Gwinnett Daily Post Special Section - Spring Parenting Guide-3-24-11

SPRING PARENTING GUIDE

Good Hygiene Habits for Tweens Create Homemade Outdoor Crafts Spring Fever Syndrome When the Pet Runs Away Spring Not Fun for Allergy Sufferers Understanding Vitamin D Deficiency

Sunday, March 27, 2011 An Advertising Supplement for

National Camp Invention Program Readies Children for 21st Century through Hands-on Fun “... 80% of future careers will demand knowledge of science and technology. If children think that science and technology is not for them, they will find themselves left out of most careers.” - Coalition for Science After School Children save avatars by rebuilding a virtual world, bring robotic creatures to life, and explore fascinating molecular patterns found in the world around them during the innovative Camp Invention program this summer!

Hosted at local schools, this weeklong program employs inquiry-based activities in science, technology, engineering, math, as well as history and the arts that elicit creative thinking to solve real-world challenges.

Children rotate through five integrated modules each day that are designed to provide an opportunity to explore the unknown,tinker with ideas, and satisfy their innate sense of curiosity. Working together, children learn vital 21st century life skills such as problem solving and teamwork through hands-on activities disguised in fun.

Camp Invention, the nonprofit, nationally-acclaimed program, has been inspiring the minds of children nationwide for over 20 years. Renowned for the difference it’s making nationwide, the program provides a safe, creative outlet for children to experience extended summer learning through engaging activities taught by qualified, local educators.

Endorsed by the United States Patent and Trademark Office, Camp Invention partners with schools and organizations nationwide to provide elementary children with qual-

ity summer enrichment programs that focus on science, technology, engineering and math (STEM).

The program’s integrated curricula align with national and state education standards and have been featured in Child magazine for fostering the “hands-on, minds-on” philosophy of leading educators. Due to its innovative approach to learning, it has also been highlighted on National Public Radio’s Science Friday and in newspapers, magazines, and educational journals across the country.

Since its inception, the Camp Invention program has grown to include nearly 1,500 sites in 49 states.In 2010, more than 70,000 children participated nationwide.“We’re getting to the root of innovation by providing motivation to learn, create and excel, particularly in the critical areas of math and science,” said Michael J. Oister, President of Invent Now Kids.

For returning host sites, this year’s NEW curriculum of Camp Invention’s Spark program offers children the opportunity to venture on a WILD animal excursion in the W!LD: Wondrous Innovations and Living DesignsTM module. Children will investigate the most innovative

survival traits on the planet and learn the connections between some of our inventions that the world has acquired from the study of animals.In the Bounce!

An Atomic JourneyTM module, children bounce their way through atoms, molecules, mixtures, and compounds to discover the science behind bouncy balls and create their own to take home. Children build a clubhouse, decipher puzzling codes, and work together to solve a mystery in The Curious Cypher ClubTM module.

Every program features the I Can Invent: Edison’s Workshop module, where younger children take apart discarded household appliances and create fantasy inventions, while older children use the pieces and parts to build Rube Goldberg machines. Also featured is the Game On: Power PlayTM module, where children explore new games and add their own twist to create high -energy challenges.

For information or to register for Camp Invention, visit www.campinvention.org or call 800.968.4332.

To view Camp Invention in action: www.youtube.com/lnventnowkids

Unleashing Creative Genius... One Child at a Time.

Invent Now® proudly presents the wonder and excitement of the Camp Invention program. Led by qualified local educators, current K through 5th graders rotate through five exciting modules each day that immerse them in fun, hands-on investigations, experiments and engineering challenges.

Secure your child’s spot for only $50* DOWN and receive $25 OFF the base price if registered on or before March 30, 2011! www.CampInvention.org

800.968.4332 In partnership with: United States Patent & Trademark Office

*An installment payment plan is available at no additional cost if you use a credit or debit card and your registration is received on or before March 30, 2011.

Page 2 • SPRING PARENTING GUIDE • Sunday, March 27, 2011 • Gwinnett Daily Post • gwinnettdailypost.com

A Life Transformed One year ago, Yvonne Wallace, 56,became the first person to have bariatric surgery at the Center for Surgical Weight Management at Gwinnett Medical Center-Duluth, which began in late 2009 under the direction of Robert Richard, MD, FACS, a board-certified surgeon who has performed bariatric surgical procedures for more than a decade. During the past year, Yvonne has shared her weight loss journey through video updates on facebook.com/yvonnesjourney.

A year into her transformation, Yvonne sat down to share her journey.

What prompted your bariatric surgery?

By October 2009, I felt the worst I’d ever felt. My blood sugar was rising. I knew dia-

betes could be next. My blood pressure and cholesterol were high; my joints ached, and I had heartburn as well as needing a CPAP machine to sleep. I tried every type of diet and exercise program out there.

Nothing worked for long. I finally said, “Okay, I need help.

I can’t do this on my own.”

About two weeks later I read that Gwinnett Medical CenterDuluth was starting a bariatric program. I said,“Okay, God. I’ll go see about this.”

What made you decide to go public with your surgery?

I’d talked myself out of bariatric surgery five years ago, because I had so many fears. I wanted to show others the way through their fear. Like anything

else in life, this is a choice. And it’s better to make a choice through knowledge than through fear.

How has this year gone?

It actually began more than a year ago,when I went to an informational session given by Dr. Richard. Before he would perform the surgery, I had to complete a variety of medical, psychological and nutritional appointments. I had confidence in Dr. Richard. With all of his experience, I knew he was the best surgeon to perform my surgery.

Since the surgery, I use the Center for Surgical Weight Management’s guidelines for nutrition. I make healthy choices at every meal, protein first, then vegetables and then fruit. If I am not full, I have carbs. This smaller stomach is a tool. It’s not a

gwinnettdailypost.com •

magic bullet. I feel great now. All those medical problems are gone, and I don’t need the CPAP to sleep.

Was there an “A-ha” moment?

Five months after surgery I was at a restaurant with friends, and one of my sons arrived late.

At first he didn’t recognize me. It was a terrific feeling that the surgery was changing my life in such a great way.

How much weight have you lost since last March?

I weighed 288 at my highest.

Now I weigh 193. It’s come off slow and steady,at a healthy rate.

What advice would you give to others?

There’s hope out there. I needed this new tool of a smaller stomach to make the changes my body required to be healthy. Attend one of the Center for Surgical Weight

Management’s informational seminars and ask questions.

See if bariatric surgery is right for you. It was the right choice for me.

See Yvonne’s entire year at facebook.com/yvonnesjourney.

Learn more about surgical weight loss options at gwinnettbariatrics.org.

Gwinnett Daily Post • Sunday, March 27, 2011 • SPRING PARENTING GUIDE • Page 3

Honoring local athletes and supporting Gwinnett County Public Schools Do you know an amazing local athlete that deserves recognition? Do you want to do more to support local Gwinnett County Public Schools? Consider supporting the Gwinnett County Public School Foundation and get involved with the Gwinnett County Sports Hall of Fame.

The NEW Gwinnett County Sports Hall of Fame honored five outstanding athletes selected through a rigorous nomination process to represent Gwinnett County as the 2010 inaugural class. Requirements for induction into the Gwinnett County Sports Hall of Fame include outstanding athletic performance as well as representing the citizens of Gwinnett with honor on a

state or national stage. Gwinnett County Sports Hall of Fame is now taking nominations for the 2011 class.

Proceeds raised through the Gwinnett County Sports Hall of Fame will support the Gwinnett County Public Schools Foundation Fund. The Gwinnett County Public Schools Foundation Fund, Inc. is a nonprofit, 501c3 charitable organization benefiting Gwinnett County Public Schools through academic initiatives, scholarships and grants.

The GCPS Foundation Fund supports the interest of all 130 schools and eighteen clusters of Gwinnett County Public Schools. Although specific funds are designated by cluster,

school, or scholarship for targeted donations, three important funds offer system-wide support for all schools and are able to target excellence throughout the district. The three system-wide funds are: 1. Education In Action This fund supports student scholarships and teacher grants, allowing recipients to continue their education and pursue other educational learning opportunities. This investment provides exceptional opportunities for exploration and in-depth study.

