Editor’s Note
Last issue we invited you, our readers, to join us in being more active and eating healthier in the new year. Are you still with us? We hope so, because we have a great new program that will be kicking off very soon!
The My Fit Family Challenge is coming to Roanoke! Along with our friends at Coca-Cola, we are bringing this competitive challenge to Southwest Virginia! The eight week program starts on May 1st and challenges families to be active! Families earn points for participating in any activity that gets them moving. This could be walking, working out or playing wiffle ball. Families log the minutes online at www.myfitfamilychallenge.com to keep track of their activity and earn points which will make them eligible for great prizes!
Excited to get started and win some great prizes? Visit the website today and get started early by applying to be one of our focus families! We will be picking two families who will receive personal training and nutritional support from local professionals. These two families will be profiled in future issues as they work towards improving their health.
We cannot wait to get started and tell you more about this great program. Keep reading Growing Up In the Valley and visiting the Fit Family Challenge website to learn more!
See you at the gym….and on the bike path….and on the greenway…. and at the ballfield….
The Eagan Family
Growing Up In The Valley
Publisher
Josh Eagan josh@growingupinthevalley.com
Anika and Evelyn’s Dad
Editor
Andrea Eagan andrea@growingupinthevalley.com
Anika and Evelyn’s Mom
Creative Director
Tracy Fisher tracy@growingupinthevalley.com
Charlotte and Evelyn’s Mom
Director of Sales
Dee Reynolds dee@mofatmedia.com
Aleyna’s Mom
Sales Executive
Kristin Bringewatt kristin@growingupinthevalley.com
Distribution
Leigh Anne Woods law@growingupinthevalley.com
Contributors
Andrea, Josh, Anika and Evelyn From L to R -Evelyn and Josh fixing the water heater; Anika hamming it up: The Eagan girls with their gingerbread house.
andrea@growingupinthevalley.com
josh@growingupinthevalley.com Advertise: dee@mofatmedia.com Submit An Event: andrea@growingupinthevalley.com
Inquiries: info@growingupinthevalley.com
Mom’s Guide to a Healthy Body
Lifting your baby. Carrying a car seat. Holding your toddler in your arms. They can wreak havoc on your back, shoulders, and knees—unless you do them correctly. Here’s how.
By Sandra Gordon
When I became a parent, nobody told me how hard it would be—especially on my wrists, elbows, back and neck. In a word—ow! All the lifting, bending and twisting I do without thinking countless times a day to get my 8-month-old and my 3-year-old in and out of strollers, cribs, car seats and on and off changing tables is taking a physical toll in the form of creaky knees, achy elbows and a rebellious back. I’m far from alone.
“I’m constantly treating moms who are suffering from repetitive-stress injuries (RSIs) that result from the wear and tear of being a parent,” says Peggy Brill, a physical therapist and owner of Brill Physical Therapy in New York City and author of The Core Program. RSIs are degenerative disorders caused by chronically using poor posture to perform everyday tasks, such as carrying your baby in an infant car seat on your forearm like a handbag. Such poor body mechanics place too much force on ligaments, muscles, joints, tendons and spinal discs and can be harmful if you do them often. Women are especially
prone to RSIs because, unlike men, they naturally lack upper-body strength. Luckily, having good posture and learning how to lift and carry your child properly can reduce your risk of injury. With that in mind, here are five body-breaking moves and how to fix them.
Lugging an Infant Car Seat
Don’t: Lean to the side and carry it on your forearm like a purse.
“This position stresses your back, shoulder, and—especially—that arm,” says Mary Modica, a physical therapist at Schwab Rehabilitation Hospital in Chicago. Indeed, “after my youngest child was born, I developed pain in my shoulders that wouldn’t go away,” says Sandy Cummings, a mother of three. “The doctor diagnosed it as bursitis.” The culprit: lugging around a 15-pound car seat with a baby inside.
“Carrying an infant car seat on your arm is equivalent to walking around with three or four full paint cans in one hand, something most people wouldn’t do, but
yet, they’ll carry a car seat that way,” says Modica.
Do: Put both hands on the handle, bend your elbows, and carry the car seat in front of you. The less distance between your torso and what you’re carrying, the better for your back. Using both hands also helps distribute the weight evenly.
Lifting Your Baby From the Crib
Don’t: Lock your knees or hold your baby at arms’ length as you pick him up. “This puts extreme pressure on your spinal discs,” says Nicholas Warren, Sc.D., associate professor of medicine at the University of Connecticut Health Center.
Do: Plant your feet shoulder-width apart, lower the crib railing, and bend your knees. Then bring your baby as close to your body as possible before lifting him up.
Carrying a Toddler
Don’t: Balance your child on one hip. This can strain your back and the ligaments on that side of the body. In addition, as your arm presses against your child, your muscles continually contract, reducing blood flow. Over time, this can lead to trauma of the tissues in your arm and shoulder.
Do: Hold her in front of you with her legs wrapped around your waist. Keeping your child centered will help you stand upright—your spine’s natural position. Another option: Use a stroller (or encourage your child to walk) as often as possible.
