, social work and education. “If we find appropriate ways for that child to feel powerful, then that need dissipates.” In this instance, you could satisfy your child’s need for power at home by letting him lead discussions and asking his opinion and advice about family decisions. At school, the teacher can let him pass out the pencils or help clean up the room to let him feel empowered.

Everyone has a role in your child’s success this school year: the teacher, the student, and you as a parent. It can be a successful year if everyone works together to achieve it!

What is really important is to help the teacher and the child learn that we are all on the same team

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learn | featured teacher

Ne w fe at ur e!

Emily Quesenberry • SCHOOL: Meadowbrook nd

• GRADE: 2 • •

Elementary

rd

and 3 SUBJECT(S): Science and Math TEACHING: 12 years

Why were you inspired to teach?

Photos courtesy of Emily Quesenberry.

I think I loved school from my first day as a student. I loved lining up my dolls and stuffed animals and teaching them. I had amazing teachers growing up and always felt called to the classroom.

What is your favorite part of the school day?

I love the little moments before school when you see students in the hallway and they run to give you a hug. I love when students stop by with their parents before the school day just to say hi. I love the quiet moments when students are doing individual work and I can kneel down next to a child to ask about his or her day.

What advice would you give to parents of students starting in your class?

I love what I do! I became a teacher because I love students, and I will fall in love with your child. Trust my education. Trust that I have your child's best interest at heart. If you are confused about something that happens in class, a story your child tells, or an assignment, please ask me about it.

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

This past year, we partnered with our school's fire department to do an egg drop challenge. I loved the look on the students’ faces when they walked outside and realized firefighters would be dropping their creations from the top of the ladder truck.

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

Haha! I have two children of my own, so I don't get to wind down until bedtime.

What do you like to do outside of the classroom?

I love to spend time with my kids. We love to explore, go to Get Air and swim. I also love spending time with my friends talking and meeting a group of teachers at the gym for Zumba.

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What has been your funniest interaction with a student?

We have lots of funny moments when experiments go wrong. This past year, a student dropped the Mentos into a bottle of Diet Coke before I knew what was happening. I spent the rest of the day very sticky from the Diet Coke that covered me from head to toe!

What is your favorite book?

"What was I Scared of?" by Dr. Seuss

r who goes Do you know a teache his students? r above and beyond foo is truly devoted wh r An administrato a better place? to making her schoolnts to know!

Giggle Magazine wa e.com to submit Visit Gigglemagazin or for a chance for your favorite educat ured in one of our him or her to be feat upcoming issues.

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learn | your schools

Everyone is Heading Back to School What is new with SBAC?

BY APRIL TISHER

The 2017–2018 Alachua County Public School year kicks off for students returning to the classroom on August 14 under some significant leadership changes. Replacing the yearlong interim superintendent of schools, Sandra Hollinger, will be the new superintendent of schools, Karen Clarke. Clarke was previously the deputy superintendent, and was named the new superintendent of Alachua County Public Schools in May of this year. While she is new to the position, she is not a new face in the schools. Clarke has been serving the district for over 25 years as a teacher, dean, assistant principal, principal, director of secondary curriculum and assistant superintendent of curriculum prior to her most recent appointment. “I am honored to serve as superintendent of this great school district,” said Clarke. “It is truly a privilege to be able to give back to a community and school system that positively impacted my own life.”

Taking over the deputy superintendent role vacated by Clarke will be Donna Jones.

Jones has 34 years of experience with the school system here, beginning with teaching at Eastside High and working through the system as a dean, assistant principal, principal and at the district level since 2013.

Filling Jones’ position as the executive director of curriculum and school improvement will be Jennie Wise. Wise was an assistant principal at Westwood Middle School and principal at Kanapaha Middle School for 15 years. She most recently served in the role of executive director of school supervision.

In addition to these personnel changes, parents will be happy to know that the volunteer application process will be done

all online this year, in hopes to streamline the Raptor process. Also, the Infinite Campus grade system (and accompanying parent app) is being replaced by a new system called Skyward. Skyward is already used by more than 25 school districts in the state.

Public elementary schools in the county usually hold their meet the teacher times on the Friday before school (August 11) begins with middle and high schools having theirs on the Thursday (August 10) prior. Check Sbac.edu for more details on those dates as well as open house events that will occur within the first month of school. From there you can also access your child’s specific school’s website with information on school supplies, lunch accounts and more. *Information updated as of print date.

New principals this coming fall!

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Terwilliger Elementary

Ashlea Zeller served as assistant principal for the past year at Terwilliger Elementary and at Lake Forest Elementary prior to that.

Chiles Elementary

Cory Tomlinson comes from five years as principal at Archer Elementary School.

Alachua Elementary

Heather Harbour was the assistant principal at High Springs Community School for the past four years.

Archer Elementary

Stella Arduser served as assistant principal for the past two years as Santa Fe High School and at P.K. Yonge before that.

Littlewood Elementary

Justin Russell comes from 10 years at Kanapaha Middle School as a teacher, dean and assistant principal.

Duval Early Childhood Academy

Catherine Barnes previously served as an assistant principal and principal in the Duval County Public Schools, as the associate director of the Pathways Academy of Florida State College in Jacksonville, and as executive director of school supervision.

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conception2college™

expecting Forget Me Not

infant | 0-1 Hello, Baby!

toddler | 2-3 Ready and Able

Photo by Kristen White Photography

early years | 4-5 Hands Are for Playing

kids | 6-9 Rub a Dub

tweens | 10-1 3 Middle School Success!

Teens | 14-18 Promoting a Healthy Body Image

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c2c | expecting {PREGNANCY}

Forget Me Not

How pregnancy affects more than just your figure!

