Giggle Magazine-Tallahassee-August/September 2016 by Irving Publications, LLC

GREATER

TALLAHASSEE'S

PREMIER

PARENTING

MAGAZINE

AUG/SEPT 2016 • Volume 3 • Issue 1

Tips to make this school year the best ever!

plus Map Crafts:

creative ways to upcyc le!

wise words FROM A real GRAMMIE Pause BEFORE PAYING FOR THOSE grades

THERE'S SOMETHING SPECIAL ABOUT

TWINS www.gigglemagazinetallahassee.com

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from the publisher

it takes two For those of you who have been loyal followers from the beginning, you may have caught on that I am obsessed with multiples. So, this year, in honor of Twins Days from August 5–7, we wanted to specifically honor this special duo, and what fun it was! From 2-year-old bundles of energy to identical 6-year-old little girls, we were welcomed into a glimpse of their world and discovered the love they all have for each other. And, as the summer is beginning to come to a close (sniffle, sniffle), we are reminded of the school days that are ahead — the good, the bad and the oh-so-tired mornings with lunch boxes that still need to be filled. But, alas, we have some tips to get you through it all. Not to mention some WAY ADORABLE new school supplies that are sure to brighten up your mornings!

Morgan & Kylee • Five years old • Identical twins • Kylee is a very outgoing little diva. She loves to dress up, be the "mom" when playing house and have her outfits just right. • Morgan loves to try new things and usually the first to learn something new like tying her shoes. She is more interested in playing games than watching tv.

Nicole Irving, Publisher nicole@irvingpublications.com

• They love gymnastics and Taylor Swift! Like us on Facebook /GIGGLEMAGTALLAHASSEE

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Visit us on Pinterest /GIGGLEMAGAZINE

Photo by Ashley Daniell Photography

2011: My baby's first day of preschool! I was crying inside, while he was ecstatic.

PUBLISHER & EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Nicole Irving ART DIRECTOR Allison Raber COPY Editor Colleen McTiernan GRAPHIC DESIGNER Tanya Consaul, Claire Stortz Vice president of sales Shane Irving WEB DESIGNER Tanya Consaul ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Jessica Kerr executive assistant Sayeh Farah Contributing Writers Delia Albert, Nicole Germany, Nicole Irving, Helen Kornblum, Danielle Pastula, Olivia Pitkethly, Taryn Tacher, April Tisher, Andrea Woroch Contributing Photographers Ashley Daniell Photography, Patricia Bishop 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

gigglemagazinetallahassee.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. ÂŠ 2016

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 publisherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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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We a love w re in it Florida h this cuttin board! g

AUG · SEPT 2016 happy family • happy community

happy home 34 Find Your Way to Crafting with Maps! 36 Queries from the Curious 38 Creative Crayon Cleanup!

41 life

Back to Work After Baby: Mamas Share Their Must-Haves!

Sarah Grant

POWER PARENT

12 Paying Off Those Student Loans 13 Sage Advice from a Grammie 14

learn 52 Do You Pay to Make the Grade?

happy community 64 AUG/SEPT Calendar

55 expecting

Get Ready to Register!

67 corkboard

57 infant

The Co-Sleeping Controversy

58 TODDLER

Accentuate the Positive!

59 early years

Clever Curiosity

happy family

The Cayer Family

60 kids

16 Parenting Through Divorce: Coping with

Family Changes Positively

"Did You Have a Good Day?" And Other Questions Guaranteed Not To Get You A Response

62 tweens

forks & spoons

Protect Your Children and Your Wallet:

17 Mouthwatering Meatloaf

Fight Back with Media Literacy

63 teens

Why Do Teens Sleep Till Noon?

18 Helpful Kitchen Gadgets

health

GREATER

TALLAHASSEE'S

PREMIER

PARENTING

MAGAZINE

GIGGlE mAGAzInE

30 Staying Healthy in the Classroom and at Home

AUG/SEPT 2016 • Volume 3 • Issue 1

33 Get Glossy!

fe a t u res 20 Seeing Double 41 Back to Class! 49 Dealing with Real-Life Mean Girls

41 13 52

BACK-TO-SCHOOl | TWInS | mAP CRAFTS

Photos by Ashley Daniell Photoraphy. Cutting board photo by Tanya Consaul.

conception 2✱ college™

Tips To make This school year The besT ever!

plus map craFTs:

creaTive way To upcycle s !

wise words From a real Grammie pause beFore payiNG For Those Grades

THERE'S SOMETHING SPECIAL ABOUT

TWINS www.gigglemagazinetallahassee.com

gigglemagaZiNeTallaHaSSee.com | aUg/SePT 2016

20 1

Photo by Ashley Daniell Photography gigglemagAZINETALLAHASSEE.com | AUG/SEPT 2016

life

Back to Work After Baby: Mamas Share Their Must-Haves! By nicolE IRVING

Going back to work after having a baby can bring on waves of emotions you didn’t even know you had. But, with a little help from your friends, family and some advice from our seasoned moms, you can get a handle on being a working mother!

Amanda Carreon Entrepreneur

➜ Went back to work after 5 weeks My top must-haves: • Our nanny is someone I can't live without! • My support system — a working mommy takes a village!!! • I switched diaper bags to a more stylish one that looked more like a purse. This really helped because when I am “mommy” it fits my kid stuff, and when I'm “power mom” I'm looking stylish!

Cozi Family Organizer App Free, available for iPhone/iPad, Android and Windows 8.1

Marketing Specialist for Campus USA Credit Union

➜ Went back to work after 12 weeks My top must-haves: • Breast pump, for obvious reasons. • Baby carrier, so you can hold baby after work while you cook dinner, do laundry, etc. • The Cozi Family Organizer app, so my husband and I can share/edit the same shopping list and keep track of doctor appointments and events. • My Apple Watch, because I love being able to track my steps and other fitness stats. It also helps remind me of appointments at a glance. I also love seeing a different picture of my babies every time I check the time. It helps me feel a little more connected while I'm working.

Baby Brezza Formula Pro $134.95, Walmart.com

Lansinoh® Simple Wishes Hands-Free Pumping Bra $34.99, Target.com

Katie Osterhout

Jenn Petion

➜ Went back to work around 10–11 weeks

➜ Went back to work after 10 weeks with son and eight weeks with daughter

Eastern Region Director of Business Development for RR Donnelley Promotional Production Solutions

My top must-haves: • As a breastfeeding mom, going back to work meant that it was time to get serious about pumping. Getting a comfortable hands-free pumping bra was important as I'd be wearing it for a good portion of the day, and I wanted to make sure the pull of the bottles wasn't too harsh on the girls. I decided on the Simple Wishes brand and it has been fantastic. • A reliable contact list for my child care provider was key. If I was in a meeting, on a call or away from my desk, I might not be able to grab my cell right away, and I wanted to be sure she could reach someone in an emergency. • I had to have a ton of baby pictures to put around my office! • I learned to step up my productivity, getting in emails late at night or before baby woke up, so I could leave at 5 p.m. on the dot and have as much evening time with my pumpkin as possible.

Director of Administration and Special Projects at FamiliesFirst Network

My top must-haves: • For those who decide not to breastfeed or who can't keep up with pumping at work, we LOVE our Baby Brezza. We jokingly call it the Baby Keurig. It makes bottles to the exact right temperature and mixes them in seconds. • I have a video monitor, so if my kids are at the house I can go on my smartphone and see them. • Having photo canvasses printed of them and hung at the office also makes me feel better. Seeing them throughout the day at that small size reminds me that I’m not missing everything just because I also love my job. • The biggest thing for me was going back to work gradually. Staying connected to my staff made me feel more like "me" because I knew what was going on at the office and had some input. ✽

Photos courtesy of families.

Lindsay McKeown

life

p o w e r pa r e n t

Sarah Grant Preschool teacher at Maclay School

Wife to mike, mommy to ramsey, 13, michael, 12 and george, 9

Between her job as a preschool teacher and being the mother of three boys, Sarah Grant has a lot of children to take care of. But with the support of her work family and her husband, Sarah takes it all in stride. Although being a working mother may mean that she canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t do everything she may want to right now, the rewards of teaching her children to always do their best and showing her students that learning can be fun make all her hard work worth it.

PHOTOS BY ASHLEY DANIELL PHOTOGRAPHY

What does your typical workday look like?

I wake up at 5 a.m. for an hour workout at home and am at school by 7:30 to get organized and prepare the classroom before students arrive. From there, no two days are alike in preschool; my day is as fun as I want to make it! Each day I have to read the energy of the children and adjust my plans from there. As long as the big picture is achieved and they are understanding and learning what I am trying to teach, the delivery and the lesson plan might change from minute to minute. My approach is to learn while having fun! My teaching job ends at 3 p.m., but then I move into my “mom” job once all the children get home from school. This part of my day is made up of helping with homework, driving from one activity to the next and preparing dinner.

How do you balance work life and family life?

One of the many reasons why I love my job is because I do not ever have to bring work home with me. I can usually get all my work done within the school day, so that when I am home with my family I can focus on them and be totally present and available.

What advice would you give to other working parents?

I have had to learn that I cannot do it all and that it is OK to say no every now and then. I have come to realize that there are “seasons,” or phases, to my life, and each season has different needs and desires. As long as I continue to grow and adapt to those seasons, I find I am a happier mom and therefore have more to give to my job and my family. I also understand that just because I cannot commit to something now does not mean that I cannot commit to it at another time in my life. As my children are getting older, I realize that my time with them is getting shorter. So, I am trying to commit to things that allow me to be with them and help our family grow physically, mentally and spiritually.

What sacrifices/compromises have you had to make?

Being a working mom means that there is not as much time for my interests and hobbies. My schedule does not allow for me

to play tennis, go to the gym, or volunteer much anymore. But again, I realize that these sacrifices do not have to be forever — there will be another season of my life where I will have more time to commit to myself.

When and how do you make time for yourself? I wake up early each morning so that I can have quiet moments to think about my day and say a prayer of gratitude and support.

Who is your greatest inspiration? There have been many people that have inspired me throughout my life. However, if I had to choose one person, it would be my great-grandmother Tipper Shaw or “Tatee” as all the grandchildren called her. She was devoted to her husband, family and community. She was always ready for a good time and wanted to make the most out of each day. She loved to travel, host friends and tell a good story!

Who are your biggest supporters?

At work my biggest supporters are the women I work with at Maclay Preschool, especially my assistant, Charla Mullinax! She makes coming to work enjoyable with her love, support and humor. When I need personal advice she is always there to help me find the best answer, and when I need support at school she is happy to step in and make me a stronger teacher. At home, my husband, Mike, is my biggest supporter. With all the children’s activities and demands, our marriage needs an equal partnership. I believe our family would not function if he was not so willing to help whenever needed.

What is your go-to breakfast? Two cups of coffee and toast.

What is your coffee order?

Honestly, I rarely order coffee — I drink my two cups of coffee before school and I’m good to go.