Putting Your Child on Your Lap
Don’t: Lean forward while you remain seated. Why? “As you lift, the pressure on your spinal discs multiples to three to ten times the weight of your child,” Modica says. “If you’re tall, for example, lifting a 20-pound toddler from the floor could put as much as 200 pounds of pressure on your back!”
Do: Get down on one knee with the other foot planted in front of you, and hold her as you move back into your seat. Or have your child climb into your lap.
Lifting Your Child from a Car Seat
Don’t: Do the twisted car seat lift. Worst-case scenario: With both your feet on the ground, you twist and lean into the car seat with your arms extended, your toddler at the end of them. Lifting your toddler that way can do a number on your knees, lower back, neck, shoulder, elbows and wrists.
Do: “Put one leg into the car and face the car seat as you’re putting your child in it,” says physical therapist Traci O’Hara. You’ll take pressure off your back. If your car seat is in the middle of the back seat, climb in and face the car seat as you lift your child into it. Of course, positioning yourself properly can take a few extra seconds you don’t always have with a feisty toddler in tow. Still, it doesn’t have to be perfect all the time. But the more often you lift correctly, the better you’re able to tolerate it when you don’t.
Get Strong
Did you know that strengthening your abdominal, back, pelvic, and hip muscles can reduce your risk of developing a repetitive-stress injury? Physical therapist Peggy Brill recommends practicing this simple exercise at least three times a week.
Lie on your back with your arms straight up toward the ceiling. Keeping your back flat against the floor, lift your legs over your pelvis and bend your knees at a 90-degree angle.
In one slow, smooth motion, bring your left knee toward your chest as you extend your right leg. Keep alternating legs as you incorporate your arms: When your left leg moves toward your chest, extend your left arm over your head, and vice versa. Repeat up to a count of 60.
Provided by Laurissa Grubb from Blue Eagle® Credit Union
What was the very first financial choice you ever made?
Think about it.
It likely took place before your first job, even as far back as when your annual income consisted of Tooth Fairy money and lucky pennies. The very first financial decision you ever made is also one of the most important choices, it’s where to keep your money.
When you first made that decision, piggy banks, sock drawers, and “buried-in-the-sandbox-like-piratetreasure” all seemed like perfectly acceptable options. As it turns out, they aren’t nearly as super-secret as you might have hoped. Opening a bank account is the best solution, but in order to do that you first need to choose a financial institution—and so the choice becomes “bank or credit union?”
Banks and credit unions offer essentially the same products and services, but there are huge
differences in the way they operate. Despite this, many people put more thought into building their Netflix queue than they do choosing their financial institution. It’s a Money Thing is here to help fill in the gaps and show you how the differences can affect your dollars. Whether you’re just starting out or rethinking your current financial setup, here is what you need to know.
consistently outperform banks when it comes to deposit and loan rates and customer service.
The main difference between banks and credit unions is in their structure. Banks are for profit, while credit unions are not-for-profit memberowned and operated financial cooperatives. Banks have to pay their shareholders, their private investors, and even their board of directors. Credit union boards consist of volunteer members elected by the member-owners. Banks are set up in a way that allows a select group of people to make money off of your banking activity.
Credit unions, on the other hand, are set up in a way that allows all of its members to benefit from its profits. Once its operating costs are covered and reserves are set aside, the profits are distributed back to members in the form of low or no fee banking products, lower interest rates on loans, and higher dividend rates on savings accounts.
Credit unions sound pretty great, right? You might be wondering why some people choose banks over credit unions, even though credit unions
Some people see that many banks are bigger, and believe bigger is better. Other people may not be aware that credit unions exist or know what they offer.
Which is right for you?
Find out what your banking priorities are and look for the right match. Here are some factors to consider:
1) Am I eligible for an account?
Banks are open to anyone. Credit unions have membership requirements, but don’t let that intimidate you! Requirements can be as simple as living in a certain community or working in a certain field.
2) How much does it cost to get set up?
Are there any fees associated with opening an account? Is there a minimum balance required? Joining a credit union involves purchasing a share (they’re usually $5), but this is different from a fee, it means that you’re a member-owner of the credit union (and it’s still in your account).
3) Will I have good access to
ATMs?
You might feel as though you see larger bank ATMs everywhere, but credit union ATMs are just as accessible. In fact, the largest credit union ATM network is actually larger than the largest bank ATM network. Find out what other financial institutions share your local credit union’s network. Free ATM transactions are not limited to machines with a particular credit union name on them. There are thousands of surcharge-free ATMs nationwide.
4) What can I do online or my mobile device?
More and more financial institutions are offering online and mobile banking services. Find out what you can do from your computer and smartphone. Can you check your balance? Make deposits? Schedule payments? Transfer money between accounts? Taking advantage of online
products can be super convenient, and save you from taking a trip to the ATM or to the nearest branch.
5) And speaking of the nearest branch, where is it?
Find out what the hours of operation are and how they work with your schedule. Find out if you can bank through other branches, too. This could come in handy if there’s a location close to work or school.