2. Education Enrichment and Enhancement - This fund provides donors the opportunity to support cutting-edge instructional programs, includ-

ing support for mathematics, science, and technology, and continuation of award-winning fine arts programs.

3. Education Excellence and Rewards - This fund supports the recognition of schools that excel academically and have demonstrated results through hard work, commitment, and innovation. In addition, the Foundation strives to attract, reward, and retain highperforming and inspiring teachers, principals, administrators,and support staff for the continuation of Gwinnett’s system of world-class schools.

Help us ensure that the schools in Gwinnett County remain among the best in the nation by donating to the

GCPS Foundation Fund dedicated to enhancing and expanding academic initiatives in Gwinnett County Public Schools. For information on how you can support the work of the Gwinnett County Public

Schools Foundation and the Gwinnett County Sports Hall of Fame, please contact the foundation office online at www.gcps-foundation.org, or call 678-301-6077. Call or log on and support today!

Honoring Local Athletes Proceeds raised through Gwinnett County Sports Hall of Fame will support the Gwinnett County Public Schools Foundation Fund. The Gwinnett County Public Schools Foundation Fund, Inc. is a nonprofit, 501c3 charitable organization benefiting Gwinnett County Public Schools through academic initiatives, scholarships and grants.

For information on how you can support the work of the Gwinnett County Public Schools Foundation and the Gwinnett County Sports Hall of Fame, please contact the foundation office.

gcps-foundation.com • 678-301-6077 Page 4 • SPRING PARENTING GUIDE • Sunday, March 27, 2011 • Gwinnett Daily Post • gwinnettdailypost.com

Discover Broadway This Year, Journey through a Season of Hits in 2011-2012 Broadway Across America – Atlanta Announces NEW Season as Fan Favorites and Acclaimed Premieres Trek to Atlanta.

Broadway Across America – Atlanta welcomes theatre sojourners to discover Broadway through magical lands, bustling towns and cultural epicenters. Featuring four Tony Award® winning musicals, the 2011-2012 season lineup of Broadway sensations brings a series of imaginative worlds to The Fabulous Fox Theatre. Audiences will travel across the globe – and beyond – with the debuts of DR. SEUSS’ HOW THE GRINCH STOLE CHRISTMAS! THE MUSICAL, MEMPHIS and BILLY ELLIOT THE MUSICAL paired with award-winning fan favorites LES MISÉRABLES and JERSEY BOYS. Atlanta’s most ‘popular’ musical is flying back to The Fox Theater as a season special. WICKED, Broadway’s biggest blockbuster, will play a limited 4-week engagement in the fall.

Setting sail in November, the 2011-2012 season opens with the Atlanta debut of DR. SEUSS’ HOW THE GRINCH STOLE CHRISTMAS! THE MUSICAL, a whimsical voyage into Whoville – the perfectly charming backdrop for a classic family-friendly story of redemption with a lot of heart.

The touring production of rocking Broadway triumph MEMPHIS rolls into Atlanta in January.

A smash hit and Tony Award® winning Best Musical, this electric journey through the airwaves tackles celebrity and taboo in the 1950s South.

Offering an inspiring tale from abroad, 10-time Tony Award-winner BILLY ELLIOT THE MUSICAL takes audiences on a journey of discovering surprising passions. gwinnettdailypost.com •

Coming in March and featuring music from the legendary Elton John,this glimpse into one boy’s triumph over the odds in his Northern England community, already torn apart by strike, proves universal motivation the world over.

LES MISÉRABLES is an epic and uplifting story about the survival of the human spirit that has changed the face of musical theater. This brand new 25th anniversary production of the legendary musical comes to Atlanta this April with glorious new staging and dazzlingly reimagined scenery currently selling out across America.

The season makes its last pit stop in the Northeast as Tony Award® winning JERSEY BOYS returns to the Atlanta stage in May. Taking audiences on a journey through the seasons of life is the rise and fall of ‘60s pop icons The Four Seasons.

Broadway Across America – Atlanta’s 2012-2012 season packages are on sale now with prices ranging from $137—$400. Season ticket prices will vary depending on the number of shows chosen, the number of performances, show time, day of the week and seating location. New subscrip-

tions may be ordered online at BroadwayAcrossAmerica.com, via phone by calling 1-800-278-4447 Monday through Friday,10:00 am5:00 pm; or via fax at 1-800-3298587.

Current season ticket holders who wish to guarantee their same seats must renew by April 8.

Broadway Across America – Atlanta is also offering a three part installment payment plan this year to help ticket buyers with season purchases.

Tickets to individual shows in the 2011-2012 season are not available for purchase at this time. Single-show tickets typically go on sale to the general public 6-8 weeks prior to opening night. However, season ticket holders have the unique opportunity to purchase additional tickets before they go on sale to the public. For more information on the 2011-2012 season, or to order online, please visit www.BroadwayAcrossAmerica.com.

Group reservations for individual shows for parties of 10,15,20 or more can be made at this time by calling 404-881-2000. Applicable group size will vary depending on the show.

Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical - Photo: ©Paul Kolnik

Gwinnett Daily Post • Sunday, March 27, 2011 • SPRING PARENTING GUIDE • Page 5

Spring Fever Syndrome There are many people who associate the arrival of spring with a renewed sense of energy that borders on the frantic. But such spring fever is actually quite the opposite ... at least in the beginning.

Spring fever is a term used to classify a mood change characterized by low energy, fatigue and apathy early in the spring season. Similar to seasonal affective disorder (SAD), spring fever is a mental condition brought on by the change in seasons. It is common in people who also suffer from SAD. Eventually, spring fever may evolve into feelings of restlessness, intense nervous excitement, high-energy spurts and loss of appetite.

The condition is a chemical response in the body to its carcadian rhythm spurred on by sunlight. In the winter, there are fewer hours of sun-

light. Sunlight has a direct effect on the production of serotonin and melatonin.

Serotonin is the feel-good chemical messenger that affects mood and other bodily functions. In the darker, colder seasons, serotonin can be in short supply, which is why many people feel blue these times of the year. Melatonin is the chemical component that is related to sleep and wakefullness. When there are more hours of darkness, the body produces more melatonin, which in turn makes a person tired.

When the spring season arrives, the body can take a while to readjust to the correct levels. Therefore, a person may initially have residual melatonin and a short supply of serotonin in the early spring, accounting for the tiredness and irritability. As

the chemical messengers decrease and increase according to sunlight, the reverse takes effect. A person may have extra energy and actually feel little need to sleep.

There is also some biological evidence that the seasonal change may affect human conception. Studies show that late winter and spring babies are commonplace, meaning that a number of conceptions take place during the warmweather months.

As the body readjusts hormonally to the changes in seasons, there could be a fluctuation of moods until the full feelings of vitality known during the spring season set in.

While spring often evokes feelings of elation and rejuvenation in adults and children alike, it is important to recognize that suicide rates also increase with the change in seasons, perhaps as a result hormonal imbalances in the body.

Renewed vitality may come in spring after the body has a chance to balance the level of hormones.

Page 6 • SPRING PARENTING GUIDE • Sunday, March 27, 2011 • Gwinnett Daily Post • gwinnettdailypost.com

It’s as easy as one, two, three!

Lawrenceville Saves You 50% On Stay-cation 1.2. Purchase your ticket.

Call each attraction to make a Staying local this Spring Break or just looking for fun weekend activities? During the month of April the Lawrenceville Tourism & Trade Association (LTTA) invites local residents to celebrate spring and explore their community with LTTA’s newest program “Be a Tourist in Your Own Town.”

Over a $100 value, Gwinnett residents can purchase a “Be a Tourist in Your Own Town” combination attraction ticket for only $49.99 to experience three of Lawrenceville’s most popular attractions and participating restaurant discounts. LTTA’s participating attraction partners,for this year, include Medieval Times - the nation’s #1 dinner attraction, the Gwinnett Braves

at Coolray Field - an intimate Triple-A baseball experience, and Aurora Theatre - Gwinnett’s only professional theatre.