Finish this sentence: I hope I have taught my children...

To always strive to be their best. This will take hard work and sacrifice, but the reward will be great!

"Each day I have to read the energy of the children and adjust my plans from there." 10

gigglemagazinetallahassee.com | AUG/SEPT 2016

5 THINGS YOU MUST HAVE AT WORK? 1. My camera — there are always special days and events happening in the classroom that I want to document and share with my students’ families. 2. Pandora — the children and I love music, so depending on the time of day I can play anything from Disney radio, to classical music, to rest-time lullabies. 3. Emergen-C — I am around germs all day, so I need all the help I can get to stay healthy. I add an Emergen-C tablet to my water daily to get some extra vitamins. 4. My calendar — I know I am one of the last that still use a paper calendar, but I love it and live by it! I am a visual person, so when my family and the school have multiple activities going on I can visualize how each day is going to happen. 5. My computer — while I do not have much time to look at it during the day, I need it to communicate with my parents, research information and browse through Pinterest. ✽

gigglemagAZINETALLAHASSEE.com | AUG/SEPT 2016

life

Paying Off Those Student Loans BY Andrea Woroch

The standard repayment plan for a bachelor’s degree student loan is 10 years, but it takes the average person twice that due to the life events that typically occur over the course of a decade. While these statistics are discouraging, it's ultimately within each one of us to gain control and pay off student debt as fast as we can.

Don't ignore your debt

Wishing you didn't have debt is understandable, but ignoring it will only cause bigger problems. Late payments can devastate your credit score and make it very difficult to obtain loans. If you can't afford payments, you may qualify for a financial hardship deferment (available only for federal loans). Call your loan provider to explain your situation so that he or she can help set up a repayment plan that works for you. You may even qualify for a student loan forgiveness program.

Limit lifestyle inflation

You may feel tempted to "treat yo' self" and go on a spending binge each time you get a new and better job. After all, you spent years eating ramen noodles, living in tight quarters and sacrificing here and there. So you've earned the right to splurge, right? The trick to getting out of debt faster and paving a secure financial future is to keep costs low for now, so rein in the desire to upgrade everything you purchase.

Create an emergency fund

Work on the side

Add to your income by taking on side jobs. If you're skilled at writing, consider freelancing for websites or content creators, or starting your own blog with affiliate links. Sites like TaskRabbit.com offer a

Shop smarter

Reducing your spending completely isn't an option; after all, you still need to eat, pay bills and get to work. However, you can shop and spend smarter to avoid wasting money. Consider buying second hand as often as possible for savings of up to 75 percent. And use coupon apps like RetailMeNot to make saving money easier.

Trim your takeout habit

Eating out every meal will take a huge bite out of your monthly budget. While the occasional happy hour and restaurant outing with friends is OK, make sure you don't fall into the trap of dining out several times per week. People who bring their own lunch to work can save over $2,700 annually, according to a VISA survey conducted in 2015. Just think of how much debt you could pay with that money!

Retirement may feel like a lifetime away, but it's imperative to start saving now so you can take advantage of compound interest. If your employer offers to match your retirement savings up to a certain percentage (typically between 1 and 3 percent), plan to deduct at least that amount from your paycheck so you're not leaving money on the table. Otherwise,

gigglemagazinetallahassee.com | AUG/SEPT 2016

open an IRA account that works best for your situation, and include monthly contributions in your budget.

Stop letting FOMO rule your finances

FOMO, or the "fear of missing out," is often the scapegoat for overspending. From expensive vacations to dining out frequently to partying on the weekends, giving in to FOMO will hinder your ability to stay on budget and pay down debt. While it's OK to take part in the occasional party or weekend getaway, just make sure it's in your budget. Keep in mind, there will always be other opportunities, and the sooner you get your finances in order, the sooner you'll be able to enjoy a lifestyle with less monetary restrictions. ✽ Andrea Woroch is a money-saving expert who transforms everyday consumers into savvy shoppers by sharing smart spending tips and personal finance advice. As a sought-after media source, she has been featured among such top news outlets as Good Morning America, Today, CNN, Dr. OZ, New York Times, MONEY Magazine, Consumer Reports, Forbes and many more.

An emergency fund will ensure you have liquid cash to pay for unexpected issues, like a car accident or dental procedure, which could otherwise increase your credit card debt and further reduce your ability to make additional payments toward your student loans. When you get cash as a gift, stash it away into an emergency fund to create the cushion you need to focus your funds on other debts.

wide range of side gigs for extra cash, while Rover.com is perfect for dog lovers who have space for boarding. Making extra money long term requires time and commitment, but your hard work will pay off when you save tens of thousands of dollars in student loan interest and pay off your debt in half the time.

gr a n d p a r e n t s

life

Sage Advice From a Grammie Q: How do you think your grandchildren would describe you? I think they would describe me as a fun Grammie.

We created a routine early on where our grandchildren rotate spending the night with us every Wednesday. The next morning they have “Breakfast with Grammie” on our way to school. Q: Tell us a funny story about being a grandparent.

Sheree Porter Grandmother to Ashton (8), Emory (7) and Hayes (5) Q: What are the differences between being a mother and being a grandmother?

Photos courtesy of Sheree Porter.

Being a mother requires being tremendously responsible. Being a grandmother allows you to appear to be irresponsible. Grammies can extend bedtimes, allow jumping on the bed and offer between-meal snacks. We know these experiences are exceptions to the rules, and at the same time know which rules are or are not bendable. We get to be good cop!

Q: How has being a grandmother changed you as a person? Being a grandmother ignited an inner light I didn’t know existed.

Q: What do you like about being a grandmother?

The best thing about being a grandmother is the opportunity to observe the development of our grandbabies from sweet babies to

amazing humans. I am so very blessed that my daughter and son-in-law allow us to contribute and participate in everyday life events. To me, the opportunity to pick my grandchildren up from school is the greatest honor. We created a routine early on where our grandchildren rotate spending the night with us every Wednesday. The next morning they have “Breakfast with Grammie” on our way to school. This allows one-on-one bonding with each child. This is a revered routine by the children, grandparents AND parents (gives them a night off!).

Q: What do you dislike about being a grandmother? I really don’t like when I have to discipline the children. But, I do because it is important they understand right from wrong. I just hate it, though.

Q: Is there anything that surprised you about being a grandmother?

You always hear that being a grandmother is so much greater than being a mother. It truly surprised me the depth of immediate love I could hold for the child of my child. I assumed it would be just less than the love I’ve always held for my children. Grandparent love is different, but just as deep as motherly love. I am blessed.

There are many. But a recent one involved me taking my 8-year-old grandson to Sky Zone. It was his turn for the Wednesday night rotation, and he and I were looking for some fun. I had never been to Sky Zone, and I just assumed I was supposed to “sock up” too. He chose the ball pit as our first stop and assured me it was “awesome” and fun. So I went all in — I jumped as far as I could in a complete body slam into that huge pit of balls. Well, what they don’t tell you is that there is nowhere to get your footing to get out. Little children simply scamper across the top of the balls to get out. I was a sunken ship. As I looked around Sky Zone, it was clear that the other adults were observers as opposed to participants. Oh well, I eventually made my way out of the ball pit, and it was great fun with my grandson!

Q: What advice do you have for parents?

Stay engaged with your children. Living in the digital age presents many opportunities for distractions. The greatest gift you can give your child is your undivided attention.

Q: What advice do you have for other grandparents? I would advise grandparents to support their children by offering to help them out with the grandchildren as often as you can. This will benefit everyone, especially the grandparents as you have the opportunity for quality time with your grandbabies. ✽

gigglemagAZINETALLAHASSEE.com | AUG/SEPT 2016

life

h a p p y f a m i ly

Meet t he

Cayer Family

Chris, Krista, Isabella (10) and Emmi (7)

PHOTOS BY ASHLEY DANIELL PHOTOGRAPHY

Occupation(s): Chris is a partner at Brooks, Harrison and Cayer Certified Public Accountants, and Krista is the CEO and founder of Cayer Behavioral Group, Inc.

to water ski camp in St. Pete Beach. They are super psyched about that!

Favorite local restaurants: Nagoya, El Jalisco, Momo’s, Texas Roadhouse and Carrabba’s.

Our family is most like: A whirlwind of organized chaos!

Favorite local “Must go” places: Nuberri, Big Easy Snowballs, Tropical Smoothie, Lake Ella, Tom Brown Park and Winthrop Park. What are your children’s favorite meals that you cook? Daddy’s chicken casserole! What is your family’s favorite holiday? Kids: Christmas. Mom and Dad: Thanksgiving. Describe your family in 3 words: Forgiving, thoughtful and bold. Favorite games to play as a family: Water tag, Marco Polo, War and Twister. Do you have any pets? Yes, Matilda Sue “Tildy,” our 2-year-old Yorkie. Why do you love raising your family in Tallahassee? Tallahassee is a safe, sweet community where my family feels like we belong. Our midtown neighborhood is straight out of 1986

Favorite date spot: Hands down, Kool Beanz Café.

where kids knock on our doors to play, sleepovers happen spontaneously and our neighbors are always available for a 5 p.m. cocktail by our pool. What makes your kiddos laugh? Staring contests! What would your family's dream vacation be? A visit to the Eiffel Tower. Both girls are dying to go to Paris. Is there anything exciting coming up for your family? The kids are going

Movie in our DVD player right now: “Zootopia.” The kids’ favorite books: Isabella’s is “The Giving Tree,” and Emmi’s is “Where the Sidewalk Ends.” Mommy and Daddy’s favorite TV shows: Chris: Anything AT ALL related to the Boston Red Sox. Mom: HGTV. Favorite picnic spot: The pool in our backyard. Favorite family activity: Swimming! ✽

Our two kids are the very best parts of Chris and I. They are sassy, sweet, challenging, loveable and completely imperfect in the most perfect way. gigglemagAZINETALLAHASSEE.com | AUG/SEPT 2016

life

Parenting Through Divorce: Coping with Family Changes Positively BY OLIVIA K PITKETHLY, MA, LMHC

ratified by the court, or it is court-ordered in contested situations. “It is essentially the ‘rules’ of the parenting relationship after the marriage is dissolved,” said Alison Walker, an attorney who specializes in family law. “A timesharing plan is the actual schedule of which parent is responsible for the children and has the right to spend time with them at certain times. There is usually a ‘regular’ schedule and then there is also a ‘holiday’ schedule.” Walker points out that every family situation is unique and highly recommends seeking competent legal representation. Both Tagye and Lawson work with their ex-spouses to provide a fair schedule for themselves and their children. While following a parenting plan is helpful, they both stress the importance of flexibility. When a couple chooses to divorce, there are many factors to consider: Who gets the house? How will we divide our assets? How will this change our social lives? When you are a parent who chooses to divorce, the factors become more complicated: Will I have primary custody or joint custody? What will the schedule look like? Who gets which holidays? And then there’s breaking the news to your child. Divorce will bring symptoms of grief such as sadness, fear and anger. After all, it is a significant loss for everyone involved. Normalizing your emotional reaction will help your child feel free to express his own.