BY NICOLE IRVING

It has been nine years since I gave birth to my last son, but sometimes I still feel as though I still have “pregnancy brain.” Also called “baby brain,” “mommy brain,” or “momnesia,” pregnancy brain refers to the common issue among expecting and new mothers of having a difficult time recalling of familiar things and feeling very scatterbrained and foggy. Of course, this is nothing to be alarmed about, but in the meantime, you still need to remember important things, like where you parked your car at the grocery store!

According to Scientific American, about 80 percent of new mothers report issues with their memory.

Although more research is still needed to determine what the exact cause of this memory loss is, it is believed that the radical hormonal and biological changes that women undergo during pregnancy are the cause of the common issue.

80 percent

 Put things back in the same spot you got them from.

of new mothers report issues with their memory

 Train yourself to put all appointments in your

In a 2016 study published in Nature Neuroscience, it was concluded that “pregnancy renders substantial changes in brain structure, primarily reductions in gray matter volume in regions subserving social cognition.” On top of that, reductions were also noted in the prefrontal and temporal cortex, which, among other things, play a role in memory. In a follow-up with those women who participated in the study, it was determined that the reductions in gray matter lasted for at least two years after birth. However, a reduction in size does not necessarily indicate a reduction in function, so whether or not this shrinkage is the direct cause of the mental fog associated with pregnancy brain is still unclear.

Although it can set in at any time, pregnancy brain often shows itself during the last trimester when sleep deprivation is at its highest.

Combine that with worrying about the unknown and a long list of to-dos, it is no wonder that it sometimes if feels as if you are losing your mind! Just remember, you are not going crazy — you are creating a new life form, one that takes all your energy to create.

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Some tips for remembering

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phone calendar and set alarms for everything!

 If you can, buy prescriptions three months in advance so you do not forget to refill them.  Set your bills on auto-draft so you do not accidentally skip a month!

 Buy as many birthday cards and gifts ahead of time, so you will not forget or be late.

 Share your family calendar on your phone so your significant other can follow along and make sure you do not miss anything important.  Simplify your world by not over committing yourself to anything.

 Do not stress the little things.

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c2c | infant { 0 -1 year }

Hello, Baby!

What to expect the first 48 hours after delivery

BY COLLEEN MCTIERNAN

After 40 weeks of waiting, you have finally gone into labor.

You know that when you are done pushing or when your C-section is over, the end result will be that beautiful baby boy or girl you have been so anxious to meet. But what happens within the first 48 hours after your baby is born?

With this helpful guide, you will know exactly what to expect after you are done expecting!

For: Mommy

Once your baby arrives, you may think that you are finally done with pushing, but don’t forget about that nutrient-rich placenta that sustained your baby for those nine months! It can actually take 30 minutes to an hour after the birth of your baby to deliver the placenta, said Dr. Kathleen Green, an OB-GYN with UF Health. Once the placenta has been delivered, the nurses will administer a fundal massage (basically a very vigorous belly rub) every 30 minutes for three to four hours after delivery to ensure that bleeding is at a minimum. “That can be a little bit painful, but that’s just to make sure that that uterus clamps down,” said Dr. Green.

If the birth of your child has resulted in any lacerations, that will be taken care of immediately after delivery. You may also be anemic after delivery, so your provider may give you medication to build your iron stores back up. Do not be too concerned if you are experiencing bleeding. Dr. Green said that after delivery, mothers can expect bleeding akin to the worst menses of their life and some vaginal soreness.

If you have had a C-section, you will be moved to a postoperative room to monitor bleeding, both vaginal and from your incision site. So long as there are no complications, you will be moved to a postpartum recovery room after just a few hours. You will not be able to walk around as soon as with natural birth, but do so as soon as possible to prevent muscle cramping.

Depending on whether this is your first child or not, you can expect to stay in the hospital from 24–48 hours, providing there are no complications. If you have had a C-section, expect to stay in the hospital for closer to 48–72 hours.

For: Baby

After delivery, your baby’s activity, pulse, grimace, appearance and respiration will be assessed to come up with what is called an Apgar score. This will determine whether or not your baby requires medical assistance. If your baby does not require any medical intervention, then she will likely be placed right on your chest for skin-to-skin contact.

After delivery, you will also begin breastfeeding (if you have chosen to do so), which can definitely be painful to begin with. “I think there is a big misconception that breastfeeding, if you’re doing it correctly, doesn’t hurt,” said Dr. Green. “But it really does hurt because you’re still trying to figure it out and baby is still trying to figure it out.” Baby will feed every 30 minutes to an hour in the first couple of weeks of life, so if you are experiencing pain, consider seeing a lactation consultant while you are in the hospital to help teach you about different latching techniques.

When it comes time to change baby’s diaper, expect her first bowl movement to resemble sticky black tar. This is called meconium and is totally normal. Your baby is just disposing of what she ingested while in the womb, such as water and amniotic fluid.

Your baby will also undergo a few tests in her first 48 hours.

Under the Florida Newborn Screening Program, newborns are tested for 53 conditions. Once your baby reaches 24 hours, her blood will be drawn for these tests, which screen for cystic fibrosis and sickle cell anemia among many other disorders. Your newborn will also have her hearing tested before leaving the hospital, per the Florida Newborn Hearing Screening Statute. If you have decided to have your baby circumcised, that can also be done before leaving the hospital.

There are so many things that happen after your baby is born, but with a little preparation, you will know what to expect so that you can truly enjoy your first hours with your precious little one. Always talk to your doctor or pediatrician about any medical questions you may have!

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All About Women OBSTETRICS AND GYNECOLOGY

Take Care of You. 352.331.3332 AllAboutWomenMD.com

Helping You Live a Healthy Lifestyle. gigglemagazine.com | august/sep tember 2017

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c2c | toddler { 2 – 3 Y ears }

Ready and Able When should your little one start preschool?

BY DANIELLE SPANO

“Parents usually know that their child is ready because they will go to a playground and their children will immediately … seek other children to get involved with.”

