Growing Up In the Valley November 2014

Growing up Southwest & Cent ral Virginia ’ s Premier Family Resource

In the Valley Volume 3 Issue 3 • November 2014

Planning for the

Holidays

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Sucking:

when to stop the habit

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Creativity in the Classroom

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Southwest and Central Virginia’s Premier Family Resource!

Publisher

Josh Eagan josh@growingupinthevalley.com Anika and Evelyn’s Dad

Editor

Andrea Eagan andrea@growingupinthevalley.com Anika and Evelyn’s Mom

Design

Tracy Fisher tracy@growingupinthevalley.com Charlotte and Evelyn’s Mom

Sales

Dee Shrader dee@mofatmedia.com Aleyna’s Mom Natashia Pierson natashia@growingupinthevalley.com Royce and Raeanna’s Mom Shelley Sawyer Shelley@growingupinthevalley.com Troy and Tucker’s Mom Ellen Prillaman ellen@growingupinthevalley.com Lyndsay Bella’s Mom

Distribution

Leigh Anne Woods law@growingupinthevalley.com Ryan, Krystal, Braydon, Kailey, Rome, and Sage’s Aunt

Events

Sierra Lewis sierra@growingupinthevalley.com Johnathan’s Mom

Writers

April Collini Teresa Martin Amanda Powers Rachel Robinson Angie Yates

Laura Wade Kim Castner Katie Lewis Heidi Blackwelder Courtney Cutright

Photographers Jessica Farmer

Amanda Robinson

Interns

Daniel Castillo

We welcome reader comments, submissions and the support of advertisers.

We reserve the right to refuse or edit any materials submitted to us that we deem inappropriate for our audience. Please include a self addressed stamped envelope with any submission to be returned. We do not accept responsiblity for unsolicited materials.

Growing Up In the Valley and Growingupinthevalley.com are published by MoFat Publishing. Growing Up In the Valley is published monthly. The views and the opinions expressed by the writers and advertisers do not necessarily represnt those of Growing Up In the Valley, it’s staff or contributors. The information presented here is for informational purposes only and although every effort has been made to present accurate information, we do not in any way accept responsibility for the accuracy of, or consequences from the use of this information or for the businesses and organizations presented herein. We urge all parents to confirm any information given herein and consult with a doctor or an appropriate professional concerning any information or question. No portion of this publication may be reproduced in part or in whole without the express written consent of the publisher.

© Copyright 2014 MoFat Media

The holiday season is upon us! With the start of November comes TONS of holiday activities around the valley for you and your family to enjoy. Some of these events start in just a few weeks.

One of our favorites, the Stocked Market returns to the Berglund Center, formerlly the Roanoke Civic Center! And do we have a suprise for you and your kids this year at the Stocked Market!

We will be hosting the kid’s booth with our good friends from Toad’ly Kids! We are so excited to be partnering up with them to bring fun activities, crafts, storytimes and more to the biggest shopping event of the season! It will be THE SPOT for you and your kids to visit to take a break from shopping and enjoy some family holiday activities!

After the Stocked Market excitement dies down, Fashions for Evergreens at the Hotel Roanoke and Fantasyland at the History Museum start up. All this and we have not even hit December yet!

But by then our December issue will be on stands and you will have a chance to check out the BEST HOLIDAY BUYING GUIDE around! Tons of reviews, prizes, ideas and more will be available for our readers in the pages of our last 2014 issue. You will not want to miss it Lastly, we once again will be giving back to our community throughout the month of December with our

Proud to be Part of Your Family Since 2012!

Ani and Evie with Events Coordinator Sierra and Varekai performers.

W.R.E.A.T.H.S. program. Each day in December leading up to Christmas, our staff will be performing random acts of Christmas kindness throughout the region. We will do this daily and blog about it nightly. We invite you to join us and tell us how you have touched the lives of people around you by joining our Facebook event. Just visit our Facebook page to see the event and learn how you can be a part of the unbelievable joy that W.R.E.A.T.H.S. brings to our community every year!

- The Growing Up In the Valley Team Josh, Andrea, Anika and Evelyn

V.A.E.C.E

Rising Star Award

2014

WINNER

Phone: 540-251-1660 Fax: 540-905-7200 Mail: 2116 Colonial Avenue, Roanoke, VA 24015 To Reach the Editor: andrea@growingupinthevalley.com To Request Magazines: josh@growingupinthevalley.com To Advertise: natashia@growingupinthevalley.com To Submit An Event: sierra@growingupinthevalley.com To Nominate: info@growingupinthevalley.com

Read Online at

Issuu.com/growingupinthevalley

November Stars of the Valley 6 Salvation Army: Helping for the Holidays 19 Planning for the Holidays Make your own list and check it twice

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Education Station 32 Patriotic Paper Quilts

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On the Cover:

Don’t forget to celebrate Veteran’s Day !

Raegan Ross

10 Creativity In the Classroom

Cover Cutie Winner 2014

The Guide

14 Media Mommy

Reviews on the latests movies and books

Family Fun

39 Family Calendar 11 Little Chef Recipes

Find fun events to do this summer with your family!

24 Kids Eat Free

Find out all the details where kids dine for free

Sweeten your holiday with these cake pops!

Family Living 18 Baby’s First Doctor Appointment A simple guide to a baby’s first year of check-ups.

23 Living Organic with Baby

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Tips from Natural Awakenings.

31 Organic Living with Baby

Natural Awakening’s Tracy gives great ideas on how to live organic with a baby.

Kidz Corner

36 Kid’s Games

Mazes, word scrambles & Sudoku!

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Stars of the Valley

Helping for the holidays An inside look of the Roanoke Valley’s Salvation Army and their programs for the holiday season.

Article by: Amanda Powers As we start this holiday season, it is a time to be thankful for our family and many blessings. We often spend the season shopping, eating, wrapping, and giving gifts.

However, for thousands of people across the valley, Christmas for their families would look very different without The Salvation Army.

Although The Salvation Army works year long to serve others, Christmas time is period of great need and plenty of excitement. You may notice the red kettles with cheerful bell ringers and the many locations of trees covered in angels. Both of which are ways The Salvation Army celebrates the season by building a Christmas for others.

You too can be involved with making a difference in the

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Growing Up In the Valley • november 2014

Stars of the Valley

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Not only can you donate financially, you can also volunteer to be a bell ringer at any point throughout the season— families and groups of many kinds are welcome.

lives of others this holiday season.

It takes a lot of people to make everything that The Salvation Army does possible.

In fact, it is the community, our families, local businesses, and

dfedfedfedfedfedfe organizations partnering up with them that makes the difference.

Each person The Salvation Army helps is unique and has special story. There are many ways you can get involved this year if you are interested in making a difference in someone’s life this Christmas.

The Angel Tree Program If you venture out at all during the winter, you will surely see a tree decorated with paper angels.

These angels are so much more than decorations though. Each angel contains the name of a child who would go without a Christmas gift, without the generous donations of others.

The Angel Tree program has a very special connection to our community. It all started thirty-five years ago in our very own River Ridge Mall in Lynchburg, VA. The Salvation Army in collaboration with the staff at the mall, looked to help local families in need.

Their goal to make a better Christmas for others all started with a list of names and simple, hand cut angels, made from Hallmark greeting cards. Now, The Angel Tree can be found worldwide as well as locally!

Choosing an angel tag and providing the items listed is the easiest way to get involved with this program. “Angels” from this program have gone to benefit up to 3000 local children from ages birth to twelve in the past, with hopes to help just as many this year.

You can find an angel to sponsor at your local mall, many churches, and online at WDBJ7.

The Salvation Army has made a commitment to make sure that each child who receives an angel has a good Christmas, even if they receive nothing more.

Forgotten Angel Toy Drive Sadly, not every angel is sponsored, that is where the toy drive comes in!

The Salvation Army also collects new, unwrapped toys to fulfill the gifts for forgotten angels or to finish incomplete angel lists.

Churches, companies, athletic groups, schools, and even families can run a Forgotten Angel Toy Drive. The Salvation Army will even provide a big box to collect the toys in.

Once turned in, these toys are sorted and placed with the appropriate forgotten angels. Once you have purchased your Angel’s list or toy drive, you can drop off your gifts at The Salvation Army’s Christmas Distribution Center, It november 2014 • growingupinthevalley.com

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Stars of the Valley located at 1796 Apperson Drive, in the former Food Lion in Salem. They can also use plenty of volunteers to helps sort all the gifts from the beginning of November through Christmas. Mature teens and adults are welcome to volunteer.

The Red Kettle Campaign Probably the most notable of The Salvation Army’s presence around Christmas time, the Red Kettles make serving the community all year long possible. The money collected stays right here in our community. The Red Kettle campaign helps The Salvation Army provide food for families in need in our area throughout the year, and supports programs, including Turning Point, the only secure shelter for adults and their children fleeing domestic violence in the Roanoke Valley; Red Shield Lodge, an emergency and transitional living center for men who are trying to

Growing Up In the Valley • november 2014

Not only can you donate financially, you can also volunteer to be a bell ringer at any point throughout the season—families and groups of many kinds are welcome. There is even a Star Wars themed group, who volunteers annually!

The Salvation Army needs an abundance of volunteers to man each kettle. The Red Kettle Campaign runs from November 8th until December 24.Groups can get involved with the Red Kettle Campaign by adopting a kettle. Adopting a kettle is simple and can be done by a group of almost any size. A kettle can be adopted for a day, a week, or as long and as often as you like. All you need to do is adopt a kettle and take shifts ringing the bell, it’s that simple.

