Giggle Magazine-Tallahassee. June/July 2015

GREATER

TALLAHASSEE'S

PREMIER

PARENTING

MAGAZINE

happy family • happy communityTM JUNE/JULY 2015 • Volume 1 • Issue 6

Tallahassee hottie Dads Meet the kinney family 2015 Father's Day Gift Guide

Summer

Starts Here!

Add Some Fun to Your 4th! | Florida Family Road Trips | New Favorites for the Grill www.gigglemag.com

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PUBLISHER Nicole Irving ART DIRECTOR Allison Raber MANAGING Editor Dana Kamp GRAPHIC DESIGNER Claire Stortz Vice president of sales Shane Irving ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Jessica Kerr executive assistant Sayeh Farah Contributing Writers Selena Garrison, Kelly Goede, Allen Haynes, Cresonia Hsieh, Matthew, Jenije, Dana Kamp, Lisa Katz, Savanna Kearney, Helen Kornblum, Danielle Marshall, Colleen McTiernan, Olivia Pitkethly, Ale Russian, Chelsea Stromfeld, April Tisher, Rebecca Vitkus Contributing Photographers Ashley Daniell Photography, Verve Studio Interns Amanda Ferguson, Cresonia Hsieh, Savanna Kearney, Danielle Marshall, Colleen McTiernan, Ale Russian, Chelsea Stromfeld, Rebecca Vitkus Mission Statement Giggle Magazine is a modern and refreshing parenting publication that brings together families and their community. We make it our mission to find the joy and humor in parenting, focus on key topics and issues that relate to today’s parents and give parents the resources to be engaged, connected and present with their children during these important years.

Irving Publications, LLC reserves the right to edit and/or reject any advertising.

Irving Publications, LLC is not responsible for the validity of any claims made by its advertisers. Nothing that appears in Giggle Magazine may be reproduced in any way, without written permission. Opinions expressed by Giggle Magazine writers are their own and do not necessarily reflect the publisher’s opinion. Giggle Magazine will consider all never before published outside editorial submissions.

Irving Publications, LLC reserves the right to edit and/or reject all outside editorial submissions and makes no guarantees regarding publication dates.

Mailing address

Physical address

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

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

Giggle Magazine is published by Irving Publications, LLC. © 2015

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from the publisher

I am loving this

School is out and summer vacation is here! Sounds like so much fun … right?!

In all honesty, I have not one thing planned, booked or scheduled for my boys this summer. That is right; I am walking into summer with an empty calendar and a little feeling of panic. I usually have our summer organized and scheduled in advance. One year, I even made a spreadsheet with each kid’s daily activities for the whole summer. This year… not so much.

Our community has SO many wonderful camps, classes and workshops to offer that I am sure my boys will partake in. But it is almost as if I am in denial that this school year is over. It can’t be! It just can’t (insert foot stomping here). That means that my babies are growing, and changing.

In 2 ½ months, our “little ones” go from one grade level to another. One school to another. Maybe even one state to another. In one summer, they change without permission. Just like that. So, if I ignore summer, will they stay little forever? Wishful thinking, I guess. But I am still gonna try it.

ZAK! DESIGNS PREP BOWLS

perfect for the 4th of July!

J.R. WATKINS COCONUT CLEANER

Or, maybe I am dreading the countless times I will hear, “I’m bored,” “I’m hungry,” “Can we go somewhere?” There is something to be said about the organized, brain-stimulating schedule our schools give our children each day. Now, if they could just send that schedule home for the summer, I would gladly pay good money for that.

As I hear my kiddos count down DAILY until the last day of school, I will hold on for dear life to those last days. The last days of organization and schedules and the last days of that chapter of their lives. Just like that, the next chapter is set to begin.

But first, I need to plan our family vacation!

TRADER JOE'S ORGANIC BANANA CHIPS

Nicole Irving, Publisher nicole@irvingpublications.com

Cover Cutie!

meet our

YUMMY PHILLY DOGS!

Age: 2 years old (Will be 3 on July 28)

e Tallulah Ma Like us on Facebook /GIGGLEMAGTALLAHASSEE

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Favorite book: "Three Little Pigs" Favorite movie: "Little Mermaid" Favorite activity: "Jumping in my bouncy house!"

Favorite treat: Gummies! follow us on Twitter @GIGGLEMAGTALLY

Visit us on Pinterest /GIGGLEMAGAZINE

(pssst... it's in this issue!)

Follow us on Instagram @GIGGLEMAGTALLY

Photos by Giggle Magazine.

Favorite food: Mac n' cheese and broccoli

June * July 2015 happy family • happy community

TM

life 9 lifesavers

Top 10 Must-Have Instructions for Your

Babysitter

10 HAPPY FAMILY

The Kinney Family

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13 the parent life

Bonding Through the Great Outdoors

conception 2✱ college™

14 power parent

William Lamb

16 gIGGLE STAMP

2015 Father's Day Gift Guide

39 expecting

Preparing for THE Big Day

health

41 infant

Surviving Baby’s First Day Out

31 get Pretty

42 TODDLER

Biting: Why it Happens and How to Stop It

Bronzed Beauties!

32 get Healthy

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44 early years

Make a Mess with These Fun Crafts!

Solutions to 7 Summertime Syndromes

45 kids

happy home

Soon Be Forgotten

48 tweens

35 organized chaos

To Censor or Not to Censor ... That Is the Question

Queries from the Curious

Paints and Hottie Dad photos by Ashley Daniell Photography. Fruit photo by Verve Studio.

Beyond Toys: Great Gift Ideas That Won’t

forks & spoons

49 teens

Our Last Summer Before College

36 delish

Dress Up Your Dog!

happy community

27

50 EXTRA, EXTRA

GREATER

TALLAHASSEE'S

PREMIER

PARENTING

MAGAZINE

Finding the Link Between Horses and Children with Disabilities happy family • happy communityT M JUNE/JULY 2015 • Volume 1 • Issue 6

features 18 24 27 47

2015 Hottie Dads Contest Winners Family-Friendly Florida Road Trips Shades of Summer: 4th of July Party Pediatric Drug Poisoning on the Rise

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TALLAHASSEE HOTTIE DADS

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MEET THE KINNEY FAMILY

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2015 FATHER'S DAY GIFT GUIDE

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Summer

Starts Here!

Add Some Fun to Your 4th! | Florida Family Road Trips | New Favorites for the Grill

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life

L I F E S AV E R S

ME! IN 25 lucky readers will win our exclusive Giggle Emergency Contact Magnet! Enter to win at Gigglemag.com!

Emergenc

y Contact

POLICE

FIRE

Dial:

AMBUL

ANCE

Our Add

ress

911

List

Home Pho

ne

Poison

Control

Doctor Mom’s Mom’s

Cell

Work

Dad’s Cell Dad’s Wo

rk

Top 10 Must-Have Instructions for Your Babysitter Neighb

or

Notes:

www.giggl

emag.co

BY OLIVIA K. PITKETHLY, MA, LMHC

Every parent knows a good babysitter is hard to find. We’ve compiled a Lifesavers checklist to ensure a good babysitting experience for everyone.

1.

Give the babysitter your cell phone numbers and tell her if she should call or text.

Also provide an emergency contact name and number, such as a close neighbor or family member.

2.

Let the babysitter know where you will be. Leave the exact name of the restaurant or theater and the phone number, in case she can’t reach you on your cell phone. Inform her of anyone you are expecting to stop by and your house rules regarding answering the door.

© 2015 iStockphoto LP. All rights reserved

3.

Talk to your sitter about your pets.

Not just when to feed or walk them, but also if she’s comfortable around them. A friend of mine came home to find her cat locked in her bedroom because the sitter was “creeped out” by the cat’s affectionate nature.

7.

These innocent little angels can be quite the tricksters, so let the sitter know what is completely off-limits, such as video games, sugary snacks or jumping off the furniture. Inform her of rules regarding playing with neighborhood friends outside or having friends over when you’re not home.

4.

Write down your home address. If your babysitter has to call 911, she may not remember the address, so keep it in plain sight.

5.

Boo-boos happen, so show the sitter where the first aid kit is kept. Note any allergies your child has and, if mild enough, let her know how she can treat them (antibacterial ointment, antihistamine, etc.). I also keep sunblock and bug spray close by in case they play outside.

6.

m

If it were up to kids, candy and ice cream would be served for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Write down some options for what the kids can (and will) eat and drink.

8.

If applicable, outline the typical bedtime routine. Knowing the right story to read or nighttime snack to serve can ease the transition from silly time to sleepy time.

9.

After a night of relaxation and fun, you don’t want to come home to a complete mess. Let the sitter know any extra chores you’d like her to complete after the kids go to bed.