“We told our son together,” said Katie Tagye, mom of one. “It was hard to talk to him about it because we were both emotional. However, it was important to me not to hide my sadness about the divorce. I didn’t want to be inappropriate, but I also didn’t want to mask my emotions.” Coping with your grief and helping your child adjust is a balancing act. Children process grief slower than adults, so your child may ask the same questions several times or may exhibit unfamiliar behaviors several months down the road. Tagye’s son was 5 years old when they told him about the divorce, and it took some time for him to understand.

“We told him we were going to live in different houses and that we wouldn’t be married anymore,” she said. “For a couple of months he would ask questions like why we didn’t live in the same house, why we weren’t married, why my last name was different, things like that. I would say that mommy and daddy both loved him but that we couldn’t be married anymore.” Keeping your explanations simple, especially with younger children, will help them cope with any changes and will benefit your relationship. Avoid blaming the other parent or giving details about the divorce. Amy Lawson is a mom of two and considers herself and her ex-husband friends and teammates in co-parenting. She advised parents going through this experience to work together. “Never treat your children like your pals and share details about why things didn’t work out between the two of you,” she said. “Try very hard not to say anything remotely negative about the other parent either in front of or to the kids.” Developing a parenting plan can assist a divorcing couple with communication, schedules, health care, child care and other mutually agreed guidelines. This plan is either agreed to by the couple and then

gigglemagazinetallahassee.com | AUG/SEPT 2016

“Remember, the kids just want everybody to get along and to see both parents,” said Lawson. “My ex and I share a Gmail calendar where we put the kids’ activities. If there’s a special event he wants to share with the boys, and it’s technically ‘my weekend,’ we work it out rather than rigidly saying no because it’s not his time.”

“Remember, the kids just want everybody to get along and to see both parents,” said Lawson.

Tagye agreed and said that she and her exhusband have adjusted their schedule several times to figure out what works best for the whole family. She also helps her son understand the schedule by giving him a brief rundown of where he will be and when he will switch again. “My ex and I have gotten into a good groove,” she said. “We talk about parenthood, and when our son has had some rough spots, we’ve talked about it all together. We still consider ourselves his family and plan to continue that way.” ✽

forks & spoons

Mouthwatering

Meatloaf by NICOLE IRVING

Makes 6-8 servings.

A staple in our house, meatloaf can go a long way, especially during the school year. Served with mashed potatoes and veggies, this proteinpacked dinner tastes even better the next day as leftovers or even in a sandwich. Plan ahead by making two and freezing one for a busy night.

MEATLOAF: • 1 pound lean ground beef • 1 pound ground chuck • 6 baby carrots, shredded • 2 pieces white bread, lightly dampened • 2 eggs • 3 tablespoons ketchup • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce • Onion powder, to taste • Salt and ground pepper, to taste

Heat oven to 400 F. In a large bowl, combine all of the ingredients. Use hands to fold in all the ingredients until they are all combined and the mixture is uniform throughout. Place the mixture on a non-greased baking sheet and mold into a large loaf. Depending on the thickness and length of your loaf, you may need to adjust your cooking time.

PHOTO BY NICOLE IRVING

Add ketchup to the top, as much or as little as you would like, for added flavor. Place in middle of oven, and bake for 35–40 minutes.

Serve with mashed potatoes and a veggie!

Check to see if it is done by cutting into the middle of loaf. If you would like it more done, cook a bit longer.

E njoy! gigglemagAZINETALLAHASSEE.com | AUG/SEPT 2016

forks & spoons

n e h c t i K s t e g d Ga

HELPFUL

u slice, to help yo re e th t u o ection. ls many too way to culinary perf our o s re a re The your me of and serve low to bring you so ate your dice, prep d n u cre hed high a ill help yo w t a th ts We searc e chen gadg favorite kit terpieces! s a m ime rt e n in d n ow

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IRVING

Chilly Ice Cream Scoop & Basin

Zyliss Apple Slicer

This duo will keep your counters clean and your scoop ready to go for an all day ice cream party! $14.99, Zak.com

“The Happy Everything Cookbook”

Creative cooking is only a recipe away. With bright photos and yummy dishes inside, this cookbook won’t disappoint. $34.95, Coton-Colors flagship store

Effortlessly core and divide apples into eight uniform slices. $7.99, Amazon.com

The Inspiralizer®

Cooking got you in a rut? Break out of your comfort zone and try some new and fun dishes with The Inspiralizer®. $49.95, Inspiralizedshop.com

gigglemagazinetallahassee.com | AUG/SEPT 2016

Stirrers, Spreaders & Scrubbers

Made for mixing, these spoons and stirrers will have your dishes whipped up in no time. Beechwood Spoon, $3.99, Surlatable.com; Olivewood Spoon, $9.99; StirStick, $8.99; Mushroom Brush, $3.99, Amazon.com

meeme Measuring Spoons

Threshold Dip Bowls

Your dips never looked so cute in these single serving ceramic bowls. $3.99 each, Target

With their square shape and bright colors, these measuring spoons make baking a breeze! $7.99, Zak.com

Six Cup Classic CHEMEXÂŽ

Spice up your morning coffee routine with this gorgeous pour over. With a delicious coffee and an amazing counter top presence, you canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t go wrong! $43.50, Chemexcoffeemaker.com

Florida Cutting Board

Right in time for football season, this Florida cutting and serving board is perfect for fall parties. $25, Surlatable.com

gigglemagAZINETALLAHASSEE.com | AUG/SEPT 2016

SEEING DOUBLE BY NICOLE IRVING & OLIVIA K. PITKETHLY | PHOTOS BY ASHLEY DANIELL PHOTOGRAPHY | CUPCAKES BY THE CAKE SHOP

gigglemagazinetallahassee.com | AUG/SEPT 2016

As outsiders looking in, twins are intriguing and fascinating. For parents, they are a blessing and provide a double dose of love, hugs and sleepless nights. And for each other, they are each other’s comfort zone, best friend, partner in crime and sometimes, a mirror image of themselves.

organ and Kylee Lord, 5-year-old identical twins, have a love/ hate relationship. “They have their moments when they play so nicely together, and then there are times when they just don't get along. As they are getting older, they are getting easier,” said mom Molly Lord.

mentioned how well behaved they were. “They did not cry much, unlike other babies who were at the same unit who cried out so loud. I guess it was because the twins knew they [had] each other and could comfort one another.” Now 6, the identical twin girls are best friends.

Born at just 29 weeks and three days, weighing in at 3 pounds, 1 ounce and 2 pounds, 9 ounces respectively, Morgan and Kylee are happy and healthy little girls. Today, they both love gymnastics and making new friends, but they also shine on their own. Balancing twins and an older brother who were all vying for her attention was the hardest thing for Lord in the beginning. “I was always glad that I had two hands and two hips to be able to hold and carry them,” she said.

Hayes and Andrew Smith, almost 4-year-old fraternal twins, have a very special relationship, exemplified by a specific incident their mother Stacey Smith remembers. “One of their first few days at preschool, Hayes had fallen and the teacher picked her up and was holding her when she asked to be let down. She ran over to Andrew and they hugged. Once she hugged brother she was all better.“

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's National Center for Health Statistics reported that in 2014, twin births were at an all time high in the United States. CNN reported that in the same year there were 33.9 twin births for every 1,000. That is a lot of seeing double. Whether they are identical twins — twins that occur when one egg is fertilized by a single sperm, but then the zygote divides into two separate embryos — or fraternal twins (the non-identical kind), which occur when two eggs are fertilized by two different sperm — there is an undeniably special bond that happens between children who share the womb.

It’s a twin thing

Some twins create their own secret language, some can experience each other’s pain and others exhibit mirroring behaviors. Fran Preston, mom to three-year-old fraternal twins Lane and William, has noticed that they both tend to rock on their feet from side to side when they are upset or in deep thought. “They will do this while standing side by side and not really notice that the other one is also doing it.” Identical twin girls Jeyanna and Najeska Javier were born prematurely at 37 weeks. Their mother, Nadja Javier, remembers when they spent time in the NICU after they were born, the nurses

Being a witness to this special bond is amazing, but there are days that parents of twins would rather just race through, especially when they’re newborns. “It was pretty hard to carry two infants that don’t have much head or body control, at once,“ said Preston. Smith recalled that the hardest part of being a mother to twins was “the little amount of sleep you get in the beginning. Also, having to have two of everything can be expensive, and you need to have a lot of room for their equipment.” Caroline Hudson, mom to 2-yearold identical twins recalls one of the hardest parts was just the exhaustion of doing everything twice.

Growing two

But, as hard as it is raising twins, being pregnant and carrying two babies in one body can present an even bigger challenge, both mentally and physically. According to the American Pregnancy Association, nearly 60 percent of twin births are delivered pre-term (less than 37 weeks gestation). Maria Jorrin is a registered nurse who worked in a neonatal intensive care unit for more than 10 years. She stated the most common reason for twins to be admitted to the NICU is prematurity, which is often accompanied by low birth weight and premature organs. “If mothers get prenatal steroids before delivery, the babies’ lungs are in better shape, but sometimes that is not an option,” she said.

morgan & kylee Morgan and Kylee Lord, 5-year-old identical twins, were born prematurely at 29 weeks. Today, Kylee is very outgoing and is a â&#x20AC;&#x153;little divaâ&#x20AC;? according to mom Molly. Morgan loves trying new things and is usually the first to master something new, like tying her shoes.

gigglemagazinetallahassee.com | AUG/SEPT 2016

“We usually tell parents to anticipate discharge by their due date of 40 weeks, but if they do well, they could leave sooner.”

heart. Advice from parents who have been there and done that is certainly reassuring that there is a light at the end of the tunnel.

Jorrin explained that the reason for the longer stay is due to the babies’ bodies not being ready to function outside the mother’s body. “We are asking these babies to breathe and digest food, which the baby wouldn’t have to do if he or she was still in the womb.”

Smith recommends getting your twins on a schedule as soon as possible. “I recommend following the book ‘Twelve Hours’ Sleep by Twelve Weeks Old’ by Suzy Giordano and Lisa Abidin.”

Dealing with the comments

Giving birth to twins and being a witness to their special bond and personalities is an amazing gift. So amazing, that many outsiders want to be part of the experience. Many times though, their unsolicited advice and comments can come off as “rude” or “insensitive” mostly because they just don’t understand. So, how do you deal with these strangers’ comments? Try to take it all in stride. Rehearse a set of answers and remember that the commenters are most likely in awe of your children’s cuteness and just think that twins are fascinating.