For more information on how to get involved with the Red Kettle Campaign or any other volunteer opportunity, you can contact The Salvation Army’s volunteer coordinator, Belinda West at (540) 343-5335 Ext. 108.

Kroger Card Program Supporting what The Salvation Army does not have to be difficult this holiday season, it can be as easy as doing your grocery shopping. By purchasing a special gift card at Kroger to do your shopping with, part of the proceeds will come right back to The Salvation Army. The Salvation Army participates in this program all year long, so contact your local Kroger to get more information on how to apply.

This year, make a new tradition with your family. Take a day and make a difference in the life of another.

With so many ways to get involved, everyone should be able to find a place where they belong!

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rebuild their lives; as well as extensive senior outreach and youth programs.

You can make a donation at any kettle or online at onlineredkettle. org/roanokevalley. Every donation is important. Checks are also welcome!

Stars of the Valley

OPEN HOUSE Thursday, November 6th, 10-11 am or 7:00-8:30 RSVP: FCSopenhouse@gmail.com or 540-769-5200 x148

With so many ways to get involved, everyone should be able to find a place where they belong!

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3585 Buck Mountain Road, Roanoke VA 24018 | FCSVA.com

The Valley’s only Christian Classical School A Mind for Truth ~ A Heart for Christ ~ A Will to Serve

There’s Hope in Front of Me Vicki Itson’s Battle with Cancer

Submitted by: Tara Lilly

the doctor visits, work demands and parenting, a song on her iPod, There’s Hope in Front of Me, connected with her in an emotional way.

Recently the Board of the Roanoke Wedding Networking Group organized an event, BBQ for the Battle, to help raise money for local wedding and event planner Vicki Itson. Vicki, a single mother of three boys, was recently diagnosed with three different types of breast cancer. The event raised $6,422 and was held at On the Glen, an event venue in Vinton. Food, custom cakes and door prizes were donated by local businesses to help raise money during the event. The fundraiser included a silent auction and specially designed hoodies for sale with the tagline,

“There’s Hope in Front of Me”.

“Vicki has done so much for so many businesses in the region’s wedding industry, that we just wanted to give back to her—to let her know she isn’t in this alone, we’re all standing with her,” said Lisa Link, one of the event coordinators and owner of Cakes by Lisa.

At BBQ for the Battle, Vicki Itson read a letter to the friends, family and business partners that attended. In the letter, Vicki shared how through

“It says to my boys and to me you’re not alone. You can get through this. We want to help. We care. There’s hope.

There is hope in front of me. I guess that’s become my anthem. But it’s so true. Because of God’s grace and mercy … my boys and I have hope,” Itson read to the crowd.

Attendees circled around Itson and embraced her as the song played in the background.

To help with Vicki’s battle, visit https://redbasket.org/249 november 2014 • growingupinthevalley.com

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Education Station

uality Spaces When you visit a preschool or child care program before enrolling your child, you’ll have lots of questions that you’ll want to ask the director or teachers who work there. But, there are also some things you’ll want to see for yourself. The quality of a program’s learning environment is an important factor in how beneficial the program will be for your child.

Observing the space that your child will be learning and playing in can tell you a lot about the quality of the program overall.

What to look for: Low, open shelves with toys and learning materials that are easily accessible to young children. These should be well organized and plentiful but not crowded.

Why it’s important: When materials are stored at a child’s level, it invites children to be more actively involved in their learning and play. It means that children are more likely to be able to choose and use materials that they are interested in, making learning more child-directed which promotes motivation and engagement.

What to look for: A classroom or home that’s arranged into several different learning or activity centers. For example, look for a dedicated area for blocks or dramatic play, and a cozy area for relaxing and reading books.

Why it’s important: Classrooms or homes that are arranged in this way promote engaged play for learning. Similar materials are stored together so that children can make the most of the activities in the classroom, and arranging the room according to activity helps children stay on-task and focused on the important work of play.

What to look for: Outdoor play areas that are safe and stimulating. Look for basic safety precautions such as a fence surrounding the area and a variety of equipment for play. Ask whether children play outside daily, and how long they spend in that space.

Why it’s important: Playing outside is an excellent way to practice problemsolving, build motor skills and coordination, and help children learn about and navigate social relationships.

Children are more physically active outdoors, which builds coordination and strength, and helps maintain a healthy body weight.

What to look for: Look for (or ask about) televisions and computers in the classroom or home. Ask how technology is used, and whether there are limits on children’s “screen time.”

Why it’s important: Computer literacy can be an important part of kindergarten readiness, but it is important that materials used with children are educational and that teachers are involved with children when they use technology. In addition, too much screen time reduces the amount of time children spend being physically active.

What to look for: Look for “messy” or “loud” activities like music, art, and sensory play (such as sand and water). There may be a dedicated area of the classroom or home, or you can ask about how frequently children do these types of activities.

Why it’s important: High quality programs are busy, productive places.

Children should be actively engaged with stimulating materials and while you wouldn’t want to hear chaos, you wouldn’t want to hear silence either. Materials such as music, art, and sensory tables promote learning through exploration in a developmentally appropriate way. High quality programs provide both planned and unplanned opportunities to support healthy physical development.

For more information about Smart Beginnings & The Virginia Star Quality Initative visit www.smartbeginnings.org 10

Growing Up In the Valley • November 2014

Family Fun

Acorn Cake Pops Learn how to make adorable acorn cake pops for your thanksgiving dessert table!

1. You will need your favorite cake mix, candy melts or chocolate, frosting, paper skewers, a tablespoon, cookie sheet, parchment paper, two glass bowls, and styrofoam block

9. Place on a cookie sheet covered with parchment paper.

Chill in fridge until firm. Do NOT freeze them.

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10. Fill glass bowl with candy melts or chocolate.

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2. Bake your favorite cake mix as normal and let cool.

11. Melt according to directions until smooth.

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3. Break cake into smaller pieces.

12. Dip end of paper skewer into the melted candy.

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4. Crumble cake into a fine powder.

5. Slowly add in scoops of frosting.

6. Continue adding scoops until the crumb mixture is moldable.

7. Use tablespoon to measure out equal amounts 8. Roll the mixture into a smooth ball (or slightly pointed shape for the acorns!)

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13. Gently push into cake pop.

14. Carefully dip entire cake pop into the melted candy.

15. Tap the excess off the cake pop, rolling to ensure no drips.

16. Place finished cake pops on the styrofoam block to allow the cake pop to dry. For acorns, roll the top of the cake pop onto crushed nuts.

november 2014 • growingupinthevalley.com

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Family Living Your baby will cry, and parents may be stressed trying to determine the cause. Damen said most crying during the first two weeks of a baby’s life results from hunger.

“If the baby is clean, warm, and dry, they are probably still hungry. Even if it doesn’t make sense,” she explains.

The happiest babies are fed on demand. “No child sleeps well if they are hungry,” Damen says.It is important to give the baby really frequent daytime calories, known as cluster feedings, in order to stretch the time between the night feedings and to promote sleep.“There’s no schedule in the first month,” Damen says.The most important thing during that first month is to deliver enough calories to the baby, whether moms are breastfeeding or formula feeding. While there might be patterns, Damen says not to pay too much attention to those.“If parents are trying to develop a pattern, they might be missing feeding cues,” she says.

The Office on Women’s Health, a division of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, promotes breastfeeding for several reasons: the bonding experience, health benefits, and cost savings. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, “breast milk is widely acknowledged as the most complete form of nutrition for infants, with a range of benefits for infants’ health, growth, immunity, and development.”

While there are documented benefits of nursing, Damen points out that there are a number of factors that affect whether or for how long mothers are able to breastfeed. She adds that it is crucial for mothers not to be hard on themselves if breastfeeding does not work out as planned.“If your baby is growing and has gotten some breast milk, you are successful,” she emphasizes.

Mollie Graves of Blue Ridge commented on the importance of mother/baby bonding during feedings.

The mother of two says, “When you’re feeding the baby, whether it’s breast of bottle feeding, and you want it to be just you and baby, don’t let anyone make you feel guilty about that.” Damen says many new parents worry about holding their baby too much. “Under six months you can’t hold them too much,” she reassures.

Despite cultural taboos that promote independence, babies are still mammals and they are supposed to be right there with you.“That is where they are supposed to be,” she affirms.

Bringing Home Baby You read the bestselling book “What to Expect When You’re Expecting.” You decorated baby’s nursery and stocked it with tiny outfits and diapers. After nine months of waiting, you finally have gazed into your child’s eyes and counted her little fingers and toes.

But now, as you ride home in the car with a newly born baby, reality is settling in – you are responsible for this pint-sized human.

Don’t you wish someone were there to coach you on your first days as a new parent?

Danielle Botkin of Roanoke recalls those first few hours at home with Maslyn, who is now three years old.“As soon as we came home, she was asleep. I wish I had taken a nap when she did. We weren’t that far from the hospital, but it was a lot of work getting in and out and home.I was exhausted but stayed up to talk with family. They went home and slept; we were up with a newborn and didn’t sleep.”

Daphne Damen, a pediatric nurse practitioner and lactation consultant at Physicians to Children in Roanoke, shares information about newborn babies’ eating and sleeping habits.Regarding the first few days at home, “you will probably get nothing done but hold, change, and feed the baby,” she says.

That is to be expected.

It is important that new parents take time to get to know their child, but it can be delicate finding the perfect balance of alone time versus having visitors. However, it is very important for new moms to make time for themselves, whether that means taking a short walk, a nap, or an uninterrupted shower.“Women are hard on themselves because they think they need to keep it all together,” Damen says.