10.

Even the best babysitters have to face meltdowns.

Siblings fighting, milk in the wrong colored cup, or accidentally repeating the same episode of “Peppa Pig” can set off a mood swing. Let your sitter know how to handle it — a hug, a distraction or even a quick phone call to Mom and Dad can help. gigglemag.com | JUNE/JULY 2015

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life

happ y fa m ily Favorite sports/extracurriculars to do: Robbie enjoys golf and hunting.

Allison loves playing tennis.

Favorite local picnic spot: Our back porch!

Pets: Sadly, we just lost our 13-year-old golden retriever, Reese.

Favorite day trip: Jacksonville Zoo. Favorite family vacation destination: We always love the 30A beach area! And we are going on our first Disney Cruise in the fall!

First word you think of when we say “family”: Loyalty.

Why we love living in Tallahassee: We are both from Georgia and moved to Tallahassee from Atlanta about eight years ago. We love the “South Georgia” feel of Tallahassee. Everyone is so friendly, and Tallahassee is a wonderful place to raise kids. We are members of Trinity United Methodist Church and Anna Pace attends Holy Comforter Episcopal School. We love meeting new families and friends throughout the community!

Three words that describe our family: Friendly, Active, Organized.

The Kinney Family Allison, Robbie, Anna Pace (4) and Carson (5 months) Photos by Ashley Daniell Photography | Photographed at southwood plantation

Occupation(s): Robbie is a financial planner and Allison is a lobbyist.

Favorite family meal: Pizza; Mellow Mushroom is our favorite!

Favorite date spots: Sage and Governor’s Club.

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The kids’ favorite books: Anna Pace loves all the Disney Princess books and “Green Eggs and Ham” and “Oh, the Places You’ll Go!” by Dr. Seuss.

Mommy and Daddy’s favorite TV shows: “Mad Men,” “House of Cards” and all sports for Robbie.

Our family is most like: Organized chaos! With Allison’s travel schedule, Robbie’s long hours and two young kids, we are constantly on-the-go and trying to balance it all! Organization is key in the middle of crazy lives.

Websites we love: Twitter, Etsy, The Living Balance Sheet.

Movie in our DVD player right now: “Sleeping Beauty.”

Favorite family activity: We love going to the park or zoo.

gigglemag.com | JUNE/JULY 2015

Favorite sports to watch: Football (especially SEC football), golf and Wimbledon.

Anything else you want us to know about your family? Robbie went to University of Georgia and Allison attended Auburn University, so we have fun being the “House Divided” during football season! ✽

We love the "South Georgia" feel of Tallahassee.

Everyone is so friendly and Tallahassee is a wonderful place to raise kids.

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life

the pare n t life

Bonding Through the Great Outdoors

by SAVANNA KEARNEY

As Father’s Day nears, mothers and children across the world are scrambling to find the perfect way to show the man of the household how much they love him. Sometimes experiences spent together, as a family, can demonstrate how important our dads are to us.

Camping has been a classic family bonding experience for over 100 years.

It allows you to appreciate the great outdoors, while being able to spend time with loved ones with little to no distractions. Memories built from a solid family camping trip can last a lifetime. So, what are the steps you need to take to plan the perfect camping trip with Dad?

PREPARE

Camping is not really the type of activity you can do on a whim. Don’t spontaneously pack the family into the car and drive — prior preparation is essential.

Start by picking a location. Leon County has plenty of family-friendly campgrounds, including Lake Talquin and Big Oak RV Park. Next, pick a date.

Summer is a popular time to go camping, although this is the most crowded (and hot!) season. Winter is a quiet and peaceful season to take advantage of, as long as you are prepared to brave the cold. Fall and spring offer less extreme weather and are not usually as busy as the summer. Check with the campground you’ve chosen to confirm if any large groups will be visiting during the time you are requesting.

© 2015 iStockphoto LP. All rights reserved

PACK

Shopping for camping gear can seem like a monumental task, but as long as you bring these few essentials, your trip should be a success. Choose a tent large enough to fit the entire family, or multiple small tents for individuals to share.

While sleeping bags are necessary, a sleeping pad can provide extra support and comfort, especially for the adults. If the camping grounds do not have a grill, fire pit or stove, you may need to purchase a

Giggle Tip!

If it’s your first time camping, try it out in the backyard first so you are in a comfortable setting while figuring out needed supplies and gear.

camping stove (don’t forget to bring food to cook!). Lanterns provide light, warmth and a sense of safety in an unfamiliar area. There are three types: batterypowered, propane and gas. Choose the one you are most comfortable using.

Buying a tarp will protect the family from any weather changes Mother Nature brings your way. A couple of extras to include: extra batteries, folding chairs, shower shoes, sunscreen, bug spray, emergency radio, first aid kit and extra toilet paper.

to identify different plants and animals while on a hike around the grounds. They can also learn to treat their environment kindly by cleaning up the campground and seeing how to properly extinguish a campfire before heading out. A scavenger hunt is the ideal way to take advantage of your setting. Make a list of objects that can be found in your natural setting and send the kids on a search! ✽

PLAYTIME

Camping gives parents an opportunity to teach their kids basic survival skills, as well as a sense of appreciation for nature, all while exploring and having fun. Older children can carry a small survival kit or whistle for the group. Show your kiddos how to properly use a compass and what to do if they get lost. Children can learn gigglemag.com | JUNE/JULY 2015

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life

P O W E R PA R E N T

The Art of Life

BY REBECCA VITKUS

A

s a husband, father of two, artist and business owner, William Lamb is constantly striving to ensure that his family remains his top priority. He shared with us a little about how it all comes together.

What is Wm Lamb & Son? Going forward it will just be called William Lamb. It is a lifestyle brand based on my artwork, way of life and sense of style. As an artist, first and foremost, I have been able to express my passion for the outdoors and the sporting life on a canvas. I have created the William Lamb clothing line based on my belief that the best designs are timeless and quality is never compromised.

What does your typical workday look like?

I take the kids (Will – 14 and Molly – 9) to school (best part of the day!), come back home, fix a cup a coffee and work until school is out. Either Margaret or I will pick up the kids. We run around doing the kids’ stuff after school. We love to cook dinner at home and have a family meal. Molly usually says the blessing for us. I then usually go back to work around 8:30 – 9 p.m. and try to get a couple more hours of work in before bed.

We laugh because so many families are so scattered these days and the four of us are actually together a ton.

How do you balance work life and home life?

Not very well, but I try. Margaret does a better job at this and has to remind me that I need to stop what I am working on and join the family. It is great that I get to be home with the kids and play in the afternoon, or pick up and go to Will's lacrosse games. My schedule is totally flexible and my own. Sometimes it’s hard for me to stay focused ... just ask Margaret. I do get to see our kids more than most and it is a blessing. We travel a lot but when we are home, we are 100 percent home since that's where the office is.

What advice would you give other working parents?

If you do not enjoy what you do, find something you enjoy doing. Life is too short and the kids grow up way too fast. You will have to give up some stuff, maybe, but you will be happier and that reflects onto your children.

What sacrifices have you had to make?

The stresses of starting a new career and business cannot be explained unless you have done it. My family gave me all the support and encouragement, and Margaret is a stone pillar and has been by my side always. I do not need any more material things in my life. We used to go out west for a week in the summer but that's been cut out of the budget for now. We love it out there and will return soon. We do spend a lot of time

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▲ William works on a commissioned watercolor piece.

Photo by Ashley Daniell Photography.

at our family beach cottage on St. George Island and we are truly blessed to have that as our vacation spot while we grow our business. We call it "the satellite office."

When and how do you make time for yourself?

My life is my work and my work is my life. With that I get to do a lot of cool things. When I travel, I try to plan a day or afternoon to fish. Last year, Will and I went to North Carolina and North Georgia and went trout fishing for a week. I want to take a week this summer and fly to Bozeman, Montana, and fish our way down to Yellowstone and fly back.

I would love to make this an annual event. Time for myself is including the kids in my projects. Every now and then I will have a guys’ weekend or a day of hunting, but I enjoy watching the kids enjoy things as much as I like to do them.

That is fulfilling.

Who is your greatest inspiration?

My parents. They set such an incredible example for me to follow in my values, marriage, work ethic and love for family.

Who are your biggest supporters?

My bible study/accountability group that meets on Wednesday mornings, my kids and family, and Margaret, Margaret and Margaret! ✽

FROM GIGGLE MAGAZINE

life

2015

G iggle sta m p ™

Don't Forget Dad!

FATHER'S DAY

GIFT GUIDE

BY CHELSEA STROMFELD

Whether he is into technology, travel or sports, we have some incredible gift ideas to honor the special dad in your life.

