Chattahoochee Valley Family & Kids July 2015

JULY 2015

Wise Choices for Moms & Families

CHATTAHOOCHEE VALLEY

nsor See Page 2 Cover Spo 3

Proudly Caring for America’s Future Leaders

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Wise Choices for You & Your Family

Dr. Cathy Cook

Gentle Dentistry for the Entire Family!

ACCEPTING ALL MAJOR INSURANCES, CARE CREDIT AND OFFERING FINANCIAL OPTIONS

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We teach all aspects of Jiu Jitsu: competitive and self-defense,as well as Life Skills. Great way for Kids to learn focus, discipline, confidence, and bully defense…plus they can burn off a lot of energy.

706-507-6000

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www.FamilyAndKidsDigest.com

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18 week

28 weeks

WELCOME TO THE BEAUTY OF ULTRASOUND IMAGING • Gift certificates • Gender reveal parties • Keepsake heartbeat animals • Packages starting at $45 • Weekday specials Stork Vision Columbus 706.325.7650 www.StorkVision.com www.facebook.com/storkvisioncolumbusga

HOO’s parenting How to teach “I’m Sorry” The ability is to say ‘sorry’ is a social skill your preschooler needs your help to learn. A preschooler’s sense of empathy is not fully developed and he may not even realize that his actions have hurt someone else. Here are some tips for helping your preschooler develop the ability to deliver a heartfelt ‘I am sorry.’

Your first task is to help your preschooler understand that there is a connection between his actions and how others feel. For example, if he causes his sister to cry because he bumped her over at the playground, ask him why he thinks she is upset and let him know he needs to say sorry for hurting her. Once this connection between his actions and the feelings of others is made, he will have a greater ability to identify when an apology is owed.

let your child know you will be discussing the incident with him. Once he has cooled down enough to think about why his actions hurt the other child, his apology is more likely to be sincere.

When your child has intentionally upset someone else, feelings of guilt and embarrassment may cause him to avoid saying sorry.

Make this apology a bit easier to deliver by suggesting some ways your child can repair the situation. For example, if he took away his sister’s favorite toy and would not give it If the incident has upset your child, it is best to let him back, suggest that he says sorry and, in addition, lets cool off first before talking to him about why he needs her play with one of his toys. to say sorry. Apologize to the other child for him, and

Wise Choices for You & Your Family

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Tammy Usie Publisher

TheValley.com

Tammy@HooKnows

253-212-7270 Cell

Dear Parents of the Chattahoochee Valley, Welcome to our handy, parenting resource guide. I hope you will find lots of helpful choices on products and services for you and your family, along with some informative articles, handy resources and fun features.

If you like our magazine, then you’ll love our website, www.

HooKnowsTheValley.com. There you can read our magazine online, find other resources and use our SHOPPING DIRECTORY. This virtual buying guide provides our readers with a comprehensive list of local, family-friendly businesses. Plus with the ability for consumers to leave reviews on these businesses, it will help other parents make buying decisions. I invite you to go leave a few reviews to help us build this resource and share them with other parents like yourself.

AD DEADLINES

The 1st of the month for the next month’s issue

Tammy Usie

HOO KNOWS SPECIAL FEATURES Hoo’s crafty.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 14

HOO’S Parenting.. . . . . . . . . . . . . page 3 & 5

HOO’S Healthy.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 9 & 25

hoo’s Tips.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 15 & 18

HOO’S hungry.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 8

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? Publix: Columbus & Phenix City Chick fil-A: Columbus & Phenix City Starbucks: Columbus Family & Kids of the Chattahoochee Valley

PLUS: Check your local kid-friendly doctors & dentists, attractions, restaurants & retail shops.

Children attending FT Benning daycares, preschools & elementary schools each receive a copy, as well as elementary students at most all private schools in Columbus & Phenix City...plus all kids attending major daycares and preschools.

www.HooKnowsTheValley.com

www.FamilyAndKidsDigest.com

HOO’s PARENTING

best use of rewards A recent study on using material rewards, such as money or toys, to encourage your kids to behave well or perform well in school has many parents rethinking their parenting style. The study showed that kids whose parents used material rewards often grow up to be materialistic adults who judge others by what they own. In addition, kids given material rewards may learn to base their self esteem and self worth on what they own. For these kids, material goods are synonymous with someone caring about them and with success. In adulthood, this can lead to financial issues and marital issues.

This is not to say that material rewards never should be used, only that they should be used very sparingly and should be mixed with other methods. Every child is unique, so you will need to devise a system that best matches your child’s personality. The overall goal for your plan is to encourage your child to behave well and complete assigned tasks such as homework and chores, for the most part, without being paid or rewarded with material goods for each incident of good behavior. Your system will need to include not only rewards, but also consequences when your child does not behave well.

