Family & Kids Bayou Region February 2015

FEBRUARY 2015

Wise Choices for Moms & Families

BAYOU REGION

ver Sponsor Co

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Discover Our Unique Educational Environment

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Wise Choices for You & Your Family

Children’s Clothing Girls: Pre-16 Boys: Pre-4

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Locations

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HOO’s HEALTHY

Study Shows Vapor Rubs Really Work There was a great article published recently in the online journal of Pediatrics titled, “Vapor Rub, Petrolatum, or No Treatment for Nocturnal Cough?” Having been a fan of both Vick’s Vapor Rub and Mentholatum since childhood, I knew it was a must read! You can ask all of my family members: Once we hit cough and cold season, the “vapor rub” jar goes next to my bed to help me during my frequent colds.

I have such fond memories of being with my grandmother, Gaga, who at the first sign of a cold, would rub Vicks all over my chest, which was then occluded by a warm damp dish towel, followed by my flannel nightgown.She would lovingly tuck me into bed and shut the door. The whole room smelled like camphor and menthol.

To me it was wonderful, though my brother hated it. As I grew older, when Mom heard me sniffle or blow my nose, down the hall she’d come with the trusty Vick’s jar.

Once I became a mother, following family tradition, I too would rub a little Vick’s on my children’s chests when they caught a cold. They all seemed to get better.Two of my children grew to despise this routine, while one still asks for Vick’s or Mentholatum when he gets a cold. There are old jars all over the house. I even bought several of the “plug ins” to use during cold season -- the new-fangled way to get that wonderful aroma into the room.

With that history, what could be better than a study from Penn State University looking at the use of vapor rub (VR) to improve cold symptoms and nighttime cough. In light of the new FDA guidelines limiting the use of over-

The

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Kids

Doctor

Sue Hubbard, MD kidsdr.com

the-counter cough and cold products in young children, many parents are at a loss as to how to ease a child’s cold symptoms.The investigators looked at 138 children between ages 2 and 11.

They were randomized to receive vapor rub, petrolatum alone or no therapy. Parents were then asked to grade their child’s symptoms and sleep on Day 1, when none of the children received therapy, then again on Day 2, when they were randomized to therapy. The VR group scored best in improving cough, congestion and overall sleep for the children (and therefore their parents).

This is the first evidence-based therapeutic trial I’m aware of, for a remedy over a century old. As noted in the article, there were some irritant effects seen in the VR group with complaints of a stinging sensation to eyes, nose and or skin (I can hear my own children saying, “It’s stingy!”).

Despite older concerns about camphor when it was used as an oil that could cause possible toxicity if swallowed, skin exposure alone really has little systemic effect. The FDA has approved camphor as an effective anti-cough preparation (anti-tusssive), but has limited concentrations to 11 percent.The concentration in VR is 4.8 percent.

So, if parents are trying to improve nighttime cough and sleep disturbance in their children over age 2, there’s a study to show it’s time to go back to vapor rub preparations. The mechanism for improved sleep is not really known, but whether it improves cold symptoms directly or through the aromatic effects, a better night’s sleep is good for everyone.

Wise Choices for You & Your Family

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Tammy Usie Publisher

sDigest.com

Sales@FamilyandKid

253-212-7270 Cell

Dear Parents of Terrebonne & Lafourche Parishes, I am pleased to bring you a NEW and IMPROVED “Family & Kids” magazine. It is now more than just a shopping guide! You will still find lots of helpful choices on products and services for you and your family, but now you can also enjoy the informative articles, handy resources and fun features too!

Our private school, preschool and daycare parents will get it home with their kids through school. And others can pick them up around town at grocery stores, restaurants, and doctor’s offices. PLUS you can now read it online through our new website at www.FamilyAndKidsDigest.com. The website features an interactive shopping directory by categories that you can compare and even write reviews. We hope to grow the listings in time. I am excited about all these improvements and hope you are too!

AD DEADLINES

March Issue: Feb 6 and April Issue: March 2

Tammy Usie

HOO KNOWS SPECIAL SECTIONS Hoo’s crafty.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 21

HOO’S Inspired.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 12

HOO’S Fun.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 13

Hoo’s Learning.. . . . . . . . . . . . page 29 & 30

HOO’S healthy.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 2

Hoo’s Parenting.. . . . . . . . . . . . . page 7 & 9

HOO’S Helpful.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 25

Hoo’s Tips.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 20 & 22

HOO KNOWS® Community Digest does not assume responsibility for products and services listed in this magazine. Ads may not be reproduced, in any way, without written consent. HOO KNOWS® is a trademark of Cinah Media Group LLC. For information on operating your own digest, contact us at 1-888-HOO-5609.

Where to Find HOO? Check your local kid-friendly doctors, dentists, attractions, retail shops and restaurants. Plus grocery stores, coffee shops, and many more places of business in Terrebonne and Lafourche Parishes.

Plus read out digital edition at:

www.familyandkidsdigest.com Find us on Facebook

Family & Kids Bayou Region

www.FamilyAndKidsDigest.com

NEW YEAR

NEW LOOK

NEW WEBSITE www.FamilyAndKidsDigest.com

We have a new publisher, a new format and a new mission... ...to make this magazine a more useful local parenting resource.

It will become your GO-TO GUIDE for the area’s kid-friendly products, services, and things to do; along with with helpful tips and fun parenting content. Don’t take our word for it, check out all the new features in this issue! We will also have seasonal sections on schools, summer camps, back to school and more.