– Sharon Jacobs, owner of Abacus Learning Center

Preschool readies children for kindergarten with psychological and social skills, but how do you know if your child is ready to start preschool? It may be time for you to go back to work or you may just need a few hours a day to yourself. Regardless of the reason, determining if your toddler is ready can be stressful. Preschool is a big change from home. Your tot will need to adapt to the classroom’s schedule. He will have to take direction from adults other than his parents, share with other children that are not his siblings and make friends on his own. It is a whole new world, so questioning if your child is ready is only natural. Here’s another question … are YOU ready?

If your little one has been home with you since birth, the idea of separation might cause some anxiety for both of you. A child that is comfortable away from his parents might seem like an ideal candidate for preschool. Conversely, a child who has not spent much time away from his parents or becomes stressed with separation is also an ideal candidate. Sharon Jacobs, owner of Abacus Learning Center, said that the consistency of being dropped off and picked up from school each day combined with being in a caring learning environment will help that child grow out of that angst. Both parent and child need to be preschool ready. A parent’s demeanor at drop-off will transfer to the child.

If mom is crying or hesitant to say goodbye, the child will think there is something to fear. When mom says goodbye with a warm smile and a promise to “see you this afternoon,” the child is more likely to go into class with confidence.

Toddlers typically yearn for independence by the time they are 2 years old. You have most likely heard, “I can do it myself !” over and over (usually followed by a mess, a boo boo or shoes on the wrong feet). Your self-sufficient sweetie will fare well in preschool where he will need to do some things on his own as the teacher assists other classmates. If your youngster relies mostly on your help with daily tasks, then preschool will help him develop those skills. Before you know it, he will surprise you with his newfound independence. Many children crave more interaction with other kids their age, which is also a common indication that they will do well in preschool. “Parents usually know that their child is ready because they will go to a playground and their children will immediately … seek other children to get involved with,” said Jacobs.

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A study funded by The National Institute of Child Health and Human Development determined that a child’s academic performance in kindergarten sets the stage for their later academic career and that skills developed in preschool can aid in the transition into kindergarten. Get your child prepared for the transition to preschool by getting him excited. Drive by the school and start referring to it as “your school.” Go to reading time at the library and practice sitting quietly in a group setting.

Ease him in with shorter days at the school so he can get used to going each day. Start exposing your child in small doses to ensure that he is ready for this exciting new chapter in his life.

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c2c | early years { 4 - 5 years }

Hands Are for Playing

Fostering fine motor skills in young children

BY APRIL TISHER

When parents think of their children attending preschool or kindergarten, they may imagine their child playing with Play-Doh, building with blocks and making intricate pieces of macaroni art — the normal kid stuff we think of young school children doing. The truth is that this child’s play, while vital to the normal growth and development of children, has become less typical.

With academics being pushed as early as preschool, incoming kindergarteners often lack the fine motor skills they need. Fine motor skills involve the use of the small muscles in the hands and are often developed through play. They are necessary for such things as holding a pencil, buttoning pants, using scissors, etc. Sometimes it is up to parents to help boost those fine motor skills at home to achieve success in the classroom.

Why do young children lack fine motor skills?

Talbot Elementary kindergarten teacher Heather Greist said that with the decrease of play in early school years, many children lack the physical strength needed to reach elementary school milestones that were once taken for granted. Activities such as hanging on the monkey bars, stringing beads, playing with clay and even swinging, which can all boost a child’s motor skills, are not as popular today as they once were, having fallen to the wayside in the face of electronics. And while educational apps may help children advance academically, they are replacing activities that strengthen fine motor skills.

Gresit said that kindergarten itself has also changed over the years.

While teachers still work hard to incorporate play into teaching the requirements, it is not like it used to be. “The official standards for kindergarteners today don’t focus on fine motor skills,” she said. What kindergartners do in the classroom today looks a lot like what us parents did in first or even second grade. And while 5 year olds can navigate their way around an iPad better than their parents can, they lack the dexterity to legibly write their names with a pencil. They may not be able to open their lunch boxes, color in the lines or cut along a straight line. These are the types of things preschoolers were masters of prior to the age of electronics and the push to teach reading and math at an earlier age. While teachers do their best in the hours they have with their students to work on the continued development of fine motor skills, it is still often up to caregivers to help ensure success.

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So what can parents do?

Stacey Cricchio, a local pediatric occupational therapist, said she sees children who lack fine motor skills frequently in her line of work. She recommends making a predictable schedule for your child to give her the tolerance and endurance needed to learn these skills. “In the end, fine motor skill development is built upon daily routines and functional skill practice throughout a student’s developmental years,” said Cricchio. Having your child brush and floss her own teeth, put on her own socks and shoes, and button, snap and zip her clothing helps to work the same muscles she needs to write. “Tying shoes is not only functional, but is a great way to access auditory processing skills, sequencing skills, memory skills, strength and even coordination while developing fine motor skills,” said Cricchio. Other specific tasks you can do to help strengthen little hands include locking and unlocking doors, playing in the sand, doing puzzles, sorting coins, lacing toys, stringing beads, and building with blocks.

As a parent, if you have concerns about your child, talk to her preschool or kindergarten teacher. An evaluation can be done to help assess specific needs and tailor activities specifically to your child.

Checklist for Fine and Gross Motor Skills Cutting out simple shapes Writing numbers 1–10 independently Writing letters independently Coloring within the lines Holding a pencil correctly Cutting and pasting Drawing basic pictures Opening bags and other containers Using a knife and fork Completing small puzzles *Adapted from Kid Sense Child Development

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c2c | kids { 6 - 9 years }

Rub A Dub

When can supervised bathing go down the drain?