Let extended family and other visitors help with cooking, cleaning, or other housework. People love to help, so allow them to be a part.The average six to eight weeks of maternity leave in the U.S. is much shorter than in Europe and Canada, where one year is the standard. So much – including a medley of emotions – happens during those first few weeks of motherhood, that it is important to have plenty of support.The Mayo Clinic reports “many new moms experience the ‘baby blues’ after childbirth … but some new moms experience a more severe, long-lasting form of depression.”

Erica Jones of Roanoke County endured postpartum depression with both of her children.“It is a serious issue. You feel like you just want to crawl under a rock and just hide there forever. I can laugh about it now, but I so clearly remember the first few days home with my now 11-year-old daughter and how I think I cried more than she did,” Jones recounts.

New moms should never be embarrassed or reluctant to seek medical advice, especially when symptoms do not clear after about two weeks or the feelings worsen.

Postpartum obstetrician checkups are usually set up for about six weeks after childbirth, but do not feel like you need to wait for that appointment to seek help.Your baby will have a checkup much sooner. Newborn babies’ first follow up pediatrician visit is usually set for one to three days after birth.

If you are worried about something medical at any time, do not hesitate to call the office.“We want to know and to help tease out the things that are normal developmental stages,” Damen says.“We expect to hear from you. There are things we tolerate in older children that we don’t with babies,” she added.For example, if babies under six months of age have any fever over 100.4 degrees, then parents should contact the pediatrician’s office immediately.

“We, as providers, are just part of the village that it takes to raise children,” Damen concludes. “Parenting is hard work. Our role is to coach and support.” november 2014 • growingupinthevalley.com

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The Guide

Media Mommy Article by: Heidi Blackwelder

I Am Malala

(Young Readers Edition) by Malala Yousafzai with Patricia McCormick

Ever since Malala Yousafzai was ten years old, the Taliban have been in control of her home region of Pakistan. The Taliban are an extremist Islamic group in the Middle East criticized worldwide for their brutal treatment of women.

They say

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Growing Up In the Valley • november 2014

that women aren’t allowed to drive. They can’t listen to music.

And they certainly should not go to school.But Pakistan wasn’t always a dangerous place to live, and Malala can remember the peaceful history of her country. But in 2012, when she is fifteen, she is shot point-blank in the head on the way home from school because she ignored the Taliban’s edict banning all girls from getting an education.Everyone expected the bullet to silence her. No one expected her to live.

But when Malala miraculously survived, she continued to be a voice for thousands of other repressed girls, standing up for

women’s educational rights worldwide and becoming an international symbol of hope and peace.This is the remarkable story of her astonishing survival, her extraordinary bravery in the face of persecution, and how she changed the world in the process.In October this year, Malala was named winner of the 2014 Nobel Peace Prize.

At only seventeen, she is by far the youngest ever recipient of the award, and she continues to be an activist for women’s rights throughout the world.

Her powerful, eye-opening story is an inspiration to people everywhere.

The Year of Billy Miller by Kevin Henkes Six-year-old Billy is on summer vacation

The Guide visiting the Jolly Green Giant statue when The Fall happens. The next thing he knows, he’s waking up in the hospital with a bump on his head and a doctor telling him he was lucky he landed the right way. He doesn’t worry much about it until the night before school starts, when he overhears his mother’s concerns: “I know the doctor said he’s fine, but what if he isn’t?”What if his mom is right? And what if he’s not smart enough for second grade?On his first day, he meets a braggy know-it-all named Emma who soon becomes his arch-nemesis. She sure makes second grade tough, but luckily, Billy also gets to share a table with his best friend, Ned. His teacher loves Chinese culture, and when she tells the class that it’s the Year of the Rabbit, Billy disagrees. He’s determined to make this the Year of Billy Miller.In this funny, fast-paced read, Billy learns how to help his busy working mom and inspire his stay-athome artist dad, how

to appreciate his weird little sister, and how to navigate elementary school.

Award-winning children’s book author Kevin Henkes delivers a satisfying, laugh-out-loud story that parents and kids alike will enjoy.

One Came Home

by Amy Timberlake

Thirteen-year-old Georgie Burkhardt is not known for mincing words. But when her older sister Agatha disappears with some “pigeoners” (people following the passenger pigeon migration) after something Georgie says, Georgie feels responsible.

See in Placid, Wisconsin, the people know pigeons.

The pigeon migration happens every year, but for some reason the migration of 1871 has been worse than any they’ve ever known.

And when the sheriff comes home with an unidentifiable body wearing Agatha’s bluegreen ballgown, everyone in town believes that Georgie’s older sister has met her untimely

demise. But Georgie is certain that Agatha is still alive.Armed with only her Springfield single-shot, a mule, and gold coins sewn into her hem, she sets out to discover the truth. But as it turns out, she may not be ready to learn what the western frontier has to teach her.Amy Timberlake weaves a compelling wild west tale, featuring an admirable heroine with a steely gumption and can-do attitude. One Came Home feels much in the same vein as True Grit. A welcome departure from the usual YA fare.

november 2014 • growingupinthevalley.com

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Education Station

Creativity in the Classroom When is the last time you saw your teenager express themselves through art in a classroom? One teacher’s experiences with art and education may surprise you.

In my eleventh grade English classes, we are about to delve into the world of Holden Caulfield in the frequently banned, yet highly-acclaimed novel The Catcher in the Rye. Upon introducing the novel, multiple discussions were necessary, one such revolving around childhood and the loss of innocence. Holden fights with the transition from boy to man, struggles as to which side he belongs, and seems to be drawn to the pleasantries and simplicity of childhood. He is at war with the world and hates what it represents, ultimately longing to save his younger sister and other children from being sucked into the complications of adulthood.

When I asked my class full of 16 and 17-year-olds if they described themselves as kids, the majority said yes.

This surprised me. We seem to think that young people want to be treated as grown-ups, when so many of them are clinging to their youth and longing to be coddled, just as the timeless teenager that popped up in print in the 1950s. Time and time again, I am shocked as my teenage students get excited when I tell them we will be coloring in class or having story time.

I feel it’s necessary to remind them of the days when more of them liked school. I also feel it’s necessary to

Article by: Katie Lewis allow them to create—write, draw, sculpt, paint, dance, photograph, etc.

This is where their true emotions come out. Even those who are left-brained never cease to surprise me with what they can come up with. After all, there is a science behind a lot of art forms.

I frequently hear claims from

better yet, LEARN. It takes them back to kindergarten, where for most, all was good with the world.

I also constantly hear adults talking about kids growing up too fast. This lead to another interesting conversation in my class. I mentioned how when I was little, I didn’t have a cell phone, or tablet, and rarely played video games. I was outside getting dirty or inside playing school or Barbies or something else where my imagination was thriving.

I commented that kids these days are growing up too fast, much due to the advancement of technology. I think some of my students were slightly offended. One explained that just because his childhood was different than mine, didn’t mean that he had lost his innocence or grown up too fast. Hmmm… true, I thought.

I guess losing yourself in a video game and exploring the world of a historic battle is somewhat all encompassing.

You have graphic arts, plus a story line that can suck you in, similarly to a book.This wasn’t enough to fully convince me of the negative changes that have transpired over generations, yet I appreciated his sincere approach.

Every year when my students complete persuasive speeches, at least one makes the argument that video games are art. And, I agree with most

“It is necessar y to

allow children

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Growing Up In the Valley • November 2014

to create!”

parents and teachers that standardized testing has forced teachers to limit the creativity in the classroom. While I will not get into my views on standardized testing, I think this claim is merely an excuse. There are still plenty of ways to combat the standards and have fun in the classroom. As I said, all I have to say is “bring markers tomorrow,” and my 16 and 17-year-olds’ eyes light up.

“Capture the images in this poem,” I tell them. “Draw what you visualize.”

I remind them that it doesn’t matter if they are a good artist. After all, I surely am not. And they listen, and draw, and pause for a moment. It slows them down and forces them to focus in, and,

of what they present. But, with a video game, they are not the primary creator, just as, with a book, they are not the author. Yes, read. Yes, play video games. But also, create. Kids, as these students admitted they still are, need a creative outlet, if for nothing else, to remind them that they are individuals.

Art, no matter what form, takes on the shape of its creator. No other painting, short story, or sculpture will be exactly like theirs. It accomplishes something that math cannot. (No offense to my fellow math colleagues.)

Art allows children to release emotions that they may be hanging on to, whether the creative product is good or not. With art, there is no wrong answer, thus kids are relieved of the pressure and stress that advanced schooling can bring. Art is also a reminder of childhood and establishes a positive release for the stresses that adulthood can bring. We say kids grow up too fast these days, but maybe it’s our own fault. We force them to grow up by teaching our children at an early age to be independent. And, yes, lessons in independence are important, but so is preserving their childhood as long as we can.

Funding is down for the arts in schools and teachers are limiting creative projects due to added pressures and time constraints. We don’t have to let the world tell us how to raise our kids. So next time your child wants to reach for their tablet or video game controller, hand them a blank canvas instead… or a camera, or a guitar, or a journal. Give them back their youth and help them develop a hobby (if not a career) that could last a lifetime.

Take some advice from Holden Caulfield. Don’t let them grow up just yet.

Instead, be the catcher in the rye.

release “Art allows children to

Emotions

that they may be holding on to...”

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Family Living

Baby’s First Doctor Appointment A simple guide to your child’s first year of doctor appointments.