PLUS our new website features a digital edition of the magazine and soon, an online shopping guide where you can read and write reviews on local kid-friendly businesses and an events calendar.

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Wise Choices for You & Your Family

SHOPPING GUIDE Activities Brushworks Art & Music..................... 25 Alstarz Cheerleading Academy.........18 Bayou Country Children’s Museum..13 Bricks 4 Kids........................................... 24 Evolution Training................................... 9 Extreme Cheernastics.............................8 Greenwood Gator Farm & Tours.......... 9 Insta-Gator Ranch & Hatchery........... 20 James Academy of Gymnastics.........18 LA Sports Gym...........................................8 La Tea Da Party Palace..........................21 Martial Arts Studio................................ 24 STAGE Performing Arts School......... 20

TELL THEM

Beauty/ Spa

SENT YOU! Plexis Slim..................................................8

healthcare Flynn Clinic of Chiropractic................13 Pelican Medical Supply......................... 9

party Bayouland Inflatables............................10 Bounce N Around Inflatables............. 23

Shopping/ Retail Belle La Vie...............................................13 Felger’s Foot Wear..................................10 Lynn’s Little Feet.....................................13 Petit Nouveau Consignment...............10 Southland Mall....................................... 32 Lil’ Sweet Pea’s Boutique........................2

Childcare/ education GDC Young Learners/ Merry Oaks.... 28 Messiah Montessori School............... 29 St. Bernadette Catholic ....................... 28 St. Francis De Sales Catholic ............ 28 St. Genevieve Catholic.......................... 30

TELL THEM

SENT YOU!

www.FamilyAndKidsDigest.com

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HOO’s PARENTING Children who spend most of their time ‘plugged in’ to video games, TV, or tablets may not get enough exercise, and that includes exercise of the mind, body, and spirit. Here are some tips on how to create fun, electronic-free play areas that give kids a chance to use their creativity, refine motor skills, and improve social skills.

Start by communicating to your kids how much ‘plugged in’ time a day you will allow. If your kids have trouble reducing the time they are plugged in, you may need to completely take away access for awhile.

You don’t have to purchase expensive toys to keep your kids busy during their ‘unplugged’ time.

Simple traditional toys, like building blocks, that give kids an opportunity to use their creativity can provide hours of entertainment. When your kids want something new to play with, look around your house to see if you have something that can be turned into a simple toy. Organize your toys by

•

985-580-9746

UN PLUGGING

category (dolls, role playing, art supplies, science learning toys, etc). When your child gets tired of one type of toy, she can put it away in its designated place and move on to the next activity without asking you to find her something new to do.

Electronic-free outdoor play keeps your kids physically fit and improves their motor skills. Set up a play area with a soccer goal or a basketball net. Show your family that you consider exercise important by spending time with your kids outdoors. The time you spend playing catch, helping your kids plant a garden, or taking a walk with your family will not only keep your family fit but will also build treasured memories.

Wise Choices for You & Your Family

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HOO’s HUNGRY

COOL WHIP

COOKIES by yummyhealthyeasy.com

Delicious enough for your Valentine and so easy to make!

DIRECTIONS Beat together Cool Whip and eggs in a medium sized bowl. Add the cake mix and stir together. Dough will be thick and sticky. Chill in refrigerator for 30 minutes.

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Spray a cookie sheet with cooking spray or use parchment paper.

Pour about 1/3 cup of powdered sugar into a small bowl.

Drop chilled dough by tablespoon (I used a cookie scoop) into powdered sugar and roll dough around until covered and place on cookie sheet. Bake for about 9-12 minutes.

Bake time depends on size of cookies so keep checking to see if cooked! Cool on baking rack and then ENJOY!!

INGREDIENTS • 1 (18.25-oz) box strawberry cake mix • 1 (8-oz) container Cool Whip (Lite is OK) • 2 eggs • powdered sugar, for rolling

www.FamilyAndKidsDigest.com

HOO’s PARENTING

STRONG EMOTIONS It can be an unpleasant surprise to hear your preschooler or elementary age child make strong emotional statements, such as ‘I hate you!’, that you thought you would not have to hear until the preteen years. Here are some tips on how to interpret such strong expressions of emotion and the best way to react to them

Don’t take these expressions literally or personally.

Yes, it does hurt to hear the words ‘I hate you!’ or ‘Go away!’ come from your young child. However, keep in mind that kids this age may have difficulty finding the exact words to express their emotions, and what she is really trying to say is ‘I’m frustrated you won’t let me have what I want’. Most likely she picked up the word ‘hate’ from hearing others use it in another context, like ‘I hate homework’ and is now using it to express how unhappy she is. It is the school-age version of the toddler temper tantrum.

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It is your job to react properly to such strong displays of emotion. Even though you may feel hurt, take a deep breath and try not to show that you are upset.

Your child is attempting to ‘push your buttons’ and get a reaction from you to help validate that, yes, what she is upset about is a big deal.

Instead, let your child know you are willing to listen to her explain what is upsetting her, and help her find the correct words to express her emotion.

For example, you could say, ‘It sounds like you are frustrated. I’m sorry to hear you are upset but we have to leave the park now.’

Once your child has calmed down, let her know that using mean words, like ‘hate’ or ‘go away’, is not acceptable and instead say something more polite, like ‘I am angry’ or ‘ I want alone time please.’