Rebekah Cline,LTTA Marketing Director, explains “Whether residents are looking for spring

break activities, searching for special occasion ideas or just want to have fun, Lawrenceville’s “Be a Tourist in Your Own Town” combination attraction ticket makes it easy and affordable to visit Lawrenceville’s top-

rated attractions while saving more than 50%.”

While the title of the program is aimed at locals, anyone is invited to visit Lawrenceville and purchase the combination attraction pass.

reservation.

3. Check in with the box office upon your arrival and you’re on your way to play!

Tickets are available for purchase online at www.tourintown.com or at the

Lawrenceville Visitors Center (233 East Crogan Street) Monday - Friday from 9 am - 5 pm.

Tickets are on sale until Friday, April 15th.

For more information on “Be a Tourist in Your Own Town” please contact the Lawrenceville Visitors Center at 678.226.2639.

TM

Ready for your staycation?

Three Awesome Attractions One Low Price!

49.99

$

Tickets on sale NOW! www.tourintown.com gwinnettdailypost.com •

Gwinnett Daily Post • Sunday, March 27, 2011 • SPRING PARENTING GUIDE • Page 7

1-24_Parenting-Spring_0327 3/21/11 6:07 PM Page 8

Calling all world travelers! Summer reading program takes you around the globe!

Calling All World Travelers!

The Gwinnett County Public Library Summer Reading Program will be exploring the globe during summer 2011 as we celebrate “One World, Many Stories.”

Readers of all ages will travel around the world through stories, crafts, music, dance, magic and other activities. The 2011 Summer Reading Program is open to all ages from prereaders to adults. Regi st r at i on begins in May and continues all sum-

mer long. Each registrant will receive a special Reading Log, a bookmark, and other fun incentives. We encourage each participant to set a goal and read, read, read!

Keep track of your reading activities on your Reading Log and once you have met your goal, bring the Reading Log to any of our fifteen branch libraries to claim your prize (while supplies last) – a free book!

But don’t wait until you’ve met your goal to visit the library. All branches will have special programs all summer long! Bring the youngest ones to Preschool Storytime, older children will enjoy special summer

craft programs for ages 6 – 10, and teens can participate in teen only events geared just for grades 6 and up. The whole family will enjoy musical guests and a special magic show to round out the season. All programs are free and open to the public.

But why read during the summer months – isn’t summer supposed to be vacation time?

Research shows that students who do voluntary free reading activities during the summer are better off when school begins again in the fall. Barbara Heynes, a New York University sociology professor,

GwinnettLibrary Page 8 • SPRING PARENTING GUIDE • Sunday, March 27, 2011 • Gwinnett Daily Post • gwinnettdailypost.com

followed 3,000 Atlanta public school students over two years. She concluded that the children who had read at least six books during the summer maintained or improved their reading skills, while those who reported that they had not read at all saw their skills slip by as much as an entire grade level. A recent study sponsored by Dominican University looked at third graders who participated in public library summer reading programs. The study showed that those third grade students who participated in library summer reading programs scored higher on reading

tests at the beginning of fourth grade and didn’t experience summer reading loss.

So this year, don’t let your child be a victim of “summer brain drain.” In 2010, over 36,800 kids registered for the Gwinnett County Public Library’s Summer Reading Program and we want to invite you and your family to join the fun this summer. Visit any library branch for a fantastic and free trip around the globe as we explore “One World, Many Stories.”

More information about the library and library programs can be found at www.gwinnettpl.org.

What to Do When a Pet Runs Away We give them shelter, affection, food, and entertaining toys. But once the front door opens, some pets have their minds set on escape. A cat may dart, a dog may sneak.Either way,getting outdoors unattended can spell trouble.

It’s impossible to count all of the runaway pets, but estimates suggest hundreds of thousands of pets go missing every year. Many of these pets end up in shelters where, unless they’re adopted, they face euthanasia.

A lost pet can be devastating for an owner. Pets are extended members of the family, and their presence in the home can be immediately missed.Should a pet get loose, there are some steps to take.

Cats are territorial and aren’t likely to venture where other cats

reside. If you know where stray cats often congregate, look elsewhere for your kitty.Bring along a cat carrier and urge the cat inside with a treat.

Some dogs will see something interesting in the distance and chase after it. Others will run a perimeter around the neighborhood. Focus on a 5- or 6-block radius around your home to find a lost dog.

If a pet is located,do not chase the animal. He or she may see it as a game and evade capture.

Lure the pet in with a treat.

Some animals can find their ways home. Give it a little time and the pet might just return home.

If it’s been several hours and the pet hasn’t been found, visit

area shelters to see if he or she has been picked up. Check with shelters that aren’t in the immediate vicinity, too.Animals can wander great distances when lost.

Post pictures of the pet around the neighborhood and ask if the mail carrier can distribute “lost pet” fliers.

Shelters have different rules regarding how long they hold an animal. Some will do so for a few days before putting the animal up for adoption or putting it down if it’s a shelter that euthanizes.

Preventing pets from getting lost is the key to avoiding the heartache and lost sleep searching for a missing pet.

If a dog is allowed to remain outdoors unleashed,do so only in a fenced-in yard.

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Be sure to license and register the pet with the city or town in which you live. Display the license and an ID tag on the pet’s collar.

Use leashes and animal crates when transporting pets to and from the car.

Invest in a permanent radiofrequency identification microchip.

An RFID chip is the size of a grain of rice and is injected under the excess skin by the shoulders of the pet. It contains contact information should the pet be found.

Many shelters have the scanners necessary to read the chip’s frequency.

Be aware of your pet when opening the door. Don’t leave doors and windows open if your pet is a known escape artist.

Keeping a pet leashed is one way to safeguard against runaways.

Gwinnett Daily Post • Sunday, March 27, 2011 • SPRING PARENTING GUIDE • Page 9

Car Safety With Kids & Pets in Tow Ensuring the safety of their children is of the utmost priority for parents. One of the leading causes of injuries to children involve motor vehicle crashes.

The National Center for Statistics and Analysis says nearly 250,000 children are injured every year in car accidents. Many of these injuries can be attributed to improper restraint systems used on children. In order to safeguard passengers,drivers must be aware of how to properly secure young children in the car.

The type of vehicle restraint depends on several factors, including the child’s age, weight and height. Although vehicles have safety features unique to each individual vehicle, the safest place a child can ride is in the center of the backseat of the car.Chil-

dren should not ride in the front seat because an air bag is not designed for the height and weight of a child and can cause serious injury if deployed.

In terms of car seats, here is a general guideline to use. Again, consult the owners’ manual of the vehicle and the car seat instruction booklet to ensure proper placement of the car seat.

Infants Infants should ride in a rearfacing car seat as long as possible.

Car seat manufacturers are making seats that accommodate heavier weights, meaning an infant may be able to ride rear-facing comfortably and safely well past his or her first birthday.

At a minimum, an infant should remain rear-facing until the age of one AND if the child is

under 20 pounds. If the car seat can accommodate the weight and the child is comfortable,leave him or her rear-facing. Otherwise, the seat can be switched to forwardfacing if the baby is a year old and 20 pounds or more.

Infant car seats (the snap-andgo type that are part of travel systems) may be outgrown faster than a convertible car seat. Parents may want to consider using a convertible seat instead. Convertible seats transition from infant to toddler.

Toddlers/Pre-Schoolers If a toddler is still comfortable rear-facing, continue to leave the child in that position. Otherwise, a forward-facing car seat with full 5point harness system should be used.

School-Age Booster seats are used for children who have outgrown a forward-facing car seat with harness system. They may have backs or be backless,depending on design.

In general, children should use a booster seat until they reach a height where an adult seatbelt will work correctly without the need for the child to be raised up. This may mean a child should use a booster until he or she is between 8 and 12 years old and about 4foot-9 inches tall.