1 Month:

1. The doctor will inspect the baby’s umbilical cord or belly button for hernia or infection.

2. The doctor may recommend supervised tummy time to strengthen neck, chest and arm muscles.

3. The mother should also be checked for signs of Post Partum Depression.

2 Months:

1. The doctor will check in about tummy time and see if the baby can hold

18

Growing Up In the Valley • november 2014

himself in a “mini push-up” position.

2. Your child’s eyes will be checked to see if they will follow movement and look towards the sound of his parent’s voices.

3. The doctor will often give you a list of milestones to be on the look out for for the following months. Any significant delay would be cause for further investigation to rule out any disabilities.

tor should ask if your baby has started babbling and making definite talking sounds.

9 Months:

1. Common milestones your doctor may ask about are: crawling or scooting, standing while supported and fine motor skills such as feeding herself.

12 Months:

1. The most common milestones met by 4 months are: Rolling over one direction, sitting while assisted, and grabbing at toys and familiar people.

2. A second hearing test is often administered at 4 months. (The first one should have been performed at birth.)

1. Your doctor may perform a blood prick test for iron, anemia and lead levels in your baby’s blood.

2.Your doctor will discuss with you if and when you want to switch from breastmilk and/or formula to regular milk. Your baby will start to wean and get most of their nutrition from food rather than drinks.

6 Months:

The Vaccination Question:

4 Months:

1. A doctor will work with you to decide if your baby is ready to start introducing solid foods.

2. You can voice any concerns about teething, as many myths surround them. You can ask for advice for how to manage your child’s pain (and your stress!)

3. The doc-

There is a immunization schedule that most doctors follow available at www.CDC.gov though you can discuss scheduling options with your doctor.

Yearly flu shots are also reccomended by the CDC for children over 6 months.

Article by: Tracy Fisher

At every check-up your doctor should: • Check vitals • Measure height, weight & head • Test eyes & ears • Inspect nose & mouth • Inquire about sleeping, eating and diaper habits • Check for rashes, moles & allergic reactions • Allow you to ask questions and bring up any conerns you may have about your child.

Stars of the Valley

Planning f o r t h e Holidays Santa doesn’t have to be the only one making a list and checking it twice.

Article by: Rachel Robinson

november 2014 • growingupinthevalley.com

19

Stars of the Valley With fall in full swing and the busyness of the school year settling in, somehow the holidays can have their way of sneaking up year after year, blowing through like a tornado and leaving us wondering how they came and left so quickly. For those of us who find ourselves scrambling for last minute gifts, or scanning Pinterest for an easy no bake dish to bring to a Christmas party, a little practical advice on how to lessen some full of holiday stress. Feeling more prepared to spend quality time with loved ones could be helpful! After all, that’s what the holidays are supposed to be about right?

So what if you’re not one of those Type A super-humans who buys all of their gifts in June and schedules that holiday menu weeks in advance? The good news is there’s still hope for those of us who are “Holiday Procrastinators,” and maybe with a few tips we can rock through the holidays this year with a little less chaos.

20

Growing Up In the Valley • november 2014

What’s

The

Point?

If you haven’t in a while, it’s a good idea to sit down as a family and discuss what you’d like to get out of the holiday season this year. Maybe you’d like to focus on serving others or volunteering to help people in need. Perhaps you really need to take a trip to see family you’ve been missing. What company parties or school events are coming up? This is a good time to decide to commit to the things you’d like to attend, and to cross off the things that cause excess stress or busyness.

Give everyone in the family a voice and decide on what’s most important.

Taking the Out of the

Stress Season

The truth is, everyone can learn a few things from the above-mentioned “Type A super-humans.” Something as simple as setting up Google reminders can show us when we are oversched-

uling. Putting up a calendar in the kitchen can help us visualize just how many days in advance we need to order that special gift. Santa doesn’t have to be the only one making a list and checking it twice. Take a few minutes to write down those people that mean the most and decide (in advance) on gifts that you would like to purchase for them. This takes the pressure off your memory as you’re bombarded with enticing advertisements and sales at the store.

Stars of the Valley

Bu d g e t s A r e Our Fr ie nd s It’s easy to overspend during the holidays. According to Daily Finance, the holiday season accounts for between 20 percent and 40 percent of typical retailers’ total annual sales. It’s a time when social pressures, gift-giving culture and purely the holiday spirit of the season can cause so many of us to loosen our purse strings. Not to mention the dinners and getting together which can also add to holiday spending. In 2013,

57 percent of parents surveyed reported that they were going to take on debt over the holidays in order to buy gifts for their kids. In order to avoid gift-giving debt it’s vital to determine how much you can actually afford to spend. Perhaps even more essential is the choice to stick to that amount and not exceed your predetermined limit. There are some simple and practical ways to take part in holiday festivities without breaking the bank.Frugal Living Expert, Erin Huffstetler of AboutMoney advises avoiding going into holiday debt when at all possible. She suggests that consumers plan ahead by making a Christmas savings account or taking advantage of larger retail stores’ layaway programs. If that sounds daunting, she adds that you can take a little time while you are already out to look for one or two gifts and then use layaway to “pay as you go.” The financial blow of holiday shopping can be less significant even if it’s stretched

out over a couple of pay periods. The key is to be paying the item off before the holiday instead of afterwards. Last year, online shopping rose a whopping 15 percent, bringing in approximately $1.2 billion. It seems that increasingly more Americans are avoiding crowds and long lines and checking out online.

Using internet retailers to your advantage can be a great way to get shopping done in a timely manner and still have time to spend with family and friends during the season. Opting to shop online can also help shoppers stick to a preplanned budget. Keeping a list of names and items to check off can be a satisfying way of buying for loved ones and staying on budget. Just be careful not to get click-happy!

In 2013: 57 percent of parents surveyed reported that they were going to take on debt over the holidays in order to buy gifts for their kids.

Let’s Talk About the Food Pumpkin spice, nutmeg and all things comfort food call our taste buds as the colder weather sets in and the nights get longer. Whether its grandma’s sweet potato pie or dad’s famous turkey, most families have at least one long awaited signature dish that everyone is clamoring to taste as the big day approaches.

No matter where you’re from, food is involved when celebrating the holidays. Whether your get together has a designated chef or multiple people responsible for putting together the meal, meal planning can be overwhelming. This is

especially true when there are many dishes to prepare and multiple mouths to feed.There are no two ways about it-you’ll want to plan large meals in advance, but don’t feel like you have to prepare everything yourself. It’s ok to have others help and to make certain things ahead of time in order to save yourself from staying up the entire night before you’re expecting company. Diane Phillips, author of Happy Holidays from the Diva of Do-Ahead calls this outsourcing. “Give yourself permission to outsource. If you aren’t fond of making desserts or rolls, find a great bakery or a talented friend.”

Make a list of everyone coming, just as you would your gift shopping budget.

Don’t forget to ask guests about any allergies and keep these in mind. Then make a grocery shopping list with projected amounts to spend on each dish. This will help keep you from grabbing anything that looks good on the shelf and help you stay within your preplanned budget.

Start Your Own Traditions It may sound groundbreaking to some, but how many of us find ourselves taking part in antiquated rituals during the holidays out of sheer habit or simply to please others? Yes, holidays should be about family and loved ones, but starting newer, less stressful traditions can be a fun ways to make the holidays your own. Let the older kids help cook holiday meals this year. Pick a few favorite dishes and prepare them together.

Volunteer at a shelter or food pantry. Buy and deliver Christmas presents to a family in need in your community through programs like Operation Christmas Child and Angel Tree. “Pay it forward by picking up the check for the person behind you in the drive-thru line.Local area resident and mom Brandis

“Give yourself permission to outsource. If you aren’t fond of making desserts or rolls, find a great bakery or a talented friend.”

-Diane Phillips

november 2014 • growingupinthevalley.com

21

Saunders started a tradition with her daughter Emily and it’s seemed to stick every year. “Em & I always get new pj’s and bake cookies the night before Christmas,” she says. Even little things like drinking hot chocolate, decorating the

tree, and reading books can be special things to do together. These activities are inexpensive, and remind us to slow down and think less about material things.

This year as the holiday season approaches, vow to go in with eyes open

and a few new things to try. If you find yourself overwhelmed, remember it’s okay to cross some things off of your list.

Take some time among the hustle and bustle to slow down, enjoy loved ones, and remember what really matters.

Protect what’s most important

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Happy

Holidays

from the Growing Up in the Valley Staff

Living Organic

Family Living

With Baby Article By: Tracy Garland

Welcoming a new baby is one of the most fulfilling and humbling experiences in life. Conscientious parents want to provide the greenest and healthiest environment possible for their newborn’s extra-sensitive, developing body. Volumes have been written on this topic, but here we highlight a few key areas, and point to some helpful resources.

Feeding

Ongoing studies continue to identify breastfeeding benefits: protecting children from a variety of illnesses, guarding against allergies and helping Mom lose post-baby weight.

If breastfeeding is not an option, explore organic baby formula alternatives. When baby is ready to spoon-feed, start with an organic cereal blended with breast milk or organic formula. Once baby is ready for fruits and vegetables, the best option is homemade purée made with organic produce. A small blender, such as a Magic Bullet, is great for quick and easy purée-making.

To save large batches for later use, freeze purées in ice cube trays, then bag and label the cubes for later thawing.

Diapering

According to the Real Diaper Association, the average baby goes through about 3,000 diapers during its first two years of life.