6) What can my financial institution do for me?
Ask about products that are tailored to your situation. How do the interest rates compare to other financial institutions? Are there free products you’re eligible for? Are there extra benefits such as scholarship opportunities or discount entertainment
tickets available? Don’t settle for a financial institution just because you need an account. You should want to have an account there, too.
At the end of the day, choosing a financial institution is a personal decision with a huge influence on how you manage your money and your time. If you take some time to ask questions and compare services, you’ll find the best money match for your finances!
Laurissa resides in Roanoke with her family and is the Director of Marketing for Blue Eagle© Credit Union. She has worked in credit unions for more than 20 years, has a passion for financial education, and believes stronger individuals make a stronger community.
“I have recommended Blue Eagle Credit Union to my sister, my friends...I just love it. All my loans are through them.” ~ Nikky P
“I joined over 20 years ago. All the kids have their accounts here. It’s family here. They know you by name.” ~ David L
“My husband is a farmer, we’ve purchased a lot of vehicles. Blue Eagle really helps him out. They helped my daughter buy a home too.” ~ Lisa M
“The services they offer are important to me. They’re really friendly and work for us.” ~ Kevin R
What’s in a Name?
A Brief History Of The Most Popular Baby Names In 2015
By Rachel Robionson
J
ust as technology and social media have influenced seemingly everything these days, it’s no surprise that some new parents are gleaning baby name ideas from celebrity couples and Instagram.
We decided to take a look at some of these influences and current name trends, and to examine some of the origins of popular chart toppers this year. Time Magazine declared 2015 as “The Year of the Gender-Neutral Baby Name.” They credit this phenomenon to celebrity couples like Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds who called their new little girl James. This purposeful
switch of a traditionally male gendered name to female, seems to be a cultural shift among the millennial generation.
Mooseroots, a genelogical website, extensively researched name data from the Social Security Administration and determined that some of the most popular unisex names include; Alex, River, Cameron, Jordan, Ryan, Taylor, Logan, Peyton, Riley and Avery. Most of these have been tied to a celebrity such as Taylor Swift and NFL quarterback, Peyton Manning.
Perhaps one of the more interesting baby-naming trends according to BabyCenter, is a recent infatuation
with Instagram filter names. New parents are using the names Lux, Ludwig, Amaro and Willow to name their little ones this past year. Regal names also seem to inspire some new moms and dads. Names like Royalty, Legendary, Princess, Duchess and King have increased significantly in popularity.
Chances are, if you have a little one at home, you may have picked a popular baby name without even realizing you were following a trend. Girl’s names like Emma and Sophia have peaked at the top of the charts for several solid years, while Jackson, Liam and Jacob max out the boy list.
Since these names are not as unique as say Instagram filters, we decided to look into some of their origins and meanings to see what makes these top ten so widely-liked.
Sophia, from the Greek word meaning wisdom, seems to be peaking on the US list as well as lists around the world. With multiple spellings (Sofia in Spanish-speaking countries) and variations, (like Sophie) BabyCenter credits this baby name boom to popular actresses like Sophia Loren or Sophia Vergara. The name spiked in popularity around 2001 in the United States, and has continued to be a favorite.
though somewhat less common. Aiden means fiery and is derived from the name of the Celtic sun god. There are several spellings for the name, including; Aidan, Ayden, Aden, Aaden and Adyn.
Still, if you like the sounds of these top ten choices but don’t want your child to be one of four Liams in his class, you may want to look into some closelyrelated alternatives. Some versions of the name include; Eliam, Hiram, Kiam, Leland, Lincoln and Riam. If you love the 6th most popular name Isabella, but associate the nickname Bella with one too many friends’ pet dogs, BabyCenter offers similar ideas like; Mariella, Isabeth, Savilla, Arabella, and Annabell for example.
Ultimately, there’s something for the trend-setters and the followers. The trick is to narrow it down to a name you’ll be willing to say about onehundred times a day for the rest of your life-or at least the next eighteen years.
There are a growing number of little ones called Jackson or appropriately, son of Jack, since about 1990; and this once surname is currently at the top of the baby boy charts. Historical figures Stonewall Jackson, President Andrew Jackson, and artist Michael Jackson are just a few celebrities who carried the name. Originally of Hebrew origin, Jackson may evoke a certain masculinity and nostalgia among new parents.
Sophia Jackson Emma
Emma Thompson, Emma Stone, and Emma Watson are just a few of the currently famous Emmas. Millennials watched Rachel name her baby Emma on popular late 90’s TV sitcom Friends, likely one reason for its spike to the top ten during the latter part of the decade. This name finds its roots from the German language and means whole or universal. According to BabyCenter, Emma has stood the test of time since the 1800s.
Most Popular Names in 2015
Boys
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Girls
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Aiden, an Irish name, has risen significantly in popularity, and has even been adapted as girls’ name,
Parent of the Month: Tabitha Hollins
What inspires you?
My children. Skyler (11), Zoe (6) and Amber (17)
What are you proud of ? My children.
What motivates you?
My children.
Any advice for other parents? Cherish and listen to your kids.
