Holiday 2016 Issue of Green Child Magazine

Holiday 2016

A health & family focused digital publication & community.

Inspired Holidays Healthy Holiday

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DIY Green

Gift Wrapping Our 6th Annual

Holiday Gift Guide 1

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Contents 6 Meditation

Five ways meditation can help you become a better parent

11 Guide Relaxation

Visualizing the New Year

12 Nutritional Nuggets

Expert, and Registered Holistic Nutritionist (RHN), Maggie Chilton answers your questions

14 Beyond Food

Learning to nourishing yourself beyond food

16 Recipes

Inspired dishes that are sure to warm your heart this holiday season

36 Our 6th Annual Holiday Gift Guide Make the season bright with our hand-picked gifts for everyone on your list

56 DIY Gift Wrapping Fun 3

Publisher & Editor Amity Hook-Sopko

Creative Director Amanda Hearn

Advertising Director Susie Lyons

Copy Editor

Megan McCoy Dellecese

Media & Other Inquiries

media@greenchildmagazine.com

Contributors

Erin Easterly Maggie Chilton Amie Valpone Sandy Kreps Green Child is owned and published electronically by Fresh Green Media, LLC. Copyright 2016.

All rights reserved.

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5 Ways Meditation Can Help You

Become a Better Parent

|by Erin Easterly

Parenting is a tough job. As parents, we are busy from the time our feet hit the floor in the morning until long after our little ones go to bed at night. An endless array of domestic chores, sport practices, homework, and childhood woes can wear down even the most saintly soul. Fortunately, meditation provides an easily accessible tool, which has been proven to keep us healthy while decreasing stress and increasing joy.

Meditation is a simple way to settle the everrunning inner dialogue that flows through our minds. As the activity of the mind settles, we can access our consciousness – sometimes referred to as “the still small voice.”

Consciousness is the repository of awareness, peace, wisdom, and intuition. By regularly tapping into consciousness we can parent more from the heart and less from the head. Meditation can help you develop the following heartfelt states.

Non-reactivity

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Meditation itself is a practice of non-reactivity.

We have a thought, but we don’t jump on board and ride that thought to gloom and doom. We experience a feeling, but we don’t

create a story around it. We perceive a noise, but we return to the sound of our breath.

Meditation provides a platform for connecting with the inner silent observer, irrespective of distractions.

This silent observer is an aspect of our own consciousness. By connecting with the silent observer, we change our relationship to thoughts, as well as to their ensuing feelings and emotions.

We learn that we are not victims of thought, but powerful creators of it. We begin to understand that we are capable of utilizing the energy and information contained within each thought if we will but pause and listen.

Learning to pause and listen to the information contained within thought is an invaluable parenting tool. From the toddler who destroys our great grandmother’s coffee table to the teenager who “forgets” to call when she stays out past midnight, there are countless opportunities to either react or inwardly listen. By practicing non-reactivity in meditation we train ourselves to become better listeners which in turn helps us become more conscious creators. On a practical level, this translates into non-violent communication, increased intuition, and decreased stress.

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5 Ways Meditation Can Help You

Become a Better Parent

Mindfulness Mindfulness simply means we are aware of the choices we are making in the moment. This kind of awareness helps us to be more purposeful in our parenting decisions. As parents, it is easy to fall into predefined roles, following unconsciously in the footsteps of our parents, society, or cultural norms. Yet, by becoming more aware we are able to determine the one choice in any given situation, which will contribute toward the expansion of peace and love. As we slow down, tune in to our internal guidance system, and make the most loving choice available in any moment, not only will our children be able to grow into the fullness of their potential, we will too.

Cultivation of Compassion Meditation enlarges our sense of self. It teaches us to identify with the larger body of humanity. An expanding sense of self naturally leads to a more open heart. By stilling the mind, releasing ego identification, and expanding our awareness we are able to access our inner compassion. Researchers found that just eight weeks of daily meditation significantly increased the odds of meditators alleviating another’s pain!

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While compassion is at times a natural response to our children, there are other moments when it requires intentional development. Meditation helps us to have understanding for the little one who falls to the floor screaming when told that he cannot have his

friend’s toy. It helps us to feel empathy for the pre-teen who “borrows” our computer without asking and accidentally deletes the project that we have been working on (yes, that really happened to me). It stirs enough insight to reminds us that we, too, were once the teenager who told our parents that they just needed to mind their own business. Perhaps, most importantly, meditation helps us to feel compassion toward ourselves when we have a less than ideal parenting moment. Compassion is so fundamental to mindful parenting that it might even be considered the parent’s most valuable tool!