If those diapers are disposable, that’s a lot of waste going to the landfill. In addition, most disposable diapers contain toxic absorbent gel that can be problematic for babies with extra-sensitive skin. Disposable diapers may seem like the only convenient option, but today’s cloth diapers are increasingly easy to use and economical.

Even part-time use of cloth diapers and cloth wipes

can make a huge difference. For convenience, look for “hybrid” diapers, which offer a cloth cover and a flushable liner, and/or a laundry service. If disposable diapers must be used, look for chlorine-free brands with sustainable organic material.

Furnishing

Nearly all “conventional” baby mattresses contain toxic polyvinyl chloride (PVC), petroleum-based chemicals and flame retardants.

Instead, consider purchasing a baby mattress made from natural and/or organic materials. Mattresses made from natural materials are more inherently flame-resistant and require the addition of fewer chemicals. A mattress made from organic wool or other natural material is also produced without pesticides and is better for the environment.

Health Care

From croup to cradle cap, teething pain to tummy trouble, there are myriad baby health conditions through which parents must navigate.

Fortunately, simple nat-

ural solutions abound. From homemade and homeopathic remedies, such as vanilla on the gums or a cool, damp washcloth to help with teething, to more advanced strategies such as acupressure and massage to relieve baby’s gas and constipation, you just have to know where to look.

Check out the resources below for more information: Massaging Your Baby: The Joy of Touch Time, Dr. Elaine Fogel Schneider Mothers and Others for a Livable Planet: Guide to Natural Baby Care, Mindy Pennybacker and Aisha Ikramuddin Raising Healthy Children in a Toxic World: 101 Smart Solutions for Every Family, by Philip J. Landrigan, M.D., Herbert L. Needleman, M.D., and Mary M. Landrigan, M.P.A. Your Vital Child: A Natural Healing Guide for Caring Parents, Mark and Angela Stengler, N.D.

Tracy Garland is Publisher of Natural Awakenings Magazine of Virginia’s Blue Ridge. For more information, visit NABlueRidge.com.

Article Provided By:

november 2014 • growingupinthevalley.com

23

The Guide

Kids eat FREE M o n d a y : McAllister’s Deli Roanoke 5-10 PM Famous Anthony’s All Locations 5PM-Close Country Cookin’ All Locations All Day Buffalo Wild Wings All Locations 5-8 PM Lil Cucci’s Daleville All Day 202 Market Roanoke All-Day Golden Corral Roanoke All-day

Tuesday: Macado’s** All Locations 4-7PM Firehouse Subs* V. View/Keagy/Salem All Day Brambleton Deli Roanoke All Day

Denny’s All Locations 4PM-Close Ragazzi’s Roanoke 4-10PM Applebees * All Locations All Day Lil Cucci’s Daleville All Day Town Center Tap House Daleville All Day Crumb & Get it Radford All Day Sharkey’s Radford All Day

We d n e s d ay: Lil Cucci’s Daleville All Day Dogwood Vinton All-Day Golden Corral Roanoke All-day Cork & Crust Daleville 5 PM- Close

Thursday: The Roanoker Roanoke 4:30 PM-Close Lil Cucci’s Daleville All Day

F r i d a y : Lil Cucci’s Daleville All Day IHOP Valley View, Roanoke 4pm-8pm

Saturday: Lil Cucci’s Daleville All Day Steak N Shake*** Roanoke All Day

Famous Anthony’s All Locations 12PM-Close

S u n d a y : Lil Cucci’s Daleville All Day

Listings are subject to change without notice!

We do our best to keep our Kids Eat Free listings up to date but often restaurants often change their promotions based on location and without notice. Most restaurant discounts require adult meal purchases. Please call ahead of time to confirm that the deal is still taking place. This listing does not serve as a guarantee by us or the restaurant to any discount!

Check out our up-to-date listings online on G r o w i n g u p i n t h e v a l l e y. c o m / k i d s - e a t- f r e e

24

Growing Up In the Valley • november 2014

Make Your own baby food k $0.05/serving

Try these flavors for older babies: • Apple & Strawberry • Pea & Spinach Processed Baby Food is one of the most costly expenses for a family. Buying the popular name brands can run nearly $100 a month for one 6 month old! Save hundreds of dollars by making your own baby food, it’s a lot easier than it sounds!

Homemade baby FoOd

1. Use frozen, canned, or fresh vegetables and fruits. Boil them until very soft to the touch.

2. Drain the vegetables and fruits then rinse with cool water.

3. In large bowl mash the food with hand mixer, potato masher tool or blend them in a food processor. If the resulting mixture is too thick, thin it out with water (or chicken broth for older babies).

4. Scoop baby food into a clean ice cube tray, cover and place in freezer. When needed, pop a cube out and heat in microwave.

(Warning: After heating stir thoroughly and check for hot spots as some microwaves heat unevenly).

• Sweet Potato & Apple • Pear & Green Bean • Avocado & Banana • Chicken & Rice • Pumpkin & Spinach • Apple, Pears & Banana • Grape & Kale • Blueberry & Green Bean

Did you know:

The average jarred baby food costs $1 for 3 ounces. You can make over a pound of baby food at home for the same price!

Federally insured by the NCUA.

Family Living

Thumb, Finger, & Pacifier Sucking Habits This type of sucking is completely normal for babies and young children.

It provides security. For young babies, it is a way to make contact with and learn about the world. In fact, babies begin to suck on their fingers or thumbs even before they are born.

Are these habits bad for the teeth and jaws?

Most children stop sucking on thumbs, pacifiers or other objects on their own between 2 and 4 years of age. However, some children continue these habits over long periods of time. In these children, the up-per front teeth may tip toward the lip or not come in properly. Frequent or intense habits over a prolonged period of time can affect the way the child’s teeth bite together, as well as the growth of the jaws and bones that support the teeth.

26

Growing Up In the Valley • november 2014

When should I worry about a sucking habit? Your

pediatric dentist will carefully watch the way your child’s teeth erupt and jaws develop, keeping the sucking habit in mind at all times.

Because persistent habits may cause long term problems, intervention may be recommended for children beyond 3 years of age.

What can I do to stop my child’s habit? When your child

is old enough to understand the possible results of a sucking habit, your pediatric dentist can encourage your child to stop, as well as talk

about what happens to the teeth and jaws if your child does not stop. This advice, coupled with support from parents, helps most children quit. If this approach does not work, your pediatric dentist may recommend ways to change the behavior. Thumb, finger and pacifier sucking affect the teeth and jaws in essentially the same way. However, a pacifier habit often is easier to break. Most children stop sucking habits on their own, but some children need the help of their parents and their pediatric dentist.

For more information visit www.PediatricDentistryRoanoke.com or contact our office at (540)-989-3639. This information is provided by the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry.

Corey Sheppard, D.D.S., FAAPD, Diplomate, American Board of Pediatric DentistryAnderson & Sheppard Pediatric Dentistry

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Family Living

Safe Birth in America Wondering if any birth outside a hospital is really safe? Vicki Honer, a Lamaze Childbirth Educator & Lactation Consultant has some surprising facts for you.

What is your attitude towards birth?

And why?

Recently, the news reported about demonstrators around the country, including some in Roanoke, proclaiming the need for “safe birth”. Many would wonder why groups of dedicated mothers, doulas, midwives and others have concern about the state of birth in this country. Are you concerned?

The answer to that question is no doubt, based on

many things: your own life experience, family traditions, TV and Hollywood portrayals of birth as well as local, regional and national societal standards.

I picked up a book the other day that caught my interest because of my years dedicated to teaching Lamaze prepared childbirth classes. It offers some insight into attitudes toward birth. The title, “Lying In”, by Richard and Dorothy Wertz would not catch many second glances. However, it has proven to be a thoughtprovoking history of birth in our country from the days of the early settlers. It offers insight into how we have arrived at our approach to birth today. It is also chock full of references, as both authors were not familiar with the subject area until a speaker advocating home birth, addressed one of their classes and triggered their interest.

The book comments on the attitudes toward birth over our country’s history, and extending even earlier, to Europe.

The following comment is found in the introduction. It is difficult to decipher but if you quickly skim through it, you will get the gist of his text. (You can also appreciate how the English language has developed in the past fivehundred years.)

“For ye shall heare some women in tyme of theyr trauayle, meued through great payne and intolerable anquyshe, forsuere and vowe them selfe, neuer to compayne with a man agayne; yet after that the panges be passed, within short whyle, for entire louw to theyr husbandes, 28

Growing Up In the Valley • november 2014

and singular natruall delyte between man and woman, they forget both the sorrow passed and that is to come.

Such be the private works of God, and such be the priches of nature, which neuer createth no special pleasure unaccompanied with some sorrow.”

--Thomas Raynalde, The Burth of Mankynd ,1545 The authors conclude with some assumptions on their part. Their study confirmed that medicalization of birth in America was largely not needed. They see the results as birth being ”technocalized, institutionalized and ultimately denaturalized and standardized”. However they do not blame American medicine exclusively for the dehumanized character of the experience. They see faults in many directions reflecting widely held values reinforced by our social order. “Birth in America developed in a historically unique manner, which is to say that American society and culture, not merely medical purposes, produced it and continues to tweak it.”

Both Lamaze International and International Lactation Consultant Association have been driving forces in seeking to educate both the public and medical communities for over thirty years. By promoting buzzwords such as “Family-Centered Birth”, “Natural Birth”, “Parents’ Choices/ Rights”, “Informed Consent” and creating a body of research, they influenced both lay and medical sources. With hospitals offering their own “birth centers” and adjusting to the expectations of parents, many improvements have taken place.