What is the biggest challenge in your life?
Having to work and have enough time with my kids.
How do you help others? I`m always their for them when they need to talk to me.
How would you describe your parenting style? Easy going.
“She is always there for me when I need her, she is caring and loving, and does not get mad at me easily. Who ever meets her always becomes her friend. She is very nice and always has the time to listen to my sister and I when we need her most.”
Nominatedby: SkylerandZoeHollins
Fun Facts
What is on your iPod? I don`t have one but I would put rock music on it.
What can you not live without? Coffee and my family.
What is your favorite date night venue? Movies.
What do you always have with you? Chapstick and my phone.
What is your favorite movie? Country Strong.
What would people be surprised to know about you? I like to sing but the kids think I`m bad.
NOMINATIONS NEEDED!
Do you know a deserving dad? How about a magical mom? Nominate them for our Parent of the Month presented by Famous Anthony’s and they could win dinner at Famous Anthony’s for their family! Tell us why they should be our choice by emailing your nomination to andrea@growingupinthevalley.com
“ “ ...To keep up with the Joneses; It’s truly a vicious cycle. One I have found myself in many times. And with the way our world is, it’s hard to break free. We become selfish and take things for granted.
Money Can’t Buy Happiness
Finding Contentment Without Breaking The Bank
By Katie Lewis
You wouldn’t think trying to live without paper plates and paper towels would be a big deal. Yet, here I sit, with a dishwasher full and a cabinet empty of plates and a dirty bathroom mirror because what in the world will I wipe the Windex off with?
Trying to save a little money, we skimped on the luxury paper products during our last shopping trip. Ironically, or divinely rather, the following week, our pastor’s sermon was on finances and debt. Our pastor discussed how today’s necessities were yesterday’s luxuries. And while he probably wasn’t talking about paper plates and paper towels, it really hit home. We take so many things for granted these days that we forget the simplicity that used
to embody life. My pastor did not lay out a plan for how to get out of debt or how to use your finances but spoke primarily of contentment, specifically spiritual contentment. However, one doesn’t have to look at this as solely a Biblical principal. Contentment, in general, will make our lives easier. Contentment within our jobs, contentment within or families, and being content with the things we have will help us lead more joyful and less stressful lives.
Our society forces us to think we should not be content with what we have. There is always a newer and better phone, fashion styles seem to change overnight, and entertainment opportunities are more extravagant, which makes them more expensive.
It’s a rare occasion that my family goes to the movies due to the hefty price tag. As if the tickets aren’t pricey enough, it’s hard to resist the $10 movie theater popcorn. We all fall victim to our personal desires at times, and sometimes even put those in front of our necessities. One of the biggest groups that have trouble finding contentment due to this is the one that I spend my days (and nights) with—teenagers.
Society and the media prevent many teenagers from being content in all aspects of their lives, from their bodies to the colleges they want to attend. Everything seems to be a competition. This, in turn, leads to the spending of more money, which in most cases is forked out by the parents to keep
their kids “happy” and keep up with the Joneses, per se. It’s truly a vicious cycle. One I have found myself in many times. And with the way our world is, it’s hard to break free. We become selfish and take things for granted.
Sometimes I think about how things have changed over the years. Houses have gotten bigger and kids often have nicer cars and phones than their parents. We are more worried about what our kids have, what travel teams they are on, and what their social lives are like, than the time we are spending with them. It’s a true travesty. Next month, my son will be registering for his high school classes. The day that he will head out on his own will be here before I know it. After all, fifth grade seems like yesterday. I know this time will go fast. And I have regrets. I made mistakes. At times I fell victim to society’s pull. It’s easy to sit and be depressed over it and to convince yourself that it is too late to remedy. I think about, as a 13 and 14 year old, how many hours my son has spent in his room or on his phone. But it’s not too late. And it’s my job to fix it. Kids can’t see it now, but I think when they are older, they will have similar regrets and wish they had simply set the phones, and other things that seemed a priority, aside for a while.
I didn’t intend for this to turn into a piece on cell phones, but they are one of the numerous reasons we have lost our contentment. It’s on these devices that we are bombarded with the glamour of other people’s lives— the fake happiness that is portrayed in social media. And we want to keep up. But cameras do lie. Behind so many of those smiles, there is pain, suffering, or simply the lack of peace and joy. Those who have the most are typically those who are the least content. I am not saying that it is bad to have nice and expensive things. We just need to consider if we can truly afford them, what our true reason for wanting them is, and if there is a better way we can be stewards of our money. Like the classic Beatles song and the cheesy 80s movie remind us, money can’t buy love and happiness. It’s time we search our heart for the source of true contentment and stop letting society try to define it for us.
Creating Baby Arlo’s Smile
Arlo McCombs has gone through a lot in his first year of life. Born in July 2013 with a cleft lip and palate, tiny Arlo has already had two surgeries. When he’s 7 or 8, he’ll need a bone graft.