Expert advice

The experience of raising twins is like no other. While magical and exciting, it can also be exhausting and not for the faint of

Lord’s best piece of advice for parents of twins is to just take it one day at a time. “Learn to slow down because things will take twice as long, and remember to laugh ... even if it is at yourself!!” Javier also reminds parents of twins to enjoy the moments they have with their children. “I know it’s quite challenging to take care of two babies with the same demands/needs, but you have to be patient with them. Be a loving parent. Ask for help — your husband will be your best buddy/support when you long for a much needed break. You need to get some rest, so sleep when they sleep.” One in 30 babies born in the United States is a twin. Whether fraternal, identical, boy/girl, girl/girl or boy/boy, they bring something special to a family. If you are lucky enough to have a set or two in your family, celebrate their differences, and enjoy their similarities.

banks & henry Don’t let their looks fool you! Two-year-old identical twins Banks and Henry Hudson are actually quite different. According to their mom, “Banks and Henry have very different personalities. Banks is very studious and intentional, while Henry is more carefree and sensitive.”

william & lane Lane and William Preston, 3-year-old fraternal twins, know a lot about each other, including how to make each other happy, and how to push each other’s buttons! Their parents say that they have some “nonsense” expressions that they use between them that make each of them crack up.

gigglemagazinetallahassee.com | AUG/SEPT 2016

hayes & andrew Fraternal almost 4-year-old twins Hayes and Andrew Smith are both tenderhearted and loving, but also very different. Mom Stacy said that Hayes is the â&#x20AC;&#x153;wild childâ&#x20AC;? who is not afraid of anything, while Andrew is cautious and focused.

najeska & jeyanna â&#x20AC;&#x153;I need to give equal time and undivided attention to each one of them. I make sure when I express my affection to one, I never fail to do the same thing to the other twinâ&#x20AC;? said Nadja Javier, mom to Jeyanna and Najeska Javier, 6-year- old identical twins.

They Lived to Tell the Tale... Twin Moms Share Their Secrets By nicole irving

Yes, you saw that right! There are two babies in your growing belly, and there is no turning back! So, after the initial shock and excitement wears off and the reality of bringing two bundles of joy home starts to sink in, you start searching the web and libraries for anything and everything you can get your hands on about having twins! Well, search no further! Those with first-hand experience, moms with twins, share their wisdom and what they have learned during their great journey with twins! So, sit back, prop those feet up and take it all in; you got this!

Singleton: Your “single” child that came before or after a set of twins. IVF (In Vitro Fertilization): Process of fertilization done by manually combining an egg and sperm in a laboratory dish, and then transferring the embryo to the uterus. IUI (Intrauterine Insemination): The practice of placing sperm inside a woman’s uterus to increase the chances of the sperm reaching the fallopian tubes. Baby A, Baby B: The terminology/labeling used by the doctors to tell which twin is lower in the uterus. Baby A is alway the presenting baby (the one closest to the cervix) and the other one is Baby B.

Mama Must-Haves • A great (double) stroller system • Newborn baby loungers • Baby swing • Ergobaby infant carriers • Rock 'n Play sleepers • Bouncy seats • ExerSaucer • Nursing pillow • Two Boppy pillows

Perinatologist: An obstetrician who has special training in managing patients with high-risk pregnancies or complications during pregnancy.

Product photo courtesy of manufacturer. Photo of brothers by Verve Studio.

Brothers Hudson and Holden are an example of fraternal twins.

Fraternal vs. Identical What's the real difference?

Fraternal twins are twins who developed from two different eggs fertilized by two different sperm cells, while identical twins develop from a single fertilized egg that split, meaning they have the same DNA. While fraternal twins generally look as similar to each other as any other siblings, identical twins tend to look extremely similar. However, this can vary due to environmental factors.

Tandem Feeding: The logistics of nursing two babies at the same time. Talk to your lactation consultant for help.

The TwinZ Pillow is a twin mommy lifesaver! Perfect for breastfeeding, bottle feeding, tummy time and support! $99, Twinznursingpillow.com

Best advice for other twin mommies:

What has been the best thing about having twins?

“Get them on schedule right away. Feed one, feed both!”

“Having a best friend for your kid from the start. Leaving daycare and school is easier because they have each other.”

“Prepare for a NICU stay [and] tons of monitoring during your pregnancy.” “Having a few ‘stations’ around the house of swing(s), bouncer(s), Bumbo(s), etc. helps manage two babies at once.”

“Seeing them play with and smile at each other!” “They will have a lifetime bond.” “Twice the snuggles, [and] twice the hugs and kisses.”

gigglemagAZINETALLAHASSEE.com | AUG/SEPT 2016

health Staying Healthy in the Classroom and at Home BY DANIELLE PASTULA

With kids heading back to classrooms in just a few short weeks, we’re saying goodbye to summer and hello to backto-school challenges like returning to a consistent schedule and developing a homework routine. Unfortunately, back to school also means the return of common classroom ailments.

All it takes is one sick friend or classmate, and before you know it your little one is down for the count. In an effort to have a healthier school year and solid attendance, familiarize yourself with the common classroom ailments to keep an eye out for and learn how to prevent them.

cold

As soon as the sniffles, sore throat and stuffy head hit, you know what you’re in for. Lasting an average of two weeks, the common cold can be caused by a variety of viruses and will present with an array of symptoms, the majority of which can be self-diagnosed and treated.

You guessed it, frequent hand washing. It’s the best way to keep the germs at bay. For times your child isn’t near a bathroom, get her a hand sanitizer attachment for her backpack so she can keep clean on the go. Also, not touching her hands to her face will help prevent the spread of germs.

If your child is experiencing severe symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, or persistent coughing or sneezing, keep her at home. Once she has gotten treatment from a doctor or her symptoms have improved considerably, she can return to class.

Stomach flu

Stomach flu isn’t technically the flu. It’s a name we use to cover a variety of viruses that bring on nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and potentially a fever. With some good rest, healthy food and hydration, kids can usually kick the stomach flu anywhere from one to three days.

Classic hand washing is the best method for preventing a stomach bug, but if someone in your family has it, make sure to frequently wash and disinfect surfaces of your home to keep it from spreading.

Stay home. Not only could he spread his bug to other classmates, but also he’ll most likely be very uncomfortable at school.

Pink eye

Conjunctivitis, more commonly known as pink eye, is the most common ailment for school children of all ages. Pink eye can cause a variety of symptoms including redness of the eye or inner eyelid, increased tear production and yellow discharge that crusts over the affected eye.

In addition to frequent hand washing, tell your kids not to touch their eyes when they’re out and about and to not share eye makeup with friends.

It depends. Pink eye can be caused by bacteria, a virus or allergies. If your child’s pink eye is bacterial, she can return to school after being on antibiotic drops for 24 hours. If it’s viral pink eye, you’ll need to keep your child at home until it clears up, as there is currently no treatment.

Strep throat

stay home or send to school?

Strep throat is brought on by streptococcus bacteria and causes the throat and tonsils to become inflamed and irritated. Strep is highly contagious and can be spread through airborne droplets via coughs or sneezes and through shared food or drinks.

Frequent hand washing is critical for prevention of strep throat. Your child should also avoid sharing his food, drinks and utensils.

Keep your kiddo at home until he has been on an antibiotic for one to three days and does not have a fever.

The most common sign of head lice is your child scratching her scalp, but according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), six weeks can pass before symptoms begin to show. Therefore, it’s important to pay attention to head lice infestation warnings from your child’s school to nix it quick.

Since the most common cause of head lice is sharing personal items such as hats, brushes and hair ties or clips, the best method of prevention is to avoid all contact with personal items. Also, have your child keep her belongings at her desk and not in a common rack room or shared lockers.

Children can continue with school upon starting treatment, but it's a good idea to check with your school ahead of time. ✽

gigglemagazinetallahassee.com | AUG/SEPT 2016

In all cases of feeling icky, check your school's sickness policy and always consult your doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment.

How to prevent it

Lice

Illness

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gigglemagazinetallahassee.com | AUG/SEPT 2016

health

Get Glossy!

A lady can never have too many tubes of liquid perfection in her bag! Lip gloss can add the right amount of color, sheen and sparkle for any occasion. Layer glosses for a high glamour look or keep it simple with nude and sheer shades. Whether moisturizing, plumping, longwearing or super shiny, your lip gloss collection can always use a new addition!

BY NICOLE IRVING

❶

1) L'Oréal Infallible Pro-Matte Gloss The perfect bold color, this high-impact matte gloss won’t dry out for all day comfort.

❷

$9.99, ULTA

2) Clinique Pop Glaze Sheer Lip Colour + Primer Get a pretty pop of bold, see-through color and a smoothing primer all in one coat!

❸

$18, Available at Sephora/Sephora.com, Clinique counters nationwide and Clinique.com

3) Flower Color Proof Long-wear Lip Creme This longwearing lip creme has intense color that wears flawlessly throughout the day. $7.98, Walmart

4) Clinique Pop Lacquer Lip Colour + Primer This bright wash of liquid, high-shine lip color provides a full-coverage coat in a single swipe for up to six hours.

❹

$18, Available at Sephora/Sephora.com, Clinique counters nationwide and Clinique.com

5) Flower HydraSilk Ultimate Lip Butter This nourishing lip pen is full of shine, intense color and hydrating moisture. $7.98, Walmart

❺ ❻

6) NYX Intense Butter Gloss Bursting with color, this gloss goes on silky smooth and keeps your lips soft, not sticky! $5.99, ULTA

PHOTO Photo byBY Tanya GIGGLE Consaul MAGAZINE.

❼ ❽

Giggle Tip: Toss that gloss after 18 months!

7) Clinique Chubby Stick Moisturizing Lip Colour Balm This super-nourishing balm is loaded with mango and shea butters to keep lips soft and smooth with a hint of color. $17, Clinique counters nationwide and Clinique.com

8) Clinique Sweet Pots Sugar Scrub & Lip Balm A sugar-smoothing scrub on one side and a sheer, tinted moisturizing balm on the other, this duo comes in six pout-pleasing shades. $19.50, Available at Sephora/Sephora.com and Clinique.com

gigglemagAZINETALLAHASSEE.com | AUG/SEPT 2016

happy home

Find Your Way to Crafting with Maps! by NICOLE IRVING

Maps — you know, those things with the states, oceans and cities on it that can help us navigate to the biggest ball of twine (located in Minnesota, in case you were wondering) — have almost become extinct. With the explosion of Siri, TomTom and other navigation gadgets galore, you might find yourself with a plentiful supply of unneeded paper maps in your glove compartment. But, alas, here are some crafty ways to turn those great pieces of street into artwork.

#1 HOME SWEET HOME ART Nothing shows love to your home state more than a framed art piece in the shape of said state made out of an old map of the area.

On an 8.5 x 11 piece of heavy cardstock, print out the outline of your state; this will be your template. Cut it out, and then use it to trace out your state on the map with a pencil. Cut out your state, and then place a heart in the approximate place you currently reside or are originally from. Frame and put your new decoration on a wall near your front door.

#2 Wrap it and Stuff it!