Present Moment Awareness Far too often, parents live in the future. In fact, from the time some babies are conceived they are being prepared for something in the future. Parents play specific music in utero to enhance brain development, make sure their child attends the right pre-school so they can get into an elite elementary school, work to ensure that their child attends private high school which, of course, is the precursor to a predetermined college. Yet, with so much living in the future, it is possible to miss the most important thing of all…your child.

Present moment awareness helps us to really understand our children, to know what makes their soul come to life. Meditation develops the quality of discernment so that we can distinguish between appropriate planning and vicarious living. It takes us away from a futuristic focus and plants us squarely in the only moment we ever have with our child…NOW. Deepak Chopra reminds us, “The best way to

prepare for any moment in the future is to be fully present in the now.”

Calmness If meditation did nothing else but calm our mind, it would be worth it. Dipping into the placid waters of peace allows us to think more clearly and act more efficiently. It is akin to bathing our minds. It cleans out the clutter that contributes to stress, discontent, and overwhelm. By spending a few minutes each day in meditation, the remaining waking hours become infused with the fragrance of peace and calmness. Within us is a sanctuary of peace to which we can retreat at any time. As we familiarize ourselves with this place then we are free to travel there when life feels overwhelming. With time, we learn to live always from this center of peace as we conduct our affairs in the world. Our own cultivation of peace will influence our children more than any other single factor.

At the end of our parenting journey we will look back and ask only a few questions: • Did I love with my whole being?

• Did I set an example of peace?

• Did I help my child connect with her inner guide?

Meditation is the single practice that can help us to answer affirmatively to each of these simple questions.

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guided relaxation

with Mellisa Dormoy

“Visualizing the New Year ”

The holiday season is the perfect time to reflect on what we’re thankful for. It’s also the ideal time to help our children set an intention for the New Year.

Simply read this guided visualization script in a relaxing voice right before bed or nap time.

Lie down and close your eyes. Just imagine you’re lying somewhere very comfortable, and your body starts to relax more and more.

You begin to feel warm and cozy inside even though the outside air has grown crisp. The trees have lost their leaves and have gone to sleep for the winter. Imagine yourself curled up in front of a nice warm fireplace. You watch as the flames flicker yellow and red. The golden yellow flame seems to relax you even further as you enjoy its warmth.

As you lie here enjoying this moment of relaxation, you start to remember some wonderful things that have happened this past year. There have been many moments that have made you happy; many moments that have made you smile and grateful.

It’s been a good year.

You’ve grown on the outside and on the inside too. You’re smarter and wiser this year. You know yourself better, and you’re getting to know your personal gifts more and more.

of Shambala Kids

The new year will bring a brand new start.

Now is the time to think about all the amazing things you want to accomplish. Remember, you can achieve anything you put your mind to!

So start to imagine all the wonderful things you’d like to do this coming year. Maybe you want to get better at something you enjoy doing, or perhaps learn a new skill. Maybe you want to spend more time helping others.

Whatever you decide to do this coming year will be a wonderful goal to work towards each and every day. Always remember to have faith in yourself and in your ability to accomplish your dreams. By using your heart and your mind together, you can create a fantastic year filled with joy, happiness, and fun!

Now take in a deep breath and imagine yourself at the end of the year having accomplished all these wonderful things you’ve been thinking about. Doesn’t it feel wonderful? Picture yourself as having succeeded, and hold on tightly to that image in your mind and heart!

Now allow peacefulness and happiness to fill up your entire body, going into each and every cell. When you’re ready you can open your eyes and give your body a big stretch… and be ready to live your dream!

For more meditations and guided relaxation audios, visit Shambala Kids online.

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Nutritional Nuggets Maggie Chilton, RHN answers your questions!

Question: Since my 3-year-old started preschool, he has refused to eat breakfast. We’re trying to wake him up a little earlier to see if he has more time to get hungry, but it doesn’t seem to be working. Suggestions on quick, healthy things to try with him in the mornings?

This could be a case of your preschooler wanting to be in charge of his life. Depending on how recent this change is he may be feeling a lack of control in his surroundings and is rebelling by controlling what he can.

Try having a few of his favorite foods on hand so he can choose what he would like for breakfast -- perhaps a smoothie with banana, chia seeds, spinach or avocado (you could call it a hulk smoothie) almond butter (or sunflower seed if nuts are not an option), full fat organic milk or organic coconut milk if dairy is not in his diet. Or try a pumpkin muffin made with sprouted spelt flour or almond flour and sweetened with maple syrup (causes a lower rise in blood sugar than regular refined white sugar) or unsweetened apple sauce. Perhaps a bowl of sprouted oatmeal with his favorite fruit and a little maple syrup.