Personalized Leather Wallet with Stainless Steel Money Clip Uniquely designed wallet with slots on the inside for credit cards and a money clip on the outside to stash cash. $44.99, Personalcreations.com.

The Complete Worst-Case Scenario Survival Handbook: Man Skills Extensive collection of instructions to help him prepare for situations that could result in accidents or problems. $19.53, Amazon.com.

Morph Battery Mug Add your favorite hot beverage and watch the mug morph right before your eyes. As it cools, the graphic changes back to original state. $10, Kikkerland.com.

ShaveTech USB Rechargeable Travel Shaver For the dad who logs in lots of miles, the ShaveTech razor uses USB power to charge anywhere. With it’s sleek and lightweight design, this is a great gadget for the tech savvy dad. $29.99, Shavetech.com.

Ergo Chef My Juicer™ A healthy dad is a happy dad.

The Ergo Chef’s My Juicer™ is a must-have for quick healthy drinks for the dad on-the-go. $44.99, Ergochef.com.

Dollar Shave Club Subscription-based company that sends high quality razors and grooming products to your door for a few dollars a month. $3 per month and up, DollarShaveClub.com.

Bobine: The World’s Most Flexible iPhone Dock Cable, tripod and stand all in a flexible dock small enough to fit in your bag but strong enough to hold your iPhone in difficult places and positions. $35, Fusechicken.com.

Personalized No. 12 Tie Case Handsome travel accessory to keep neckwear neat and wrinkle free; holds up to a dozen ties. $153, Colonellittleton.com.

TaylorMade AeroBurner Driver & Golf Balls Up Dad’s game with a new driver featuring an advanced aerodynamic shape and a new and improved Speed Pocket. $299.99; TaylorMade golf balls starting at $19.99; Taylormadegolf.com.

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Meet our Hottie Dads 2015 winner, ian mott-smith!

In the words of his wife, REAGAN : "Ian is the most dedicated and loving dad to our four children. His whole life is built around our family's needs. He is involved in all of the kids' activities, their homework, the little ones' baths and bedtimes, and even helps with dinner and household chores. Ian is driven, optimistic, unselfish, patient and kind. And the positive influence he has on our family is evident, as I can already see our children portraying a lot of his wonderful traits!"

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H OTT IE

DADS 201 5 Photos by Ashley Daniell Photogra

phy

» ian mott-smith Project Manager at Tallahassee Memorial Healthcare, Inc.; Owner of Blue Sol Yoga and Massage Studio (soon to be Firewater Yoga and Fitness); VP of Business Development at our family company, MottSmith Consulting Group. dad to Gavin (15), Ansley (13), Myles (7) and Saige (2) What is the best part about being a dad?

The best part of being a dad is the excitement of each new day with the kids. Every day is an opportunity to teach, coach, laugh and love with them. Not one day is the same as the last, and I cherish each minute I get to spend with them.

Do you have any special “dad” routines?

I enjoy coaching the kid’s team sports. I grew up playing soccer and my dad coached my teams. I started coaching Gavin’s team when he was 6. After he went on to play club soccer with ASG, I then coached Ansley’s soccer team. Now I coach Myles’ baseball, football and soccer teams. I look forward to the time spent with them during their games or out-of-town tournaments.

What part of parenting scares you the most?

The scariest part of parenting is not living up to my own expectations as a parent. I won’t let them down. Ever. Life moves so fast. It’s inevitable that they will all grow up. Knowing how fragile life is, I constantly remind myself to enjoy each moment because those are the moments they live in. I want to make sure they enjoy each wave while keeping an eye on the horizon.

What is your most memorable “dad” moment?

The births of all our children were memorable. However, having our youngest, Saige, was not easy. It tested our faith, strength and patience. Once Reagan finally became pregnant, we knew we had to enjoy each moment. We took a “belly picture” every week when she started to show. Reagan is an amazing wife and made this final pregnancy all the more memorable.

Immediately after Saige was born, I was in the recovery room alone with her. It hit me when I crouched down close to her face and she opened her eyes and stared at me. Our family was complete. She became the center of my universe.

What has been the funniest parent moment so far?

Each kid has made us laugh in different ways. One that sticks out involved a disciplining moment a few years back. We have a massage chair in our living room that is convenient for a timeout chair. We had to put Ansley in timeout and after about five minutes of her sitting there, we hear her say loudly, “Well can I at least get a massage while I sit here?” We did the best we could not to laugh. Needless to say, the timeout was over after that! gigglemag.com | JUNE/JULY 2015

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» Rod foys General Manager, Gold’s Gym Downtown Tallahassee, Dad to Jaxton Rucker FOYS (17 months) What is the best part about being a dad?

The best part is knowing Jaxton is happy.

What is the hardest part about being a dad?

One of the hardest parts is seeing Jaxton hurt or sick.

Do you have any special “dad” routines?

I go in and check on him every night before I go to bed. Every day since Jax was born, I have done this bedtime routine.

What part of parenting scares you the most?

Making sure I give Jax every chance to succeed and be happy.

What is your most memorable “dad” moment?

Jax falling asleep on my chest when he was a newborn has to be the most memorable moment.

Who was/is your biggest influence on your parenting style?

My mom. She sacrificed a lot for me.

Which TV or movie dad is the most like you?

Liam Neeson in the movie “Taken.”

What has been the funniest parent moment so far?

Jax’s fascination with the waitresses at Hooters.

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» erik fenniman ATTORNEY, DAD TO Crosby (7) and Kipton (5) What is the best part about being a dad?

Watching them sleep before I go to bed and asking the powers that be to make me the best dad I can be.

Do you have any special “dad” routines?

When my wife works on the weekend, we go out on the boat. I try to have the boys "help" by doing jobs. Crosby enjoys hooking the boat to the trailer and cranking it up (with a little help). Kipton is very good at packing the cooler the night before and getting everything out of the truck onto the boat.

They both "help" washing it down. Going on the boat is the best way I have found to keep them engaged and away from the TV. Guys seem to bond by doing things. All that is needed is a little candy from the Ship Store at Shields Marina to motivate.

Who is your biggest influence on your parenting style?

Probably my dad. He was very good at gently sharing advice without telling me what to do.

The other one is daily emails I get from Tony Dungy's email program called Allprodad.com; there is really some good content and reminders.

Which TV or movie dad is the most like you?

My wife thinks Phil Dunphy from “Modern Family.”

What has been the funniest parent moment so far?

We went hiking in the mountains and I had a Kelty kid carrier on my back with Crosby in it. As I pushed the branches back I would let them go to avoid my face; unfortunately the branches hit my son a couple of times. He eventually said, "TREE, FACE ...

NO.” Some of his first words. gigglemag.com | JUNE/JULY 2015

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» DAVID WEISS Shareholder, Ausley McMullen Law Firm, Dad to Carson (5), Alden (5) and Bennett (2) What is the best part about being a dad?

The way my children sometimes look at me that shows the love, trust and confidence they have for and in me. They may not be the most frequent looks I receive, but they are the best and most rewarding.

What is the hardest part about being a dad?

Maintaining perspective, patience and composure … and accepting the lack of control over their lives and mine.

Do you have any special “dad” routines?

We enjoy our “boys’ nights” when Mommy takes her muchdeserved and too infrequent breaks. They usually get a little extra treat after dinner, and get to stay up a little later (mostly due to lack of efficiency).

What is your most memorable “dad” moment?

Dressing up as the Cat in the Hat for Halloween when the twins were Thing 1 and Thing 2.

I wouldn’t have purchased the costume, but I couldn’t say no when it was offered.

Who is your biggest influence on your parenting style?

My wife, Caroline, who is the best mother in the world. I don’t know how she does it, but I strive to be more like her.

What has been the funniest parent moment so far?

Shortly after Bennett was born, we asked Carson and Alden if he looked more like Caroline or me. Alden said he thought he looked more like our dog Maggie; to which Carson astutely replied, “No, no, no, Maggie has a black stripe on her back.”

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» JASON BENCH General Manager, Southwood Golf Club, DAD TO Dayton Wells Bench (8 months) What is the best part about being a dad?

Having someone whose total life and happiness depends on you.

What is the hardest part about being a dad?

Having someone whose total life and happiness depends on you!

Do you have any special “dad” routines?

My nighttime routine with him includes feeding, changing, book reading, and putting him down for the evening.

What part of parenting scares you the most?

Since this is my first child, and him being a preemie, not knowing if a little cough or sneeze could turn into something bigger is something that scares me.

What is your most memorable “dad” moment?

The first time my son smiled at me.

Who was/is your biggest influence on your parenting style?

My parents.

Which TV or movie dad is the most like you?