All that effort may not have been as influential as Ricki Lake’s film, “The Business of Being Born”. Many mothers-to-be in my classes comment that they have seen it and have been greatly influenced by it. The film endorses and explains why some women chose birthing in a home setting or free-standing birth center.

Women concerned about interventions they might encounter in a typical hospital setting have begun to explore their options. Startling statistics have led to concern about birth in our country. A Parenting Magazine blog stated that the maternal mortality rate in the USA tripled from 19962006. This is alarming and most of us would wonder why. On top of that, the blogger states that the USA is ranked #50 regarding safety. Fifty other countries report safer birth settings than our country! Another reason to wonder “why?”.

You might think that this trend would lead to increase in birth class attendance as parents-to-be seek more information. At least as far as I can tell in our area, that is not true. Class census has been reducing in the recent past for both private and hospital classes. One hospital in our area is offering online classes and another has a series of “explanations” on its web page. As Judith Lothian a nurse and childbirth educator says in her recent paper, “Safe Healthy Birth, What Every Woman Needs to Know”,

“Every pregnant woman needs to know that birth is intended to happen simply and easily and that six key birth practices make birth safer for mothers and babies.

Every pregnant woman also needs to know that the standard maternity care is not evidence-based and, therefore, the health-care provider and place of birth will influence the care that she receives in powerful ways.

Childbirth education can help women simplify pregnancy and birth and be a resource for understanding how decisions about maternity care influence the health and safety of mothers and babies.”

Certainly selfeducation is

better than no education at all but as a long-time childbirth educator I believe a class that includes interaction with others and a knowledgeable teacher is still a tried and true way to learn.

As you think about what has formed your attitude towards birth it may be more than your personal experience but also influences of which you may not even be aware.

If you are pregnant or planning to have a baby, finding the best caregiver as well as other local resources can be as easy (or difficult) as “googling” Lamaze classes, doulas, midwives, birth centers, or hospital birth facilities in your area. I am always happy to chat with mothers-to-be about their options, just call Lactation Connection.

Vicki Honer is a seasoned Lamaze Childbirth Educator (LCCE) as well as a Board-certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) who welcomes questions, birthing students as well as nursing mothers shopping for supplies at Lactation Connection.

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Family Living

Rock-a-bye Baby Learn how you can keep your infants safe as they sleep.

Article by: Jill Lucas, Carilion Clinic

Most of these deaths result from Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) and other sleeprelated causes of infant death. SIDS is the leading cause of deaths for babies 1 month to 1 year of age. In the wake of these tragedies, we are left wondering what we as a community can do to help.

campaign) aims to educate parents, caregivers, and health care providers about ways to reduce the risk of SIDS and other sleep-related causes of infant death. The single most effective action that parents and caregivers can take to lower a baby’s risk for SIDS is to place the baby on his or her back to sleep for naps and at night. Other key safe infant sleep recommendations include putting the baby in a separate sleep area in the same room where parents sleep. An infant should always sleep alone and never sleep with a parent or sibling. Naptime or nighttime, always place the baby in a safety approved crib with a firm mattress, covered by a fitted sheet with no pillows, toys, crib bumpers, blankets, or other loose bedding. In the past two decades, significant progress has been made in reducing SIDS rates.

Although there is no known way to prevent SIDS completely, there are ways to reduce the risk for SIDS and other sleep-related causes of infant death by modifying several factors. The Safe to Sleep® campaign (formerly known as the Back to Sleep

Since 1992, SIDS rates have dropped by more than 50 percent in all populations. However, there is still progress to be made. For example, although the SIDS rate for African Americans has declined by 50 percent since 1994, today’s African American

Nearly 4,000 infants die suddenly and unexpectedly each year in the United States.

“The single most effective action that parents and caregivers can take to lower a baby’s risk for SIDS is to place the baby on his or her back to sleep.”

30

Growing Up In the Valley • november 2014

Family Living infants are twice as likely as white infants to die of SIDS. Similarly, American Indian/Alaska Native infants today are three times as likely as white infants to die of SIDS, even though SIDS rates have also dropped significantly in this population during the last two decades. The Safe to Sleep® campaign offers free resources for parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, babysitters, child care providers, health care providers, and everyone who cares for a baby through its website http:// safetosleep.nichd.nih.gov.

Working together, we’ve made great progress in helping to reduce the risk of SIDS in many communities. Let’s continue to work together to help all infants grow and thrive. Please help us spread the word about safe infant sleep!If you or anyone you know in the Roanoke or Lynchburg area is in need of a safe sleep environment for their baby, the Carilion Clinic Children’s Hospital and Kohl’s Cares K.I.S.S. program can help. Visit www.carilionclinic.org/kiss Jill Lucas is Program Coordinator, Carilion Clinic Children’s Hospital and Kohl’s Infant Safe Sleep program Safe to Sleep® Champion, a volunteer spokesperson for the Safe to Sleep® campaign. The Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development

Recommendations from the

American Association of Pediatrics •

Always place your baby on his or her back for every sleep time.

•

Use of wearable blankets or sleep sacks is recommended.

•

Never place baby on their side or stomach.

•

Never allow a baby to sleep with a hat/cap on its head.

•

Baby should sleep alone in a safety approved crib or bassinet.

•

•

Always use a firm sleep surface/ mattress. Never add anything to a mattress to make it softer.

Do not use home monitors or commercial devices marketed to reduce the risk of SIDS.

•

Infants should receive all recommended vaccinations.

•

Supervised, awake tummy time is recommended daily to facilitate development and minimize the occurrence of positional plagiocephaly (flat heads).

•

Mattress should be used with a tightly fitted sheet that is made specifically for the crib or bassinet mattress.

•

Never use a regular/adult bed sheet or any other covering on a crib or bassinet mattress.Car seats and other sitting devices are not recommended for naptime or nighttime sleep.

•

Keep soft objects or loose bedding out of the crib. This includes pillows, blankets, stuffed animals, and bumper pads.Wedges and positioners should not be used.

Coordinator, Safe Kids Southwest VirginiaNationally Certified Child Passenger Safety Technician Instructor

we’re

moving in early December

to the same shopping center as Plato’s Closet®

Madison Square Shopping Center 4092 Electric Rd. / Roanoke, VA 24018 540.774.3639 / OnceUponAChildRoanoke.com

november 2014 • growingupinthevalley.com

31

Family Fun

A Musical Patchwork of Patriotism A Family Music Moment from Creative Starts Music Article by: Angie Yates

Katharine Lee Bates wrote the lyrics of the hymn “America the Beautiful” in 1893 after traveling to the Summit of Pike’s Peak in Colorado. Bates was so inspired by the view she stated, “It was then and there, as I was looking out over the sea-like expanse of fertile country spreading away so far under those ample skies, that the opening

Materials Needed: • Markers • Pencil • Crayons • Scissors • Glue • Large piece of poster board or construction paper • “America the Beautiful” Quilt Printable from Creative Starts Music Website

32

Growing Up In the Valley • November 2014

lines of the hymn floated into my mind.”Celebrate this Veteran’s Day with a paper quilt of drawings reflecting the scenes that inspired this famous poetry of Katharine Lee Bates. Display your family’s musical quilt to celebrate this special holiday or present it to a Veteran as a token of appreciation for protecting this beauty and our freedom.

Directions: 1. Draw pictures to illustrate different phrases of the song “America the Beautiful” on each square paper patch.

2. Cut out your finished patches.

3. Glue the square patches to the poster board to create a checkerboard pattern.

Additional Ideas: • Write a thank you note in one of the blank squares to thank a Veteran.• Use stickers or draw additional designs on the blank squares to make a more detailed quilt. • Visit creative-starts.com/family-fun/ to download an “America, The Beautiful” Quilt Printable.

Walk-Ins Welcome Monday - Saturday, 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM

Located in Kroger Square in Bonsack 540-400-6676 expressfamilycare.com

Veteran’s day is

Nov 11

Grand Opening y y y y y y y y y y y y y y y y y y y y y y y y y y

Ph o t o s b y @ c i t y _ o f _ Ro a n o k e o n I n s t a g r a m

Roanoke Main Library

The grand opening was attended by dozens of local elementary school students and community politicians & influencers alike. Famous children’s author Rosemary Wells, of Max and Ruby fame, hosted the inaugural storytime.

The majority of the lower level is reserved for children. There are dedicated play spaces between the thousands of new books. The colors are bright and cheery. The toddler section overlooks the newly renovated Elmwood Park ampitheatre.

The biggest hit of the re-opening was the unveiling of the slide! No one can ever claim that a library is just a boring bunch of bookshelves again.

The renovation has a lot of great touches that prove the library is in the Star City. Next time you visit look closely at the chairs, wall murals, and the book section signs; You will find hints of the city’s skyline and landmarks everywhere!

photogeraphy & boutiqu

Dear Santa,

2130 Colonial Avenue Roanoke, VA 24015 540.774.7282 Mon-Sat 10 to 5

Toad’ly Kids! love,

Carter & Charlie

Kids Korner

Pilgrim’s Plight Puzzle Follow the directions to guide the Pilgrims through the puzzle to the pumpkins!

N

W

E S

w

Travel 2 spaces east 4 spaces south 1 space west 2 spaces south 3 spaces east 4 spaces north 2 spaces east 1 space south, 1 space east 1 space south

Thanksgiving Word Scramble YKRETU LBTLAOFO MYUPOHTL DIRATIONT MLFAIY RGATDTIUE 36 Growing Up In the Valley • November 2014

______ ________ ________ _________ ______ _________

AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAM with pickup from: Green Valley Elementary Grandin Court Elementary & East and South Salem.