His parents, Stephanie Knight and Seth McCombs of Callaway, learned of Arlo’s birth defect after a routine ultrasound when Stephanie was 19 weeks pregnant. “I Googled the worst-case scenario,” she says. “It was totally frightening. We then went through a battery of tests to rule out any other syndromes.”
A cleft lip is a split in the upper lip and a cleft palate is a split in the roof of the mouth. Both are birth defects that occur when the mouth doesn’t close completely during pregnancy. Either may appear as an isolated birth defect but can also be associated with many genetic conditions or as a result of environmental factors. One in about 700 babies globally is born with a cleft lip or palate.
Surgery to Repair the Mouth
After the ultrasound, Stephanie and Seth met with specialists at Carilion Clinic’s Cleft and Craniofacial Center. They learned that a series of surgeries can create normal function in most cleft babies, with minimal scarring.
Article Written by Sarah Cox & Provided by Carilion Clinic
with Mark Schoemann, M.D., Carilion’s first pediatric plastic surgeon, who heads the Cleft and Craniofacial Center. Dr. Schoemann, who joined Carilion last year, discussed what would happen when he performed Arlo’s surgery.
Stephanie and Seth were then given a tour of the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at Carilion Clinic Children’s Hospital, just in case Arlo had to spend time there. “They told us not to worry, that they were here for us, and that we could call any time,” Seth says.
A Firecracker
Red-haired Jasper Arlo McCombs was born on the Fourth of July and named after famed folk musician Arlo Guthrie. His initials (JAM) also reflect the fact that his parents met at FloydFest. Stephanie and Seth call Arlo their little firecracker.
They also discovered that cleft babies may have other problems, including ear, dental, feeding, and speech difficulties. To give them the best care, the Carilion Cleft Center team includes an oral surgeon, otolaryngologist, and early intervention social worker, along with a plastic surgeon, speech pathologist, genetic counselor, and dentist.
Everyone on the team helped Stephanie and Seth understand what to expect.
Before Arlo was born, they also met
After his second surgery, Arlo’s mouth was also slightly discolored. Stephanie and Seth called Dr. Schoemann, who reassured them that infections are rare, and that the discoloration was just bruising.
Now Arlo is expected to return for a checkup in January to assess how his ability to speak is developing. After that, he’ll be checked every six months; if he needs a speech therapist, one can be assigned for home visits. Otherwise, he is expected to need the bone graft when he is 7 or 8. Stephanie and Seth say they also appreciate being able to see all of Arlo’s specialists as needed in one trip to the cleft center.
At four months, Arlo had his first surgery, when Dr. Schoemann repaired his lip and a collapsed nostril. “That went great,” says Stephanie. During his second surgery, at nine months, Dr. Schoemann repaired Arlo’s cleft palate. Prior to this, Arlo wore a NAM, or nasoalveolar molding device, which was tightened every week to facilitate joining the two sides of his mouth during surgery.
The second operation was “majorly intense,” Stephanie says. “We left the hospital in 24 hours. Most patients stay two to three days.” For the following two weeks, Arlo was in pain. He had already started eating solid foods, but swallowing was difficult, and Stephanie and Seth had to teach him to drink from a cup. “I cried and wanted him to be happy again,” Stephanie says,
describing Arlo as a typically smiling baby.
To minimize travel for parents—many of whom must drive several hours for visits—the cleft team coordinates all the care required during each appointment. The team also meets regularly to discuss cases and make recommendations to give patients the best outcomes. “It improves care,” says Dr. Schoemann. “All providers are on the same page, and there is no miscommunication.”
Advice to Others
Looking back, Stephanie would tell other parents in their situation to do as much research as possible. “But don’t look at the worst cases, and don’t get scared by ‘Dr. Google,’” she says. Stephanie and Seth were also relieved to find that Dr. Schoemann was so accessible. “He takes his time and really cares about these kids,” Stephanie says. “He’s passionate about it. And he’s a genius.” Seth agrees.
“We can’t imagine being any place other than Carilion,” he says.
High Tech Baby
The
gadgets, doodads and whatsits that millenial parents will just love!
While a veteran parent may just wipe a dropped binky on their shirt, you may want to sanitize the beloved soother once in a while to avoid nasty illnesses. $30 | Availabe at major retailers.
Smart Baby Monitor
This takes a video baby monitor to the next level. The Apple designed camera is accessible on your phone or tablet anytime, any place. It’s a perfect solution for working parents who need to peek on their little ones while at the office.
$250 | Available at Amazon.
Pipila UV Pacifier Sanitizer
Sleep Sheep Smart Sensor
This stuffed animal can detect when your little one is stirring in their sleep and will start to play a soothing song.
$35 | Available at major retailers.
Best Baby Apps
Keep track of baby’s milestones as well as photos, memories and a newsfeed with age appropriate articles and parenting advice.
Not your first kid? You’ll need a central place to keep every member of your family’s schedules straight. It also keeps track of grocery lists, medications, emergency information and family memories.
Lulla-Vibe
Soothe your little one to sleep with this vibrating pad that mimics the movements of the baby in utero.
$20 | Available at major retailers.