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Wise Choices for You & Your Family

starting in march Issue

Camp & Activities Guide 20 1 5

Dining Deals

www.FamilyAndKidsDigest.com

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With deals this good, save the mess and dine out!

MONDAY Cajun Critters. 1029 W Tunnel Blvd, Houma. Kids eat free from kid’s menu. Balloon art and face painting.

El Cajuns La Mex. 4560 Hwy 1 Raceland. 5-9pm.

Kids 12 and under eat for $0.99.

El Paso Mexican Grill. 602 N Canal Blvd Thibodaux.

Kids10 and under. Free kid’s meal with adult entree.

Face painting.

La Casa Del Sol. 141 Westover Rd. Thibodaux.

5-8pm. Kid’s meals $2.99 for12 and under. Face painting.

La Palma Mexican Restaurant. 710 Saint Mary St. Thibodaux. Kids 8 and under. Free kid’s meal with adult entrée.

Santa Fe Cattle Company. 632 Canal Blvd. Thibodaux. Kids 12 and under. Free kid’s meal with adult entrée.

Tuesday AppleBees.1039 W Tunnel Blvd, Houma. Kids eat free from kids menu from 3-9pm (1 kid per adult).

Chick-fil-A. 1741 MLK Blvd, Houma. Free 4 count kid’s meal with any meal purchase from 5-8pm. First Tuesday of each month is Kid’s Craft Night also from 5-8pm.

Santa Fe Cattle Company. 632 Canal Blvd. Thibodaux. Kids 12 and under. Free kid’s meal with adult entrée.

Golden Corral.1724 MLK Blvd, Houma. Free balloon art and face painting

wednesday Big Mikes BBQ. 3034 Barrow St. From 4pm to close.

Kid’s meals $.99.

El Paso Mexican Grill. 4560 Louisiana 1, Raceland.

6-8pm. Free balloon art and face painting.

thursday Dynasty Buffet. 6425 West Park Ave, Houma. Kids 3-6 eat free. Free balloon art and face painting.

everyday Bare Essentials Café. 6224 W Park Ave, Houma.

Kids 12 and under. Free kid’s mini wrap or Ryley special (a small plate of healthy items such as vegetables, fruits and eggs) per adult entree.

Dave’s Cajun Kitchen. 6240 West Main, Houma. Kids 10 get kid’s meal for $.99 with a purchase of a drink.

Dinner only.

El Cajuns La Mex. 4560 Hwy 1 Raceland, LA 70394.

5-9pm. Kids 12 and under eat for $0.99.

La Casa Del Sol. 4647 Louisiana 1 Raceland. Every other Tuesday night, kids 11 and under eat for $2.99.

Face painting.

Pepper’s Pizza. 600 W 3rd St. Thibodaux. Kids 12 and under get $1.99 pizza and free ice cream.

Specials are subject to change without notice. Please verify them directly before dining.

“Family & Kids” accepts no liability. If you know of a kids special not listed here, contact Sales@ FamilyAndKidsDigest.com with the details.

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Wise Choices for You & Your Family

HOO’s INSPIRED

Marriage Myth Busters There are many pieces of marriage advice and ideas about how marriage should work that are actually myths and may be harmful to your marriage. Here are some of the most common ones and why they are closer to fiction than fact.

If I find ‘The Right One’, we won’t have to work hard to make our marriage work. Everything will just fall into place.

The idea of that finding the ‘right one’ will lead to a perfect, trouble-free marriage is not very realistic.

Your spouse can’t read your mind, so you can’t expect him to somehow always know what you need or what makes you happy. In reality, it takes work to communicate our needs and ideas and to listen to those of our spouse. Also, expecting the ‘right one’ to make you feel fulfilled and happy may only lead to disappointment. Your spouse can help compliment feeling emotionally fulfilled and happy, but only after you have first found fulfillment and happiness from within yourself.

Having differences is not good and will mean we won’t get along well.

During the dating and honeymoon phase, you may have ignored any differences between you and your spouse out of fear that discussing them would make you appear incompatible. After the honeymoon, those differences can start to surface.

However, having a different view or opinion does not mean that your marriage is doomed to fail. It is not having differences in itself that may drive you apart. Instead, what may harm your relationship is not handling your differences in opinion in the

Balancing the Spine and Pelvis by “ADJUSTMENTS”

Holisitc Health Medical Center 985-223-3811

567 Corporate Dr. Houma www.drmikeflynn.com

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Fellow of the International College of Chiropractors

right way. Take time to listen to your spouse’s ideas and opinions, and ask for an explanation when you are not sure you understand his point of view.

Immediately dismissing his idea because it does not agree with yours means you have lost out on a great opportunity to connect with your spouse.

Couples with happy marriages never argue.

This myth is also based on unrealistic expectations.

You and your spouse are two separate individuals and each of you have a unique personality, with needs and wants that sometimes conflict with that of the other person. It is how the disagreement is approached and resolved that makes the distinction between a healthy marriage and an unhealthy marriage. In a healthy marriage, issues are not buried in fear of causing an argument or, when an argument does occur, fought over in a hostile showdown where one person seeks to control the other. Instead, the issue is addressed in a constructive manner and both spouses are committed to adhering to the agreed- on compromise or resolution.

Getting married means feeling of passion and intimacy will decrease.

Getting married does not mean that you are doomed to lose all sense of romance. Maintaining your physically intimate relationship with your spouse does take work, though. You have to set aside time to connect emotionally with your spouse and strengthen your relationship. Make room in your schedule for date nights and time alone with your spouse.