If your preschooler likes soups, a cup of warm homemade chicken bone broth or

chicken soup (in a glass container preferably) on the way to preschool would be a great choice (contains protein, vitamins and minerals) or perhaps a whole egg (contains choline which is a critical nutrient for brain development) with a sprinkling of sea salt.

If he still refuses to eat breakfast perhaps pack a small snack for him (from the above choices, or something else he loves) and take it preschool. Explain to them what is happening and ask that they have this snack available for him when he asks for it.

Also try to have snacks with you at all times, for when he feels ready to eat. If nuts are in his diet, keep a stash of trail mix with you that he can snack on (pumpkin & sunflower seeds, almonds, macadamias, walnuts etc. whatever he likes, making sure they are raw (not roasted or salted) and of good quality.

If you are familiar with essential oils you could diffuse citrus (orange etc.) or peppermint in the morning to wake him up and make him alert and ready for the day.

As he gets older his need for food in the morning will increase and you should find that his eating habits change so he is eating earlier in the day.

As a Registered Holistic Nutritionist (RHN), Maggie specializes in hormone balancing and digestive health. Maggie’s passion for real food and continual dedication to motivate, inspire and empower women in particular, has led her to connect with clients on an international scale.

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Question: Is there a way to stop the sweets - holidays association before it starts? My husband and I went off of sugar several years ago, and it’s been the best health decision we’ve ever made. Our son is almost 2, and we’d like to keep sugar from becoming a reward or celebratory association in his brain. Thanks!

I would definitely recommend experiences over sugar or treats of any kind. Let your son choose what he would like, give him a few options and let him decide, that way he will feel empowered and in control. Perhaps time with Mummy at a kids play group or fun gym, or time with Daddy reading, going for a walk and jumping in the fall leaves.

Perhaps painting excites him so you can organize a painting activity where he can get messy and have fun. These will all enhance your bonding experience too so he will associate a “treat” with a feeling of love, fun, excitement, freedom.

I would suggest getting the whole family involved, let his grandparents, aunts, uncles, baby sitter know what you are doing and encourage them to follow your lead and explain why you are doing it, that way you shouldn’t have any “surprise” candies at Christmas in his stocking.

For Halloween we use the “switch witch” method. Our boys will go out trick or treating in their costumes and have a lot of fun, at the end of the night they dump out their candy and we donate it to an organization that uses it for care packages etc. We will have already hidden a toy in the house somewhere and they have to go and find it.

We have used this method since our boys were 2 (they are 8 & 9 now) and they still love the Switch Witch.

By the way I think you are doing this at the perfect time! It’s a great time to train the taste buds towards more of a savory palate and to build a positive outlook and relationship with “treats” and what that means to them.

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nourishing yourself

beyond food

|by Amie Valpone The Healthy Apple

After healing from 10 years of chronic illness, I’m constantly asked about what I ate and how I learned to slow down, love my body, and nourish myself.

Diving into an anti-inflammatory lifestyle and eating superfoods while taking supplements and doing every protocol under the sun to ‘heal me’, I soon realized that all the kale in the world wasn’t going to ‘fix me’.

I started to understand that when we’re blocked and can’t seem to make headway with obstacles in our lives, it’s simply an opportunity to practice gentleness with ourselves and to show ourselves kindness and self-love, because being hard on ourselves and staying disappointed won’t do us any good. I had to honestly look at the reasons for why my body wasn’t healing aside from the food and supplements, and make different choices to learn how to love myself, take care of myself on a daily basis, start saying no to things and people that drained me, take quiet (alone) time for myself and learn how to create balance in my life.

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This is the main struggle I see with my readers and clients. We’re all running around

trying to do everything and be everything, but our health is failing. When we try to Band-Aid it with a drug or supplements or a superfood, it’s not enough because our body is trying to tell us something. It’s nudging us to slow down. And that’s just what I did.

Was it easy?

No, but if I can do it living in NYC, you surely can too.

“I made a promise to be gentle with myself...”

I made a promise to be gentle with myself throughout this process and to take it slow.

I started setting aside days for no meetings or conference calls, I started taking baths, I stopped trying to make everyone happy and I started to listen to my body. I stopped being so strict with trying to eat perfectly. I stopped taking all my supplements. I stopped obsessing over superfoods. I stopped going from

doctor to healer to energy worker to workshop to try to fix myself.

I started to just BE and to allow my nervous system to rest and reboot. This, is what truly has been healing my body.

In terms of my food, as my family and any of my friends know, I lived off of green veggies and organic chicken for years because it was too hard for me to digest anything else without getting sick. That’s when I befriended my food processor, as I talk about in my cookbook, Eating Clean: The 21-Day Plan to Detox, Fight Inflammation, and Reset Your Body and I started pureeing everything to

digest it easier, which also helped me absorb and assimilate the nutrients in the foods I was eating.