Roanoke Valley Montessori believes that a warm and supportive atmosphere will allow each child the freedom to develop at his or her own pace, as such we maintain a safe and secure setting in which children learn to respect others as well as themselves, and in the process, develop a strong sense of self-worth.

Education starts early, don’t be left behind!

Kids Korner

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38 Growing Up In the Valley • November 2014

Family Calendar

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Discover new events to add to your holiday traditions. Carol with friends and neighbors, take in a show or find a charity to help! See our full calendar at

Growingupinthevalley.com/calendar

••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

Stocked Market

November 14-16 Berglund Center (Roanoke Civic Ctr.) The Stocked Market is the JLRV’s Annual Shopping Extravaganza. Held at the Roanoke Civic Center each November, this holiday market boasts over a hundred vendors from across the country. This fundraiser has raised over $3,000,000 over the past twenty five years. All funds raised stay within the Roanoke Valley and are used to further the JLRV’s mission. ________________________________ General admission tickets (access to all 3 days) are $10 and Preview Coffee/General Admission combination tickets are $20.

Kids Section by:

Fantasyland November 28, 29, December 6, 13, 17-20 History Museum of Western VA Center In the Square Christmas spirit and history combine in the History Museum of Western Virginia’s annual Fantasyland. Bring the whole family to visit with Santa. The 45 minute program includes songs, stories, activities, and pictures with jolly, old St. Nick himself. In a cozy atmosphere surrounded by a cornucopia of holiday character, come and experience the magic of the season with the History Museum of Western Virginia. _____________ $6.50 for adults $4.50 for children (4-17) $2.50 for children ages 3 and under

Did You Know?

TV dinners have Thanksgiving to thank. In 1953, someone at Swanson misjudged the number of frozen turkeys it would sell that Thanksgiving -- by 26 TONS! Some industrious soul came up with a brilliant plan: Why not slice up the meat and repackage with some trimmings on the side?Thus, the first TV dinner was born!

The Guide

CALENDAR OF EVENTS Share your own event for free on Growingupinthevalley.com •• • • • • • • • ••••••••••••••••••• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Saturday • November 1 Fall for Alpacas Tours 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM Morewood Road, Hardy, VA $5/person Kids 3 & under are Free!

540.719.0281

Families come out to for a fun-filled day of learning and interacting with alpacas! Hug them, feed them, and find out more about this fascinating beast.

12th Annual Smith Mountain Lake Fall Chili & Craft Festival 11:00 AM-4:00 PM Bridgewater Plaza, Rt 122 Moneta, VA $5/person 540.721.1203

Bring your entire family to the Bridgewater Plaza to enjoy live music, beautiful crafts from local vendors, and as much premium chili as you can eat.

“Around the World in 80 Minutes” Concert by The Chorus of the Blue Ridge 3:00 PM

Trinity Ecumenical Parish 40 Lakemount Drive, Moneta $15/person 540.204.6876 Aaron Garber leads The Chorus of the Blue Ridge group as they take you on a worldwide journey using tradition music originating from 13 different countries.

Passport not required.

Amazing Astronomy: Native American Constellations

11AM-12PM Amazement Square 27 Ninth Street Lynchburg, VA $3/person Invite everyone you know to Amazement Square’s planetarium and learn about various constellations based in Native American folklore and the narratives behind each one.

Sunday • November 2

Brentano String Quartet 2:00 PM-4:00 PM Moss Arts Center @ Virginia Tech, Blacksburg VA

Celebrate The Holidays With A Winter Carnival Breakfast With Santa 9:00 am - 11:00 am

Saturday December 6 2014

Share the magic of Christmas with your little ones, while they enjoy breakfast with Santa!

Tickets may be purchased at the Salem-Roanoke County Chamber Office, or the Salem Parks & Recreation Office

Gingerbread Festival 10:00 am - 3:00 pm

Longwood Park Gingerbread House Competition Food and Craft Vendors Kids Activities and Marshmallow Roast, Face Painting, and Live Holiday Entertainment

Since 1948

40

Growing Up In the Valley • november 2014

Ye Olde Salem Christmas 11:00 am - 4:00 pm

Downtown Salem Library Square Farmers Market Pictures with Santa, Stories, Cider, Baked Goods, and Lots of Fun!

Admission starts at $25 540.231.5300 Bring your family and friends as the Brentano String Quartet pay tribute to Beethoven, Brahms, Debussy, Mozart, Schubert, and many others.

Women’s Volleyball: VA Tech vs. Duke Cassell Coliseum, Blacksburg VA 1:00 PM All Ages Prices Vary

Come out to and watch your favorite Hokies face off against Duke!!! For ticket and general info, visit www.hokiesports.com/volleyball/

Wednesday • November 5 Coffee and Chocolate Pairing 6:00 PM-7:00 PM Cao Artisan Chocolates 908 Main St. Lynchburg VA Adults Only $12/person 434.847.2970

Make your reservation now for a very interesting session in pairing and enjoying locally roasted single origin coffee with single origin chocolates.

Hustle Group Class

6:00 PM-7:00 PM Blacksburg Community Center $38/person 540-382-8782 Channel your inner John Travolta and Dancing Queen and go down to the Blacksburg Community Center and learn how to dance the hustle like its 1970!

Guy Fawkes Bonfire

6:00 PM-10:00 PM Attimo Winery, Christiansburg VA Adults Only $15/person 540-382-7619 The Attimo Winery will be showcasing V For Vendetta and followed up with an awesome bonfire! Refreshments will be provided, just bring a chair and blanket.

The Guide

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The Exchange Club welcomes one and all to their 55th annual fundraiser; enjoy all the pancakes, coffee, and milk you desire.

8:30 PM Berglund Civic Center All Ages Prices Vary 540.853.5483

FREE First Fridays Lynchburg Museum All Day All Ages Free

When was the last time you went to a museum? Bring the whole family and take a stroll down the halls of the Lynchburg Museum. For more info, visit www.lynchburgmuseum.org/

FREE Art by Night 5:00PM Downtown Roanoke All Ages Welcome Free Admission 540.342.2028

Fantasia

History Museum Of Western Virginia presents

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Come out and join Elmo and the rest of the crew for a fun-filled, unforgettable day where your favorite Sesame Street friend takes you by the hand and teaches you how to dance!

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5:00 AM-7:00 PM Lynchburg City Amory Church St. Lynchburg VA Admission starts at $7/person Ages 4 & under are free exchangegrapevine@gmail.com

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Salem Civic Center Ages 5 and Under Tickets start at $18/person 540.375.3000

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55th Annual Pancake Jamboree

Sesame Street Live “Let’s Dance!”

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10:00 AM-5:00 PM Friday Nov. 7 10:00 AM-4:00 PM Saturday Nov. 8 Berglund Center aecp@swva.net

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Green Living and Energy Expo

The art galleries of Downtown Roanoke will be hosting a gallery tour; marvel at their beautiful works while enjoying live music and refreshments.

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Friday • November 7

2014

School Group Information Sing a Song & DECEMBER 2 - 19 Read a Story d with Santa Claus

Grammy Award winning Fantasia will be singing her heart out for her Roanoke audience. Bring the whole family and experience the power and intensity of this American Idol winner.

f $6.50/Adults d $4.50/Children f $2.50/ Ages 3& Under

Saturday • November 8

F

Kids Night Out

antasyland began in the 1970s when several downtown businesses donated their retired Christmas figures, first to Downtown Roanoke, Inc., then to the Roanoke Valley History Museum (now History Museum of Western Virginia) to preserve their magic for future generations. Fantasyland is a cornucopia of holiday characters harkening back to a simpler time. Children love the elves in Santa’s workshop, the penguins and polar bears in Artic snow, characters from many countries in a chorus poised to sing songs from around the world, and the reindeer in their stalls waiting patiently for Santa to hook them to his sleigh so they may begin their journey around the globe.

6:00PM-9:00 PM Romp N’ Roll, Blacksburg VA Ages 2-6 Prices Vary 540-552-7667 The kids will go wild once let loose in the Romp N’ Roll gym while listening to music, enjoying fun projects, and ending the night with a pizza dinner.

SANTA WELCOMES ALL AGES IN A UNIQUE SETTING

In a warm comfortable setting in the History Museum’s Library, Santa, dressed in his green shirt, suspenders, and lace-up boots, with his coat hanging on the rack by the fireplace mantel, welcomes visitors into a inviting atmosphere. The children sit on the floor getting to know Santa at their own pace. Visitors get to see Santa’s very own 200-year old sleigh. And there are other exciting surprises awaiting.

History Museum Of Western Virginia presents

2014 School Group Information

DECEMBER 2 - 19

LOVE AND SHARING

Santa teaches important lessons of love, sharing, history, and more as he tells stories, sings, plays guitar or piano, and interacts with the children through fun activities. The children experience being loved and appreciated as well as learn important lessons about kindness, helpfulness, responsibility, tolerance, and love. Children are encouraged to become active in helping to create peace on earth and good will towards all. Photographs are allowed during the program.

For Info : 540-342-5770 november 2014 • growingupinthevalley.com

41

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The Guide

Sunday • November 9 Truffle Making Class!

3:00 PM-5:00 PM Cao Artisan Chocolates 908 Main St. Lynchburg VA Adults Only $55/person 434-847-2970 Reserve your spot and learn how to make truffles by hand! This awesome class will teach you how to make ganaches and mix/match chocolates to make the best truffle.

kind of entertainment the whole family can enjoy!