Tim “The Tool Man” Taylor from “Home Improvement.”

What has been the funniest parent moment so far?

Every day is something new, but it has to be the time when we were running late in the morning and we finally got Dayton fed, dressed, and I took him to the car. He then projectile vomited all over himself, his clothes, the car seat and me. I had to laugh out loud, as I had to take him back inside, bathe him, change him AGAIN, and get him back out to the car in under five minutes. gigglemag.com | JUNE/JULY 2015

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will want to be an astronaut in no time! With several attractions planned specifically for kids, it’s a great family road trip stop.

Kennedyspacecenter.com

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3. Egmont Key Located just south of Fort De Soto Beach and in the heart of Tampa Bay, Egmont Key is the perfect mix of gorgeous beaches and fun history lessons. Accessible by ferry, the key has three different ruins from the late 1900s and a working lighthouse from 1858 to explore. It also has a wildlife reserve and sunken ruins for snorkeling. Egmont Key is perfect for leisurely Florida exploration. Florida-beach-lifestyle.com/egmont-key-ferry.html

4. Fort Myers

by ale russian & nicole irving

Florida is considered by many as the number one vacation destination for families, with numerous theme parks usually taking credit for that. But Floridians know that’s not all our beautiful state has to offer. Florida is one of the best states for exciting road trips. A few hours of driving can take you to beautiful beaches, lush swamps and fishing piers, or old historical sites. Stay off the beaten path with these alternative road trip destinations.

1. Pensacola The city of Pensacola is perfect for a family vacation, with spots for everyone to enjoy. The National Naval Aviation Museum boasts over 140 restored aircraft from various branches of the military. Nearby is Fort Barrancas, a structure completed in 1844 to protect the US Navy before the Civil War. Take the family to the Pensacola Lighthouse and Museum for an incredible experience!

After climbing 177 steps, you’ll be able to see the whole city of Pensacola, including the various forts built to protect the city after the War of 1812. Pensacola is an amazing historical destination right here in Florida. Navalaviationmuseum.org, Pensacolalighthouse.org

2. Cape Canaveral Cape Canaveral is a fun and educational destination for the whole family. Spend a day in the Kennedy Space Center and your child

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Fort Myers hosts the side-by-side winter estates of famous inventors and lifelong friends, Thomas Edison and Henry Ford.

Surrounded by the natural fauna that has been kept alive since they resided in the area, the extensive estates offer a peek into the lives of two of the most brilliant minds of the 20th century. Spanning 20 acres, the sites include a Ford museum and part of Edison’s research lab, making Fort Myers an educational and historical destination. Edisonfordwinterestates.org

5. St. Augustine The oldest city in America is right here on the east coast of Florida! St. Augustine is a popular destination where you can tour the old town once occupied by Spanish explorers. Your kiddos will have a blast looking at some amazing history at Fort Matanzas and the Castillo de San Marcos. The St. Augustine Lighthouse and Museum are “must-have stops” during your visit. Of course, there are the miles of beautiful beaches and restaurants to enjoy as well.

Immerse your family in one of the greatest historical attractions Florida has to offer. Nps.gov, Staugustinelighthouse.com

6. Sarasota Sarasota is not only home to some of the country’s best beach destinations, but also The Ringling Circus Museum and the Aquarium at the Mote Marine Laboratory. Between the water, natural wildlife and attractions, this is a must visit on the west coast for the whole family. Visitsarasota.org, Ringling.org

7. Everglades The largest subtropical wilderness in the United States is just a few hours south! Head to the Everglades to see all the different species that live in the national park while also learning about what makes Florida special. The airboat tours will take you into the heart of the glades where you will probably spot more than a few gators. Florida-everglades.com

12. St. Marks

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8. The Florida Keys

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Snorkeling, fishing, bike riding and key lime pie are just some of the many perks of visiting the Florida Keys! Make it all the way down to Key West and you can take a picture at the famous marker of the southernmost point! If you see a lot of stray cats around, don’t worry; you’re probably just close to Ernest Hemingway’s house, where the famous Hemingway cats live. Eat delicious lobster and fresh seafood while watching the breathtaking sunset. Sounds like a great family vacation!

Thefloridakeys.com

St. Marks is an attraction for boaters, fishermen and seafood lovers. Located just 25 miles south of Tallahassee, St. Marks is the home to the Tallahassee-St. Marks Historic Railroad State Trail, a paved 16-mile bicycle and equestrian trail that ends right at the St. Marks waterfront. While here, visit the Natural Wildlife Refuge, which is a home for wildlife, natural salt marshes, freshwater swamps, pine forests and lakes. At the Wildlife Refuge you can embark on an adventure of fishing, hiking, paddling, and bird and butterfly watching.

You will also have an opportunity to see the historic St. Marks lighthouse on the Apalachee Bay. Cityofstmarks.com

2 Discover More …

Visit Vivaflorida.org/ Explore/Discover-MoreFlorida-Northwest for more information about Florida’s historic and heritage tourism spots. #DiscoverNWFL.

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9. Jupiter

Cut on dotted line and tape together.

Around every corner, you will find something fun for the whole family to do in the town of Jupiter. Located on Florida’s east coast, this beach town is the home to the Jupiter Lighthouse, the Loggerhead Marine Life Center, Busch Wildlife Sanctuary and miles of beautiful beaches and countless golf courses. Nestled just 30 miles north of West Palm Beach, Jupiter boasts golfing, snorkeling and fishing all year long. Jupiterlighthouse.org, Marinelife.org, Buschwildlife.org

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10. Mexico Beach White sandy beaches and the emerald green waters are the main attraction in this beautiful northwest Florida town. Mexico Beach has wonderful fishing spots, quaint local dining and eclectic shopping, perfect for everyone in the family. Mexicobeach.com

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11. Cedar Key This historic town sits just 50 miles southwest of Gainesville, Florida, along the Gulf of Mexico. If sunsets, fishing, kayaking and relaxing are what your summer plans call for, then a weekend trip to Cedar Key is a must. Cedarkey.org

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With a summer color palette that goes beyond the traditional red, white and blue, we are sharing our favorite Fourth of July traditions and tips to help your family enjoy the holiday food and fun before the fireworks even begin.

SHADES OF

SUMMER gigglemag.com | JUNE/JULY 2015

STYLED BY GIGGLE MAGAZINE | PHOTOS BY VERVE STUDIO

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Relay games are easy to prepare and fun for all ages! Think elementary school field days: Burlap sack races, balloon tosses, jump roping, tug-of-war and hula hooping are all favorites that will add some excitement to your summertime gathering.

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While red, white and blue are the staples for Fourth of July decor, you can add a bright touch of color to your table with simple flowers and fun dishware!

Cold lemonade served with fresh fruit is the perfect thirst-quencher for a hot Florida summer celebration!

Decorate simple mason jars with colorful paper circles on the lids. Avoid mix-ups by adding a name to each lid with a permanent marker.

DIY Pinwheels! Check out our how-to guide on Gigglemag.com for an easy craft that doubles as cute table decor!

A great safety tip for July 4th fun: Use a Solo cup to protect little hands when celebrating with sparklers. Remember, always supervise kids with any type of fireworks!

Arrange blueberries, strawberries and slices of cheese to create a tasty, edible version of Old Glory! gigglemag.com | JUNE/JULY 2015

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health

get prett y

Bronzed Beauties!





 LUSH Latté Lip Tint Powdered coffee, icing sugar and vanilla give the tint a creamy, latte flavor to compliment the paler, subtler coffee color. $7.25, Lushusa.com.

by chelsea stromfeld

 jane iredale Tantasia Self Tanner & Bronzer Pleasantly scented, streak-free formula that instantly works as a bronzer, develops as a gradual tan and provides natural hydration. $36, Janeiredale.com.

Are you looking for that sun-kissed glow, but don’t want the skin damage from an unprotected day in the sun? Look no further! We have picked some of our favorite body tints and bronzers to moisturize your skin while providing you with a touch of healthy color.

 L’Oréal Paris Sublime Bronze Serum Long-lasting tan for up to two weeks, quickdry and streak-free. $10.99, Lorealparisusa.com, mass market retailers.  LUSH Black Stockings Body Tint Spicy pimento berry oil, cinnamon and a hint of sweet orange oil give the Caribbeaninspired body tint a warm, deep fragrance like a tropical beach with a sun-kissed glow. $10.95, Lushusa.com.

 

 jane iredale Golden Shimmer Face and Body Lotion Formula enhances honey-hued limbs and creates a subtle veil of shimmer to warm and smooth natural complexions. $32, Janeiredale.com.

Photos courtesy of the manufacturers. LUSH, Golden Shimmer and Colorscience photos by Giggle Magazine.