I’m happy to share one of my favorite nourishing recipes with you. This Zucchini Tarragon Soup is simple, delicious, and can be served anytime of the year. Feel free to use bone broth in place of chicken broth if you are looking for more gut-healing and immune system boosting properties.

Take some time for yourself this week or weekend and start bringing in self-love and self-care to your days. I assure you, your body will thank you.

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Inspired Dishes |by Amie Valpone The Healthy Apple

Simple Zucchini Tarragon Soup Ingredients: • • • • • • • •

4 large zucchini, diced and ends trimmed 2 Tbsp. coconut oil ½ small red onion, diced Sea salt and pepper, to taste 3 cups vegetable or chicken broth 4 Tbsp. pumpkin seeds, for garnish 1 tsp. finely chopped fresh tarragon or 2 fresh basil leaves, for garnish Fresh lemon zest, for garnish

Directions: 1. Cook zucchini in a medium pot over medium heat with the coconut oil, red onion, sea salt and pepper, until very tender, about 10-15 minutes.

2. Add the vegetable broth and continue to cook for another 5 minutes or until the soup is warm throughout.

3. Remove from the heat and transfer to a food processor and puree until smooth.

4. Divide into serving bowls and serve warm with almonds, tarragon and lemon zest for garnish.

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Inspired Dishes |by Veronica Bosgraaf Pure Organic Founder & Author of Pure Food

Eggplant Love Lasagne Ingredients: • • • • • •

1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil 2 tablespoons granulated tapioca 1 large eggplant, peeled, and thinly sliced Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper 1 cup Avocado Pest or store-bought pesto ½ cup jarred roasted red bell pepper, rinsed, patted dry, and coarsely chopped

• • • •

1 cup ricotta cheese 4 ounces mozzarella cheese, grated (1 cup) 2 medium tomatoes, cored and thinly slice 4 ounces mozzarella cheese, thinly sliced

Directions: 1. Preheat the oven to 375°F. mixture over the red bell pepper layer, 2. Drizzle the olive oil in the bottom of a make another layer of eggplant slices on 9 x 9-inch baking dish, Sprinkle in the top if the ricotta mixture. Spread with the tapioca. Cover the bottom of the fish remaining pesto. Top with tomato slices, with one layer of eggplant slices. Sprinkle and then mozzarella slices. Season with with salt and pepper. Spread half of the salt and pepper. pesto over the eggplant and top with the 4. Bake until the lasagne is heated through roasted red bell pepper. and the top is beginning to brown, 30 3. In a small bowl, season the ricotta cheese to 35 minutes. Let cool for 15 minutes with salt and pepper and stir in the grated before serving. mozzarella cheese. Spoon the cheese 18

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Inspired Dishes |by Veronica Bosgraaf Pure Organic Founder & Author of Pure Food

On Sunday afternoons, I love to put on some music, chop vegetables, and get a big yummy pot of comfort stew going. There is nothing like the warm scent of simmering onions and garlic to create a cozy atmosphere. It’s funny to me that my kids claim to not like onions, and yet whenever I simmer onions in a little grapeseed oil, one by one they start to drift into the kitchen and say, “Mom, it smells so good in here.” It never ceases to amaze me how flavorful and hearty winter vegetables are, and the carrots, potatoes, cauliflower, and cabbage in this stew make it a filling meal. I like to serve this with Stewed Apples and whole-grain bread.

Winter Garlic and Vegetable Stew Ingredients: • • • • • •

3 tablespoons grapeseed oil 1 large onion, chopped 8 garlic cloves, cut in half lengthwise 1/2 teaspoon turmeric 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin 3 large carrots, sliced into 1⁄2-inch-thick rounds • 5 medium red potatoes, chopped

• 1 head orange cauliflower, coarsely chopped • 1/2 head purple cabbage, coarsely chopped • 2 medium tomatoes, cored and chopped • 1 cup vegetable broth • 1 teaspoon sea salt, plus more to taste • freshly ground black pepper

Directions: 1. Heat the oil in a large pot set over low heat.

2. Add the onion, garlic, turmeric, and cumin, and cook, stirring, until the onions are soft, about 10 minutes.

3. Add the carrots, potatoes, cauliflower,

cabbage, tomatoes, broth, and 1 teaspoon salt.