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We have Stride Rite!

Saucony Dance/Gym Wear Dance Shoes Gifts, Bows, and lots more!

Gifts for every Occasion!

311 North Canal Blvd Thibodaux (Behind Cane’s)

Like Us!

Jokin’ Around

What do you call two birds in love?

Tweethearts!

What do farmers give their wives on Valentine’s Day? Hogs and Kisses!

What did the lightbulb say to the other light bulb?

I love you a-watt!

What did one magnet say to another?

I find you very attractive!

HOO’s FUN

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Wise Choices for You & Your Family

You’re Home for The

Morning Ride with

Charles Sagona Monday Thru Friday 6am to 10am

www.FamilyAndKidsDigest.com

HOO’S at the Movies

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Seventh Son Rated PG-13 for violence, frightening images and brief language | Ok for kids 14+

In a time of enchantments when legends and magic collide, the sole remaining warrior of a mystical order (Oscar winner Jeff Bridges, putting his gnarly voice to good use) travels to find a prophesized hero born with incredible powers, the last Seventh Son (Ben Barnes). Torn from his quiet life as a farmhand, the unlikely hero embarks on a daring adventure with his battle-worn mentor to vanquish a dark queen (Julianne Moore) and her army of supernatural assassins. Based on the book “The Spook’s Apprentice” by Joseph Delaney.

Kingsman: The secret service PG-13 | Ok for kids 12+

Based on the acclaimed comic book and directed by Matthew Vaughn (“X-Men: First Class”), this movie tells the story of a secret spy organization that recruits an unrefined but promising street kid into the agency’s competitive training program just as a global threat emerges from a twisted tech genius. Samuel L. Jackson, Michael Caine, Colin Firth and Taron Egerton star in this action-thriller, which features a new track from Iggy Azalea and Ellie Goulding.

mcFarland, USA Rated PG for thematic material, some violence and language | Ok for kids 9+

Inspired by the 1987 true story, this movie follows novice runners from the economically challenged town of McFarland in California’s farm-rich Central Valley, as they give their all to build a cross-country team under the direction of Coach Jim White (Kevin Costner), a newcomer to their predominantly Latino high school. With grit and determination, the unlikely band of runners eventually overcome the odds to forge not only a championship cross-country team, but an enduring legacy as well. Along the way, Coach White realizes that his family finally found a place to call home. A sweet and similar follow-up to Disney’s “Million Dollar Arm.”

Jupiter ascending PG-13 for some violence, suggestive content and partial nudity | Ok for kids 13+

Jupiter Jones (Mila Kunis) was born under a night sky, with signs predicting a great destiny. Now grown, Jupiter dreams of the stars, but wakes up to the cold reality of a job cleaning other people’s houses and an endless run of bad breaks. Only when Caine (Channing Tatum), a genetically engineered ex-military hunter, arrives on Earth to track her down does Jupiter begin to see the truth. Her genetic signature marks her as next in line for an extraordinary inheritance that could alter the balance of the cosmos. This original sci-fi -- and epic! -- adventure is written, produced and directed by Lana and Andy Wachowski.

The Duff PG-13 for some language and sexual content | Ok for kids 13+

Bianca (Mae Whitman) is a high school senior whose world is shattered when she learns the student body knows her as “The DUFF” (Designated Ugly Fat Friend) to her prettier, more popular friends (Skyler Samuels and Bianca Santos). Despite words of caution from her favorite teacher (Ken Jeong), she puts aside the potential distraction of her crush, Toby (Nick Eversman), and enlists Wesley (Robbie Amell), a slick but charming jock, to help reinvent herself. Bianca must find the confidence to overthrow the school’s ruthless label maker Madison (Bella Thorne) and remind everyone that we are all someone’s DUFF.

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February

4 Crafternoons at the Terrebonne 13 Open Gym at Alstar Cheer. 630Parish Main Library. 4pm. PreK-6th.

Mardi Gras Shoe Box Floats (provide your own shoe box). RSVP required.

9pm. $10. 13347 W Main St, Larose.

985-693-7109.

5

To Train Your Dragon 2 at the Terrebonne Parish Main Library. 3pm.

Drinks and snacks provided.

Mardi Gras Hat Contest at Lafourche Parish Main Library.

5:30pm. Bring in your in your homemade Mardi Gras hat for the fashion show. Prizes to the top 3.

7 Lego Robotics at the Terrebonne

Parish Main Library. 11am. 2nd-3rd Grades and 3pm for 4th-7th grade.

RSVP required.

7 Family Craft at Lafourche Parish Main Library. Mardi Gras-themed painting.

11 Crafternoons at the Terrebonne

Parish Main Library. 4:30pm.

PreK-K. I Love You to Pieces Puzzle.

RSVP Required.

12 Tween and Teen Craft at La-

fourche Parish Main Library. Ages 9 -18. Lollipop flower Valentine’s bouquet.

12 Creative Writing Teen Work-

shop at Terrebonne Parish Main Library. 6:30pm. Emphasizes the literary craft, peer review process and revisions.

14 Family Movie Matinee: How

games, and more. 1-5pm. $25 per child. RSVP at 985-446-2200.

20

Lego Mania at Lafourche Parish Main Library. 4pm. Ages 4-13. Lego builds, lego craft and movie.