Concerned about your baby’s social media privacy? Use this app to upload those adorable newborn photos and share directly with friends and family without a worry!
Need to find a playdate or have a neighboorhood yard sale coming up? Use Big Tent to connect to other local parents and share news.
Today’s Parent Free • iOS • Android
Cozi Family Organizer Free • iOS • Android
Hell’O Baby Free • iOS
Big Tent Free • iOS
Reading Powers the Community
Article by: Mary Beth Keenan Provided by: Smart Beginnings of Greater Roanoke
The Story
“No, I want to come read with you!” Adam* exclaimed. These were the first words Adam spoke during Reading Hour. His volunteer reading mentor had been reading one-onone with him for a month before he said a word. Adam was always very engaged during Reading Hour; it was visible he was paying attention, but unclear whether or not he enjoyed the 30 minutes with his mentor. Finally, after a month of trying to get him to speak, he was given the choice to stay in the classroom or join the rest of the group participating in Reading Hour. With joy he chose to read; his self-confidence and love of reading finally clear.
The Program
Reading Hour is a program coordinated by Smart Beginnings New River Valley (SBNRV). SBNRV partners adult volunteers with 3- and 4-year old children in child care centers. The volunteer reading mentors spend at least thirty minutes each week reading out loud, one-on-one with their child buddy. The program reaches children while they are young, to stimulate their interest in reading and learning, and encourage them to believe that they, too, can be successful.
The Need
Studies show that children who are exposed to more vocabulary in the first five years of life build stronger neural connections in their brains. These connections are the hardware that leads to success later in life (Hart-Risley 1995). The most valuable way for children to be exposed to words is through quality one-on-one interactions with adults. Smart Beginnings New River Valley seeks to bring more of these interactions into the lives of children preparing for kindergarten through their Reading Hour program.
The Numbers
Almost every child who participated in Reading Hour during the 2014-15 school year benefited from the program. Teachers reported that 89% of their participating students became more enthusiastic about reading. While SBNRV includes as many children as they can in the program, they seek to target those in most need of literacy support or one-on-one adult mentorship. These are the children that enter the program with pre-literacy skill below age level. Of the children in this category, 88% improved their skill to age level or above by year’s end.
The Benefit
The Reading Hour program not only benefits the children, but the volunteer reading mentors as well. Bill King, a pastor in Blacksburg, has served as a reading mentor for Reading Hour since the fall of 2014. Reflecting on his experience he said, “Reading costs me a little time and I get back a chance to make a small difference in a kid’s life. It gives me a break from the mundane tasks of a day, but finally the real payoff is feeling like you have given of yourself… and I just love to have an excuse to read all the books I loved reading to my own kids long ago in a galaxy far away.”
Since the Reading Hour program first began in the spring of 2014, it has grown from serving 15 children in three childcare centers to more than 90 children at 11 child care centers. The program will serve 20 childcare centers by January. When asked about the goals of the program, SBNRV Executive Director, David Moore, said, “We are looking to create and find champions of this cause who are passionate and willing to add their voices to ours.”
For more information, contact the Smart Beginnings NRV team at sbnrvreadinghour@gmail.com.
Roanoke Kids Eat Free!
Everyday
Mama Maria’s
11 AM - 2 PM
3 & under free buffet with paid adult
W. Main St., Salem (540) 389-2848
Golden Corral
All Day
3 & under free buffet with paid adult 1441 Towne Square Blvd., Roanoke (540) 563-8826
The Great 611 Steak Company
All Day
3 & under, 1 child buffet per paid adult 3830 Franklin Rd., Roanoke (540) 989-4675
Shoney’s
All Day
4 & under, free kids meal with adult entree purchase. Drink not included 2673 Lee Highway, Troutville (540) 992-6400
Lil Cucci’s
All Day (Closed Sunday & Monday)
10 & under, 1 child per adult meal 1396 Roanoke Rd., Daleville (540) 966-5923
Monday
Country Cookin
4 PM - Close
10 & under, 2 children per paid adult
All Locations in Roanoke (540) 774-0199
Famous Anthony’s
3 PM - Close
1 child per paid adult
All Locations in Roanoke, Salem, & Vinton (540) 362-1400
McAlister’s Deli
5 PM - Close
2 children per paid adult
2063 Colonial Ave., Roanoke (540) 204-4407
Choose from over 35 restaurants for an affordable family night out on the town!