Use old maps to wrap birthday or holiday presents. If you have a shredder at your house, carefully shred old maps, and use shredded bits as gift bag/box stuffing.

#3 Map ID

Map Tacks You will need: • Old map • Floral glass beads, clear • Mod Podge • Flat thumbtacks • Glue gun Cut the map into circles that fit the flat side of the glass bead. Mod podge it on the glass bead so the MAP side is facing the flat side, and let dry. Use the glue gun to attach the flat side of the thumbtack to the bead. Once dry, you will have uniquely decorated tacks to use in future projects! (This project works best with thinner maps.)

gigglemagazinetallahassee.com | AUG/SEPT 2016

If you have had children in different states, personalize a craft or wood letter with maps from the state they were born in and hang on their respective doors. This will bring back memories of their birth each time you walk in kiss them goodnight.

Slipcover Furniture • Home Decor • Art • rugS Tallahassee, Florida (850) 536-6046 Mon-Sat 10-6 1350 Market St. 32312

Havana, Florida (850) 539-9001 Wed-Sun 11-5 201 NW 1st St. 32333

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happy home ●

Slip the wrench for the garbage disposal into a snack-size baggie, with a note telling you what this wrench is for. Move the baggie into a drawer near the sink.

●

Sharpen the pencils and put them into the coffee mug that holds your kitchen pens or store them with office supplies.

● Put the restaurant menus into a magazine file, along with other fliers or loose recipes that you use often.

A s k He l en

Queries from the Curious by helen kornblum

The contents of our kitchen junk drawer are slowly creeping into another drawer, and I can’t afford the space for all the stuff that’s piling up. I don’t know what to do with the junk when I clean it out, so I end up just tossing everything back in. Any advice?

Many of these items are useful in the kitchen, but let’s apply some categorizing muscle to figure out how to store them.

●

Start with the loose coins. Those pennies, dimes and quarters need a home — a jar, a little bank, or a small decorative bowl that sits at the front of a cabinet or on an accessible shelf.

●

Where in your house do batteries want to live? If you have a lot of them, set up a clear plastic shoebox or an appropriately sized container to keep them together, perhaps on a pantry shelf.

●

Are you planning to use the photos for a project or send them to someone? If so, put the photos wherever you will start the project or process mail.

A ball of string might need to sit beside the organizer if the drawer is wide enough, or it may need to live in the pantry with another category, such as tapes (duct, masking, or painter’s). Label the contents of all the “homes” you create for your possessions. You’re not a helpless victim in the face of junk drawer syndrome. Once you decide what and where you want to keep the various items carelessly tossed into the drawer, you’re in control of the space. Get your family on board with the guidelines for your newly created variety store. ✽

Buy a shallow kitchen drawer organizer to hold the items that you want to keep in the kitchen. Try this one from Better Homes and Gardens! Bamboo Expandable Cutlery Tray, $9.92, Walmart.com

 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.

gigglemagazinetallahassee.com | AUG/SEPT 2016

Everyone has a disorganized kitchen drawer, but you may be going for a record by having two! Let me guess as to the flotsam and jetsam floating around in there: batteries, rubber bands, string, twist ties, photos, menus from local call-in restaurants, 89 cents in change, an empty DVD case, matches, old screws, three plastic forks, the wrench that came with the garbage disposal, two unmarked keys, push pins, extra key rings, a roll of tape, pencils that need to be sharpened and some wrapped straws.

It helps to stop using the word “junk.” You can toss the trash, such as the dead batteries, and set aside things that you don’t need but might be useful to someone else, such as those extra key rings. Think of the rest as inventory for your personal variety store. Now you can focus on the best storage for them.

Now it’s tool time. Buy a kitchen drawer organizer that has two shallow levels to hold the items that you want to keep in the kitchen. Their indented spaces will hold the matches, rubber bands, pushpins and whatever other categories fit the spaces.

Our buying story Courtney Roberts was wonderful to work with during our lengthy (two year) house hunting process. We changed directions several times over the TWO YEARS that she helped us and she supported our decisions 100% along the way. Courtney never got frustrated and let us know that she did “get” that this was a HUGE decision and it needed to feel right at every level. She stated over and over that buying a home is the biggest decision a couple can make and she educated us on every facet of real estate along the way in order to prepare us for that decision. Another area where Courtney really shines is that she was able to communicate effectively to me and my husband in totally different ways. She recognized that my husband was more driven by numbers, resell, security, investment, etc where I was more focused on the “energy” and feeling the home gave me. She also helped me articulate what that energy actually translated to - it meant “flow” - floor plan - natural light’ - view, yard setting, etc. She helped us recognize each person wanted valid things and that all requirements were important and all could be met in one home - it just might take some time. (aka it might take two years). In the end we found the house that pleased both of us for different reasons and my husband and I could not be more pleased with the results and the price she was able to help us negotiate. She was very strategic and knowledgeable in her negotiations and we were prepared to pay more. Way to go Courtney! Lastly, she does the little things that make you feel appreciated along the way. She is always prepared and generous. She always thinks out of the box and is

reassuring if things start to falter. If there were nothing on the market, we took the opportunity to educate ourselves on areas, etc. Her follow up post sale has been wonderful and she really wants her clients to be happy. I appreciate Courtney and would 100% use her in the future and recommend her to any buyer or seller. I have no doubt that her intelligence, her drive, ambition and work ethic would not meet but BEAT any expectations you have regarding Tallahassee real estate. Thanks again Courtney. I can’t wait to invite you to my house warming party! -The Pustejovsky Family

Jamie B Bellamy 850.321.3276 Courtney L. Roberts, Broker

Jason Reese 850.591.6727

850.251.6975

REAL ESTATE...it’s not just our job, its our passion

Jacquelin R. Nunez 305.898.8522

• Clothes taking too long to dry? • Save on Electricity • Prevent a Dryer fire

850-508-5655

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HomeSweetTally.com • 850-329-6843

happy home

Creative Crayon Cleanup! by NICOLE IRVING

Crayons are colorful and a perfect fit for pint-sized hands. They unleash a world of magical wonder for your tots, but let’s face it, cleaning them up after your kiddos break them into pieces, pull off all the paper or take their masterpieces to the walls can bring the monster out of any parent! Have no fear… creative crayon cleanup is here!

how to get crayon off your walls • Magic Eraser • Baking soda • Goo Gone • Windex • WD-40

ggle Tip: Gi

*Always do a small test spot before working on the whole wall.

Broken crayons? No tears needed! Fixing broken crayons is super easy and a great project to do with your little ones. As the crayons break (or get snapped by tiny hands), collect them in a Ziploc bag. Once the bag is full, have your children sit at the table and tear off all the little paper wrappings. This is tedious, but necessary, and it will keep them busy for hours.

Place in 300 F preheated oven, and bake for 16 minutes.

Creative cleanup and storage • Baby wipes container • Old tissue box • Plastic mayo jars • Crayon Storage Block Set of two, $18 Etsy.com/shop/inspiredlifemoments

gigglemagazinetallahassee.com | AUG/SEPT 2016

Be sure to take the trays out carefully, as the crayons will be liquid. Let them cool down on the counter for 25 minutes, and then carefully pop out your new heart-shaped crayons. Place them in a bag, and send the crayons to school for Valentine’s Day gifts or party favors. ✽

After all the wrappers are off, break the crayons into tiny pieces, and have your kiddos place them in heart-shaped silicone trays (make sure the molds are oven proof!) They can get as creative as they want in terms of mixing and matching colors!

gigglemagAZINETALLAHASSEE.com | AUG/SEPT 2016

gigglemagazinetallahassee.com | AUG/SEPT 2016

It ' s Time For

Back

Class!

It’s that time again! The 2016-2017 school year is upon us, and what’s not to love? Back to a routine, back to friends and back to all the fun! To share in the excitement, our back-toschool section is filled with new and bright products, tips for a great year and yummy lunch ideas! Happy schooling! PHOTO BY ASHLEY DANIELL PHOTOGRAPHY

gigglemagAZINETALLAHASSEE.com | AUG/SEPT 2016

GOTTA HAVE IT

They'll be begging to go back to school once they get their hands on these fun and stylish back to school must-haves!

3 5

 Dabbawalla Monster Geek Lunch Bag, $30, Dabbawallabags.com.  Guitar Case Lunch Box, $21.99, Foodiggityshop.com.  Ghost Pop Pencil Pouch, $35.95, Mochithings.com.  Beatrix JuJu the Ladybug Water Bottle, $22.50, Beatrixny.com.  MinneBites Bling Shark Pencil Case, $44, Etsy.com/ shop/minnebites.  Dabbawalla Space Rocket Backpack, $42, Dabbawallabags.com.  Geometric Three-Ring Binder, $5.99, Target.  French Bull Kids Backpack, $19.99, Target.  Dabbawalla Strawberry Lunch Bag, $30, Dabbawallabags.com

gigglemagazinetallahassee.com | AUG/SEPT 2016

Binder photo by Ashley Daniell Photography. Other product images by Patricia Bishop Photography.

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gigglemagazinetallahassee.com | AUG/SEPT 2016

ECOlunchboxÂŽ Three-In-One $26, Ecolunchboxes.com

lunchbox Yummy fillers! PB & Apple Rollups - Spread a tortilla with peanut butter and top with apple slices. Roll up for a delicious wrap! Homemade Trail Mix - Toss dried fruit, nuts, Cheerios, pretzels and butterscotch chips in a container and mix well. Put in plastic baggies for individual portions. Pizza Quesadillas - Spread pizza sauce on a tortilla and top with cheese and pepperoni. Top with a second tortilla and warm in a nonstick skillet.

Lots of compartments for your favorite midday munchies!

the

c hscra t write otes t o of f n k iddos! your

20 Scratch-off Lunchbox Notes with Mini Drawstring Bag $15, Etsy.com/shop/InklingsPaperie

Photos by Tanya Consaul

Breakfast for Lunch - Fresh fruit, silver dollar pancakes and a hardboiled egg make a tasty alternative to sandwiches!

lunch

From sandwiches to snacks and boxes to bottles, make taking their lunch to school cooler than ever this year!

Snacks & Packs

Booginheads Packâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Ems $6.39 (set of two), Walmart

Lunchbox Fondue - Cut lunchmeat, cheese and veggies into cubes and pack with ranch for dipping. Try it with cake and strawberry puree for dessert!

Zak! Star Wars and Captain America Water Bottles $9.99 each, Zak.com

bunch

Yubo Shark Lunch Box $29.95, Getyubo.com

Spritz Gift Tags $5.99, Target

gigglemagAZINETALLAHASSEE.com | AUG/SEPT 2016

37 TIPS TO HELP YOU GET READY

for School

123

by nicole irving | PHOTO BY ASHLEY DANIELL PHOTOGRAPHY

Inventory school supplies before shopping.

Set up babysitters and nannies as soon as possible.

Print out a copy of your children’s school calendar, and leave one at home on the fridge, one at work on your desk and one in their rooms.