 LUSH Charisma Skin Tint Bronzing tint that nourishes and moisturizes with oatmeal decoction, cocoa butter, jojoba and almond oils to give a glowy, natural look. $18.95, Lushusa.com.



 Bobbi Brown Face and Body Bronzing Duos Amazing for getting a natural-looking, long-lasting glow in an instant; perfect for a beach trip or night out! $48, Bobbibrowncosmetics.com.

 



 LUSH Lustre Body Powder Dusting powder with a gold shimmer and seductive jasmine perfume leaves give your skin a subtle glow and sexy scent. $15.95, Lushusa.com.  Colorescience Pressed Mineral Bronzer Provides a healthy, sun-kissed glow adding richness and warmth to your complexion.

Available in Mojave and Santa Fe shades. $49, Colorescience.com. gigglemag.com | JUNE/JULY 2015

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health

get health y

Solutions for 7 Summertime Syndromes

BY SAVANNA KEARNEY

The dog days of summer are in full swing, and families are out and about enjoying the weather. Along with blue skies and a shining sun come an assortment of ailments that are prevalent during the summer. With the help of Mayoclinic.org, we created a guide to treating and preventing those common maladies so you and your kids can get back to what’s important – having fun!

Giggle Tip! Add aloe vera gel, calamine lotion and antihistamine pills to your first aid kit, car or purse so you always have a quick solution to pesky summertime problems.

Sunburn Sunburn is one of the most common problems parents see during the summer.

While the obvious measures of prevention are to use sunscreen (at least 30 SPF), there are ways to treat sunburns after they happen. Pressing a cool compress on the burn will help to soothe the heat, while over-the-counter pain medications can help to ease pain. Aloe vera gel or lotion is the best treatment because it soothes, heals and prevents peeling later. Also, drink plenty of water to rehydrate skin.

Heat Rash Heat rash is a prevalent summertime condition, especially in the humidity of Florida, because it develops when perspiration gets trapped inside sweat ducts. Although it usually clears on its own, heat rash can be treated by removing or loosening clothing from the skin and resting in a cool, dry environment. Let skin air-dry without using towels, and avoid heavy creams and lotions that could irritate skin.

Sea Lice

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Poison Ivy/Oak Although poison ivy or oak rashes usually heal within a few days, there are treatments to alleviate pain and quicken the healing process. Immediately rinse the affected area with lukewarm soapy water, and wash clothing to avoid causing another rash. If the rash is itchy, do not scratch it, or it may become inflamed. Instead, apply calamine lotion or cool compresses to skin, and take short, lukewarm baths. Taking an antihistamine can also reduce itching.

Bee Stings If a bee stings you or your child, carefully remove the stinger and wash the area with soap and water. Applying cold compresses and an ice pack to the skin can ease pain and relieve swelling. If the redness and swelling increase, apply calamine lotion or cortisone cream to the skin and take an antihistamine. If the bee sting creates a more severe reaction, consult your doctor.

Ringworm Keeping your body clean and dry, not sharing towels or sports equipment, and wearing sandals in locker rooms can help prevent contracting ringworm. Once you see a ringworm rash on the skin, wash the affected area with soap and water, and dry thoroughly. Apply an antifungal cream around the edges of the rash. If it doesn’t go away in two weeks, contact your doctor.

Chigger Bites Chigger bites are similar to mosquito bites – irritating but not threatening.

Wash the bite with soap and water vigorously to make sure there are no chiggers still attached to the skin. Do not scratch the bite because it can become infected. Pressing a cool washcloth or applying calamine lotion to the skin can relieve itching. ❉ *Always consult your doctor for care regarding your family’s specific needs.

© 2015 iStockphoto LP. All rights reserved.

Sea lice stings can be difficult to prevent since they are nearly invisible in water.

Watch the lifeguard flags and stay out of the water if warnings are posted (purple flags indicate dangerous marine life). If you do go in the water, avoid wearing extraloose fitting clothing. After swimming in the ocean, immediately rinse off with cold, fresh water and change out of swimsuits.

If you are bitten, avoid scratching and take an antihistamine and apply calamine lotion

to the affected area. Oatmeal baths are also great for soothing itchiness.

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happy home

ORGANIZED CHAOS

len... e H r a e D

SUMMER FUN!

• Most of the summer fun ideas can be adjusted for preschool, elementary and tween needs.

Remember that older kids are great helpers for younger kids and usually enjoy preparing materials for games and crafts.

• Many parents work with recurring themes, such as

Move It Monday, Thinking Tuesday, Wet Wednesday, Trip Thursday and Fantasy Friday. Within these or other themes that you select, are the crafts, games, local trips and chores that fit.

• Crafts are a hit with most kids. Even if you don’t

like doing them, fake it til you make it with templates for projects that go easy on preparation and cleanup time. Craft stores like Michael’s have classes designed for kids. Local pottery and art studios are another resource.

• Look up Lego® Challenges for themed play that includes Build a Pet, Blue Bricks Only, Flags, Birthday Cakes, Ornaments, Cars and Things in the Sky.

• Activities that ward off brain drain during the

Queries from the Curious BY helen kornblum

Q. I want my children to have a fun summer with lots of activities, but with some “lazy” time, too. How should I schedule this so that everyone gets both this summer?

A. Creating summer schedules and routines that meet everyone’s needs – including yours – is a daunting task. Thanks to ideas from the Internet and community resources, you don’t have to reinvent the wheel to keep the kids busy, intellectually stimulated and happy.

© 2015 iStockphoto LP. All rights reserved.

Start with an account of your family circumstances: Single mom? Work-from-home mom? Work-outside-the-home mom? Stay-at-home mom? Dad’s availability? Access to sitters and drivers? Available budget for summer activities? Ages and interests of the kids?

You don’t have to build an Excel chart, although you will need documentation to keep track of comings and goings. The critical ingredient is enough daily structure so the kids aren’t frazzled by their activities or understimulated by long, boring days. (Boredom in small doses, however, often stimulates creativity.)

To spark your creativity, head off to Pinterest or just google “schedule summer fun for children” or a similar phrase. You will find a delightful selection of free printables and templates. Start with “A Mom with a Lesson Plan.”

summer can involve trips to the library. The public library system has enticing and fun programs for teens, tweens and younger kids. You can also introduce the family to the fun of audiobooks. Read aloud, perhaps acting out favorite scenes.

• Infuse new learning through science experiments,

money games and card games. Everyone can learn a new skill together at an appropriate level. Can you juggle or use a hula hoop? Ask the kids to teach you. Ask the tweens to teach Grandma and Grandpa to use Skype.

• Use teamwork for household chores, assigning tasks according to abilities. Put on music or play Beat-theClock to boost productivity. Extend teamwork into the kitchen to play “restaurant.”

• Build quiet or unstructured time into each day

with blowing bubbles, reading, doing puzzles, or playing dress up and board games. Screen time belongs here, too.

• Creating playgroups with other families may help you target one age group for an activity with a particular appeal and skill level.

• Schedule your own free time by hiring a sitter. You don’t want to have crazy days of summer, either. ✽

 Helen Kornblum is a life coach and organizer in Gainesville, FL. Find her at www.CoachandOrganizer.com. Her specialty is coaching teens and young adults who have ADHD or ADD. gigglemag.com | JUNE/JULY 2015

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forks & spoons

DELISH

Dress Up Your Dog! STYLED BY GIGGLE MAGAZINE | PHOTOS BY GIGGLE MAGAZINE

Hula Hot Dog • Diced pineapple • Sliced red onion Add a splash of teriyaki sauce

Beans & BBQ Dog • Baked beans • BBQ sauce • Red onion • Cheddar and Colby Jack cheese • Yellow mustard

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Giggle Tip: No time

to fire up the grill? A countertop electric grill is a great alternative for those times when you are in a hurry.

Try these other tasty combinations!

• Refried beans, cheddar and pickled jalapenos

• Bacon, avocado and chipotle mayo

• Buffalo mayo, hot sauce, celery and blue cheese

• Peaches, jalapenos and cilantro

Cha-Cha-Chili Dog

Southwestern Corn Dog

Philly Dog • Yellow corn

• Prepared chili

• Red peppers

• Grilled onions

• Diced onion

• Black beans

• Grilled green peppers

• Diced green peppers

• Diced tomatoes

• Provolone cheese

• Cheddar and Colby Jack cheese • Sliced jalapenos

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conception2college™  expecting Preparing for THE Big Day

 infant | 0-1 Surviving Baby’s First Day Out

 toddler | 2-3 Biting: Why it Happens and How to Stop It

 early years | 4-5 Make a Mess with These Fun Crafts!

 kids | 6-9 Beyond Toys: Great Gift Ideas That Won’t Soon Be Forgotten

 tweens | 10-13 To Censor or Not to Censor ...