Wednesday • November 12 Candlelight Tour

4:30 PM-6:00 PM Thomas Jeffersons Poplar Forest Forest, VA $20/person 434.534.8120

Friday • November 14

Blue Man Group

Stocked Market

November 10-11 7:30 PM Berglund Civic Center

Ladies and Gentlemen, the Blue Man Group is coming to town! Buy your tickets now for the concert that combines off the wall theatrics with mesmerizing visuals and a rhythmic musical score. Experience a different

Saturday • November 22 Comedy Show Starring Matthew Broussard

8:00 PM-10:00 PM Roanoke College, Salem Adults Only Prices Vary.

540.375.5125

November 14-16 Berglund Center $10 per person 434.534.8120

Find a sitter for the Kids Come out to Roanoke College and watch Matthew Broussard at his best stand-up.

The holiday shopping season kicks off with this Junior League fundraiser.

COME

Mill Mountain Discovery Center Roanoke VA 3:00 PM- 4:00 PM Ages 5-12 $6/person Pre-register by Nov 12th at playroanoke.com

Come celebrate our Earth by learning how to properly reduce, reuse and recycle. Make a cool craft from recycled objects.

Spend the evening retracing Thomas Jefferson’s steps through the Poplar Forest via candlelight tour.

Monday • November 10

Saturday • November 15 America Recycles Day

IT H P L AY W AT T H E

DUMA

US

E S CENT

R!

TH SEASON - 2014-2015 - WHERE BOOKS COME TO LIFE! OUR OUR 7 7TH SEASON - 2014-2015 - WHERE BOOKS COME TO LIFE!

Tickets 540-224-1200, or go online!

DEC 4-23 2014 THURSDAY - FRIDAY 7PM

Madel in

e’s

CHRIS T

MAS

SATURDAY 3PM, 5PM

Teachers: call 540-400-7795

SUNDAY 3PM

to book your school group!

SHOW PARTNERS

SHOW SPONSORS

SEASON PARTNERS

SEASON SPONSORS

roanokechildrenstheatre.org

OFFICE: 540-400-7795 · BOX OFFICE: 540-224-1200 · 108 FIRST STREET (HENRY ST) NW ROANOKE, VA 24016 · ROANOKECHILDRENSTHEATRE.ORG

42

Growing Up In the Valley • november 2014

The Guide

Sunday • November 23 FREE Engaging Master-

pieces: Story-Telling in Chopin’s Ballades 4:00 PM-5:00 PM Roanoke College, Salem Free 540.375.5125

Spend a classy evening with Gordon Marsh as he recites, just for you, the masterpieces of Frédéric Chopin.

Thursday • November 27 Drumstick Dash 5K Race and Family Walk 9:00 AM Norfolk Southern All Ages Welcome 540.342.2028

Come out and support the Roanoke Rescue Mission and burn off those extra Thanksgiving day calories!

Fashions for Evergreens Hotel Roanoke Roanoke, VA Thanksgiving Day through New Years All Ages Free

Stroll through the city’s landmark, The Hotel Roanoke, and marvel at dozens of professionally decorated holiday trees. These trees are decorated by several different groups, all in effort to raise money for the United Way. Guests of the hotel, pedestrians just walking through can vote with their dollars for the winning tree. Be on the look out for Growing Up in the Valley’s tree this year, it’s sure to be exciting!

Friday • November 28 Fantasyland

History Museum of Western Virginia Center in the Square Building Friday at 10AM, 11AM, 1PM, 2PM, and 3PM. Saturday at 11AM, 1PM, 2PM, 3PM All Ages $6.50/ Adults $4.50/ Children $2.50/ Ages 3 & under

540.224.1206 In a warm, comfortable setting in the History Museum’s Library, Santa, dressed in his green shirt, suspenders, and lace up boots, with his coat hanging on the rack by the fireplace mantel, welcomes visitors into an inviting atmosphere. The children sit on the floor getting to know Santa at their own pace. Santa teaches important lessons of love, sharing, history, and more as he tells stories, sings, plays guitar or piano, and interacts with the children through fun activities. His Christmas tree is adorned with special ornaments that he shares with the children at the end of their visit to put on their own tree at home. Visitors also get to see Santa’s very own 200year old sleigh.

Fantasyland continues throughout december, please visit growingupinthevalley.com/calendar for the full schedule

Thursday • December 4 FREE Holiday Tree Lighting

5:30 PM-8:00 PM Westlake Towne Center All Ages Free 540.721.1203 Smith Mountain Lake is celebrating the holidays by lighting their Christmas tree. Join the festivities December 4th. For more info, call

Friday • December 5 FREE Christmas Tree

Lighting

6:00 PM - 6:30 PM Salem’s Farmers Market All Ages Free 540.375.3000 Bring the entire family to see Salem’s beautiful tree lighting and stay for the awesome parade.

FREE Downtown Moneta Christmas Parade and Tree Lighting 5:00 PM-10:00 PM Downtown Moneta

All Ages Free 540.721.1203 Come out for another beautiful and fun-filled tree lighting and stay for the exciting Third Annual Christmas Parade.

Saturday • December 6 Story Time with Santa

12:00 PM-3:00 PM Historic Miller-Claytor House Lynchburg VA All Ages Reservations required.

434-528-5353.

Bring your little ones to hear Santa tell stories of Christmas.

Winter A Cappella Concert 7:00 PM-9:00 PM Roanoke College, Salem All Ages Prices Vary.

540.375.5125

Bring your entire family and listen to Roanoke College’s finest a capella groups sing their hearts out. This concert is the place to be!

FREE 20th Annual Winterfest 10:00 AM-5:00 PM The Jacksonville Center for the Arts, Floyd, VA All Ages Free

Fun and entertainment for the whole family; Floyd WInterfest has live music, vendor’s crafts for sale, and amazing food to enjoy.

Sunday • December 7 FREE Lynchburg

Christmas Parade 4:00 PM-6:00 PM Downtoan Lynchburg All Ages Free

Bring the entire family for a night filled with parades, marching bands, beauty queens, floats and more.

november 2014 • growingupinthevalley.com

43

The Guide The Guide

Virginia Tech researchers are conducting a study to determine the validity and reliability of a beverage intake questionnaire and an added sugar biomarker in adolescents. In addition we are seeking to understand the beliefs and attitudes behind beverage choices adolescents and their parents make.

Your child may be able to participate if they are between the ages of 12-18 years. You, as a parent/ guardian, are also invited to participate in this research.

The study involves 5 visits to the VT campus, and the total time commitment will be about 5 hours.

Adolescent participants will be compensated $50 upon successful completion of all study visits.

For more information please contact Carly at 540-231-7916 or carlym@vt.edu

Damsel in Distress

Wendy A. Wall, M.A., Owner/Director 540-985-0876

ACE WEIGHT LOSS & ENERGY Kelly Campbell 540-691-5355 SAMPLES AVAILABLE facebook.com/aceskinny

www.acedietpillsletsgetskinny.com

44 44

Growing Up In the Valley • november 2014 Growing Up In the Valley • October 2014

Nicole Kidman

540-915-9895

btrflygrl1608@aol.com

TheGuide Guide The

FIND YOUR VOICE. childrenschoir.com

ASHLEY MULLEN 540-312-7556 ashleymullen8@gmail.com

Keep It Simple Cleaning Services

Etiquette classes for children are invaluable lessons that will last through their entire lives. Students are taught through fun, interactive lessons the essentials in etiquette that are designed to encourage leadership skills, instruct in positive decision making, and stress the importance of good friendship and citizenship.

Poise, Posture, and Modeling instruction. Enroll now.

ASHLEY MULLEN 540-312-7556 ashleymullen8@gmail.com

november 2014••growingupinthevalley.com growingupinthevalley.com45 45 October 2014

The Guide

G Professional Balloon Artist Speaker / Author / Big Kid at Heart Gospel Presentations - Shows - Parties - Events

434-473-5904 375 Arbor Dr, Christiansburg, VA

www..nrvsuperbowl.net

Call for Reservations 540-382-5525

www.balloondudetravis.com

Stress Free Party Planning We Set Up and Clean Up

PLAN THE BEST PARTY ...EVER

Orange Avenue Roanoke 540-345-7867

growingupinthevalley.com

For Less than the cost of 1 Party You can reach 30,000 Parents!

ellen@growingupinthevalley.com

Book Today!

540-362-5195 www.StarCitySkateCenter.net 140 Hershberger Road Roanoke, VA 24014 46

Growing Up In the Valley • november 2014

Gigantic Inflatable Bounce Houses, Slides & More

Birthday Parties STart at just $120

540-342-5670

Melody Makers Only $150 for a 45 Minute Party

Have a Melody Makers Birthday!

Tons of Music Fun with Puppets, Rhythm Instruments, Streamers and More!

1

Giving Your Child The Gift of Education is MAGICAL

Magical

Enroll your child today!

12 Locations • HoneyTreeELC.com • 540-344-4543

What makes

your children’s hospital special?

We know how to treat patients who can’t tell us where it hurts

Our staff of 350 pediatric professionals is specially trained to care for the unique needs of children

We make going to the doctor less scary for you and your kids

Because tests, treatments, and facilit ies are tailored to fit your child

Carilion Clinic Children’s Hospital is the only dedicated hospital for children and adolescents in western Virginia.

From allergy shots to stitches to cancer care, we know how to care for kids because it’s all we do!

Visit our website to meet our mascot, Ned!

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CarilionClinic.org/kids | 800-422-8482 5/30/14 3:24 PM