20 Bricks 4 Kidz Master Build-

Country Children’s Museum. Dental & Heart Health Camp: Learn about dental and heart health from doctors in our community, plus crafts, games, and activities. 1-5pm. $25 per child. RSVP at 985-446-2200.

er Contest. 1-3pm. Ages 5-12. Cost $25. Create a masterpiece from a random selection of Lego® bricks.

Winner will receive a week-long summer camp of choice. All take home a minifigure. Register at 985872-2772 or Bricks4kidz.com/houma. 488 Corporate Blvd, Houma.

20 Open Gym at Alstar Cheer.

630-9pm. $10. 13347 W Main St, Larose. 985-693-7109.

19 Mardi Gras Camp at Bayou

21 Lego Club at the Terrebonne

18 Crafternoons at the Terrebonne

Parish Main Library. 4pm. PreK-6th.

Show Way Quilt. RSVP Required.

18 Mardi Gras Camp at the Bayou

Country Children’s Museum. Chinese New Year: Learn about Chinese New Year by playing games, doing crafts, and activities. 1-5pm. $25 per child. RSVP at 985-446-2200.

20 Mardi Gras Camp at Bayou Country Children’s Museum. Love your Pet Day: Learn about pets from a local veterinarian, plus crafts,

Parish Main Library. 11am for PreK1st grade and 3pm for 2nd-6th grade.

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Free CrossFit Kids Class at CrossFit Houma. 4-4:45pm. Kids ages 6-12 learn new athletic skills, and finish with a game. 1437 St. Charles St, Ste 101. 985-381-5231.

y Events 25 Lafourche Parish Half day

of school Camp at Bayou Country Children’s Museum. Forensic Fun: Learn about the science of Forensics from a retired detective and solve a mystery at the museum.

1-5pm. Cost $25 per child. RSVP at 985-446-2200.

25 Teen Craft at Terrebonne Par-

ish Main Library. 4pm. Mardi Gras Bead Fleur de Lis Mosaics. RSVP required.

TUESDAY Baby Garden at the Terrebonne Parish Main Library. 10am for newborns-18mon, and family storytime at 6pm for 4-8yrs.

Board Game night at the Lafourche Parish Main Library. 5pm.

WEDNESDAY Storytime at the Lafourche Parish Main Library. 10:30am. Ages 3-10.

Ends with a craft.

27 Kidz Night Out at Bricks 4 Kidz. 6-9pm. Ages 5-12. Cost $25 for one, $15 additional sibling.

Games, building challenges, computer games, video games, creative play. Includes supper. Register at 985-872-2772 or bricks4kidz. com/houma. 488 Corporate Blvd, Houma.

THURSDAY Laptime at the Lafourche Parish Main Library. 10:30am. Ages 2 and under. Interactive storytime.

27&28 Cheer Tryout Work-

FRIDAY Toddler Fun Day at LA Sports Gym. 9am-12pm. $7 for interactive play with parent. 544 Hollywood Rd, Houma. 985-580-9746.

shop at Alstar Cheer. Time and fees TBA. 13347 W Main St, Larose. 985693-7109.

28 How to draw MANGA work-

shop for teens. Terrebonne Parish Main Library. 3pm.

MONDAY Toddler Time at the Terrebonne Parish Main Branch Library. 10am and 6pm for 19mon-3yrs.

Board Game Night at Terrebonne Parish Main Library at 4pm. Bring your own or play one of ours. All ages welcome.

Friday Fun Night at LA Sports Gym. 6:30-9pm. $10. Snacks Additional.

544 Hollywood Rd, Houma. 985580-9746.

JAG Open Gym. 7-9pm. $7 for members, $10 for non members.

Ages 5 and up. Adult must accompany. 308 Venture Blvd, Houma.

985-851-3001.

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Build and Grow Clinic at Lowe’s on MLK, Houma. 10am. Free. Register online at lowes.com/buildandgrow. 985-223-7575.

Kid’s Workshop at Home Depot on MLK, Houma. 9am-12pm for ages 5-12 with parent. Free. Register at homedepot.com/workshops/ kids-workshops. 985-223-1485.

JAG Open Gym. 7-9pm. $7 for members, $10 for non members. Ages 5 and up. Adult must accompany.

308 Venture Blvd, Houma. 985851-3001.

SUNDAY Cheer tryout clinic at LA Sports Gym. 6-8pm. $25. RSVP at 985580-9746. 544 S Hollywood Rd, Houma.

LIBRAR Y ACTIVITIES For complete list of activites at all branches, visit:

Terrebonne Parish

http://mytpl.evanced.info/ signup/EventCalendar.aspx

Lafourche Parish

http://lafourche.evanced. info/msignup/#

SATURDAY Kid’s Club at Michael’s on MLK, Houma. 10am-12pm. $2 for craft. Adult must accompany. 985-872-3132.

Please call ahead to confirm event dates, times and age appropriateness, in case changes were made after the info was obtained. “Family & Kids” is not liable.

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Wise Choices for You & Your Family

WIN 4 Free game Tickets 4 Meet & Greet Passes 1 Autographed Ball Feb 22 - 3Pm smoothie king center Tickets through Ticketmaster Drawing held Feb. 18

Click CONTEST at www.FamilyAndKidsDigest.com to ENTER

www.HooKnowsTheValley.com www.FamilyAndKidsDigest.com

A Page In A Book Recommending the Best Books

for Children and Teens By Paige Gardner Smith

Books of A Feather

Found in almost every environment around the world, birds soar through the sky, plumb depths and nest right under our noses. With their plucky attitudes and posh plumage, our avian friends give wing to our imagination. The following titles feature our feathered friends in situations that will delight, inform and inspire young readers to their own flights of fancy!