BY DANIELLE SPANO

Bathing is a self-care skill that all children need to learn. It is not as simple as telling them to wash behind their ears and calling it a day, as water safety is a big issue. How do we teach our kids to bathe themselves? And once they have learned to wash themselves properly, at what point is it safe to leave them to it?

First things first — safety. The American Academy of Pediatrics warns that young children should not be left alone or in the care of another child while in the bathtub. Furthermore, bathtubs should be fully drained when not in use. Bathtubs can be a waterworks haven in a child’s eyes, and they can seriously hurt themselves if playing around in a slippery tub — drowning can occur in just inches of water. The faucet can be so tempting for little hands, and that water can get hot fast! Prohibit your little one from turning on the water until he can properly understand how to test and adjust the temperature. There are many cognitive and motor skills that children need to safely bathe on their own.

There is more to bathing than meets the eye. It is a precise combination of gross motor skills (like getting in and out of the tub, rinsing off soap and towel drying), fine motor skills (such as holding slippery soap, opening the shampoo bottle and massaging it into the whole head) and sensory processing skills (determining proper water temperature and tolerating water in their face/eyes). There are a lot of steps, and it is a lot for your child to comprehend. The Center on the Social and Emotional Foundations for Early Learning of Vanderbilt University advises that parents provide children with clear and simple instructions

Soaping up Safely 1. Adjust your water heater so the water cannot get hotter than 120 F. 2. Install a shower mat in the tub and a non-slip mat outside to avoid falls.

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with positive and specific encouragement when teaching self-care skills. Katie Kirkpatrick explained that her 8- and 9-year-old daughters have both been bathing independently for a few years. Kirkpatrick began describing step by step what she was doing (covering their eyes to prevent water from getting in and tipping their heads back so the water goes down their backs) once they could understand what she was saying. “The whole thing is a slow process of getting them used to the stages — first you put the soap here, then the water goes here,” she said.

“Anything you teach them that they can accomplish on their own gives them life skills, confidence and independence.” Once they got a hang of the process, Kirkpatrick said she let her girls bathe themselves, although she would periodically check on them and go through the checklist to ensure they did not miss any steps.

The age that unsupervised bathing can begin depends heavily on each child’s abilities and maturity. A 2007 survey published in the Archives of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine stated the average age that caregivers believe children can bathe without an adult present is roughly 6 ½. According to an article by Annye Rothenberg, Ph.D., author, child/parent psychologist and specialist in childrearing and child development, the typical age children begin washing themselves is 4 and they typically master the skill by 6. Again, this varies from child to child.

Parents should keep track of their child’s development and consult their pediatrician to determine when it is appropriate for their child to start bathing unsupervised.

3. Keep his bathing needs within his reach (nothing on shelves or where they need to climb).

6. Electric appliances should always be kept away from the tub and any other water source.

4. Put bath products in distinct bottles or label them so your child does not confuse the soap with the shampoo.

7. Set the water temperature for your child and show him to always start with cold first and make the water warmer as needed.

5. Keep razors, medications and toiletries out of sight.

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8. Place a towel within easy reach of the bathtub.

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c2c | tweens { 1 0 -1 3 years }

Middle School Success

Getting you and your middle schooler prepared for a successful year!

BY NICOLE IRVING

You have done the tours and you have met the teachers. Now, with only a few weeks to go until your kiddo’s first day of middle school, how do we parents make sure the transition from elementary school is a smooth one?

Listen with intent

Do not dismiss your child’s feelings. Going from the top of the ladder in elementary school to having to start at the bottom tier again in a new school can be stressful for anyone. Let your kiddo express himself. Encourage him to be patient and talk about his feelings as much as possible. Try to listen between the lines. Pay attention for high anxiety triggers, sadness and odd behavior. You know your kiddo best, so staying in tune with his personality and behaviors is key.

Encourage participation

Getting involved and staying involved in school activities that he enjoys will help him gain his footing in this new environment, but too many can be overwhelming. Let him pick and choose, but encourage some sort of participation in school-related extracurricular activities to bond with classmates and find a new social circle.

Let his personality shine

If your school has a uniform in place or a dress code, it may be difficult for some middle school kids to find the “fun” in school shopping. However, middle school is a great time to let his personality shine. Take him on his own middle school shopping trip, separate from younger or older siblings. Have him pick out his new backpack, lunch box, pencils (I hear mechanicals are all the rage) and locker décor.

Get acclimated

If your middle schooler is riding the bus, see if any of his neighborhood friends will be joining at the bus stop. If he is going

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to be riding his bike, take multiple bike rides as a family on the route he will be taking. Show him where to lock up his bike and helmet. If the campus opens before school starts, get a copy of his schedule and practice his route with him. Locate bathrooms, the lunch room and the media center. Download a copy of the school handbook and make sure he understands the rules of the school.

Getting him as prepared as possible is the key to his success.

Middle school is a complex time for kids. Between starting over in a new school, hormones and social stresses, it can be a trying time for anyone. But, with some preparation, you can help your child get acclimated quickly and succeed both academically and socially.

Troubleshoot 1. Have him practice his locker combination BEFORE school starts.

2. Make sure his bike (if he will be riding) is in tip top shape — helmet included!

3. Know the rules of the school. From dress code to cellphone rules, these will definitely impact your kiddo.

4. Find out how to be involved as a parent.

5. Connect with his teachers. Understand their rules and make sure you are able to get in contact with them if needed.

6. If your child has special needs, either academic or physical, let his teachers and the school administration know as soon as possible. Connecting sooner rather than later will help your child get acclimated and settled into a good pattern early on.

7. Decide if your child is going to be buying his lunch or bringing. If you plan on having your child bring his lunch but he wants to buy, set a schedule or amount limit.