Proper Installation Car seats are secured in the car by

a LATCH, or Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children, system for most newer vehicles made after 2002. Car seats may feature flexible latches on a seatbelt type device or a rigid metal device that snaps onto the LATCH hook.They also may be used with locking seatbelts in older cars.

Because car seat manufacturers and vehicle manufacturers have a myriad of designs for seats, finding a correct fit for a car isn’t always easy. Many parents stress out about the installation of car seats. Even with the obsession about proper installation, research from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration shows that as many as 80 percent of all car seats are improperly installed and used.

Parents who have difficulty with a car seat should return it and try another. Many police stations will help with installation of car seats and can check fit.

Pets love Safety Too! It is something just about everyone with a pet has done at least once. Putting a pet into the

car and driving with them lose in the vehicle happens all the time.

Only about 17 percent of pet owners use a pet restraint system, but a loose pet can be as distracting as texting and driving.

Having a loose pet in a vehicle is risky for many reasons. A pet loose in a vehicle can,according to a 2008 AAA study, be as distracting as texting and driving.Over 80 percent of drivers have had a pet in their car, unrestrained, at some point — and that is dangerous.

Should the driver get into an accident, the pet could be thrown out of the vehicle,or become a projectile that could cause serious injury. With an unrestrained pet, there is almost no situation in which the pet and the driver would not be injured or killed in the case of an accident.

There are several options for pet seat belts available commercially. The most basic systems simply clip into the pet’s collar and attach it to the seat belt restraint system. In an accident, these collar-clip systems will keep your pet in the

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vehicle, but they can often cause serious strain on your pet’s neck, causing bruising or worse. Full harness systems are much safer, and can be used either with a harness that your pet already wears or a harness designed for that purpose.

Harnesses are sized according to the weight of the animal, and should be sized correctly.

If putting your pet into a harness seems unrealistic, there are several other options for restraining your pet. Dog booster seats are great for smaller pets, and give your pet the chance to look out the window while the world goes by. There are also commercial nets and barriers that separate the front and back seats, which keep your pet in the backseat without clipping them directly into the seat belt system. There are also cage restraint systems that lock a cage or pet carrier into the seat belt system, so your pet can be in a comfortable, familiar place without being physically restrained.

Barney Live in Concert – Birthday Bash!

You’re invited to Barney’s birthday bash! Join the loveable, huggable Barney and friends in Atlanta as they sing and dance their way into your hearts for a brand-new, interactive concert party tour. Barney Live in Concert – Birthday Bash! opens at Philips Arena on April 7. Tickets on sale now.

Celebrate with Barney on his birthday at this ‘super-deeduper’ live stage concert, featuring more than 25 fun and upbeat sing-along tunes including favorites, such as “Mr. Knicker-

bocker,”“Dino Dance,”“Baby Bop Hop” and “Rock ‘n Roll Star.”

Children will be dancing in the aisles to contemporary cuts of “If You’re Happy and You Know It,” “Wheels on the Bus” and “Itsy Bitsy Spider.” Parents will beam with pride to see their children caught up in the fun, which celebrates friendship and the wholesome values that Barney personifies.

Like television’s Emmyaward winning series Barney & Friends™, this musical production encourages sharing, caring

and imagination through the power of song, dance and the beloved cast of characters including dino pals Baby Bop™, BJ™ and Riff™. Barney Live in Concert – Birthday Bash! is sure to entertain families and create cherished memories for years to come.The Emmy-award winning television series Barney & Friends™ has been trusted by parents and adored by children for more than 20 years and is one of the top-rated pre-school shows today, airing on PBS KIDS® and PBS KIDS Sprout.

What: Barney Live in Concert – Birthday Bash!

When: Thursday, April 7 – 10:30 a.m., 2 p.m. & 6:30 p.m.

Where: Philips Arena • 1 Philips Drive • Atlanta, GA 30303 Tickets: $15, $20 & $30. A limited number of $45 Gold Circle Seats and $90 Dino Seats* are also available. A facility fee of $4 is included in all ticket prices. Additional fees and discounts may apply. **Special $90 Dino Seat packages are available at all shows. Dino Seats feature front row seats and a pre-show Meet & Greet with Barney.

Groups of 10+ call (404) 878-FUNN (3866). Tickets may be purchased at the Philips Arena Box Office.To charge by phone, please call Ticketmaster at 800-745-3000. Tickets may also be purchased online at www.ticketmaster.com. For information online, please visit www.barneylivetour.com. Like Barney Live in Concert on Facebook: www.facebook.com/barneylive.

ABOUT VEE CORPORATION Headquartered in Minneapolis, Minnesota, VEE Corporation is one of the most experienced and respected names in familyfriendly entertainment. VEE Corporation has delighted millions of children around the world with live touring stage shows since Sesame Street Live’s debut performance in Minneapolis, Minnesota on Sep. 17, 1980. VEE also provides entertainment, promotion and event marketing services for the world’s most respected brands and agencies. Clients and partners in the corporate, sports, museum and event marketing sector come to VEE for imaginagwinnettdailypost.com •

tive solutions to capture the undivided attention of their customers and audiences through custom designed/built interactive environments. For more information, please visit www.vee.com.

ABOUT HIT ENTERTAINMENT HIT Entertainment is one of the world's leading independent children's entertainment producers and rights-owners. HIT's portfolio includes properties, such as Barney™, Bob the Builder™, Thomas & Friends™, Pingu™, Fireman Sam™,Angelina Ballerina™ and Rainbow Magic™. HIT represents Chapman Entertainment’s Fifi and

the Flowertots™ and Roary the Racing Car™ in North America, as well as Wallace & Gromit™, Shaun the Sheep™, Timmy Time™ and Aardman Classics from Aardman Animations.

HIT also acts as representative for The Wiggles® in the UK. Launched in 1989, HIT’s lines of business span television and video production, content distribution, publishing, consumer products licensing and live events and has operations in the UK, US, Canada, Hong Kong and Japan. HIT is a part-owner of US-based preschool channel, PBS KIDS SproutSM. For more information,visit www.hitentertainment.com.

Gwinnett Daily Post • Sunday, March 27, 2011 • SPRING PARENTING GUIDE • Page 11

wellnessEXPO bringing local health to you

Saturday, April 30, 2011 10am-5pm at Discover Mills Look for details in the HealthSource Special Section published on Sunday, April 24th.

Also available at Simon Guest Services at Discover Mills, starting Friday, April 22th.

ATTENTION EXHIBITORS! Wellness Expo’s will also be held at Discover Mills on these dates: Saturday, April 30, 2011 Saturday, July 23, 2011 Saturday, October 15, 2011 Jan/Feb 2012 TBA April 2012 TBA Call today to participate!

770.963.9205 ext. 1218

Page 12 • SPRING PARENTING GUIDE • Sunday, March 27, 2011 • Gwinnett Daily Post • gwinnettdailypost.com

High Scorin! Heart Stoppin!

Helmet Poppin!TM The Georgia Force delivers maximum family fun, at a rock-bottom price

The Georgia Force is back home at Gwinnett Arena and is sure to deliver a full evening of entertainment any age will enjoy, and a value your wallet will love.

With the 2011 AFL season already underway, the team is ready to make their mark once again. The Force hit the ground running with an adrenalinecharged victory in the home opener, leaving fans on the edge of their seats and ready for more.

If you missed the action, no need to worry. The Force will be back April 8th at 8:05 p.m.to face the Dallas Vigilantes at home, and the contest will be captured live on NFL Network.

To top it, the team is inviting all children under age 12 to watch the game for FREE with the purchase of an adult ticket.

Simply visit www.ticketmaster.com, go to the Force vs. Vigilantes game, and enter KIDSVILLE into the offer code/password box.

On a budget?

With fuel prices surging these days, who isn’t? Luckily, Gwinnett Arena is located close to home in Duluth, Ga., just off interstate 85. Take advantage of FREE parking at every game and single-game tickets starting as low as $10.