4. Bring to a simmer and cook until the vegetables are tender, about 45 minutes.

5. Season to taste with salt and pepper and serve.

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Inspired Dishes |by Veronica Bosgraaf Pure Organic Founder & Author of Pure Food

My dreams have come true with this recipe. Organice rice flour and coconut oil beautifully replace highly processed ingredients with ease. These brownies make living a healthy lifestyle, balanced life so sweet and easy! People never guess that they contain no gluten or dairy. And the touch of peppermint extract makes them wonderfully festive for the holiday season.

Peppermint Brownies Ingredients: • Grapeseed oil or coconut oil spray, for greasing • ½ cup white rice flour • ½ cup brown rice flour • 2 teaspoons tapioca starch • 1 teaspoon baking powder • ¼ teaspoon sea salt

• • • • • • •

½ cup coconut oil, at room temperature 1 ½ cups organic can sugar blended ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder ½ teaspoon vanilla extract ½ teaspoon peppermint extract 4 large eggs 1 cup chopped walnuts

Directions:

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cocoa powder, vanilla, and peppermint 1. Preheat the oven to 325°F. Grease an extract and beat until incorporated. Add 8-inch square baking dish with oil and the eggs one at a time, beating well after line the bottom with a piece of parchment each addition. Add the flour mixture paper. Set aside. ½ cup at a time, beating until just 2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the combined. Stir in the walnuts and spread white and brown rice flours, tapioca the batter in the prepared pan. starch, baking powder, and salt.

4. Bake until a toothpick inserted into the 3. In the bowl of an electric mixer fitted center comes out nearly clean, about 40 with the whisk attachment or using a handheld mixer, beat the coconut oil minutes. Let cool to room temperature and sugar on medium speed until well before cutting and serving. combined, about 2 minutes. Add the

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Inspired Dishes |by Veronica Bosgraaf Pure Organic Founder & Author of Pure Food

Although I’m not a big fan of eggs, around the holiday, I don’t want to be left out of any eggnog drinking. So I set out to create an eggless version that would hit all the right flavor and texture notes, while also managing to be healthier and dairy free. This recipe is a lot easier to make than the traditional stuff because the process is so streamlined. Just throw it all in the blender and voilà! Oh, and just for the record, each serving contains only 150 calories and 2.5 grams of fat (compared with regular eggnog, which has 3343 calories and 19 grams of mostly saturated fay). You can actually indulge fin this eggless nog.

Vegan Eggnog Ingredients: • • • • • • •

2 cups almond milk, homemade or store-bought ¼ cup spiced rum (optional) 1/2teaspoon ground cinnamon ½ teaspoon grated nutmeg ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract ⅛ teaspoon sea salt ½ to 1 cup ice

Directions: 1. In a blender, combine the almond milk, rum, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla, salt, and ice.

Blend on low speed until smooth and serve immediately.

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Inspired Dishes |by Jenny Ross & Doreen Virtue

Authors of Veggie Mama

Sweet Yams and Rice Yam Ingredients:

Rice:

Sauce:

• • • • •

• • • • •

• • • • •

4 c sliced yams 1/2 c raw agave nectar 1/4 c olive oil 1 tsp sea salt 1 tsp cinnamon (optional)

4 c cooked basmati rice* 2 c chopped raw kale 1/2 c finely chopped walnuts 1/2 c diced red bell peppers 1/2 cup shredded carrots

1 c diced red bell peppers 2 tbs coconut aminos 2 tbs raw agave nectar 2 tbs EV olive oil 1 tsp sea salt

Directions: 1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. 2. Prepare the yam segment of the dish by blending the agave, oil, sea salt, and cinnamon.

3. Toss the yams in this mixture, coating each segment, and lay flat on a nonstick baking sheet or in a shallow glass baking dish.

4. Bake for 45 minutes until yams are cooked all the way through. Pierce with a fork to ensure yams are soft before removing. Note: Check doneness at 35 to 40 minutes, as moister yams will cook more rapidly than drier yams.

5. Prepare the sauce for the rice by blending all ingredients until well combined.

6. In a mixing bowl, toss together warm rice and sauce until well combined.

7. Add in the walnuts, kale, and bell pepper and toss again.

8. Remove the yams from the oven.

9. To serve, scoop the rice mixture on top of the yams, layered in a bowl, or place the entire mixture onto a platter with the yams around the rice for group serving.

Enjoy warm.

10. Refrigerate leftovers for up to 5 days.

*Tip: While the yams are baking, cook the basmati rice by bringing 4 cups water to a boil on the stovetop. Add 2 cups rice, bring to a simmer, and cover for 15 minutes.

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Inspired Dishes |by Jenny Ross & Doreen Virtue

Authors of Veggie Mama

These are simple to prepare and may be formed into all different types of shapes and varying sizes. This recipe uses raw cacao, which is higher in minerals like magnesium, for growing healthy bones, than roasted cocoa powder.