4 5.

Start setting routine 4. bedtimes two weeks prior to school starting.

Go through your kiddos’ closets and clean out what doesn’t fit.

6. Make sure that all medical forms, shots and appointments are completed. 7.

Research and create a menu of easy lunches.

8. Schedule haircuts. 9.

Find out dates for open houses so both parents can attend.

12 12.

19. Work on a carpool schedule. 20. Complete afterschool program/ activity paperwork.

13. Place alarm clocks in each room, with new batteries and alarm times set.

21. Going to a new school? Take a tour to see the classroom, library, lunch room, etc.

14. Label all backpacks, lunchboxes and water bottles.

22. Make sure all summer homework is done a week before school starts.

15. Make sure to complete all medication paperwork and get prescriptions for the school nurse.

23. Talk to your children about bullying. Make sure they know how to recognize it and that they know to talk to a teacher right away if they feel they, or someone they know, is being bullied.

16. Make sure your kiddos know who is allowed to pick them up and what their after school schedule is. 17. If your children have their own cellphones, make sure to go over your rules, the school's rules and add all emergency contact numbers.

10. Stock up on lots of coffee for mom and dad. 11. If going to a new school, test-drive the route before the first day.

Together with your kids, set up their homework stations.

If your child rides a bike to and from school, make sure her helmet fits and that she knows the route, rules and safety precautions.

Also be sure to use appropriate bike lights! Try these Shining Buddy USB rechargeable front or back LED lights. $14.99 each, Shiningbuddy. myshopify.com

gigglemagazinetallahassee.com | AUG/SEPT 2016

18.

Establish TV and 24. electronic guidelines for the school year before school starts. This way there are no surprises.

25. If your child is a new driver and will be driving himself to school, make sure he knows the school’s rules, gets a parking pass and knows where to park. 26. Take your little ones to their new bus stop and teach them bus stop etiquette — no rock throwing, leaving the bus stop or running in the street.

ABC

27. Get your children in the habit of eating breakfast before leaving the house, so when school time comes, they are ready to fill their bellies. 28. Begin a habit of laying out clothes for the next day to be prepared.

Remember, these years will go by quick ... enjoy them!

29. Create a dedicated space on the counter for all school paperwork.

30 30.

if your child will be spending time home alone after school, go over rules, how the alarm system works and your expectations.

31. Plan some fun outings before school starts to connect with your kids. 32. Prepare dinner menus. 33. Update digital calendars. 34. Get your childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s eyes checked. 35. Set your expectations of each kiddo before school starts. Remember, they are each individuals.

Set your clocks forward 15 minutes to buy you some time in the a.m.! gigglemagAZINETALLAHASSEE.com | AUG/SEPT 2016

gigglemagazinetallahassee.com | AUG/SEPT 2016

dealing with

by taryn tacher

Do you remember hiding in the bathroom stall at school when you were 13 because the popular girl in class told the boy you were crushing on about the hearts you drew all over your notebook with his name strewn across them? What about the time you came home from school in 10th grade — tears welled up in your eyes, cheeks flushed and your generic brand mascara cascading from your lashes — because high school’s queen bee embarrassed you in front of all of your friends? gigglemagAZINETALLAHASSEE.com | AUG/SEPT 2016

e have all fallen victim to mean girls when we were growing up. It was one of those rites of passage to the infamous teenaged years that we wished we could avoid — like an awkward first kiss, the dreaded but inevitable braces and acne phase and the negligible girl drama that seemed catastrophic at the time.

Big Screen Mean

It is a tale as old as time — one that has continued on a vicious, rampant cycle long before Regina George concocted a burn book full of outlandish and hurtful lies about her female classmates and declared that “on Wednesdays, we wear pink” in the 2004 aptly titled film, “Mean Girls.” The movie portrayed the all-too-real story of the new girl at school, trying to navigate the social scene and falling victim to heightened social havoc before becoming just like one of the plastic, pretentious, self-absorbed girls who once tormented her. “Mean Girls” is a movie we can all identify with — whether we’ve been the new kid or witnessed someone else attempt to tackle an unfamiliar place during the emotionally challenging teenaged years.

It started with small derogatory comments about my daughter's appearance, such as her clothes or how she chose to wear her hair, but then it became bigger.

The Ripple Effect

But it is not only teens who are subjected to the cattiness that mean girls exude. The meanness has followed a ripple effect — reaching girls as young as the first grade. “My daughter has been left out of conversations, groups and activities,” Julie*, the mom of a rising seventh grader, said. “She was once left at the lunch table to eat by herself because the group got up and walked away from her.” “A girl my daughter had been good friends with in elementary school turned very toxic when they entered middle school,” Lori*, a mom of a rising seventh grade daughter said. “It started with small derogatory comments about my daughter’s appearance, such as her clothes or how she chose to wear her hair, but then it became bigger — with openly belittling her choices to do well in school or to make the ‘goody-goody’ choice.” And the meanness does not stop there. If it does not come in the form of visible exclusion, it appears in the piercing smirks,

the snarky giggles, the not-so-faintly whispered insults in the hallway and the blatant verbal attacks on a girl’s hairstyle, her T-shirt or her thick-framed glasses. Ill-intentioned girls can make even the cutest of quirks seem like formidable misfortunes.

Where It Starts

So where does this seemingly arbitrary meanness stem from? What makes some girls believe they have the power or the right to dictate where their peers sit at lunch, what

gigglemagazinetallahassee.com | AUG/SEPT 2016

they wear to school or whom they socialize with? Why do some girls feel superior to others — entitled to prime seating, to compliments, to a posse of so-called friends who follow them around mimicking their every head tilt and hair flip? Jealousy must be the culprit — insecurities, too. Girls put other girls down to make themselves feel better — to justify their own flaws. Because your love handles won’t seem as overbearing if everyone is focusing on another girl’s freckled cheeks, right? And your frizzy

hair won’t be made fun of if everyone is too busy thinking up penetrating jabs about another girl’s zit. But this seesaw theory is not the answer. “In a world where we constantly compare ourselves to others, girls have it hard starting at a very young age,” Lori said. “Girls are very impressionable and are constantly bombarded with images of how they should look, act and feel.” It is daunting for anyone to feel constrained by so-called social norms. Add peer pressure and the desire to fit in to the equation, and you have a volatile situation that can send young girls downward spiraling into a whirlwind of skewed perceptions of self worth and what it means to be beautiful.

Talk About It

According to the National Crime Prevention Council, only 15 percent of girls who witness bullying choose to speak up. This is usually because the girls are worried that by drawing attention to the situation, the bully will turn on them. It is important for parents to instill confidence, individuality and self-esteem into the minds and hearts of their malleable children to ensure that they do not fall victim to mean girls — or become mean girls themselves.

In an era where social media dominates young lives, there are even more outlets for mean girls to target others. According to the Cyberbullying Research Center, young girls are more likely to experience cyber bullying, with 40.6 percent of female respondents saying that they had been bullied as opposed to 28.8 percent of male respondents. While the anonymity factor gives girls the freedom to be their truest selves, it also fosters an environment for mean girls to speak candidly from behind a computer screen. Cyber bullying has become a popular method for mean girls to unleash their cruelest thoughts and diminish the confidence of their peers. And because cyberspace can be difficult to monitor, it can be a challenge to hold mean girls accountable for failing to recognize the splendor of our dissimilarities. “The basic ideas that we are different and valuable in our own way and that everyone has their own strengths and weaknesses are extremely important,” Lori said. “When children feel that they are valuable and

have something to contribute, it helps to combat low self-esteem, and that makes it easier for them to stand up to meanness.” And who better to insist upon their greatness than you — their parents, their most influential role models and biggest cheerleaders? Who better to point out their strongest character traits, their beauty and their natural talents than the people they trust and value more than anyone else? The cycle of meanness can break with a little help from you. By raising girls who embrace their assets and are mindful of their shortcomings, you can infiltrate the world with tolerant young women — ones who are not afraid to stand up for themselves and what they believe in. And while they may recognize the deficiencies in others, they won’t dare use those against them. So here’s to hoping no girl has to approach a lunch table of seemingly nice girls only to be told, “you can’t sit with us.” ✽ *Names have been changed to protect privacy.

Only 15 percent of girls who witness bullying choose to speak up.

gigglemagAZINETALLAHASSEE.com | AUG/SEPT 2016

learn This activity will create a bond between them, give the older children a sense of responsibility and motivate the younger ones to work harder to impress them. For older children, limiting screen time is a good motivational tool. If your child is failing a certain subject, let her know she won’t have access to her iPad until her grades improve. Same goes for socializing with friends or anything else that might be taking away from your child’s study time.

A+

Do You Pay to Make the Grade? BY OLIVIA K. PITKETHLY, MA, LMHC

The start of a new school year brings hope that this year will be just as good, or even better, than the last. Getting your children back into the routine can be a task in and of itself. You want to motivate them to study for tests and complete homework assignments. For some kids, the feeling of accomplishment is rewarding enough. Others need an extra incentive, something they can actually hold in their hands. Most parents see school as their child’s job, and if parents are paid for doing their jobs, why shouldn’t their children get paid as well? According to the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants, 48 percent of parents financially reward their children for good grades. The average price for an A is $16.60.

Amy McCready, parenting educator and founder of PositiveParentingSolutions.com, wrote that paying for grades fosters a sense of entitlement. “If the reward is money for good grades,” she wrote, “it sends the message that the reason to work hard in school is to enrich your wallet rather than your mind. It robs them of the ability to cultivate a love of learning and a sense of responsibility for their own education.” One way to cultivate learning is to have older siblings teach younger siblings. Younger children are required to read every night as part of their homework. Have big brother or sister sit with the little ones and help them pronounce unfamiliar words.

If you decide to go the monetary route, websites such as Feedthepig.org and 360financialliteracy.org can help your older children (and you!) develop a savings plan and learn how to be financially savvy.

gigglemagazinetallahassee.com | AUG/SEPT 2016

10 Alternative Rewards 1.

A trip to the zoo, beach or favorite attraction

Kayaking or floating down a lazy river

Making their favorite meal or dessert

Purchasing a new book, toy or board game

New item of clothing

Dyeing a piece of their hair in their favorite color

Tickets to a sporting event or production

No chores for a week!

Treating child and best friend to a movie

10.

Sleep over with a friend

Harvard economics professor Roland Fryer studied nearly 40,000 students in lower income schools throughout the United States to determine the efficacy of financial rewards. He paid ninth grade students in Chicago $50 for every A they received on their report card, but the results were minimal. By the end of the year, the average GPA had risen from 1.9 to 2.0, and test scores for state reading and math did not change at all. Unfortunately,

though the kids had a reward to strive for, they didn’t have the strategies to succeed.