Visit ticketmaster.com for more details.

Ticketmaster code is valid for one free ticket per transaction. Offer valid only through ticketmaster.com and at Ticketmaster Outlet locations.

Expires April 7th, 2011. While supplies last.

gwinnettdailypost.com •

Force. Groups of 10 or more can purchase tickets at a special discounted group rate and receive other great benefits: • Preferred seating – Everyone sits together as a group • Group public address announcements • Message board announcements • Participation in post-game autograph session Call 770-609-1300 to grab your group rate. Their friendly staff will personalize a ticket package just for you.

stand in the field as the Georgia Force is introduced* • $10 off Arena Food and Beverage [individual’s choice] per person.

• Special Birthday T-Shirt for the Birthday Boy or Girl.

• Birthday card from the team mascot, Blu • The entire Birthday Party can watch the Georgia Force warm up before the game from field level if you have 25 or more people in your party.

A deal like that is hard to come by! Packages are available through July** Celebrate in style Call 770-609-1300 to book Georgia weather can be unpre- your party. Relax, and let the dictable, so planning a spring team’s expert staff take care of party can be risky. Rest assured the details for you. that no matter how hot, muggy, ‘High Scorin! Heart Stoppin! or drab the weather gets,you can always enjoy the thrill of the Helmet Poppin!’ is a trademark owned

by Arena Football League, game in a comfortable indoor Chicago Illinois and is under license. setting. Our birthday packages *One parent per child will accompany the birthday boy or girl make it easy to create a unique, once-in-a-lifetime experience **Subject to change, limited availability, first come-first serve for your little one.

Birthday packages include: • It includes 10 lower level tickets to the game.

• 10 pairs of Georgia Force Bang Sticks.

• Birthday Boy/Girl gets to

QUICK HITS Free for kids April 8th – AVAILABLE AT TICKETMASTER PROMO CODE: KIDSVILLE Free Parking all season Free Party Planning Discounts for groups Fun for everyone!

Call 770-609-1300 for details

Looking for an extra discount?

Round up your youth group, co-workers,or softball team for a fun-filled evening with the

Gwinnett Daily Post • Sunday, March 27, 2011 • SPRING PARENTING GUIDE • Page 13

Create homemade outdoor crafts & enjoy warm weather activities As families await the arrival of warmer weather, there are things they can do to prepare for a season of fun in the sun.

Engaging in some craft projects are ways to beat cabin fever while dreaming of warm, springtime weather to come.

There are many craft projects families and children can tackle, but ideas that involve projects that can be put to use outdoors may be the most fitting. Fortunately, there are a number of ideas for crafty projects to involve everyone in the household.

Birdhouse: Head to the hardware store and pick up a few supplies.Otherwise,chances are items that can be made into a birdhouse probably can be found from scraps of materials already around the house or in the garage. Scraps of wood, metal, tiles, plastic, and the like can be used to craft a bird house or feeder. Even an empty plastic bottle can be used. Some

nesting material, such as pieces of yarn or cotton, can be placed inside the house to entice birds to take up residence once the weather warms.

Stepping stones: Stepping stones can be a whimsical way to dress up the outdoor garden or yard. A trip to the craft store for some plaster or even a quick-set cement can be the medium to use for the stones. Experiment with shapes that can be used as molds, and gather different materials that can be embedded into the stepping stone, such as pebbles, marbles, beads, etc. Use a pencil or another pointed tool to engrave a message or name on the stepping stones before allowing them to dry and harden.

Kite: The beginning of the spring season often arrives behind a burst of wind.Make the most of blustery conditions by crafting a kite from a kitchen trash bag, some sticks and string.

Garden gnomes: Craft stores often sell unfinished pottery that can be painted and sealed. See if garden gnomes or other whimsical creatures can be found. Use acrylic paint to decorate the figurines in your favorite colors.

Outdoor games: A large piece of plywood or fiberboard can serve as the game board for a number of different activities.

Use spray paint to stencil on alternating squares of red and black for a larger than life

checkerboard or chess board.For those with more time and creative stamina, use large stones to pain on letters and make an outdoor Scrabble(R) board for fun times with family and friends.

Painted flower pots: If the colors and designs at the local garden center don’t fit with a particular design scheme, buy unfinished terra-cotta or plastic pots and paint them with the designs and colors that coordinate better.

Getting crafty doesn’t have to mean knitting sweaters or decoupage hat boxes. By making items that can be put to use outdoors, families can usher in the spring season a little early and reap the rewards for months to come.

Disney items available.

We look forward to painting with you!

— Anne & Jamie Blake

ST. JOHN NEUMANN REGIONAL CATHOLIC SCHOOL

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Now Accepting Applications

770-381-0557 791 Tom Smith Road • Lilburn, GA 30047 • www.sjnrcs.org

SUMMER CAMPS • BIRTHDAY PARTIES KIDS NIGHT OUT • ADULT NIGHT COUPLES NIGHT • WALK-INS WELCOME Next to 5•6•7•8 Dance 4264 Sudderth Road In Buford

Page 14 • SPRING PARENTING GUIDE • Sunday, March 27, 2011 • Gwinnett Daily Post • gwinnettdailypost.com

678-546-0150

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Safety First When Building Backyard Playground for Kids

Few things are as enjoyable for parents and grandparents as watching their children and grandchildren play. As cherished as such playtime can be, it can quickly turn into a memory adults and children alike would prefer to forget if an injury occurs.

Playground accidents vary in severity. Some produce just a scrape or a scratch, while more drastic accidents can lead to broken bones or even death.

And where those accidents occur might come as a surprise to parents.Ten years ago,a study conducted by the Consumer Product Safety Commission discovered more deaths occurred on backyard playground equipment than on public playgrounds. A 2009 study from the CPSC found that 40 deaths were associated with playground equipment between 2001 to 2008, the majority of which were the result of hangings or asphyxiations.

Naturally, parents aware of such statistics are concerned, particularly those who want to erect a playground for their children on their own property. When building a home playground for children, par-

ents should consider the following factors.

Location, location, location!

A home playground's location is very important. When deciding where to put a playground, consider its accessibility.

Is the playground easily reached should an accident occur? Can children be seen playing from a nearby window? Should an accident occur, is the playground within earshot of the home?

Kids often play on a home playground while their parents are inside, so be sure to locate the playground close enough to the home where you can see and hear your kids from the house, and in a spot that's easy to get to should an accident occur.

Equipment Though most parents would love to build their children a home playground that rivals the nearby amusement park, some equipment has historically proven to be more dangerous than others. A 2009 report from the CPSC indicated that climbers were associated with 23 percent of all playground injuries while swings were associated with 22 percent. When installing equipment, be sure everything is installed in strict adherence to

the manufacturer's instructions.

Surfaces According to the CPSC, 67 percent of playground accidents between 2001 and 2008 involved falls or equipment failure. Most kids are going to fall once or twice when playing on the playground.Parents can plan for such falls and minimize their child's injury risk by installing impact-absorbing surfaces beneath the playground. Such surfaces are the standard at many public playgrounds and can make the difference between a simple fall or one that results in broken bones or a trip to the emergency room.

Inspection Kids often like to play rough, and as a result playgrounds commonly take quite a beating.

Even if equipment was sturdy at installation and was installed to the letter of the manufacturer's instructions, parents should routinely inspect equipment to ensure it's holding up to the wear and tear of children. Ask kids to let you know immediately if anything feels loose or isn't working properly.

For more information, visit the Consumer Product Safety Commission at www.cpsc.gov.

gwinnettdailypost.com •

Things to Consider Before Buying a 3D Television The latest craze in technology appears to be 3D televisions.

Whereas 3D was once a novelty at the movies once or twice a year, nowadays 3D technology is rapidly becoming the norm at home and in the theater.

Select television networks have begun to broadcast in 3D, and consumers appear ready to embrace the next wave of television technology. But is 3D technology worth it for the average consumer? It helps to consider a few things before deciding if 3D should come to your living room any time soon.