That Is the Question

 teens | 14-18 Our Last Summer Before College

Photo by Elizabeth Birdwell Photography.

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expecting

preg n a n c y

Preparing for THE Big Day

BY APRIL TISHER

When you find out you are pregnant, you’re bombarded with information. Yet one of the biggest questions remains: “How can I be ready for labor?” It is hard to fully prepare for the unknown, and everyone has opinions on what you must do before delivery day. Remember, it is different for every mom and every pregnancy.

Here are a few important things to think about while you are planning for your big day: Where will the birth take place? If you are new to the facility, make a practice run to find out where to park, what entrance to use when you are in labor, and which floor of the building is for labor and delivery. It’s also a good idea to make sure all insurance and billing issues are handled early so you don’t have surprise paperwork to deal with in the moment.

© 2015 iStockphoto LP. All rights reserved.

Whom do you want contacted when you go into labor?

Whom do you want with you in the delivery room? It’s best to hash this out ahead of time so you don’t end up forgetting to notify someone or an argument erupts between your husband and sister when she wants to be in the room for the birth. Keep a contact list handy, so either you or a designee can send a text, update your social media or call those you want to update.

What is on your birth plan? Think of this as your wish list.

You may feel very strongly about not having an epidural or wanting the whole family present for the birth beforehand, but things can change during labor. It is OK to deviate from what you think you wanted. The most important thing is the health and safety of the mom and baby. Share your wishes with your doctor or midwife and your spouse, so things can go as close as possible to your vision.

If you have other children or pets at home, make sure you have a plan and a back-up plan in place for their care when you go into labor. Remember, you may be in labor for 5 minutes or 24 hours, so make sure you plan accordingly. You might need someone to pick up older children from school or stay overnight with them. Will someone bring your children to the hospital to visit or wait until you come home with the baby? Is there someone who is comfortable with your pet and can take care of him while you’re away?

Giggle Tip: Have someone bring a blanket the baby has been wrapped in to your pet before you bring the baby home, so he can learn the baby’s scent.

When packing, remember you need a bag for you, your coach/spouse and your baby. It’s best to start packing these bags several weeks before your due date, to help you feel prepared and so that you have time to add things as you think of extras you might need. If you want some of your own comforts from home, go ahead and pack them or write them down so you remember to grab them on your way out the door.

If you want a special outfit for the baby to wear home or for photos, be sure to bring it. I also found that bringing a focal object helped me during active labor. Your favorite music, a birthing ball or essential oils could also aid you in the labor process. Don’t forget the baby’s car seat or feeding supplies (this includes your nursing pillow). ✽

Note from the Doctor: While there is a lot to think about and plan during this time, Dr. Kay Roussos-Ross, an OB-GYN with UF Health, advises her patients to just “enjoy this time with your partner; go to dinner and spend time alone together. Your family dynamic is about to change so take advantage now.” gigglemag.com | JUNE/JULY 2015

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infant

ages 0 - 1

Surviving Baby’s First Day Out

BY OLIVIA K. PITKETHLY, MA, LMHC

!

gle Tip Gig

It’s OK to le a a full shop ve ping cart and h e home if ne ad ed be.

Trust us, w e have all done it.

wipes, a changing pad and an extra plastic bag to hold dirty diapers and/or clothes. Instead of trying to handle a bulky stroller through crowded stores, keep your baby close.

“Baby wearing is great,” says Annette McNally, mommy of two. “You still have two free hands to take care of yourself and baby.”

Out To Eat

Not ready to leave baby with a sitter? Take her with you to the restaurant, preferably one that is kid-friendly so when your little one starts to cry, she won’t disrupt other customers.

Bring the infant car seat into the restaurant and request a booth. Baby can sit close to you in the booth (and she may even sleep through dinner). Again, bring lots of wipes to clean off anything she may touch, and a blanket to help her feel comfortable in an unfamiliar place.

Feed her before you get to the restaurant and bring along extra. ✽ It’s a day that can bring even the most confident parent to break out in a sweat: the first time we take our infants out into the real world. We try to foresee every possible catastrophe and we squeeze every item we might need into an already overstuffed diaper bag.

Here are a few tips to make those first trips a little easier.

© 2015 iStockphoto LP. All rights reserved.

Driving Alone With Your New One

Most trips start with a ride in the car. My son hated, I mean hated, riding in his car seat. A quick trip to the bank or store often turned into a 90-minute ride because I would pull over every few minutes to quell his uncontrollable crying. Make sure your little one has a full belly and a clean diaper before heading out. Pack a favorite toy or a mirror to hang on the back seat for your baby to see her reflection. Other mommy friends have also suggested a white noise machine or app to help baby relax.

A Day At The Park

Your infant is too small to enjoy the slide or the swings, but you still want her to

experience nature and fresh air. Prepare for any weather by packing age-appropriate sunscreen, citronella lotion or stickers (to ward off mosquitos) and an umbrella. A large towel or blanket becomes an on-thego play mat. A change of clothes can come in handy too if you are caught in a rainstorm or worse, baby’s diaper explodes.

Francys Martin, mommy of two, can speak from experience.

“After a very messy and traumatizing situation, we consistently carried a clean towel, bottled water and soapy towelettes so that we could clean up any situation and give them a mini bath in the backseat,” she advises.

Shopping Excursion

To prevent isolation, new parents need to be around other adults, even if it’s just in passing while strolling through the mall.

Most malls are equipped with family bathrooms, nursing areas and a clean changing station, but you will still want to pack lots of

Taking care of yourself!

Hope for the best, expect the worst.

Not every experience with your new baby is going to be magical, so don’t expect outings to run perfectly. Breathe.

Breastfeeding mamas should pack an extra shirt because leaks aren’t reserved for diapers and burp cloths can’t catch everything.

Pack a snack for yourself. “I would underestimate how long things would take,” says Sabrina O’Malley, mommy of two. “Things can get more frustrating and overwhelming if you’re hungry too!”

Wear clothing with pockets. You need a place to stash your phone, keys and money that is easily accessible, even if your hands are full.

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toddler

ages 2 - 3

Biting: Why it Happens and How to Stop it

BY COLLEEN MCTIERNAN

How NOT to Stop Biting

Dr. Kelly discourages parents from biting their child back after she has bitten someone. Although it may seem like an effective way to prevent further biting, pinching and hitting are also discouraged.

“You really want to avoid physical punishment in general because it never works,” she said.

What if Your Child is Bitten?

This problem can be just as frustrating, if not more, as having a child with a biting problem. More often than not, these bites tend to happen in playgroups or daycare. Because of how common biting is among young children, it is expected that your child might be bitten while in these play settings, but it should not be tolerated behavior.

When your child graduates from baby to toddler, the changes she undergoes can be exciting. But this growth can also be accompanied by more outbursts as your child tries to find ways to express herself.

One of the more difficult expressions your toddler may turn to is biting. Although biting is relatively common among young children, it is important to teach your child that it is not acceptable under any circumstances.

Why Toddlers Bite

If they feel they are not getting the attention they need or are upset about something, toddlers may bite a parent or other caregiver to let them know. They may bite a sibling or other toddler when they don’t know how to properly settle a dispute over a favorite toy or how to express what it is they want.

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How to Stop Biting

Try to discover what is causing your child to bite and anticipate that behavior. If her biting is a result of teething, ensure that your child has a teething ring or cool washcloth to help soothe her. If your child’s biting stems from frustration, try to avoid having her in a situation that makes her upset.

“Lots of times parents know their kid is getting frustrated and know that they bite, so at that point of frustration or irritability, you want to take your child aside and remove her from that situation where she is about to bite,” Dr. Kelly said.

Make sure your child understands that biting is not an acceptable behavior.

Never laugh at your child when she bites, even when she is an infant. It should be reiterated from the beginning that biting is not okay.

“As a parent you have to assert yourself, either with the childcare setting or with the parent of the child that’s biting, and just make sure you feel comfortable with the consequences that are happening to that child for this behavior,” Dr. Kelly said.

Although most bites do not break the skin, if this happens to your child you should clean the bite with anti-bacterial soap and contact your pediatrician for advice on further treatment. ✽

Giggle Tip: Share the book

“Teeth Are Not for Biting” by Elizabeth Verdick with your child for an upbeat, childfriendly way of preventing biting and teaching positive alternatives.

© 2015 iStockphoto LP. All rights reserved.

There are a few reasons why your child may be biting. In infants and younger toddlers, biting is common during teething to soothe their pain. In older toddlers, biting may be used as a method of communication when they don’t know what else to do.