Peggy

By Anna Walker (Clarion/Houghton Mifflin)

Peggy is a beautiful black hen who’s right at home in the country. She has a cozy house, her own trampoline and pigeon friends to keep her company. But when a big gust of wind plunks her down in the big city, it’s up to Peggy to follow clues that might lead her home. Children will instantly connect with Peggy’s perspective as she is rendered small amidst a much bigger world. With dryly humorous insets, this picture book celebrates both the charm of adventure and the comforts of home.

Spring Catalog & Instruction Manual

By Kate Samworth (Clarion/ Houghton Mifflin)

Styled along the lines of vintage mail order catalogs, Aviary Wonders Inc. is a visionary company for discerning bird builders that provides everything you need to craft your own avian wonder.

From feathers and feet to beaks and bodies, every part of the bird is featured with instructions to guide design and assembly. The marvelous artwork is the highlight of this imaginary offering as it subtly educates readers on all the physical aspects of birds that make them unique. Young birdwatchers will love plucking out the real facts hidden in this artistic feast of fowl.

Penguin in Peril

By Helen Hancocks (Templar/ Candlewick)

Kidnapped from the zoo, what’s a penguin to do when he’s on the run from three hungry cats? Escaping from his abductors and trying to hide all-the-while navigating a strange landscape is challenging for this penguin whose future looks black…and white.

Seeking natural camouflage on the run, our penguin seeks refuge among nuns, black-tie waiters, and white-collared commuters as he tries to find the zoo. Young readers will delight as they follow one cool-headed penguin and his inept feline followers on a wild ramble across the city.

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Wise Choices for You & Your Family

HOO’S PLUGGED IN WWW.familyandkidsdigest.COM

Hoo’s Tips

Insulate to Save If your energy bill has been high so far this winter, your attic may not be insulated properly.

Add insulation to your attic. If you don’t have enough insulation in your attic or your attic is not insulated at all, heat will escape through the ceilings and the roof of your home. This means that even if you have already installed a programmable thermostat and are doing a good job of keeping it at about 68 degrees F during the day, your heating system will have to still work hard to replace the lost energy. One sign that you don’t have enough insulation is drafty rooms that never seem to be the same temperature as other rooms in the house.

Adding insulation is a moderately difficult project that you could do yourself or could hire a contractor to complete. However, before you start, make sure that all air leaks in the attic have been sealed up, as they will only undermine your effort. If you have insulation there already,

inspect it to make sure it is not compressed or water-damaged. Compressed and waterdamaged insulation will not longer do its job and will need to be replaced. Measure the area that needs to be insulated and also measure the depth of any current insulation that is not damaged and will be left in place.

Next, decide if you want to use the batts of insulation that comes in rolls or would like install the blown or sprayed insulation. Installing batts can be done manually but sprayed or blown insulation required special machines. In our area, the insulation in your attic should have an R value of 30 to 60.

Online resources may be used to calculate how much insulation you need to add, based on the depth of the existing insulation. Use a mask when handling fiberglass insulation. You will need to insulate lighting fixtures to keep the insulation from touching them.

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HOO’s CRAFTY

UPCYCLED HEART

CRAYONS

These will make a nice Valentine’s Day favor and now you have something to do with all those broken crayons. These are great for little hands too.

DIRECTIONS Use a baking pan, preferably heart shaped and silicone, that you an dedicate for crayons. You won’t want to place food in it again. Any shape would work though. Cut up crayons into small pieces if they aren’t already. Place an amount in each cup. Bake at 230 degrees for about 15-20 minutes (will vary by oven). Experiment with color combinations. Courtesy of princesspinkygirl.com

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HOO’s tips

Oral Care Tips For Young Kids Caring for the teeth of your child begins early, even before your baby is born. The tooth buds for both the primary (baby) teeth and the permanent teeth are formed during pregnancy.

The tooth development continues after birth and the first teeth appear at the age of about six months. Good oral hygiene from the start reduces the risk of cavities and dental problems later. Here are a few dental care tips that can help keep your young child’s smile healthy.

During pregnancy: Keep your routine dental appointments to ensure you stay cavity free and don’t develop gum infections like gingivitis.

If you leave an oral infection untreated, you could pass the cavity-causing bacteria to your newborn baby. Also, eat a healthy, balanced diet to ensure your unborn baby’s teeth will form properly.

Newborns - 6 months: Keep your newborn free of cavity- causing bacteria by continuing to keep your routine dental appointments. If you do develop an oral infection, make an appointment to see your dentist and follow any treatment plans provided by your dentist. Cavity-causing bacteria can be easily spread to your newborn by kissing and even by your baby putting his hand in your mouth. Keep bacteria from building up on your newborn’s gums by gently cleaning then twice a day with a wet cloth.

6 Months - 12 Months: Once your baby’s teeth start appearing, it is time to start brushing with a toothbrush with a small head at least twice a day. Ask your baby’s pediatrician to recommend the right toothpaste for your baby. To protect newly erupted teeth from decay, never put your baby to bed with a bottle of formula or juice. At this point, it is also time to start searching for

a pediatric dentist. Ask your baby’s pediatrician for references. You may want to schedule an appointment to meet the dentist and view the office before scheduling your baby’s first visit.