8. Understand the consequences of breaking school rules.

9. Keep him connected to old friends if they will not be attending the same school.

10. Talk about homework time and create a designated study area to help him out.

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c2c | teens { 1 4 -1 8 years }

Promoting a Healthy Body Image Helping your teen live a happy and healthy life

BY OLIVIA K PITKETHLY, MA, LMHC

In 2010, the Obama administration launched the Let’s Move! campaign and a task force on childhood obesity to bring awareness to unhealthy patterns of eating and sedentary lifestyles. Since then, schools have provided healthier food choices, started growing fruits and vegetables in their own gardens and are fighting for more recess time.

While schools are working to do their part to promote health and wellness, parents sometimes are at a loss on how to address these issues with their children. Teenagers are in the ego identity stage of development and body image plays a role. If a parent is concerned about their teen’s weight, addressing the issue directly could actually hurt, not help.

In 2016, The American Academy of Pediatrics acknowledged that weight talk, dieting and weight teasing are associated with both eating disorders and obesity. The AAP encourages doctors to discuss healthy habits and lifestyle, not weight loss, with their patients. Conversations between parents and children regarding weight loss are often linked to unhealthy weight control behaviors, binge eating and dieting.

Tracy Brown is a registered dietitian and nutrition therapist who works with both adolescents and adults on obtaining and maintaining a healthy body image. She advised parents to avoid body criticism and to stress the importance of feeling strong, having fun and eating a variety of foods. You might challenge your teen to train for a fun 5K (like a color run or other themed race), praising her progress as you run together. You can also try introducing her to healthy food from different cultures, noting the variety of flavor and spices.

“Teaching children that there are better or worse bodies to have sets up the potential for a lifetime of body shame and weight prejudice toward themselves and others,” she said. “Scaring people into healthy behaviors is not long-term motivating or empowering for adults. What makes us believe it will work for kids?”

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Brown said that nutrient-dense, but not calorie deficient, meals and snacks are ideal (think nuts, protein and vegetables) and to also allow room for “play” food, such as cookies, chips and ice cream. She said that labeling food as “special” or “off limits” may cause your teen to sneak food, which ultimately leads to shame.

“We can teach our kids to listen to and trust their hunger and fullness, provide them with a variety of foods to eat … and show them through our words and actions that it’s not OK to judge a person by their size,” said Brown. Teach your child about mindful eating; no electronics or books at the dinner table. Instead, have her focus on the texture and taste of food, and recognize when her belly is full. “If our goal truly is mentally, emotionally and physically healthy children, we must provide a safe, consistent and nurturing environment around food and their bodies so they can actually grow up to have the bodies they are meant to have, not the one culture tries to dictate all people must be,” she said.

!

Red flags for eatingdisordered behavior

Desire to lose weight Desire to cut out food groups

Saying certain foods are unhealthy or bad Changes in mood

Skipping or decreasing meals

Avoiding social activities that involve food or body

Eating in a very preoccupied way, either more or less

Reported bullying or teasing Hiding food

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community | calendar

august | september August 1

Stay and Play 9–11 a.m.

Sun Country Sports – West Suncountrysports.com Kiddos 5 years and younger will develop basic motor skills as they participate in obstacle courses and bounce around in the Bounce Room before ending with Circle Time and a snack. Prince range from $10.38 for members to $12.50 for non-members. Repeats every Tuesday.

August 1

Annual National Night Out Free Community Festival 5:30–7:30 p.m.

High Springs Civic Center Highsprings.us/police-department Hosted by the High Springs Police Department, this free, family-friendly event includes bounce houses, sack races and prize giveaways along with other fun activities.

August 2

Gym Jam 1:30–3:30 p.m.

Sun Country Sports – West Suncountrysports.com Children 5 years and older will participate in a coach-led warmup, receive

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instruction on each gym apparatus and have open workout time during this two hour program. Prices range from $18 for members to $20 for non-members.

Repeats every Wednesday.

August 2

Splash Jam 5¬–6 p.m.

Sun Country Sports – West Suncountrysports.com Swimmers of all skill levels can join in for 30 minutes of mixed group instructional time, followed by 30 minutes of open swim time. Prices range from $15.75 for members to $19 for non-members.

Repeats every Wednesday.

August 4– 6

Florida Back to School Sales Tax Holiday During this sales tax holiday period, Florida law directs that no sales tax or local option tax will be collected on purchases of clothing, footwear and certain accessories selling for $60 or less as well as school supplies selling for $15 or less.

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AUGUST 4TH Stay and Play

9–11 a.m. | Sun Country Sports – West Suncountrysports.com Kiddos 5 years and younger will develop basic motor skills as they participate in obstacle courses and bounce around in the Bounce Room before ending with Circle Time and a snack. Prince range from $10.38 for members to $12.50 for non-members.

Repeats every Friday.

Tot Time: Shadow Play 11 a.m. | Harn Museum of Art Harn.ufl.edu Tour the Harn with your little ones with this program designed for children ages 2–5. Space is limited, so arrive 15 minutes early to register.

Gym Jam Jr. 5–6 p.m. | Sun Country Sports – West Suncountrysports.com Children between the ages of 3 ½ and 5 will participate in a coach-led warmup, receive instruction on each gym apparatus and have open workout time during this one hour program. Prices range from $12 for members to $15 for non-members. Repeats every Friday.

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August 4

August 5

August 6

Splash Jam

Kids Cookout!

5¬–6 p.m.

Sun Country Sports – West Suncountrysports.com Swimmers of all skill levels can join in for 30 minutes of mixed group instructional time, followed by 30 minutes of open swim time. Prices range from $15.75 for members to $19 for non-members.

Repeats every Friday.

10 a.m.

The Boxcar Event Space at Depot Park Kidscookout.brownpapertickets.com Kids between the ages of 3 and 12 will learn how to cook healthy dishes at this hour-long class by Nimai Larson. Tickets cost $10/child and all equipment and ingredients will be provided.

2nd Annual Backpacks 4 Success Event 2–4 p.m.