Cashew Chocolate Sweets Ingredients: • 2 cups raw cashews • 1/2 cup coconut flakes • 1/3 cup raw cacao

• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon • 1 teaspoon sea salt • 1/3 cup raw agave nectar or coconut nectar

Directions: 1. In a food processor with the S-blade machine. A dough ball will form. attachment in place, grind the cashews 4. Stop the machine and remove the dough into a meal. ball, transferring it onto a silicone sheet 2. Add the coconut flakes, cacao, cinnamon, or cutting board lined with plastic wrap. and sea salt, and pulse until a coarse mix 5. Form and mold into desired shapes and is formed. sizes. This is a shelf-stable mixture, so it 3. Add the raw agave through the feed tube does not need to be refrigerated. on the food processor while running the

Optional: Top with—or roll shapes in—more coconut flakes, cacao nibs, or other superfoods (like hemp seeds) for additional nutritional components and flavors.

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Photography by Liza Huber

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|by Liza Huber

Fruit & Veggie Kebab Turkey

CEO & Founder of Sage Spoonfulstm

This fruit & veggie kebab turkey is a showstopper at Thanksgiving! It is huge, so it’s a perfect centerpiece for the table or for your family to nibble on as an appetizer. Perfect for classes too! I made this last year for Brendan’s 1st grade class and the kids were in awe. They were so excited about “Mr. Turkey” and ate every last bite of the fruit and veggies! It’s also lot easier to assemble than it looks.

Ingredients

Directions

• 1 large watermelon – cut 25% off the bottom lengthwise so it sits flat • 1 large pear • 2 blueberries • 2 mini marshmallows • 1 red bell pepper – cut into strips • 2 cucumbers • 1 pound cherry tomatoes • ½ pineapple - peeled and cut into 1-2” square chunks, plus 1 piece cut into a triangle for the turkey’s beak • 1 pound red grapes • Small wooden toothpicks • Large wooden skewers – cut about 15 of them in half

1. Place the watermelon, cut side down, onto a large platter or baking dish.

2. To make the turkey’s face, place the pear against the watermelon in the position you want and then secure with 4-5 small toothpicks. For the eyes, place the toothpicks and add 1 mini marshmallow and 1 blueberry to make each eye. For the beak, use the pineapple triangle and secure with toothpicks. Add a slice of red bell pepper to the side of the pineapple and secure with a toothpick for a wattle. For the feet, place toothpicks into red bell pepper slices and place at the base of the watermelon.

For the body, place toothpicks into 5 pepper slices and place directly behind the turkey’s head.

3. For the veggie kebabs. Use the halved wood skewers and place 2 cucumber slices and 1 tomato onto each. Then place the veggie kebabs in 2 -3 rows across the watermelon.

4. For the fruit kebabs. Using full-length wood skewers, alternate a grape and pineapple until each skewer is full. Place the fruit kebabs in 3-4 rows across the watermelon. For the tail, make 3-5 more veggie kebabs on halved skewers and place into the watermelon behind the fruit kebabs.

5. That’s it! Now sit back and watch everyone oooh and ahhhh over Mr. Turkey.

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How to Manage Your Child’s

Holiday Gift Expectations 32

Sitting in a heap of Legos, your child announces he’s almost finished with his Christmas list.

The top five items on that list? New Lego sets.

We all want the holidays to be magical for our kids. But how do we balance our desire for seeing our child’s eyes light up with our desire to live a less consumerism-focused life? Even more importantly, how do we help our child gracefully realize we can still be content, even when we don’t get everything we want?

Here are some ways to enjoy gift-giving while helping your child develop realistic expectations this holiday season.

Talk About Gift Expectations Be up front about what they can expect. If your children know you don’t approve of violent video games, they won’t be surprised when Santa doesn’t bring one. Be firm and honest with your reasons for not following along with the crowd. For instance, “John’s parents make decisions they feel are right for their family, and Daddy and I make decisions we feel are right for our family. While our answer is no, we do enjoy saying yes to other things we know you’re wishing for.”

Teach Your Child How to Prioritize Children need to learn how to make choices, prioritize, and deal with disappointment. Con-

sistently giving in to a child’s “more, more!” attitude can morph into selfishness and a sense of entitlement. Children hear they can have anything and everything they want. It’s your job as a parent to clue them into reality. Encourage children to prioritize their wish lists.

When they show you a long list, ask them to choose the top one or two things they really want. If Santa stops at your house, explain to younger children that Santa likes to focus on the gifts they want the most (he DOES have a lot of kids to please, after all!) Don’t ignore the rest of the list. Discuss each item to find out the why’s behind the wishes — understanding why a child wants something can help you find out their true desires, and it’s often not about the “stuff.”