Cost Many are aware of the sticker price of 3D televisions, which is still considerably high because of the relative infancy of the technology. However, it’s the cost of the accessories that might be of greater concern. Much like in a movie theater, home 3D viewers will need 3D glasses to watch their television sets.While many manufacturers promise two sets

of glasses with the purchase of a 3D television, others still only provide one pair. But consumers who enjoy hosting viewing parties or having friends over for the big game will need to ensure there are enough sets of glasses so their guests can enjoy the show as well. With glasses going for more than $100 a pair, that can make a 3D television a considerable expense, one that extends beyond the initial sticker price.

Programming While 3D enthusiasts love to hear that 3D programming is on the rise, the current slate of 3D programming is not nearly as extensive as it is for more traditional programming. This might only be a minor consideration, however, as 3D programming figures to grow in the years to come. Sports fans should also know that ESPN currently broadcasts in 3D, which is enough for many sports fans to dive right in.

Gaming Gamers might find 3D television worth it regardless of the cost. 3D gaming brings gamers seemingly right into the game, offering gamers entry into the virtual reality they’ve been yearning for as games have grown more and more advanced. The 3D format figures to be integrated into gaming systems sooner rather than later, with some systems already promising the format is just around the corner.

Viewing Problems Not all viewers can enjoy 3D technology. For example, viewers with astigmatism have found depth perception difficult with 3D televisions. Eye strain might also prove problematic, particularly for those people who must wear glasses when watching television. For that group, it can be difficult or bothersome to watch 3D programming with eyeglasses and the necessary 3D glasses.

Gwinnett Daily Post • Sunday, March 27, 2011 • SPRING PARENTING GUIDE • Page 15

Presented by:

The Easter Bunny arrives at Mall of Georgia The annual hunt for Easter eggs is just around the corner, and the Easter Bunny will be making a special appearance at the Mall of Georgia. The young and young at heart are invited to take part in the mall’s festivities.

Photos with the Easter Bunny: April 9 – April 23, 2011.

Kidgits Korner – Nordstrom Court. Visit www.mallofgeorgia.com for hours and photo package information or call 678-482-8788.

Breakfast with the Easter Bunny: All Kidgits members are invited to enjoy Breakfast with the Easter Bunny catered

by Chick-fil-A on Saturday, April 9, 2011 at 8:30 a.m. in the Food Court! After breakfast, kids will have the opportunity to have their photo taken with the Easter Bunny in Nordstrom Court! Reservations are required for breakfast and can be made by calling Guest Services at 678-482-2365.

Simon Kidgits 6th Annual Easter Egg Hunt: Join us in the Village on April 23, 2011 for our annual Easter Egg Hunt! The hunt for more than 7,000 eggs will begin at 8:30 a.m., and every single egg will have a special treat inside!

For more information about photo package prices and hours of operation, visit www.simon.com.

For more information on the Simon Kidgits Club, visit www.simonkidgitsclub.com.

Special Easter Events fun activities and crafts free goodies for members*

April 9-23 • Photos with the Easter Bunny in Nordstrom Court April 9 • Breakfast with the Easter Bunny* 8:30am in the Food Court. Reservations Required.

Call 678-482-2365 to make a reservation today!

April 23 • Easter Egg Hunt 8:30am in the Village. Hunt for more than 7,000 Easter eggs filled with a special treat!

Not a member? It’s just $5 to join!

Visit Simon Guest Services for details. *While supplies last.

Page 16 • SPRING PARENTING GUIDE • Sunday, March 27, 2011 • Gwinnett Daily Post • gwinnettdailypost.com

Today’s Vaccines – not a shot in the dark!

Parents are often concerned about the health and safety of their children and take many steps to protect them. These preventive measures range from child-proof door latches to child safety seats. In the same respect, vaccines work to safeguard children from vaccine-preventable diseases. Vaccines protect children by preparing their bodies to fight off certain infectious diseases that can cause serious illness, and even death.

Children and adolescents today should be immunized against 17 vaccine-preventable diseases: hepatitis A and B,diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, measles, mumps, rubella, meningitis, pneumonia, polio, chicken pox, seasonal flu, H1N1

(swine) flu, rotavirus, Haemophilus influenza type b (Hib), and human papillomavirus (HPV).

At times it can be overwhelming and scary for parents to sort through all of the information – and misinformation – available on the topic of vaccines. However, it is important to know that immunizations are safe and are designed to protect children at a time when they are most vulnerable to catching the vaccine-preventable diseases listed above. While the number of shots that children receive today is higher than it used to be, vaccines now are better at protecting the body than ever before, and they put less strain on the immune system.

Many of the shots that children receive prevent diseases that many of us have not even heard of – diphtheria, anyone?

This is because widespread vaccination has made these diseases rare in the United States. Unlike our parents and grandparents, we are lucky to live in an era that has benefitted from a widely immunized population. We do not see children that are paralyzed by polio or deaf because of the mumps. However, many diseases, such as pertussis or HPV, are still very real threats to children and adults that have not been fully immunized.

Failure to vaccinate children and keep those immunizations up-to-date through adulthood can allow vaccine-preventable

schedule of all vaccines for children, adolescents, and adults, visit the Centers for Disease Condiseases to make a comeback in trol and Prevention website at the United State through unim- www.cdc.gov/vaccines. This munized people. People travel all website also provides a “catchover the world, and it is possible to pick-up diseases in other counties or from visitors to this country. This is why it is so important that we continue to vaccinate children, even if diseases are rare in the United States. Continued vaccination is what keeps these diseases out of our lives in the United States.

For information on immunizations available through the Gwinnett County Health Departments in Buford, Lawrenceville, or Norcross visit www.gnrhealth.com or call (770) 339-4260.

For additional information on vaccinations or to see a

up” vaccine schedule to move toward full immunity for children who may have fallen behind on shots or for children whose vaccination status is unknown.

FOR HEALTHY LIVES Certificate of Immunizations - Form 3231: All immunizations provided through our health centers will be documented on the required Georgia Form 3231.If your child does not meet Georgia requirements,we can vaccinate your child with the needed immunization.Call the location nearest you for hours of operation (locations are listed below).

Fees start at $14.75 per shot.With proper documentation,out of state immunizations records can be transferred onto the required Georgia Form 3231,at a cost of $4.00 per child.

HEALTH DEPARTMENTS www.gnrhealth.com

Buford Health Center

Norcross Health Center

2755 Sawnee Avenue Buford, GA 30518 770-614-2401

5030 Georgia Belle Court Norcross, GA 30093 770-638-5700

Lawrenceville Health Center

Rockdale Health Center

Newton Health Center

455 Grayson Highway, Suite 300 Lawrenceville, GA 30045 770-339-4283

985 Taylor Street, S.W. Conyers, GA 30012 770-785-4345

8203 Hazelbrand Road Covington, GA 30014 770-786-9086

gwinnettdailypost.com •

Gwinnett Daily Post • Sunday, March 27, 2011 • SPRING PARENTING GUIDE • Page 17

Encouraging Good Hygiene Habits for Tweens health and well-being of a child, it also plays a role in selfesteem.”

Under Armor: Puberty is the first time adolescents have to deal with body odor. Help your tween understand how to control odors by explaining the difference between deodorant, which controls bacteria while adding fragrance, and antiperspirant, which stops or limits sweating. Remind your tween that both deodorant and antiperspirant will help if they put it on before they start sweating, not after.

Skincare 101: Changing hormones typically bring about oilier skin, especially on the nose and forehead. Teach your tween to wash their face once or twice a day with a cleanser and discourage them from picking, as this causes inflammation and scarring.

Lead by Example: Whether they admit it or not, your tween notices your habits.

Set an example by showing that a healthy hygiene routine is important to you too.

1. “Consequences of Dental Caries,” American Academy of Pediatrics. www.aap.org/oralhealth/cme/page7.htm.

Would Vision Therapy Help My Child?