Remember to tailor the motivation differently to each child. While working toward free time with friends will work for one child, choosing a favorite dinner may work for another. Also consider each child’s individual capabilities. If your child is completing his homework every night, studying hard for every test and still earning a C as a final grade, that may be the very best he can do. Recognize his strong efforts, not just the outcome. ✽

conception2college™  expecting

Get Ready to Register!

 infant | 0-1

The Co-Sleeping Controversy

 toddle r | 2-3 Accentuate the Positive!

 early years | 4-5 Clever Curiosity

 kids | 6-9

"Did You Have a Good Day?" And Other Questions Guaranteed Not To Get You A Response

 tweens | 10-13

Protect Your Children and Your Wallet: Fight Back with Media Literacy

 Teens | 14-18

Photo by Ashley Daniell Photography.

Why Do Teens Sleep Till Noon?

gigglemagAZINETALLAHASSEE.com | AUG/SEPT 2016

gigglemagazinetallahassee.com | AUG/SEPT 2016

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expecting

pregnancy

Get Ready to Register!

BY Nicole Germany

Breast pumps Bringing a new bundle of joy into the world can be a bit overwhelming, especially when faced with the daunting task of accomplishing everything in the 40 weeks leading up to delivery. From putting together the nursery to making sure there’s enough diapers to last a lifetime, things can get hectic really quick. However, little things like registries and understanding that every baby’s needs are different can make you feel a bit more at ease. Creating your registry takes time and effort, and having items picked out by your 20th week will give friends and family a perfect window of opportunity to pick out just the right items before your due date. Plenty of your favorite stores offer the ability to easily create registries, including Babies R Us, Target, Amazon, Buy Buy Baby, Pottery Barn Kids and Wal-Mart. So, what should you add to your registry? If you are first-time parents, you will be starting from scratch. Stay away from clothes, as you will get plenty of those. Add things like highchairs, bouncers, sheets, burp cloths, tubs, towels, etc. It is no fun working alone, so bring in the grandparents, aunts, friends and other mommies for their advice on what to add to your registry. Remember to have fun with it and ask them what their must-have items were. Keep in mind your space, your nursery décor and what you may be able to borrow. Babies grow out of things very quickly, so keep that in mind as well. Mom to mom Mother of three, Jenn Petion said that it’s important to include the essentials, but also have fun when creating your registry. Petion said that one of her bestkept secrets is Target's up & up™ generic diapers and formula. “It’s much cheaper than the name brands, and the diapers are more absorbent. The

formula has the same nutritional content as the name brand, but is less expensive than the name brand even if you catch it on sale and have a manufacturer coupon,” Petion said. Megan Martin hadn't heard of Remedy Phytoplex Z-Guard, but after she saw the NICU using it, it became a lifesaver for treating diaper rash. Other items like the Chicco Lullaby Baby Playard and OXO Tot Bottle Brush made it onto the mother of two’s registry. “A new find for me that has become a goto baby shower gift is the Love to Dream sleep swaddle,” Martin said. The swaddle comes in sizes up to 36 months and allows you to swaddle with arms up so your baby can self-soothe and establish an easy and peaceful sleep routine. Essential mama must-haves

* LOTS of Diapers * Pacifiers * Breast Pump & Extra Supplies * Bottles * Crib * Baby Carrier * Strollers * Diaper Bag Visit * Bedding us online * Burp Cloths for a printa ble * Highchair baby regis try checklist! * Booster Seat * Bouncer * Baby Bathtub * Noise Machine * Pack and Play * Boppy Pillow * Swaddling Blankets * Car Seat * Baby Food Maker * Bottle Brushes * Teethers

The Affordable Care Act (2010) requires most health insurance plans to cover the cost of a breast pump as part of women's preventative health services. These rules apply to Health Insurance Marketplace plans and all other private health insurance plans, except for grandfathered plans. So, how do you get a breast pump? •

Contact your health insurance’s member services department regarding what’s covered.

•

Talk to your pediatrician about the best options for you and your baby.

•

Choose a breast pump and try to order it as soon as possible.

did know? In a baby’s first year, new parents will have brought home an average of 2,788  diapers for a total cost of $557.60. According to The U.S. Department of Agriculture, a middle-income family with a child born in 2013 can expect to spend about $245,340 ($304,480 adjusted for projected inflation*) on food, housing, child care, education and other childrearing expenses up to age 18. The average newborn spends at least 16 hours a day sleeping. A baby should be burped after about 2.3 ounces while bottle-feeding. Three months is the age at which most babies begin getting two-thirds of their sleep  during the night. ✽

gigglemagAZINETALLAHASSEE.com | AUG/SEPT 2016

gigglemagazinetallahassee.com | AUG/SEPT 2016

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ages 0-1

infant

The Co-Sleeping Controversy: Keeping Baby Safe While Building the Bond BY OLIVIA K. PITKETHLY, MA, LMHC

Watching your newborn drift into a peaceful sleep is one of the most gratifying moments in a new parent’s life. Not only does your baby look absolutely angelic when she sleeps, but it also means you and your partner can get some shut-eye, too!

Doing this? The AAP strongly advises against bed-sharing.

Unfortunately, some babies immediately recognize when they are no longer in mommy’s comfy cuddle and wake up as soon as you place them in their cribs. The temptation of bringing your baby to your own bed is ever present, but four letters flash in your mind — SIDS. You hear the warnings of nurses, doctors and experienced parents. But you just want sleep! Before you close your eyes, be aware that co-sleeping and bed-sharing are two different activities. Bed-sharing is bringing your baby to your own bed. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) strongly advises against bed-sharing. However, co-sleeping is when your baby is sleeping close enough that you can hear, see, touch or smell each other. You can place your baby in his own crib, bassinet or co-sleeper (baby beds that attach to your mattress) next to your bed.

The AAP recommends room-sharing without bed-sharing. It advises parents to place infants on their backs in their own cribs to sleep during their first year, especially their first six months. Since the resurgence of the “Back to Sleep” campaign in 1994, which urged parents to have their children sleep on their backs, the annual rate of SIDS has dropped by 50 percent. Though some cases of SIDS have been reclassified as suffocation, parents can continue to safeguard their children by avoiding use of alcohol and cigarettes. Since children often fall asleep in a parent’s arms, they can inhale the cigarette smell from the parent’s clothing. Additionally, if a parent is intoxicated, it increases the risk of the parent falling asleep, unaware of the position the baby is in.

Vanessa Bolanos Fernandez is a clinical social worker and board certified behavior analyst. Her son had reflux symptoms that disrupted his (and her) sleep. Since they began co-sleeping, she said that his symptoms have decreased, with minimal sleep interruptions. Bringing your child’s crib into your bedroom will provide security to both parents and baby. When you are close enough to touch your baby’s hand in the middle of the night, you both will experience an even closer bond. “Skin to skin contact has been shown to increase secure attachment and regulate a baby's heartbeat,” said Fernandez. “A well-rested mom is able to more promptly respond to her baby’s needs, which can serve as peace of mind to mom and promote feelings of love, security and safety in baby.” ✽

Sleep Safe • AAP recommends babies sleep on a firm mattress with a fitted sheet. • Parents should never use pillows, toys or blankets. • Soft bedding can end up over their faces and block their breathing. • Sleep positioners are also risky and should be avoided. • Monitors and movement sensors can be helpful to ease a parent’s worries.

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toddler

ages 2-3

Accentuate the Positive!

You did it all by yourself!

You can do anything you put your mind to.

BY OLIVIA K. PITKETHLY, MA, LMHC

Reinforcing good behavior is a great way to build a child’s self esteem. By recognizing a child’s good deed or efforts, it demonstrates your praise and approval, shows that you are paying attention and gives your child an example of acceptable behavior. “Children often seek attention with their behaviors and can be encouraged to make good choices when praise is given,” said Allison McAlhany, ARNP. “A back scratch or a wink and a smile can serve this purpose just as well as words.” Here are some other examples of positive praise for your children:

Good work! Practice makes progress.

You’re a great listener. Keep up the good work.

You are very creative!

It’s OK to feel that way.

You take good care of your things.

You are my favorite person in the whole world.

“You don’t have to be perfect. I love you just the way you are." I like how you are so affectionate with your brother.

You are such a blessing.

I like spending time with you.

gigglemagazinetallahassee.com | AUG/SEPT 2016

You are so special.

That was a brave thing to do.

I love your hugs.

You are very important to me.

I respect you. I trust you. I love you.

I like how you picked out your own clothes.

I like how you are willing to try new things.

Thank you for your honesty.

I like how you never give up.

I love being your mommy!

You did great on the field today! I like watching you play.

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ag e s 4 - 5

early years

Clever Curiosity BY NICOLE IRVING

Children naturally become very curious at the age of 4, asking questions over and over a thousand times a day, driving most parents batty! Although it may get tiresome, this behavior is healthy and exactly what they are supposed to be doing at this age. By using books and nature to quench her curiosity, dealing with your 4-year-old’s questions becomes a little more fun!

Critter keeper

Have a little one curious about animals? Try getting a simple betta fish. Have him help feed it and change its water.

Gardening

How does your garden grow? Have your kiddo pick out her very own packet of flower seeds and a small pot. Help her plant and water it. She will be amazed when her plant starts to sprout!

Play catch

Books

Florida is abundant with little lizards — or mini dinosaurs to the imaginative mind. Help him catch a lizard (safely) and place it in a safe plastic container with some leaves. Have him study it, name it and release it back into the wild. Then do it again!

Bird watching

Our backyards are full of wonderful, colorful birds. For a small investment, get a bird feeder, and take time during the morning (breakfast time) and night (dinner time) to sit outside with her and watch all the birds come to eat. Talk about the different varieties and colors, and have her give them special names. For a variety of birds, try getting different types of food.

The “Curious George” series is great for questioning minds. This little monkey sure does get into trouble with his curiosity, but he always learns a great lesson in the end!

Curiosity Can Create a Bond Never discourage your little ones from asking questions. Even at this young age, they trust in you, so if they feel that you listen to them, they will be more apt to confide in you later. Always tell the truth on an age-appropriate level. Children remember everything and will most likely repeat your answer to someone. Make sure it is the right answer. Help them seek the answers by showing them how to use the library, teaching safe internet practices and modeling how to ask adults (with supervision), like a librarian, for help. This will help them learn to seek answers on their own. ✽

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kids

ages 6-9

"Did You Have a Good Day?" And Other

Questions Guaranteed Not To Get You A Response BY APRIL TISHER

The first thing we want to know when we see our children after a day of school and work is how their day was. From my 5- and 9-year-olds I get every detail of what happened at recess — from who got in trouble during the day (not them, of course) to what they ate for snack. From my new middle schooler though, all I get is “fine” or “boring.” We know it is important to stay involved with what is going on with our children. Once they become school aged we are no longer in control of their friends and schedules. Some children are always big talkers, while others need some encouragement. It’s up to us to stay informed about their daily lives so we can be connected and spot issues before they grow out of hand. It’s not always easy though. We get so busy running around trying to keep up with our own agenda as well as our family’s that sometimes we don’t take the time to really find out how everyone’s days were.