Set Limits Before the List-Making Begins Consider the Want-Need-Wear-Read approach (see our free printables on the next page) where each child gets one thing they want, one thing they need, something to wear, and something to read. While you can’t control what other people give your kids, you can set the expectation of what they’ll get from you.

Emphasize the Rewards of Giving Nothing lifts a child’s disappointment more quickly than giving a heartfelt gift to someone else. Shifting the emphasis from receiving 33

Bring Learning Home

to giving helps children see the exchange of presents from a different perspective.

Kids love picking out gifts for other people.

In addition to helping kids thoughtfully choose gifts for friends and family, choose a charity, toy drive, food pantry or other group and lend a hand.

Create a Family Wish List Get the family together and write a list everyone can enjoy. Be sure to include non-material wishes—such as taking a walk in the snow or drinking hot cocoa by the fire. These wishes can be granted through “coupons” when it comes time to open gifts, or woven into the weeks surrounding the holidays to extend the celebration beyond one “special” day.

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34

Focus on the Magic of the Season Hint… it doesn’t come from lots of toys.

Get past the gift grab by making new holiday traditions. Make time for listening to seasonal music, baking treats, making decorations or crafting simple gifts for friends and family. It doesn’t just save money—it makes memories. Focus on activities you can do together as a family, instead of focusing on what gets unwrapped Christmas morning. You’re free to create any tradition you want, so be creative.

It could include a walk on Christmas morning, attending a special concert or a lazy day at home. These are the things they remember and talk about year after year — not the toys that were under the tree.

Click here

to download this free printable!

My Wish List

Want Need W

Wear

love peace

Need

Read

joy Enjoy &www ildMagazine.com Hap.Gre py enCh Holidays!

Love, Green Child

want need wear

Want

ear R

ead Free Printabl e by www.Green ChildMagazin e.com

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Green Child Magazine’s 6th Annua

Holiday Gift Guid

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al

de

37

little ones

......

Ride On Fire Truck Also available in Police Car Ride-On $80 at Svan.com

Rainbow Circles Infant Clutch Toy $13 at HABA

Farm Playset Green Toys playset made from recycled milk jugs. $35 at Amazon

38

A

C

B

D

A. Vintage Inspired Wind Up Music Box $64 at Tree by Kerri Lee B. Max Raccoon $42 at Hazel Village C.100% GOTS Certified Organic Sherpa Teddy Bear $45 at Bears for Humanity D. S.S. Ahoy Wooden Toy Boat Surprise Stacker by Svan $45 at Amazon 39

A

C

B

D

A. Eco-Bricks 90 Piece Interlocking Blocks Set $35 at Once Kids B. Hoot Owl Hoot Game

by Peaceable Kingdom $15 at Amazon C. Itty Bitty Be Miniature Diaper Bag (Perfect for dolls!) $40 at Ju-Ju-Be D. Camping Playset by Plan Toys $18 at Amazon 40

little ones

......

House Blocks Wooden Set by Tsumiki $120 at Rose & Rex

Aroma Doh All natural aromatherapy play dough. $35 at Whole Life & Services

Playful PatternsÂŽ Heirloom edition. $40 at Discovery Toys

41

big kids

......

6-Fret Pocket Guitar Practice and improve guitar skills anywhere. $14 at Amazon

Solar Photography Kit Rich prints made with the power of the sun. $15 at Uncommon Goods

Tin Can Robot Recycle a soda can by turning it into a silly robot. $13 at Amazon 42

B

A

C

D

A. Omega Refractor Telescope $135 at Discovery Toys B. Brackitz Driver 43 Piece Set $25 at Amazon C. Tall Tales - Award Winning Game of Infinite Story Telling $30 at Amazon D. Discovering Newton’s Laws by Engino $35 at Amazon 43

A

B

C

D

A. Luminous Nudes Gift Set $48 at Beauty Counter B. Silver and Black 4.5� Constellations MOVA Globe $150 at Amazon C. Original Buddha Board $25 at Amazon D. The Limelens Set for Smartphones $50 at Limelens 44

teens

......

Oregon Trail Card version of the throw back. $13 at Amazon

Chibi Lights LED circut stickers. $30 at Amazon

Blue Splash Bottle Reusable glass water bottle from Lifefactory. $27 at Amazon 45

ladies

......

PurfiyMe Facial Detoxify + balance gift set. $30 at Grace Green Beauty

Fire Within Me Vegan leather zippered bag. $34 at Spiritual Ganster

Ceò Scarf Intricately woven cotton and cashmere blend scarves.