“Maybe they’re frustrated and they don’t know how to communicate that they’re unhappy, so sometimes they will bite as a means to communicate those feelings,” said Dr. Maria Kelly, a pediatrician at UF Health Pediatrics.

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early years Make a Mess with These Fun Crafts! ages 4 - 5

BY REBECCA VITKUS

It’s finally summer, and it’s time to make a mess! With the summer sunshine comes the opportunity to try out new messy crafts and games without worrying about the cleanup process. Everyone will love these fun, outside-only activities, and when playtime is over, all you have to do is hose down the driveway ¬ and the kids!

FINGER PAINTING

What kid doesn’t love being allowed to paint with his hands? Bring out some paper and washable tempera paints, and help nurture your child’s artistic interests. For a fun twist, provide different homemade stamps like sponges or apples cut in half.

BUBBLE FUN

Making your own bubble solution is easy and cheap ¬ two cups water plus two tablespoons dishwashing liquid and it can provide endless entertainment for kiddos. Search the dollar stores to find different bubble wands, and let the kids compete to see who can make the biggest bubble.

DIY WRAPPING PAPER

With so many summer birthday parties to attend, you and your child can create art that is both beautiful and practical.

Use long sheets of white or solidcolored wrapping paper, and have your child step onto paint-filled sponges and

Giggle Tip! walk all over the paper. If your little one is having fun, you might as well get a head start on your holiday gift wrap!

SIDEWALK PAINT

Forget boring sidewalk chalk! We have a recipe for sidewalk paint that your kids will love to use. Drawing with chalk can be tough because of its rough texture, but this paint glides on smoothly, and the best part is that you can spray it away, just like traditional chalk.

FOOD SENSORY BIN

Playing with our food can be fun! Fill a bin with different colors of Jell-O

Outdoor fun provides a great opportunity to enjoy popsicles, everyone’s favorite summertime treat, without the sticky mess in your kitchen!

squares, and watch as your child experiences the squishy texture of the gelatin. You can also change up the contents of the bin – try pudding, ice cubes or different kinds of fruits. Make sure to set aside some of this craft for an afternoon snack. ✽

Mix equal parts water and cornstarch to make your paint. Two cups of each makes a large batch. Divide the paint into smaller containers ¬ small Tupperware pieces, bowls or muffin tins ¬ and add 2-3 drops of food coloring into each separate one so you have a variety of fun colors. Give your little ones (and yourself!) several paintbrushes, sponges, pinecones, etc., to create a beautiful summertime picture on the driveway or sidewalk.

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© 2015 iStockphoto LP. All rights reserved.

Easy Sidewalk Paint

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kids

ages 6 - 9

Beyond Toys: Great Gift Ideas That Won’t Soon Be Forgotten

BY ALE RUSSIAN

Picking the perfect gift for your child, or one of your child’s friends, is always a process. You know he’d be happy with a toy, but you struggle with wanting to get him something that is also nurturing, educational and unique.

An easy solution to this problem is investing in alternative gifts.

These are gifts that will keep your child’s interest longer than a toy can and often encourage healthy development in some way. This could be anything from a planned road trip to karate lessons. It will help your child appreciate non-material gifts, and keep you from adding to the toy clutter that is threatening to overtake your home.

Keep some of these alternative gift ideas in mind when the next birthday or holiday rolls around.

Music classes

Learning how to read music and play instruments is a great way to help with your child’s reading skills and give them a new appreciation for music. Knowing how to read music develops parts of the brain that help with critical thinking and leads to greater discipline. Starting your child in music lessons for instruments like the guitar or piano is a fun and educational gift that will have great payoffs in the future.

Theme park passes

With major tourist attractions in Orlando, Tampa, Winter Haven and Valdosta, investing in theme park memberships is a great alternative gift! There are many options, so think about which park would be most exciting and developmentally appropriate for your child. Plan ahead and let him know when you’re going to be able to make your first visit together; it’ll be a gift he never forgets!

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Photo album and disposable camera

This sweet and simple gift will allow your child to document a moment in his life that he feels is important. It may just be a single day or several spaced out throughout a week or month, but letting him decide which moments are worthy of documenting will give him a sense of independence. Once he’s taken all the pictures, work together to put them in the album and help him write the captions to reflect why he thought the moments captured are important. This is a timeless gift that can become an exciting project and a forever keepsake.

Magazine subscriptions

Choosing a developmentally appropriate monthly magazine that covers one of your child’s interests is a great gift that lasts year

Giggle Tip: Think locally when choosing an alternative present. You don’t have to travel far to find amazing experiences to gift. round! Your child will anxiously wait for his mail every month, and will love learning more about his favorite subjects. Sitting down one-on-one with him to read the articles together and discuss them will create a nurturing environment around reading that can help him grow a passion for it. It really is the gift that keeps on giving!

Concert/Event tickets

Amazing experiences are some of the things we all remember from different times in our lives. If there is a particular music artist or sporting event your child would love to see live, look into the upcoming schedules and make it happen! You might want to include the photo album and camera with this gift – it’s sure to be one of those moments worth documenting. ✽ gigglemag.com | JUNE/JULY 2015

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Pediatric Drug Poisoning

on the Rise

BY MATTHEW O. JENIJE SR., BS, RPH, CPH, PHARMD

Exposure to poisons is a common problem.

The Institute of Medicine estimates that the incidence of poisoning in the United States is approximately 4 million cases per year, with 300,000 cases leading to hospitalization and approximately 30,000 deaths. Poisoning is a significant public health issue for children.

Each year in the United States, more than 1 million poison exposures among children younger than 6 years of age are reported to the American Association of Poison Control Centers.

In addition, approximately 140,000 to 150,000 exposures are reported for children 6 – 12 years and 150,000 to 160,000 exposures for teenagers 13 – 19 years. Because not all poisoning exposures are reported to poison control centers, these numbers are most likely an underestimate.

Over 90 percent of poisoning exposures occur in homes. The actual pattern of poisonings varies by age and gender. For preadolescents, poisoning occurs slightly more often in males than females, but this trend reverses in teenagers, with slightly more than half all poisonings in the 13 – 19 year age group occurring in females (55 percent in 2012). The majority of poisonings involving young children are classified as unintentional. In contrast, more than half of poisoning exposures involving teenagers are intentional (54 percent in 2012).

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Annually, more than 500,000 children younger than 5 years accidentally ingest pharmaceuticals and more than 50,000 go to the ER. The annual number of calls to poison centers about children ingesting drugs dropped between 1990 and 2000, but rose between 2001 and 2008. The design of the safety bottles has not changed since they first came out 20 years ago. If children can work an iPad or an iPhone, you wonder if a safety bottle will discourage them.

The substances most frequently involved in children younger than 5 years old were cosmetics/personal care products (14 percent), analgesics (10 percent), household cleaning products (10 percent), foreign bodies/toys/miscellaneous (7 percent) and topical preparations (6.3 percent). Ingestions of over-the-counter cough and cold preparations among young children declined after the labels of these products were revised to warn against use in children younger than 4 years. Child self-ingestion of pharmaceutical agents appears to be increasing with the rising availability of prescription medications. Based on national

surveillance between 2007 and 2011, it is estimated that nearly 9,500 children younger than 6 years are hospitalized each year for unsupervised ingestion of prescription medications. Opioids (particularly buprenorphine) and benzodiazepines were the most commonly ingested medications. The categories of substances most frequently involved in fatalities in children less than 5 years of age during 2012 include fumes/gases/vapors, analgesics, and cough and cold preparations.

Environmental factors also contribute to poisoning events. Most homes contain numerous potentially toxic substances, particularly in the kitchen, bathrooms, laundry room and garage. Items used frequently, such as cleaning products, may be stored in low cabinets for easy access. Some products are so commonly used and seem so familiar that parents may not be aware of their toxicity. Products or medications that are used or taken frequently may be stored properly, but during use may be left momentarily within a child's reach. Child self-exposure accounted for 95 percent of visits to a healthcare facility for evaluation. Look-alikes also pose a problem for small children. Some medications look identical to candy. Similarly, some cleaning products may look like or be stored in containers that resemble those of food or juice.

The normal developmental progression of young children, including exploration of their environment, places them at risk for poisoning.

As children become mobile, they are able to maneuver through the home; they learn to open cabinets and to examine the contents. As children begin to walk, they may be able to grab items that were previously out of reach. Improved fine motor skills enable toddlers to open simple screw-on caps or bottle tops. Normal curiosity and desire for oral stimulation may cause children to place new objects directly into the mouth for tasting or swallowing.

Poisoning is a predictable and preventable event. Prevention strategies include legislation, product engineering and education. ✽ Parents are encouraged to save the poison control number in their cell phone and in a visible location in case of emergency.