Start with an open-ended question as opposed to a “yes” or “no” one. If you ask, “Did you have a good day?” You might only get “yes,” and then the conversation is over.

Keep your questions positive in nature.

Don’t use emotional terms like happy, sad, good or bad.

Use what you already know: “I know you had PE today. What did you play?”

Pay attention, put your phone down, turn down the music and listen.

Don’t get angry or respond sarcastically if they don’t offer much to begin with.

Remember they are their own person, and they need to process things in their own time. Caren Rowe, mom of four and preschool teacher, reveals that her family goes around the table sharing their favorite moments of the day. She feels this works for her high schoolers especially because the last thing they want when they get home is to be bombarded by questions. With the number of kids in her family it can turn into a competition about time and sharing since they all have something to say. By giving everyone their turn, it shows respect when they have to listen to their siblings as well. What really matters is that you are involved. Know who their friends are, what project they are working on in class and even “who likes who.” Keeping the dialogue between you and your child easy and simple while they are young will increase the likelihood that they will continue to talk to you as they grow older and their issues become much bigger. ✽

gigglemagazinetallahassee.com | AUG/SEPT 2016

I am somewhat impatient, so I want to talk to my kids about what happened during their day as soon as I see them, which seems to work. Sometimes I get an abbreviated version though, and more details emerge during dinner or even at bedtime, when my non-talker seems to open up the most. Melissa Reccoppa, mom to four, agreed. She said as soon as her youngest gets home from swim practice she asks him how it went. He’s so used to it that if she doesn’t ask right away he jokingly asks himself and carries on a one-sided conversation about his day. The key is to always listen, even when it seems your child isn’t divulging anything of importance. To children, everything is really important. You might get them to open up more over a mundane task such as loading the dishwasher or folding laundry. When it seems less formal they may be willing to share more. Keeping it casual and listening in a nonjudgmental way will usually give the best results. Unless they ask for your advice or opinion, as hard as it is, try to just listen as long as they are talking.

Here are some other ways to score more details without seeming like you are interrogating them:

gigglemagAZINETALLAHASSEE.com | AUG/SEPT 2016

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tweens

ag e s 1 0 - 1 3

Protect Your Children and Your Wallet: Fight Back with Media Literacy BY DELIA ALBERT

and movies are a few ways adolescents are made vulnerable to advertisements. The popularity of digital TV, along with interactive technology such as surveys being used during the streaming of a program, has made it easier for advertisers to blur the lines of ads and entertainment directed at children.

Advertisers are targeting children from every angle, so what can parents do about it?

Most adults are aware of how often they’re subjected to advertisements throughout their day. While scrolling through mobile devices, watching TV or reading the newspaper, it’s very clear — ads are simply everywhere. The abundance of advertisements have prompted inventions such as pop-up blockers and DVR devices to skip commercials. But perhaps more serious precautions are needed, specifically, those that protect the little ones in the household.

Companies are now seeking more interesting ways to target children at younger ages. Today kids are constantly bombarded with advertisements that are sometimes disguised in the form of textbooks or food. In some cases, ads are directed at children as young as 2 years old. Depending on the types of ads they are exposed to, children may experience

Whether they are exposed to violent video games (often advertised in publications with large youth readerships) or tobacco advertisements (a bigger risk factor to adolescents than having a family member smoke), young children are at risk. According to a study by the American Academy of Pediatrics, the average young person views over 3,000 ads across media platforms in one day! Additionally, teenagers and children younger than 12 years old influence their parents’ spending by about $200 billion a year. While the issue is certainly not with all ads, ads that promote unhealthy foods/habits or copious spending can be detrimental to your child. Product placements, celebrity endorsements, and linking toys and other products to popular TV shows

gigglemagazinetallahassee.com | AUG/SEPT 2016

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends media literacy or teaching children about the effects of advertising. According to the Academy, education about the media can successfully reduce the harmful effects of tobacco, alcohol and food advertising. Parents can teach their children to view advertisements carefully to understand the advertisers’ true intentions in those cases. There are plenty of online resources such as Media Smarts or Long Live Kids that provide lessons and videos to teach children about media literacy. Working with schools to suggest media literacy lessons in the classroom is another action parents can take. Additionally, setting up parental controls on TVs, computers, mobile phones and other smart devices can protect children. Kids can intentionally and unintentionally venture to websites with mature content, putting them at risk for advertising unintended for them. ✽

Most adults are aware that advertisements can sometimes be deceptive; children however, are susceptible and mentally defenseless against them. Studies have shown that children younger than 8 years old aren’t aware of the intentions behind ads and often accept them at face value.

adverse effects such as depression, eating disorders and materialism.

Although the Federal Trade Commission decided years ago that it was unfair to advertise to children younger than 6, protective legislation has proven to be impractical. Parents should instead take an educational approach to protecting their children against commercialism.

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ag e s 1 4 - 1 8

teens

Why Do Teens Sleep Till Noon? BY TARYN TACHER

Your daughter used to scurry to your bedroom door at a ripe 6 a.m. and peer inside at your sound asleep self. Without hesitation, her mouse-like tendencies would turn feline and she'd pounce — jolting you awake in hopes that you'd play with her. Your son used to greet the sunrise with the boisterous vroom-vroom sounds he personified his toy cars with and the cantankerous chaos of a tumbling tower of blocks that would jostle you from your sweet slumber before your REM cycle could come to an appropriate stopping place. Now, the kids have transformed into the typical sleep-until-noon teenagers, whose slumber is not the least bit disrupted by the ping of the toaster that just finished preparing your breakfast or the news anchor voices exuding from the living room TV, broadcasting the morning's latest updates. The roles have reversed. Your once up-before-the-sun children are now nowhere to be seen before midday — and you are now the one tugging on their shirt sleeves to wake them up for school days or weekend plans.

You may chalk it up to laziness because your teen stays up late watching unrealistic reality TV shows while simultaneously unleashing a phalange attack on the touchscreen of his or her cellphone — taking intermittent breaks to snap selfies, check Instagram and post a four-second story on Snapchat. But, the truth is that biology is to blame for your teen’s newfound wake-sleep schedule.

we feel awake and when we feel sleepy. Environmental and biological changes can alter the time frames in our circadian rhythm, and that is why teenagers go to bed late and sleep in later. During our teenaged years, we experience puberty; our bodies begin to develop and transition from girl to woman, from boy to man. Ideally, teenagers should be sleeping for nine hours each night, but because of schoolwork, part-time jobs, heightened social lives, extracurricular activities and distractions from new-aged technology, few teens actually meet their daily sleep needs. Sleep deprivation is a legitimate concern if it persists for an extended

period of time. Lack of sleep can lead to decreased concentration, mood swings and more. So, next time you notice your teen still catching some Z’s in the early afternoon, remember to let them sleep in. Growing up is the culprit here! ✽

Our bodies secrete a hormone called melatonin, which regulates our wake-sleep cycle. For children, melatonin secretions happen in the early evening, but as they mature into teenagers they release melatonin later and later.

Our bodies secrete a hormone called melatonin, which regulates our wakesleep cycle. For children, melatonin secretions happen in the early evening, but as they mature into teenagers they release melatonin later and later. Because they start going to sleep at a later time, they sleep in to compensate for those missed early evening hours of shuteye. Additionally, our bodies have their own internal clocks that operate on a 24-hour cycle known as our circadian rhythm. The circadian rhythm is physical, mental and behavioral, and it determines when gigglemagAZINETALLAHASSEE.com | AUG/SEPT 2016

happy community August 5 Sundown Summer Concert Series Cascades Park 7 – 10 p.m. Visittallahassee.com August 5–7 National Twin Days Twinsdays.org August 5–7 2016 Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday During this sales tax holiday period, Florida law directs that no sales tax or local option tax (also known as discretionary sales surtax) will be collected on purchases of clothing, footwear, certain accessories selling for $60 or less per item and certain school supplies selling for $15 or less per item. Visit Gigglemagazinetallahassee.com for a link to the list! August 5–21 Rio 2016 Olympics August 12 First day of school for: Community Christian School August 15 First day of school for: Leon County Maclay School Annsworth Academy

A u g u s t/ S e p t e m b e r c a l e n d a r

August 16 First day of school for: Holy Comforter Episcopal School

September 17 FSU vs Louisville Cardinals Papa John’s Cardinal Stadium

August 20 Visit Tallahassee Free For Kids Admission Day 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Admission is FREE all for CHILDREN 17 AND UNDER! Tallahasseemuseum.org

September 16 Fifth Annual Capital City Bikefest 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Tallahassee Airport, General Aviation Terminal Tallahasseebikefest.org

September 3 FAMU vs University of Miami Miami Gardens, Fla./Sun Life Stadium

September 17 FAMU vs Tuskegee University Ladd-Peebles Stadium

September 5 FSU vs Ole Miss Camping World Stadium 8 p.m. September 5 Labor Day Schools Closed September 10 FSU vs Charleston Southern Doak Campbell Stadium 12:30 p.m. September 10 FAMU vs Coastal Carolina Brooks Stadium

September 23–25 Florida Jazz & Blues Festival Capital City Amphitheater in Cascades Park Fljazzandblues.com September 24 FAMU vs South Carolina State Bragg Stadium September 24 FSU vs South Florida Bulls Raymond James Stadium

gigglemagazinetallahassee.com | AUG/SEPT 2016

chsfl.org

WISH UPON A STAR 2016

WHO Benefiting Children’s Home Society of Florida WHAT Bring out your boots, bangles and bowties for some southern coastal fun for a worthy cause! Wish Upon a Star is a southern gala like no other, complete with a cocktail party including an oyster and bourbon bar, an open bar, cuisine by Social Catering, dessert bar, and live entertainment. There will be amazing bundled items at the silent and live auction that you won’t want to miss. WHEN Friday, Oct. 14 2016 TIME 6:00-7:30 (Cocktail Party), 7:30pm-10:00pm WHERE Goodwood Museum & Gardens (Carriage House) MORE INFORMATION: Annakay.hutchison@chsfl.org² | chsfl.org/wish² 850.219.4205 CHILDREN’S HOME SOCIETY OF FLORIDA, REGISTRATION #CH180, IS REGISTERED WITH THE STATE UNDER THE SOLICITATION OF CONTRIBUTIONS ACT. A COPY OF THE OFFICIAL REGISTRATION AND FINANCIAL INFORMATION MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE DIVISION OF CONSUMER SERVICES BY CALLING TOLL-FREE (800-435-7352) WITHIN THE STATE OR BY VISITING WWW.800HELPFLA.COM. REGISTRATION DOES NOT IMPLY ENDORSEMENT, APPROVAL OR RECOMMENDATION BY THE STATE.

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gigglemagazinetallahassee.com | AUG/SEPT 2016

happy community

gigglemagAZINETALLAHASSEE.com | AUG/SEPT 2016

gigglemagazinetallahassee.com | AUG/SEPT 2016