What to Look For: • One eye turning in or out • Headaches, head tilting, closing or blocking one eye when reading • Squinting, eye rubbing or excessive blinking • Blurred or double vision • Short attention span or gets tired when reading

Visit us at the Wellness Expo April 30th 10am - 5pm Discover Mills Mall FREE EYE SCREENINGS

DID YOU KNOW? 60% of students identified as problem learners have undetected vision problems

Nadire Shadeed, OD, FCOVD • Developmental Optometrist 2098 Teron Trace • Suite 800B • Dacula, GA 30019 770.904.0979 • www.visiontherapy4kids.com

Our Focus Is Your Child’s Vision

can be a struggle at this age.

Your child may go in the bathroom for 30 seconds and declare that he or she has brushed. Kids should know that good oral care is just as important as taking a shower, especially if your child has braces.Make the process a little easier and ensure they are brushing for the proper amount of time by keeping a two minute timer in the bathroom. By supplying your tween with products in the flavors (e.g. not-too-spicy, not-toosweet) and cool designs they will like, such as the Crest ProHealth FOR ME Fluoride Anticavity Toothpaste, they might even forget they are doing something healthy and those two minutes will fly!

“Oral health is an important issue particularly for kids in their adolescent years. Tooth decay is still recognized as the most common chronic disease affecting children in the United States.According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, 51 million hours of school are lost each year due to dental-related illness1,” says Dr. Jennifer Salzer, orthodontist, dentist and mother of a tween. “Not only can poor oral hygiene affect the

A VISION THERAPY EXCLUSIVE PRACTICE

With school, sports, friends and hobbies, today’s tweens lead busy and active lives, and sometimes they don’t take the time -- or know -- to practice good hygiene.While discussing proper hygiene with your tween can be difficult, it is possible to address the topic without making him or her feel uncomfortable or self-conscious. One approach parents can take is to appeal to your tweens’ growing maturity by making it clear that these selfcare tasks are their responsibility. Giving your tween the respect and encouragement to make their own choices in these transitional years can help them develop healthy habits for life.

To help empower your tween to take better care of their hygiene, parents can follow these tips: Make it Fun: The tween years are all about finding a unique sense of style. This also applies to cosmetics and accessories. Allow your tween to choose their shampoos, soaps and oral care products. This will encourage them to take interest in their hygiene without you having to ask.

Brace Face: Tooth brushing

Infants • Toddlers • Preschool • Pre K ✔ Open 6am-6:30pm ✔ Hot Home Cooked Family Style Meals

School Aged Summer Camp

Daily Age Appropriate Curriculum

Kids “R” Kids at Sugarloaf

4 TRIPS PER WEEK! Skating, Swimming, Movies & More!

1850 Atkinson Road

770-339-1300

FREE ENROLLMENT PLUS 4th WEEK FREE!

One per family. Not good with any other offer. Must be presented at time of enrollment.

Subject to space availability. FULL TIME ENROLLMENT ONLY. LIMITED TIME OFFER.

Page 18 • SPRING PARENTING GUIDE • Sunday, March 27, 2011 • Gwinnett Daily Post • gwinnettdailypost.com

✔ Low Staff Turnover: (75% of our Led Teachers have been here for 5 years or longer)

Professional Bull Riders Built Ford Tough Series returns to Duluth, GA. The Professional Bull Riders, Inc. (PBR) Built Ford Tough Series returns to The Arena at Gwinnett Center in Duluth, GA. for the Duluth Invitational May 13-14, 2011.

With tickets starting at as little as $10, PBR fans new and old will get to see the world’s toughest athletes,more than two hours of edge-of-your-seat thrills and spills, rock and roll music, and pyrotechnics.

Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased online at Ticketmaster.com, in person at The Arena at Gwinnett Center box office, or by calling 800.745.3000.

About the Professional Bull Riders, Inc. (PBR) The PBR is the world’s pre-

gwinnettdailypost.com •

mier bull riding organization.

More than 100 million viewers annually watch over 400 hours of primetime PBR programming on VERSUS, NBC, CBS and networks around the world. The PBR has awarded over $100 million in prize money and 20 riders have earned over $1 million, including Justin McBride with $5.5 million -- the most of any western-sports athlete in history.

The PBR was nominated as 2010 Sports League of the Year at the Sports Business Journal Sports Business Awards, alongside the National Football League, National Basketball Association and Major League Baseball.

Nearly two million fans attend Built Ford Tough Series and

Touring Pro Division events each year. For more information on the PBR, go to www.pbr.com, or follow on Facebook at facebook.com/TeamPBR and twitter.com/TEAMPBR.

Gwinnett Daily Post • Sunday, March 27, 2011 • SPRING PARENTING GUIDE • Page 19

Spring Not Fun for Allergy Sufferers Many embrace the spring thanks to its warm weather and budding flowers and trees. Those with seasonal allergies, however, may not look so favorably on the new season.

According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation,about 50 million Americans experience spring allergies. Some may have allergies each and every year. Others may find their allergies are newly discovered. The most common allergy triggers in spring include trees, grasses and weeds.

Allergies can evoke a number of symptoms: • Itchy eyes • Sneezing • Congestion • Headaches • Coughing

• Runny Nose • Sore Throat • Shortness of Breath • Hives Several of the symptoms of allergies mimic those of the common cold, and allergies are often mistaken for late winter colds.But as time spent outdoors with flowering plants triggers symptoms or inhalation of dust from spring cleaning induces an attack, the allergy culprit may become more apparent.

Pollen is one of the main contributors to allergies in the spring.

For many people,pollen is seen as an outside invader to the body and its immune system. When pollen is inhaled or comes in contact with the eyes, the immune system triggers a response to get

rid of the foreign substance.

Excess mucous buildup and tears may be generated to wash out the pollen. What all of this fluid can mean is sinus pressure, runny nose, watery eyes, and eventually cough or congestion from fluids running down the breathing passages and into the lungs.

As the body prepares to fend off pollen invaders, other symptoms may occur. Fatigue, aches and pains and other flu-like symptoms may be present. While battling pollen, the immune system is in full swing and may not be able to fully devote attention to other invaders, like bacteria and viruses.

A person with allergies might be more susceptible to sickness.

There really are no cures for common allergies, only methods

to manage the symptoms. Individuals with strong allergies to pollen should avoid spending a lot of time outside when pollen counts are especially high or the wind is blowing pollen around.

Pollen predictions can be obtained through the local weather report or doing a little investigating online.Here are some other steps to limit troublesome springtime allergies.

Take a shower to wash off pollen from hair and skin after coming indoors.

Launder clothes regularly.

Keep windows and doors closed on high pollen days.

Use a HEPA air filter inside of the home.

Do not air-dry clothes, linens or other items outdoors on a clothesline.

Consider using a saline irrigation spray to improve breathing and cleanse the nasal passages of pollen.

Talk with a doctor about the best OTC products available for allergy symptoms. If those are ineffective, prescription medications

Page 20 • SPRING PARENTING GUIDE • Sunday, March 27, 2011 • Gwinnett Daily Post • gwinnettdailypost.com

may work.

Some people find relief from alternative health treatments, such as acupuncture or ear candling.

Being proactive about seasonal allergies can mean getting relief earlier or even preventing serious complications in the spring.

King and Prince Beach & Golf Resort We’re Famous for Family Fun! For over 75 years, The King and Prince Beach & Golf Resort on historic St. Simons Island, Georgia has welcomed families to this relaxed, seaside haven for memorial vacations and sun-splashed getaways!

St. Simons Island was recently recognized as one of “America’s Top Ten Islands” by AOL Travel, is one of only three “top rated” coastal destinations in the U.S. by National Geographic’s “99 Coastal Destinations of the World,” and was named as one of the “Top Ten Islands in North America” by CondÈ Nast Traveler.

The family fun starts with miles of Island beaches where sandcastle building, wave riding and beach games fill the day. And kids love the Resort’s five pools, including one indoors! And there are tennis courts on the grounds, too. Bring your clubs–the award-winning

gwinnettdailypost.com •

King and Prince Golf Course offers special rates for Juniors and fun-filled golf for everyone in the family.