Poison Control: 1-800-222-1222

➜ Matthew Jenije Sr. is the lead pharmacist for Women and Children Services with Tallahassee Memorial Healthcare. gigglemag.com | JUNE/JULY 2015

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tweens

ages 1 0 - 1 3

To Censor or Not to Censor...That Is the Question

by REBECCA VITKUS

It’s a miracle! Your child has traded in his video games for an old-fashioned book, filled with pages of words that will transport him into a world of endless adventures. It’s often stressed that reading to your child is important for his development, and it is exciting to witness his desire to read on his own. However, this transition can be a bit complicated as he gains a new sense of freedom.

Do you know exactly what your child is reading? As busy moms and dads struggle to keep up with their own hectic schedules, throwing in the task of reading an extra novel each week is easier said than done. Books written for children often contain mature themes, and it’s up to you as a parent to determine how to introduce your child to controversial issues.

Many schools and libraries have censored books and removed them from their inventories due to provocative themes and parental complaints. However, some of the most commonly banned books for children and young adults may surprise you. The long list of books that have been put on censored lists includes the Harry Potter series, Dr. Seuss’ “The Lorax,” multiple Shel Silverstein poetry books and “James and the Giant Peach.” Even “Where’s Waldo?” has met its fair share of critics advocating for its removal from bookshelves.

“There’s a lot of research in educational studies that show the benefit of anything that challenges children intellectually and socially,” said Dr. Kenneth Kidd, associate director of UF’s Center for the Study of Children’s Literature and Culture, as well as professor and chair of English.

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“There’s a lively debate about age-appropriateness, of course, and I don’t think anyone would recommend just any book to just any kid. It’s all about context, including age, reading level, personal and cultural situation, and so forth,” added Dr. Kidd.

As a parent, you have the responsibility of raising your child to become the best person he can be. You long to shield him from the less-than-perfect aspects of humanity and fill his impressionable mind with only the best images and ideas. You want to ensure that he understands the difference between right and wrong.

On the other hand, these “tweenage” years are instrumental in gradually introducing your child to the world around him, even when his questions are difficult and conversation is uncomfortable.

Books can act as a safe space in which you can present these topics to your child, enabling him to learn about life’s tough lessons through stories rather than through his own experience.

“Very few people want to censor, but most parents want to make good choices for and with their children,” Kidd said.

“That’s why a lot of the work of librarians (and teachers) is about identifying good books for kids, and promoting those books, rather than slamming or condemning ostensibly bad books. But of course, none of this is simple or easy, since no one’s quite sure what a good book might be. It might be many things, after all.” ✽

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The stories above are just a few examples of stories that introduce kids to the world of reading, sparking their imaginations and often creating a lifelong love of books. So what is a parent to do when the issue of censored lists arises? Should you censor each one of your child’s books, and if so, at what age should you allow your child to choose for himself?

“Very few people want to censor, but most parents want to make good choices for and with their children,” Kidd said.

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teens

ages 1 4 - 1 8

Our Last Summer Before College

BY LISA KATZ

As parents, we can easily get caught up in the excitement of our child’s college acceptance letters. Then as the summer approaches, we realize our baby will be leaving the oh-so-comfyand-safe nest. Time to face it and prepare for the next phase.

So, what should be on the must-do list for the last summer with your teen under your roof? A special vacation? Extra family time? A crash course in independent living? Some heart-to-heart conversations? Yes to all of these.

Let’s Chat

There are a handful of conversations to have with your child before his college life officially begins. Of course parents know their child wants to have fun away at school, but remind him that you have academic expectations for him as well. Being responsible for one’s belongings and being respectful of a new roommate are good topics to review.

By this point in your child’s life you have probably had most of those all-important conversations. Although your child may roll his eyes, this is the time to review some of those harder talks one last time – alcohol, sex, parties, buddy system, honesty and safety (of all kinds). Afterward, take a deep breath and sigh with some relief. Remind yourself; you’re a good parent.

Make Some Memories

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The fun stuff is easy to plan. Any kind of travel or family vacation is a great activity to take part in before college starts.

Going to all of his favorite restaurants in town is another.

Making a photo memory book of him visiting key spots in his hometown is a fun parent-child activity to help wrap up his childhood years. Updating his wardrobe is also a great way to spend time with your child before he leaves, and probably something for which he’ll easily comply.

Life Management Lessons

Take some time over the summer to touch base on (at least) the basics of this list.

1. COOKING Even if your child will be living in a dorm his freshman year, it is important to show him a handful of easy dishes to cook. He’ll be more interested if you make some of his favorites. Keep it simple!

2. LAUNDRY The soon-to-be freshman should know some fundamentals about how to do laundry. The main thing is being comfortable with a washing machine and all of its settings and buttons.

3. BANKING Your child should know how to write a check, make a deposit and use an ATM machine. Nowadays it is also very convenient to be able to do mobile banking.

GIGGLE TIP: Make sure to talk with your child about credit card responsibility BEFORE he applies for one!

My favorite list we created together was a list of all the essentials my son would need in his new living space. This list gave us yet another reason to spend time together. Second, it allowed us to banter about needs and wants, and about what life will be like for him away from home. Most importantly, the goal of this list was to ease any anxiety he may be harboring.

Granted there is a good chance your child may want to spend more time with his friends over the summer than with you. At least there are a few significant reasons that you should spend some time together. As summer ends and your precious child leaves for school, remember how lucky we are to have cell phones, landlines and video chat to stay connected. It will take some time (some serious time) but you and your child will adjust to him living away from home. Stay strong! ✽

Teen-to-Teen Tip: The last summer at home …

“Try to stay busy. Just value your time with family and friends. You can also do some research on what classes you may want to take and any clubs you may want to join.”

~ Jordan K. (college freshman) gigglemag.com | JUNE/JULY 2015

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EXTRA, EXTRA

Finding the Link Between Horses and Children with Disabilities

by SAVANNA KEARNEY

Although today’s social and play environments have greatly improved to be equipped for children with special needs, some parents may still be searching for a place specifically designed to aid in special needs nurturing. Thanks to places like Grace Stables, these children can form an extraordinary bond with horses and develop important physical, mental and emotional skills through hippotherapy.

Hippotherapy is a treatment in which equine movement is integrated with physical therapy, occupational therapy or speech language pathology, according to the American Hippotherapy Association.

Horseback riding has been used for therapeutic purposes since the fifth century B.C., to rehabilitate Greek soldiers. Now there are over 600 accredited riding centers in the U.S. Therapeutic riding not only aids in improving physical and language skills, it also increases a child’s confidence and selfesteem. Social skills learned through hippotherapy are often visible in the child’s outward demeanor and are invaluable for a child with disabilities growing into an adult.

Grace Stables offers a unique experience under the C.A.R.E Program, developed by a certified Early Childhood and Exceptional Student Education teacher. C.A.R.E. stands for Child Animal Relationship Experience, and it combines structured learning with facilitating a natural bond between animal and child. The goal of the program is to ultimately develop attention, memory, reasoning, movement, language and social skills in a safe and fun environment.

C.A.R.E. can even incorporate your child’s Individual Education Plan to help him reach his personal goals.

“It’s amazing what a difference just a horse in their presence makes,” said Cindy Milner, owner of Grace Stables. “They’ll do anything to stay on that horse and ride that horse.”

Therapeutic riding lessons, in which staff members aid children on an individual basis, are one of the options offered at Grace Stables.

Evelyn Ayala was one of Milner’s first students to take part in these riding lessons. Her mother, Sonia, sees the positive change that the lessons have made on her daughter.

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Hippotherapy is a unique and effective mode of treatment for children with disabilities. Riding stables that offer hippotherapy help develop skills that can improve a child’s physical, social and emotional capabilities, and offer an unbreakable connection between human and animal.

“It’s an amazing bond that forms between these kids and the horses,” said Milner. ✽

Photos provided by Grace Stables.

“When she started doing the therapy she was afraid of horses and all animals,” Sonia said. “Now, she will come and give the horse a kiss.”

Summer camps with horse therapy are another option. At Grace Stables, a counselor is assigned to each child for the full week of camp, and they stay with the children at all times to ensure safety. The days begin with children greeting all of the animals, including horses, donkeys, dogs, a cat and a goat, and giving them treats. The rest of the days are spent swimming, grooming and riding the animals, and playing different games and activities. The last day of camp concludes with a big party for the children and family members, where the kids help make the decorations and food for a picnic. Kids and parents get to play “old school” games like kickball, marbles and Pin the Tail on the Donkey. This is a great combination of the summer camp experience and therapy all in one.

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gigglemag.com | JUNE/JULY 2015

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