Growingupinthevalley.com/Kids-Eat-Free
Buffalo Wild Wings
4 PM - 9 PM
12 & under, 1 child per paid adult
All Locations (540) 725-9464
IHOP
4 PM - 8 PM
12 & under, 1 child per paid adult
Valley View Location only, Roanoke (540) 265-4289
Brit and Bud’s Specialty Subs
6 PM - 8 PM
12 & under eligible for half off kids meal
4208 Brambleton Ave., Roanoke (540) 206-3684
El Rio Mexican Grill
All Day
10 & under, 1 child per paid adult
4208 Electric Rd., Roanoke (540) 685-4343
Firehouse Subs
All Day
11 & under, 2 children per paid adult combo,dine in only
800 University City Blvd, Blacksburg (540) 961-0371
Tuesday
Brambleton Deli
11 AM - 9 PM
12 & under, 1 child per paid adult 3655 Brambleton Ave., Roanoke (540) 774-4554
Denny’s
4 PM - 10 PM
12 & under, 1 child per paid adult
All Locations Roanoke & Salem (540) 389-5074
Macado’s
4 PM - 9 PM
12 & under, $1 child meal per paid adult
All Locations in Roanoke & Salem (540) 776-9884
Town Center Tap House
All Day
12 & under, 2 children per paid adult
90 Town Center St., Daleville
(540) 591-9991
The Barbecue Grill
All Day
10 & under, 1 child per paid adult
126 E Lee Ave., Vinton (540) 857-0030
Firehouse Subs
All Day
12 & under, 1 child per paid adult Colonial Ave, Town Square & Salem only (540) 345-3131
Pizza Hut
5 PM - Close
10 & under, free buffet per paid adult 1016 Hershberger Rd., Roanoke (540) 362-3834
Ruby Tuesday
5 PM - Close
11 & under, 1 child per paid adult
Valley View & Electric Rd. Locations (540) 265-9301
Wednesday Dogwood
4 PM - Close
10 & under, per paid adult
106 E. Lee Ave., Vinton (540) 343-6549
The Quarter
All Day
12 & under, 1 child per paid adult
19 Salem Ave., Roanoke (540) 342-2990
Pizza Pasta Pit
4 PM - 9 PM
1 child per paid adult. Drink not included. 1713 Riverview Dr., Salem (540) 387-2885
IHOP
4 PM - 8 PM
12 & under, 1 child per paid adult
Valley View Location only, Roanoke (540) 265-4289
Thursday
CiCi’s Pizza
All Day
10 & under .99 cents child buffet per adult buffet
All Locations, Roanoke (540) 344-7711
The Roanoker
4:30 PM - Close
12 & under, 2 children per paid adult 2522 Colonial Ave., Roanoke (540) 344-7746
Jerry’s Family Restaurant
4 PM - Close
6 & under, 1 child per adult meal purchase 1340 E. Washington Ave., Vinton (540) 343-4400
Friday
Saturday
See Everyday Deals!
Famous Anthony’s
12 PM - Close
limit 1 kids meal per adult
All Locations Roanoke, Salem, Vinton (540) 362-1400
Steak n’ Shake
All Day
12 & under 1 free per paid $8.00 adult
1309 Hershberger Rd., Roanoke (540) 400-8825
Tokyo Express
11 AM - 3 PM
4 & under free buffet per paid adult
1940 W Main St., Salem (540) 389-6303
IHOP
4 PM - 8 PM
12 & under, 1 child per paid adult Valley View Location only, Roanoke (540) 265-4289
Sunday
Pizza Den
5 PM - 8:30 PM
10 & under free buffet per paid adult buffet and drink purchase
All locations Roanoke, Salem (540) 389-1111
Local Roots
5 PM -9 PM
12 & under eat for free (family style meal) with adult purchase 1314 Grandin Rd., Roanoke (540) 206-2610
Ragazzi’s
11 AM - 4 PM
10 & under w/paid adult
3843 Electric Rd., Roanoke (540) 989-9022
T.G.I.Fridays
All Day
12 & under 1 w/paying adult 4869 Valley View Blvd., Roanoke (540) 362-1475
Jimmy V’s Restaurant
All Day
4 & under kids meal only $2.50 3403 Brandon Ave., Roanoke (540) 345-7311
Steak n’ Shake
All Day
12 & under 1 free w/paying $8.00 adult
1309 Hershberger Rd., Roanoke (540) 400-8825
Kids Eat Free Inquiries andrea@growingupinthevalley.com
Editor’s note:
Restaurant deals change quickly and often without notice. Growing Up in the Valley strongly recommends calling ahead to confirm any deal listed. This listing is for informational purposes only and does not guarantee a discount.