Families love the Resort’s variety of accommodations and settings–all with the option of two queen beds and most offering an ocean view. Need more space? Our two- and three-bedroom Beach Villas have full kitchens with Island grocery stores nearby for families wanting to have foods and snacks on hand. For even large family gatherings, we offer seven private Resort Residences with up to five bedrooms.

Hungry? Families love the Resort’s Paradise Beach Bar & Grill, serving lunch and beverages poolside.

Parents can eat while the kids grab a bite between jumps into the pool! And the oceanfront King’s Tavern Restaurant is casual and family-friendly.

And while Dad the kids are enjoying the pool, beach or golf, the Resort’s Royal Treatment Cottage welcomes mom to the soothing pleasures of therapeutic massage treatments.

St. Simons Island is filled with adventures for the whole family! Explore endless miles of bike paths…climb to the top of a working lighthouse…visit a colonial fort…take an excursion on a shrimp boat …enjoy a kayak tours in search of dolphins…wander the shops of the Island Pier/Village district. And so much more! Just ask our Concierge!

The fun is waiting for your family! For complete Resort information, including viewing room types, virtual tours, special packages, Island information and to make reservations, visit kingandprince.com or call 866-834-3021.

Gwinnett Daily Post • Sunday, March 27, 2011 • SPRING PARENTING GUIDE • Page 21

Understanding Vitamin D Deficiency Spending significant time indoors could lead to a condition with some very negative side effects. Vitamin D has long been called the sunshine vitamin because it is largely produced in the body after absorption of the sun’s rays.

Without exposure to the sun, then it’s very easy for a person to develop vitamin D deficiency, a condition affecting roughly 40 percent of the American public.

Many people understand vitamin D’s role in promoting bone health, helping the body use the calcium consumed for strong bones. Vitamin D has often been linked to rickets, a condition in which bone tissue does not MOBILE HOMES & LOTS FOR SALE Gwinnett, Buford

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Low levels of vitamin D have been associated with various maladies, including cardiovascular disease, an inability to fight certain cancers, cognitive impairment, and increased risk of depression.

Some research also indicates that vitamin D can help prevent or treat a number of conditions, including diabetes.

Low levels of vitamin D may also attribute to schizophrenia and compound skin disorders like psoriasis.

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als who are obese or have a high body fat index are more susceptible to vitamin D deficiency.

Although vitamin D is essential, many people take it for granted. It is virtually impossible to get all of the needed vitamin D through diet alone. Sunlight is the single most effective way to receive the vitamin D the body requires. Furthermore, this way of receiving vitamin D is entirely free.

The trouble with sunlight exposure is that many people spend more time indoors than outside. Furthermore, when outdoors, many are heeding the warnings of dermatologists

and other health experts and lathering on sunblock products. While they protect the skin from harmful UV rays, SPF creams and lotions also inhibit the body’s ability to absorb vitamin D from the sun.

Diagnosing vitamin D deficiency isn’t always easy. Many times doctors mistake it for fibromyalgia, simply because muscle aches, pains and weakness are symptoms of each condition. Doctors can determine vitamin D deficiency through routine blood tests.

Sensible exposure to sunlight, around 15 minutes a day, 2 to 3 times a week could be enough to restore proper vitamin D levels. Otherwise, sup-

plementation is an easy way to also increase vitamin D, primarily for those who are concerned about UV rays.

Individuals who are undergoing a routine physical that includes bloodwork may want to ask their doctors to screen

for vitamin D levels, as well as other essential vitamins. A doctor can determine whether a person is lacking in vitamin D and prescribe a regimen that may include dietary changes, supplementation, or increased exposure to sunlight.

Sufficient, but safe, exposure to sunlight is one way to combat vitamin D deficiency.

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Page 22 • SPRING PARENTING GUIDE • Sunday, March 27, 2011 • Gwinnett Daily Post • gwinnettdailypost.com

Gwinnett Braves Baseball offers Great Family Fun Your Gwinnett Braves offer more than just a game! Gwinnett Braves games are great place to bring the entire family for three hours of action packed fun and entertainment making the

Gwinnett Braves your best entertainment value in town! In addition to affordable ticket prices (starting at just $5!), your Gwinnett Braves experience includes kids inflatables, Chopper the

Chopper’s Kids Club

mascot and much more kidfriendly entertainment that is great for all ages. Plus, children 3 and under do not need a ticket to enter the gates! Gwinnett Braves offer special program including:

All Chopper’s Kids Club Members receive: • 1 free infield box ticket to all 12 G-Braves Sunday Home Games...Sunday game time is at 2:05 and features post-game catch in the outfield!

• Priority pass to be the first in line for Kids Run the Bases every Sunday game • FREE Jump Pass for the Kids Inflatables area valid until the 1st pitch each Sunday game • FREE Kids Club T-Shirt for the 2011 Season • FREE Membership card • End of the year team autograph session • Monthly e-newsletter from Chopper • Exclusive discounts at Coolray Field • Additional events and field trip opportunities throughout the year Only $20 per child to join!

Youth Baseball Camp

The G-Braves Youth Baseball Camp features: • Hands on instruction from Gwinnett braves coaches and players • Camp T-shirt for all participants • Opportunity for player autographs and pictures following the final day of the clinic • Lunch each day for the participants • 2 Field Box tickets for the June 23rd home game vs Syracuse Chiefs (seating on a first come first served basis and subject to availability) • As a special opportunity, camp participants will get to take the field with the Gwinnett Players for the National Anthem prior to the game on the 23rd!

Only $100 per child. Space is limited so register early to guarantee your spot.

Don’t miss any of the fun – visit gwinnettbraves.com for more great family events!

Or call 678-277-0300 for more information.

gwinnettdailypost.com •

Gwinnett Daily Post • Sunday, March 27, 2011 • SPRING PARENTING GUIDE • Page 23

All New Children’s Exhibition, Fernbank NatureQuest, Offers Sophisticated and Fun Environment for Learning at Fernbank Museum After more than four years in the making, the adventure has begun at Fernbank Museum of Natural History’s all-new $8 million permanent children’s exhibition, Fernbank NatureQuest.

Fernbank NatureQuest offers the museum’s youngest visitors 7,000 square feet of adventure, exploration, immersive habitats, live animals, interactive encounters, learning and fun. This sophisticated exhibition is a different kind of museum experience, where children and their families will be engaged through over 100 interactive encounters on an exploration of a unique natureinspired environment filled with hands-on learning, the inspiration to discover, and the thrill of following curiosity’s path.

Get ready to explore the nooks and crannies of a multilevel clubhouse. Shimmy up spiraling netting to discover the insides of a mighty red oak tree.

Walk through a virtual waterfall to investigate the caves and live animals behind it. Splash across a virtual river and see how the fish scatter. Pilot a sunken shrimp boat to the depths of the sea to witness the ocean’s most mysterious inhabitants. Test your archaeology skills as you explore excavation tools and piece together pottery fragments. Journey into a swamp to explore alligators, the root maze of a cypress tree and more.

Everywhere visitors go, there’s something to see,do,experience,

learn and enjoy!

Fernbank NatureQuest appeals to children’s quest for discovery and engages all the senses to immerse visitors in the sights, sounds and feel of the natural world. The end result is a unique exhibition with many layers of content and activities for young children of all learning levels, as well as their families. As they explore the habitats of Georgia, what might seem like play is actually a rich, educational experience filled with lots of fun.

Museum members get unlimited museum visits, including the permanent Fernbank NatureQuest exhibition and the current special exhibi-

tion Mythic Creatures: Dragons, Unicorns & Mermaids.

Annual family memberships begin at only $95.

Fernbank Museum is located at 767 Clifton Road, NE in Atlanta.

For more information, visit fernbankmuseum.org/naturequest or call 404.929.6300.

Page 24 • SPRING PARENTING GUIDE • Sunday, March 27, 2011 • Gwinnett Daily Post • gwinnettdailypost.com