1 - 3 years: Your baby should have his first visit to the pediatric or family dentist at about the age of 12 months. Your baby may only have a few primary teeth at this point, but taking care of those teeth is very important. Primary teeth help maintain proper spacing needed for the permanent teeth. If primary teeth are lost early due to cavities, this can result in expensive treatments being needed later. At this visit, the dentist may apply a fluoride varnish to help protect your child’s teeth. After his first visit, your child will need to return every six months for routine visits, during which the fluoride treatment is repeated.

Keep brushing your child’s teeth for him at least twice a day. During the toddler stage, your child may turn tooth brushing into a battle.

Try downloading a fun app, song, or video to distract him while you are brushing his teeth.

3- 6 years: By the age of 3 years, all 20 baby teeth (10 on the top and 10 on the bottom) should have appeared. At this age, your child may request to brush his own teeth. Negotiate a deal with him and agree to let him brush his own teeth if he lets you ‘check’ his work by brushing them again. Supervise him while he brushes his teeth and show him proper technique for brushing. He should brush at least twice a day.

If your child can brush without swallowing the toothpaste, he is ready to start brushing with a pea-size amount of fluoride toothpaste.

Continue to take your child for routine dental visits every six months.

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Wise Choices for You & Your Family

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NEW YEARS SPECIAL! KIDS MARTIAL ARTS

Parents are shocked by the improved grades, behavior, and focus our program gives kids.

If you thought martial arts was only about kicking and punching, get ready to be blown away. Self-defense is only the beginning of what our program offers.

NEW YEARS SPECIAL!

6 WEEKS JUST $69 INCLUDES A FREE UNIFORM ($49 VALUE)

MartialArtStudio.net HOO’s HUNGRY

JELLO

COOKIES DIRECTIONS

Beat butter in large bowl with mixer until creamy.

Add sugar and beat until light and fluffy. Blend in egg and vanilla. Mix flour and baking powder in a separate bowl. Gradually beat in flour mixture.

Divide dough into 4 sections. Sprinkle 2 Tb of jello onto each section. Knead together with dough.

You can add food coloring to make the dough more vibrant. Shape dough into 1-inch balls. Roll in the extra jello from the packets. Place, 2 inches apart, on baking sheets. Flatten with bottom of bowl.

Bake 8 to 10 min at 350 on lined baking sheets.

INGREDIENTS

SERVES: 4 PREP TIME: 30 MIN • 3.5 cups flour • 1 tsp baking powder • 1.5 cups salted butter softened • 1 cup sugar • 1 egg • 1 tsp vanilla • 4 (3 oz) pkg jello (use various)

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HOO knew?

Words to the Wise ............ A prestidigitator is another word for magician. ........ A fingerprint is also known as a dactylogram. ........................... A horologist measures time. ................................ A klazomaniac is someone who feels like shouting. ............. A librocubicularist is someone who reads in bed. ......................... Spat-out food is called chanking. ................. The ball on top of a flagpole is called the truck. ......... The word diastima refers to having a gap between your teeth. ............. A fox’s tail is called a brush.

Anxious Kids

HOO’s HELPFUL

At some point in time almost every child will show signs of anxiety. Seeing a scary movie and being unable to sleep, getting ready for a big test, or even a fight with a friend can cause a child to feel anxious and overwhelmed. With comfort and reassurance from parents, these feelings are often temporary and harmless for most children. But for children with an anxiety disorder, the fear and nervousness becomes so overwhelming that they may become reclusive or even combative. There are many different anxiety disorders (panic disorder, separation anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder) and these are often accompanied by other issues such as ADHD, depression, or eating disorders. If left unchecked the issue may worsen with age, so it is important to seek help from your pediatrician or counselor right away. With proper treatment and support you and your child can learn to manage the symptoms and live a less-anxious life.

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Recommending the best toys

and products for kids.

Wise Choices for You & Your Family

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By Gerry Paige Smith

DIGGING DINOUSAURS!

I’ve not yet met a child who hasn’t had a grand passion for dinosaurs. For some kids it’s a phase, an intense fascination for a few years that they eventually outgrow. For other children, dinosaurs receive an unprecedented level of focus as they amass an almost encyclopedic knowledge of dinosaur facts. The following toys provide hours of prehistoric play that satisfies both the child with an appreciation for the giants of the past as well as the obsessive dinosaur aficionado!

Dinosaur Backpack

Velociraptor & Pterosaur

Finding the best creatures from the Cretaceous for little hands is easy with the Dinosaur Backpack from Unipak. The soft backpack which doubles as a playset, houses four small plush dinosaurs that are just the right size for the toddler set. The adjustable-for-size backpack also features small windows that allow the occupants to peek out when they’re on the move or waiting from the next playdate. Get the smallest dinosaur fans started early with something plush, prehistoric and infinitely portable.

Young dinosaur fans can seize the power to craft their own dinosaurs with this set. Crafted in colorful, soft foam, kids have all the elements they need to recreate Velociraptor and Pterosaur models (and craft their own mash-ups as well!) Colorful, easy to assemble and durable, the Bloco Velociraptor and Pterosaur set offers hours of creative play as dino fans invent their own unique contributions to the bestiary that populated the ancient earth!

Elasmosaurus Skeleton

Dinosaur Park

When T-Rex loomed large on land, another massive predator was prowling the oceans of the late Cretaceous period, the Elasmosaurus. A detailed skeleton of this ancient marine dinosaur is lurking in a block of gypsum, waiting to be excavated and assembled.