Best Western Gateway Grand Averygooddeed.org Bring your family out for this charitable event and fill backpacks with school supplies and personalized notes/ drawings for children in need. Backpacks are a minimum donation of $20.

August 5 August 4

Gym Jam 5–7 p.m.

Sun Country Sports – West Suncountrysports.com Children 5 years and older will participate in a coach-led warmup, receive instruction on each gym apparatus and have open workout time during this two hour program. Prices range from $18 for members to $20 for non-members.

Repeats every Friday.

August 4

Parent Night Out 6–10 p.m. o2b Kids! Gainesville Supercenter O2bkids.com Five to 13 year olds will enjoy group games, obstacle courses and other fun activities and as well as a pizza dinner.

Prices range from $10 for O2B members to $15 for non-members.

Repeats every Friday.

August 4

Free Fridays Concert Series: The Irie Ones 8–10 p.m.

Bo Diddley Plaza Gnvculturalseries.org Enjoy reggae music under the stars at this free, family-friendly concert!

Kanapaha Botanical Gardens Guided Walk 10 a.m. – Noon Kanapaha Botanical Gardens Kanapaha.org Take your family out for a guided tour of Kanapaha Botanical Gardens’ 24 major collections. This tour is $8 for adults, $5 for children (5–13) and free for children under 5 as well as members.

August 5

Community Capoeira Class 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

Bo Diddley Plaza Capoeiraacademyofgainesville.weebly.com This Afro-Brazilian martial art can be learned by anyone of any age. Capoeira Academy of Gainesville offers this free community class every Saturday.

August 5

Summer Heatwave Teen Pool Party 11:30 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Dwight H. Hunter (Northeast) Pool Cityofgainesville.org Teens between the ages of 11 and 18 free swimming, food and dancing at this pool party sponsored by the Gainesville Police Department.

August 6

Summer Reader Palooza

August 5

UF Health Shands Childbirth Education Class 9 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.

UF Health Shands Hospital Ufhealth.org This expansive course covers the birthing process, pain management options, and postpartum care and includes a tour of the labor and delivery and mother/baby units. The class costs $50.

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2–4 p.m.

Alachua County Library Headquarters Aclib.us Celebrate the end of summer with activities for kids of all ages, including crafts and an escape room!

gigglemagazine.com | august/sep tember 2017

August 9

First Day of Classes for Queen of Peace Catholic Academy and Saint Francis Catholic Academy August 9

Pregnancy and Postpartum Support Group 5–6:30 p.m.

Postpartum Wellness and Family Counseling Pwandfc.com If you are pregnant or recently gave birth and feeling guilt, depression or anxiety, you may benefit from attending this free support group. Learn from other mothers who have been in the same place as you, and develop the tools you need to start feeling better.

August 10

Harn Museum Nights: Yay or Neigh 6–9 p.m.

Harn Museum of Art Harn.ufl.edu This night of art, theater and dance will also feature horse art and equestrian organizations from the community.

Admission is free!

August 11

Family Fun Night 6:30–8:30 p.m.

Sun Country Sports – West Suncountrysports.com The whole family is invited to Sun Country Sports for a night of rock climbing, gymnastics, obstacle courses and other games! Prices range from $16/ per child for members and $19/per child for non-members when paid in advance to $21/per child the day of the event.

You want something for the entire family -- plays that help you and your family create memories with adventure, music and laughter. And we at the Hippodrome recognize that. If your heart smiles at the Hipp's beautifully produced family favorites, like our annual production of Charles Dickens' "A Christmas Carol" or "Peter and the Starcatcher," consider a Hipp season pass. It's the most convenient and aordable way to treat your family to productions at the Hippodrome. A Hipp Season Pass is the easiest and most aordable way to save on upcoming family-friendly shows like musical "A Year with Frog and Toad," and more! Our ex passes give you a set number of tickets that you can use throughout the season -- any show, any time, with any group. Use them on date nights, after-dinner shows with friends, or use them all at once with your entire family - the tickets and the exibility are yours!

SAVE MONEY BEST SEATS FLEXIBILITY SAVE AS MUCH AS 50% OFF SINGLE TICKET PRICES! ENJOY PRIORITY BOOKING! COME TO ANY SHOW! gigglemagazine.com | august/sep tember 2017

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August 11

August 15

August 19

Free Fridays Concert Series: Savants of Soul

UF Health Shands Newborn Care Class

Back Handspring and Tuck Boot Camp

8–10 p.m.

Bo Diddley Plaza Gnvculturalseries.org Enjoy soul music under the stars at this free, family-friendly concert!

7–9:30 p.m.

UF Health Shands Hospital Room 2147 Ufhealth.org This class is designed to help new parents learn to care for their newborn and covers topics such as diapering, soothing and infant safety. The class costs $15 to attend.

1–4 p.m.

Sun Country Sports – West Suncountrysports.com Send your aspiring tumbler to this boot camp to help him/her finally master the back handspring and back tuck. Prices range from $26.25 for members and $29 for non-members when paid in advance to $40 the day of the event.

August 11

Movie Night: “The Lego Batman Movie” 8:30–10 p.m.

The Square at Tioga Town Center Tiogatowncenter.com Bring the kiddos out to Tioga Town Center for a free, family-friendly movie under the stars. Be sure to pack lawn chairs or a blanket!

August 12

O2B Kids Back to School Bash 9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

O2B Kids O2bkids.com Bring your kiddos for a morning of fun activities, and sign up for classes while you are there!

August 12

UF Health Shands Breastfeeding Class 2–4 p.m.

UF Health Shands Hospital Room 2147 Ufhealth.org Perfect for expecting mothers, this class teaches you the benefits of breastfeeding, optimal latch positions, how to store pumped milk and more. The class costs $15 to attend.