Starting from $45 at Oscha Slings 46

A

B

C

D

A. Winter Dream Eye Shadow Palette $58 at Beauty Counter B. INSTAX Mini 8 Instant Camera from Fujifilm $55 at Amazon C. Set of 4 Himalayan Salt Tequila Glasses $28 at Uncommon Goods D. Wake Up Gently with Sunrise Similulation Alarm Clock $70 at Amazon 47

A

B

C

D

A. Shutran Essential Oil Infused Aftershave Lotion $26 at Young Living B. Baseball Dartboard $120 Uncommon Goods C. Zebra Wood Wireless or Corded Speaker $100 at LSTN D. Portable Hammock by Eagles Nest Outfitters $60 at Amazon 48

gentlemen

......

Golf Flask Complete with accessories.

Super Tool Kelvin Tools versatile multi-tool. $26 at Amazon

Cord Travel Roll Available in nine colors. $20 at Brouk & Co

49

gifts that give back

......

Brave, Smart, & Loved Meaningful wall art provides 5 meals to children in North America & around the world. $20 at Cuddle + Kind

Books, Water, Poverty Socks Each gift box provides 2 schoolbooks, 18 mos of clean water, & supports the goal to end poverty. $45 at Conscious Step

Micro Green Kits Turn your windowsill into a tiny farm, bursting with bite-sized organic crops and give back to your family with the ultimate local nourishment. $48 at Uncommon Goods

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A

B

C

D

A. Dakota Necklace to Support Women Rescued from Sex Trafficking $36 at Purpose Jewelry B. She Clothed With Strength Journal to Benefit Postpartum Progress $15 at Cotton Babies C. Adoption Awareness Bracelet $5 at Pura Vida D. Mulberry Silk Eye Mask to Benefit Focus Ireland and the Jeevan Jyothi AIDS Center in Theni $30 at The Ethical Silk Company 51

trinkets & stuffers

A

B

E

52

I

......

F

J

K

A. Peppermint Marshmallows

Dandies, an ethical vegan company. $5 at Vegan Essentials

B. Lip Balm Gift Set

$16 at Young Living

C. Organic Sweet & Spicy

Herbal Tea

From Good Earth. $6 at Amazon

D. CableYoyo

Earbud management from Bluelounge. $10 at Amazon

C

D

E. Avocado Huggers

$8 at Uncommon Goods

F. Random Acts of Kindness

Kits

$10-$15 at Uncommon Goods

G. ICON Stainless Steel Tea

Infuser

By Tea Forte. $12 at Amazon

H. Maple Wooden Dice

By Tightrope. $8 at Amazon

G

H

I. Wikki Stix for Doodlers $3 at Amazon

J. Runnin’ the World and Stuff

Fun Statement Socks. $10 at Amazon

K. Zuke’s Jerky Dog Treats $9 at Amazon

L. Cornhusk & Raffia Cat Toy

By Catit. $7 at Amazon

M. Natural Cat Toy Collection

L

M

From The Natural Pet Company. $20 at Amazon

53

trinkets & stuffers

......

A

B

E

H 54

F

I

A. Gingerbread Christmas

By Jan Brett $15 at Amazon

B. Mindful 123

By Tamara Hackett $23 at tamarahacket.com

C. The LEGO Christmas

Ornaments Book

By Chris McVeigh $12 at Amazon

D. Frida Kahlo

C

D

By Isabel Sanchez Vegara $11 at Amazon

E. Harry Potter and the Chamber

of Secrets Illustrated Edition

By J.K. Rowling $24 at Amazon

F. Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Double

Down

By Jeff Kinney $8 at Amazon

G. Boats Built for Speed Gift Set

Green Toys $15 at Amazon

G

H. If It Does Not Grow, Say No Kerry Alison Wekelo $13 at Amazon

I. Toot & Puddle: Let It Snow

Holly Hobbie $6 at Amazon

J. Simple Matters: Living with

Less and Ending Up with More

By Erin Boyle $14 at Amazon

K. The Affirmations Coloring Book

J

K

By Louise Hay $10 at Amazon 55

Y I D

56

a r W Gift

n u F g n i p p

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Join us to shop, taste & enjoy –

from thousands of Green Products & Services for your everyday life.

SAN FRANCISCO NOVEMBER 11, 12, 13

PORTLAND DECEMBER 9, 10, 11

2017

WASHINGTON DC MAY 13 -14

2017

NEW YORK CITY JUNE 10 - 11

2017

LOS ANGELES SEPTEMBER 23 - 24

2017

SAN FRANCISCO NOVEMBER 11 - 12

CODE: SHGF16 2017

SOUTHEAST FL COMING SOON

2017

LOCATION / DATES

58

COMING SOON