Building Your Baby’s Library
8 New Books for Babies & Young Readers that are sure to become family favorites!
By Tracy Fisher
1. Hello World! Paris: a Book of Shapes by Ashley Evanson
2. The Bunny Rabbit Show by Sandra Boynton
3. It Wasn’t Me: A Huey Story by Oliver Jeffers
4. Shh! This Book is Sleeping by Cedric Ramadier 5.LMNO Peas by Keith Baker
6. Mini Myths: Brush Your Hair, Medusa! by Joan Holub
7.The Big Book of Beautiful Babies by David Ellwand
8.Your Baby’s First Word Will be Dada! by Jimmy Fallon
Ongoing Events:
Spectacular Saturdays
Taubman Museum, Roanoke
10 AM - 5 PM
All ages
Free admission
Kid’s Yoga
Life in Balance Counseling & Wellness Center
1st & 3rd Saturdays
11 AM - 11:45 AM
Ages 5-9
$8/class
Elmwood Ice Rink
Elmwood Park, Roanoke
Feburary 1-14
Monday-Thursday: 4 PM - 9 PM
Friday: 4 PM - 10 PM
Saturday: 11 AM - 10 PM
Sunday: 12 PM - 7 PM
$6/person
$2/ skate rental
Jurassic Quest
Berglund Center, Roanoke
Feb. 19 3 PM - 8 PM
Feb. 20 9 AM - 8 PM
Feb. 21 9 AM - 7 PM
$19/adults
$14/children
Free/ages 2 and under
$5/parking
Toddler Programs
Amazement Square Museum, Lynchburg
Toddler Tales: Tues. 10 AM
Baby Meet & Greet: Wed. 11 AM
Little Learners: Thurs. 10:30 AM
Great Artists: Fri. 4 PM
Included in regular admission
Ages 5 and under
FIND
GROUP
Learn more: www.ymcaroanoke.org
Little Critter Petting Zoo
Melrose Library: Feb 12 at 10:30 AM
Jackson Park Library: Feb 13 at 12 PM
Valley View E-Branch: Feb 16 at 11 AM
Gainsboro Library: Feb 18 at 6 PM
Main Library: Feb 22 at 4 PM
Williamson Road: Feb 29 at 11 AM
Melody Makers
Main Library: Feb11 at 10:45 AM
Melrose Library: Feb 19 at 10:30 AM
Gainsboro Library: Feb 26 at 10:30 AM
Free
Ages 5 and under
Sunday Samplings
Imagination Station, Roanoke
Every Sunday, 12 PM - 5 PM
Free
All ages
Monday • February 8
Chinese New Year Celebration
Main Library, Roanoke
6 PM
All ages
Free
Wednesday • February 10
Hip Hop Class
Williamson Library, Roanoke
10:30 AM
Free
Ages 5 and under
Thursday • February 11
Saturday • February 13
Party in the Market City Market Building, Roanoke
5:30 PM - 9 PM
All ages
$10/person
Friday • February 12
Parents Night Out
River Rock Climbing, Roanoke
6 PM - 9 PM
$20/child (Sibling discount available)
Ages 7-12
540-685-2360
KIDS12&UNDERONLY$5
Mummenschanz
Love Monster and the Last Chocolate Storytime Tanglewood Barnes & Noble
11 AM
Free
All ages
Star City Roller Girls
Berglund Special Events Center
6 PM - 7:30 PM
$11/Person
Free/Ages 10 and under
Train Lovers Day
Virginia Museum of Transportation 10 AM - 5 PM
$5/admission
$3/train ride
All ages
Wilco Berglund Civic Center
7:30 PM
Tickets start at $39.50
$5/parking
All ages
SAT. FEBRUARY 6, 2016 • 3PM
Playful. Inventive. Transcendent. Wonderfully Strange. In the wordless universe of Mummenschanz, the ordinary blossoms into the extraordinary. The Swiss theatrical troupe, which has toured the world for over 40 years, combines the timeless arts of mime and puppetry in an astonishing celebration of life, oversized balloons, giant hands, clay masks, free-range abstractions, and the most inspired use of toilet paper ever to hit the stage. The Jefferson Center show will feature both classic audience favorites, as well as brilliant new creations seen for the first time. KIDS 12 & UNDER ONLY $5.
The Guide
Tuesday • February 16
Roanoke Symphony Orchestra presents “Austrian Valentine Concert”
VT Moss Arts Center, Blacksburg
7 PM
$20/General Admission
$10/Children’s Ticket
All ages
Thursday • February 18
Science Lab
Vinton Library
4 PM
Free Ages 7-10
Jason Aldean
Berglund Civic Center
7:30 PM
Tickets start at $34.75
$5/parking
All ages
Saturday • February 20
Family Movie Night
Gainsboro Library, Roanoke
4 PM - 6:30 PM
Free
All ages
Showing Barnyard (PG)
Disney Live! Mickey & Minnie’s Doorway to Magic
Berglund Civic Center
1 PM and 4 PM
Tickets start at $20
$5/parking
All ages
Thursday • March 3
Cesar Millan Live!
Salem Civic Center
7 PM
Tickets start at $38.50
All ages
Friday • March 18
LFA Consignment Sale
Berglund Special Event Center
Times Vary
Free admission
All ages
You may have seen it in the news lately. Heroin use is on the rise throughout the country. In Roanoke area schools, usage rates are a whopping THREE times the national average. The Ice Cream Man addresses the sensitive yet critical topic of substance abuse, including heroin. With special talkbacks with professionals, you won't want to miss this informative production. No one thinks it is a subject that will affect them, but the staggering local statistics suggest it hits closer to home than many realize.
FREE to the public!
For Reservations: Call 540-400-7795
This program is made possible through a grant funded by the Virginia Department of
Kids have dreams. Sometimes those dreams are immediate, and for some, the dreams extend far into the future.
Our “game-changing” staff knows how to get the best out of each and every child, allowing them to excel far beyond expectations.
If your youngster aspires to score that next winning touchdown or wants to sing and dance on a Broadway stage, we encourage you to check out our unrivaled activities at PlayRoanoke.com or call (540) 853-2236.