August 14

First Day of Classes for Alachua County Public Schools, Millhopper Montessori School, Brentwood School and Healthy Learning Academy

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August 16

First Day of Classes at Oak Hall School, Gainesville Country Day School and The Rock School

August 18

Ninja Jam 9:30–10:45 a.m.

Sun Country Sports – West Designed for boys and girls between the ages of 3 and 13, this class includes 30 minutes of mixed group instruction and 45 minutes of open ninja time. Price ranges from $15.75 for members to $19 for non-members.

August 18

Free Fridays Concert Series: Captive Eddies 8–10 p.m.

Bo Diddley Plaza Gnvculturalseries.org Enjoy rock/reggae music under the stars at this free, family-friendly concert!

August 19

Family Fishing Day 8 a.m. – Noon UF/IFAS Fishing Ponds Sfrc.ufl.edu Take the kiddos fishing in one of the six UF/IFAS catching ponds. You can bring your own gear or use the provided loaner poles and bait. The event is free and open to the public.

gigglemagazine.com | august/sep tember 2017

August 19

Florida Football Fan Day 2–4 p.m.

Gator Indoors Practice Facility Floridagators.com At this event your kiddos will be able to get autographs from Head Coach Jim McElwain, try kicking a field goal on the practice field, take pictures with Albert and Alberta, and take part in many more Gator-themed activities! Admission is free.

August 25

Free Fridays Concert Series: The Shambles 8–10 p.m.

Bo Diddley Plaza Gnvculturalseries.org Enjoy classic rock music under the stars at this free, family-friendly concert!

August 28

Pregnancy and Postpartum Support Group 10–11:30 p.m.

Postpartum Wellness and Family Counseling Pwandfc.com If you are pregnant or recently gave birth and feeling guilt, depression or anxiety, you may benefit from attending this free support group. Learn from other mothers who have been in the same place as you, and develop the tools you need to start feeling better.

August 29

Tot Time: Sculpture All Around 3:30 p.m.

Harn Museum of Art Harn.ufl.edu Tour the Harn with your little ones with this program designed for children ages 2–5. Space is limited, so arrive 15 minutes early to register.

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August 29

September 2

September 8

6th Annual Gainesville Wing Bowl

Kids Cookout!

Movie Night: “Moana”

6:30–8:30 p.m.

Splitz Bowling Alley Gainesvillewingbowl.org This event benefits the Child Advocacy Center and features a chicken wing eating contest, bowling and door prizes.

Ticket prices are $20 for adults and $10 for children ages 5–10. Children under 5 years old are free!

10 a.m.

The Boxcar Event Space at Depot Park Kidscookout brownpapertickets.com Kids between the ages of 3 and 12 will learn how to cook healthy dishes at this hour-long class by Nimai Larson. Tickets cost $10/child and all equipment and ingredients will be provided.

8:30–10 p.m.

The Square at Tioga Town Center Tiogatowncenter.com Bring the kiddos out to Tioga Town Center for a free, family-friendly movie under the stars. Be sure to pack lawn chairs or a blanket!

August 29

September 2

UF Health Shands Breastfeeding Class

Kanapaha Botanical Gardens Guided Walk

Florida Gators vs. Northern Colorado Bears

7–9 p.m.

UF Health Shands Hospital Room 2147 Ufhealth.org Perfect for expecting mothers, this class teaches you the benefits of breastfeeding, optimal latch positions, how to store pumped milk and more. The class costs $15 to attend.

10 a.m. – Noon Kanapaha Botanical Gardens Kanapaha.org Take your family out for a guided tour of Kanapaha Botanical Gardens’ 24 major collections. This tour is $8 for adults, $5 for children (5–13) and free for children under 5 as well as members.

September 1

1984 Opening Night Hippodrome Theatre Thehipp.org This collaboration between the Hipp and UF School of Theatre + Dance will bring George Orwell’s famous novel to life for a great date night option! Keep an eye out for ticket giveaways on the Giggle Magazine Facebook page and newsletter.

September 1

Tot Time: Sculpture All Around 11 a.m.

Harn Museum of Art Harn.ufl.edu Tour the Harn with your little ones with this program designed for children ages 2–5. Space is limited, so arrive 15 minutes early to register.

September 1

Free Fridays Concert Series: Heavy Petty/Hedges 8–10 p.m.

Bo Diddley Plaza Gnvculturalseries.org Enjoy a tribute to Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers under the stars at this free, family-friendly concert!

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September 3

Labor Daze Fest 4–10 p.m.

Bo Diddley Plaza Labordazefest.org This free, family-friendly festival will feature five local bands, activities for all ages, local vendors and a dollar raffle.

September 4

Labor Day

Schools closed September 8

Back to School Sleepover 6:30 p.m. – 9 a.m.

Sun Country Sports – West Suncountrysports.com Potty-trained children ages 3 and up will spend the night rocking climbing, doing gymnastics and participating in so many other fun activities! Prices range from $35 for members and $45 for non-members when paid in advance to $50 the day of the event.

September 8

Free Fridays Concert Series: The Duppies 8–10 p.m.

Bo Diddley Plaza Gnvculturalseries.org Enjoy ska/reggae music under the stars at this free, family-friendly concert!

gigglemagazine.com | august/sep tember 2017

SEPTEMBER 9

Ben Hill Griffin Stadium Floridagators.com Bring the family out to The Swamp to cheer on the Gators against the Bears in their first home game of the season.

UF Health Shands Childbirth Education Class 9 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.

UF Health Shands Hospital Ufhealth.org This expansive course covers the birthing process, pain management options, and postpartum care and includes a tour of the labor and delivery and mother/baby units. The class costs $50.

Moana and Maui’s Meet & Greet/Family Movie Night 6–8:30 p.m.

Plantation Hall at Haile Capesntiaras.com Take your “Moana” lovers out for a family movie night complete with popcorn and a chance to meet Moana and Maui! Tickets are $15/child.