Dedicated dinosaur hounds can use the tools included in this model kit to free the skeleton of one of the ancient oceans’ most elegant hunters and reconstruct its bones into a fossil model to marvel over for years to come!

Everything a kid needs to immerse himself in the age of dinosaurs can be found in the Dinosaur Park.

Easily assembled, the park landscape features artfully rendered scenery as well as multi-level platforms that are ideal for staging an endless array of dinosaur encounters. The 3-D element and broad footprint of this set (almost two feet long) also supports pre-school paleontologists’ group play.

Complete with a dozen dinosaurs ready to roam.

(Unipak)

(Geoworld)

(Bloco)

(Constructive Playthings)

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Wise Choices for You & Your Family

To feature your school: Tammy at 253-212-7270 ST. FRANCIS DE SALES CATHEDRAL SCHOOL A TRADITION OF EXCELLENCE

NEW STUDENT REGISTRATON

FOR 2015-2016 SCHOOL YEAR SCHOOL LIBRARY 9:00 A.M. – 12:00 P.M. March 9, 2015 Parishioners Registered in St. Francis Parish

March 10, 2015 March 11, 2015 Families registered Non-Catholic in other Catholic Families Church Parishes

300 VERRET STREET  HOUMA, LA 70360 PHONE 868-6646  FAX 851-5896

www.stfrancishouma.org

At registration, bring an extra copy of Birth and Baptismal Certificates, Immunization Records and Social Security card for us to keep.

St. Francis de Sales Cathedral School is open to all students and does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, national, or ethnic origin.

www.FamilyAndKidsDigest.com SUMMER CAMPS & SUMMER FUN

“Excellence in Education”

OPEN HOUSE & TOUR Early Childhood (ages 3 ~ 6)

Tours begin at 9am and 11am �

1224

Museum Drive Houma 985.857.8808 www.mms-edu.com

Elementary, Middle and High School Tours begin at 1pm and 2pm

Messiah Montessori School does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, or national origin.

HOO’s learning

Montessori Stokes Fire to Learn

by Dr. Jules Boquet, Head of Messiah Montessori School

“Children have an inner fire, a natural desire to gain knowledge about the world around them.” Here are five ways that Montessori schools provide the best environment to keep that ‘fire to learn’ burning within them throughout their school years.

they learn math, science, language, reading, geography, and all their subjects. In the process of learning by doing, children develop a good work ethic and learn time management, which are important life skills.

1. Montessori education helps children to be innovative,

The Montessori materials are scientifically developed to progressively teach abstract concepts in a concrete or objective way, so that the child truly understands what he or she is learning.

inquisitive, and independent. The Montessori school provides a learning environment that encourages the child to explore and discover knowledge, to learn how to learn, and to think outside the box.

2 Montessori education helps children to develop an “I can

do it” attitude. Montessori teachers are specially trained to lead children to discover their own innate ability to do things for themselves. Children develop confidence in their learning abilities because they experience that they can do it.

3. Montessori students learn by doing. This is the natural way that children learn. In a Montessori school, this is also how

4. Montessori children use hands-on materials to learn.

5. Movement is a natural part of the Montessori education

process. Children are free to move about the classroom as they work with other students or with the teacher. Children may work alone, with a friend, or in small groups, just like they will have to do in the adult world. Montessori teachers move around the classroom and teach students one-on-one or in small groups.

For more on the Montessori method, visit www.montessori.org

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Wise Choices for You & Your Family

Nutrition =

Academic Performance Recent studies have reinforced the concept that the academic performance of children can be greatly affected by nutrition. Poor nutrition can lead to reduced cognitive ability and may even cause the development of attention deficit disorders. Here is what you can do to ensure your child’s diet is helping her succeed in school.

Breakfast: Start the day off the right with a breakfast that is a combination of complex carbohydrates and protein. About half of the calories should come from the complex carbohydrates and the other half should come from the protein. The two work hand -in-hand to improve the ability to learn and attentiveness. If your child eats only refined carbohydrates, such as white flour pancakes with syrup, she may experience a blood sugar ‘crash’ soon afterwards and feel tired and hungry.

Some healthy breakfast choices include toast made from whole wheat bread, whole grain cereal with lowfat milk, and eggs or lean meat.

Lunch: Eating a well-balanced lunch will keep your child feeling energized and ready to take on the rest of

HOO’s learning the day, including after school activities and homework.

A recent study found that many lunches packed at home don’t meet nutritional school lunch guidelines. They often contain unhealthy items such as chips, can be high in sodium, and don’t have enough fruits or veggies. Your child’s lunch should contain a balance of whole grains, protein, and fruits and vegetables. Instead of packing a sugary drink, give your child money to buy milk at school.

Snacks: A healthy snack in the afternoon can help your child stay focused on homework. Time the snack so that it helps provide the energy and focus your child needs to study but does not interfere with dinner. Some healthy snacks choices include yogurt with berries and string cheese.

Dinner: Set the stage for a good night’s sleep by serving a healthy meal with age-appropriate portions of lean proteins, such as chicken and fish, fruits, and veggies.

Skip fatty, fried foods that have little nutritional value.

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HOO’s Fun

HOO’s CUTE

CONTEST Visit our website to enter:

w w w. F a m i l y A n d K i d s D i g e s t . c o m

Makayla, 15 mon Houma

Maksim, 4 years Houma

Emmitt, 2 years Schriever

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