Family Fun Night 6:30–8:30 p.m.

Sun Country Sports – West Suncountrysports.com The whole family is invited to Sun Country Sports for a night of rock climbing, gymnastics, obstacle courses and other games! Prices range from $16/ per child for members and $19/per child for non-members when paid in advance to $21/per child the day of the event.

September 10

National Grandparents Day

STUDIO Fall Classes Begin August 28th Come and

NEW Online Registration Register Online Today !!! www.indepenDANCEstudio.com

Acting & Improv

Ballroom

Conditioning

Tap

Stretch & Flex

Acrobatic Arts

i.Baby & Me

Jazz

Vocal Training

ADULT CLASSES TOO !

Ballet

i.BreakDance

Hip Hop

Modern & Contemporary

Ages 18 Months - Adult

Find Us on indepenDANCE 352

Tower Square Shopping Center 7050-10 Archer Road Gainesville, FL 32608 (next to Edible Arrangements & Linda Vista ! ) independancestudio@gmail.com www.independancestudio.com

352.337.0017

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September 13

September 22

September 25

Pregnancy and Postpartum Support Group

Free Fridays Concert Series: Wild Blue Yonder

Pregnancy and Postpartum Support Group

5–6:30 p.m.

Postpartum Wellness and Family Counseling Pwandfc.com If you are pregnant or recently gave birth and feeling guilt, depression or anxiety, you may benefit from attending this free support group. Learn from other mothers who have been in the same place as you, and develop the tools you need to start feeling better.

8–10 p.m.

Bo Diddley Plaza Gnvculturalseries.org Enjoy classic rock music under the stars at this free, family-friendly concert!

10–11:30 p.m.

Postpartum Wellness and Family Counseling Pwandfc.com If you are pregnant or recently gave birth and feeling guilt, depression or anxiety, you may benefit from attending this free support group. Learn from other mothers who have been in the same place as you, and develop the tools you need to start feeling better.

September 15

Free Fridays Concert Series: The Imposters 8–10 p.m.

Bo Diddley Plaza Gnvculturalseries.org Enjoy a tribute to The Beatles under the stars at this free, family-friendly concert!

September 16

Rare, Beautiful and Fascinating: 100 Years @Florida Museum Florida Museum of Natural History Floridamuseum.ufl.edu Celebrate the 100th anniversary with this exhibit that showcases the history of the museum and how science has changed over time. This exhibit runs through January 7, 2018.

September 23

Family Fishing Day

Ben Hill Griffin Stadium Floridagators.com Bring the family out to The Swamp to cheer on the Gators against the Volunteers in this SEC faceoff!

8 a.m. – Noon UF/IFAS Fishing Ponds Sfrc.ufl.edu Take the kiddos fishing in one of the six UF/IFAS catching ponds. You can bring your own gear or use the provided loaner poles and bait. The event is free and open to the public.

September 16

September 23

Florida Gators vs. Tennessee Volunteers

UF Health Shands Breastfeeding Class 2–4 p.m.

UF Health Shands Hospital Room 2147 Ufhealth.org Perfect for expecting mothers, this class teaches you the benefits of breastfeeding, optimal latch positions, how to store pumped milk and more. The class costs $15 to attend.

September 19

UF Health Shands Newborn Care Class 7–9:30 p.m.

UF Health Shands Hospital Room 2147 Ufhealth.org This class is designed to help new parents learn to care for their newborn and covers topics such as diapering, soothing and infant safety. The class costs $15 to attend.

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September 23

Fun 4 Gator Kids Touch-A-Truck 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Santa Fe College North Field Gatortouchatruck.com From cranes to emergency vehicles, your kiddos will be allowed to climb into various trucks and learn more about the vehicles from their operators. Admission is free, but non-perishable food donations are requested.

September 23

Back Handspring and Tuck Boot Camp 1–4 p.m.

Sun Country Sports – West Suncountrysports.com Send your aspiring tumbler to this boot camp to help him/her finally master the back handspring and back tuck. Prices range from $26.25 for members and $29 for non-members when paid in advance to $40 the day of the event.

gigglemagazine.com | august/sep tember 2017

September 26

Tot Time: Art Smart 3:30 p.m.

Harn Museum of Art Harn.ufl.edu Tour the Harn with your little ones with this program designed for children ages 2–5. Space is limited, so arrive 15 minutes early to register.

September 26

UF Health Shands Breastfeeding Class 7–9 p.m.

UF Health Shands Hospital Room 2147 Ufhealth.org Perfect for expecting mothers, this class teaches you the benefits of breastfeeding, optimal latch positions, how to store pumped milk and more. The class costs $15 to attend.

September 29

Free Fridays Concert Series: Gilberto De Paz & Tropix 8–10 p.m.

Bo Diddley Plaza Gnvculturalseries.org Enjoy Latin fusion music under the stars at this free, family-friendly concert!

September 30

Florida Gators vs. Vanderbilt Commodores Ben Hill Griffin Stadium Floridagators.com Bring the family out to The Swamp to cheer on the Gators against the Commodores in this SEC faceoff!

North Florida Women’s Physicians provides comprehensive healthcare that compassionately supports women through every stage of their lives.

We’re here for you, every step of the way.

DOCTORS: Tracy Botha, M.D. Richard Brazzel, M.D. Kelly Chamberlain, M.D. Sheyna Carroccio, M.D. Jill Delker, M.D. Karen Harris, M.D. Ann Hatfield, M.D. Eduardo Marichal, M.D. Amy Million, M.D. Erin Werner, M.D. MIDWIVES: Julie Gaona, CNM Amanda Husband, CNM Monique McAfee, CNM Erin Smith, CNM MID LEVELS: Kelly Cynkar, ARNP Stephanie Davis, PA-C

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(352) 332-7222 www.mynfwp.com

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