Here are some tips for formulating a balanced discipline approach: First, ensure you have clearly communicated your expectations to your child regarding behavior. Set boundaries, and let your child know there are consequences, such a time out, for crossing the line into the bad behavior zone. A chore chart or a behavior chart works well for some kids. Seeing their charts filled with stars is sometimes all the reward they need.

The consequences for bad behavior should not entail taking away material things. Instead, take away what your child was most likely trying to earn, your attention. Don’t try to talk to him or reason with him when he has a meltdown.

Use praise to reward your child when he does well, and don’t be overly harsh when he does misbehave or performs poorly at school. If your child feels like he is being constantly criticized at home, he will not feel compelled to behave well. Instead, when he does well, let him know how much his efforts mean to you and how much they are appreciated. Your child will feel what experts call intrinsic motivation, which is a motivation from within to behave and perform well because doing so is enjoyable.

If you do decide to use a few rewards to help motivate your kids to work on rather difficult tasks, use a mixture of different kinds of positive incentives.

Incentives don’t have to be just material things. The best incentives are privileges that have to been earned again, such as cell phone time. Be consistent with the incentives and don’t award them unless they are truly earned.

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Wise Choices for You & Your Family

SHOPPING guide activities Academy Dance Center.................... 18 Chattahoochee Valley Libraries.... 31 Clement Arts....................................... 19 Columbus Martial Arts Academy.32 CSU Dance Conservatory.................30 East West Karate & MMA................... 2 Elite Dance Academy........................11 IFM Arts Academy............................. 21 Launch Pad Athletes......................... 14 Music Together................................... 21 My Gym................................................. 19 Performance Dance Centre............... 7 Oasis After School Program........... 31 The Columbus Museum....................11

TELL THEM

Childcare/ education SENT YOU!

Calvary Christian...............................28 First Presbyterian Day.....................28 Grace Christian School....................28 Kumon................................................... 19 Lakewood Child Development ......29 Mathnasium........................................23 Phenix Christian School..................28 St. Luke Schools.................................28 Sylvan Learning Center...................24 Westminster Christian.....................29 Wynnbrook Christian.......................29

Food & Beverage Chick-fil-A............................................ 12 Chill Yogurt Cafe................................23 Crave Soda & Candy Bar..................... 9 Juice Plus............................................. 12 Stevi B’s Pizza Buffet........................ 12 Willy T’s Chicken Fingers............... 12

healthcare Columbus Spine & Performance... 19 Cook Dental Care.................................. 2 James Lopez, DDS.............................. 14 Pediatric After Hours..........................9 Pediatric Dentistry of Columbus..... 7 Pediatrics at Brookstone Center....11 Rivertown Pediatrics........................24 Stork Vision Ultrasound.................... 3 ZÖe Pediatrics.....................................27

Home/ Handy Sparkles Cleaning Service.............. 19 Turfscapes Lawncare........................ 19

Shopping/ Retail Baby Elements...................................... 3 Giggles and Grins Photography.... 19 Matilda Jane Clothing......................24 Mickayla’s Place - Resale.................. 8 Once Upon A Time - Resale............ 15

TELL THEM

SENT YOU!

www.FamilyAndKidsDigest.com

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Wise Choices for You & Your Family

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a children’s resale shop

Buying Days Mon - Thurs 10 AM - 5 PM Drop off any day

Store Hours Mon - Fri: 10 AM - 6 PM Saturday: 10 AM - 5 PM Sunday: Closed

from one child to another

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Come in and shop for all your favorite baby gear, all the brands you know and love..

sell

Come in and sell your gently used baby gear and get cash on the spot!!

save

Save on all your favorite baby gear.

Savings starting at a least 50% off retail prices.

MICKAYLA’S PLACE 706-221-1154 I 2401 Whittlesey RD I Columbus, GA 31909

HOO’s HUNGRY quick quinoa

pizza bites

These bite sized pizza poppers are a quick take on a classic. With minimal prep, these bites pack a ton of flavor, and don’t tell the kids, but these are good for you too!

DIRECTIONS Preheat oven to 350. Spray muffin tin (you can use a regular muffin tin or a mini).

Mix everything together, except your pizza sauce.

Evenly distribute into greased pan. If you use a regular pan, this will fill each cup about to the top( ABOUT 1/4 cup full). If you use a mini pan, it will make about double.

Bake for 20-25 minutes for regular pan and 15-20 for mini. They should be firm.

Let them set and cool slightly. Then, serve them with your favorite pizza sauce and watch them disappear.

Ingredients • 2 cups cooked quinoa • 2 eggs • 1 cup finely chopped onion • 1 cup shredded mozzerella • 2 teaspoons minced garlic • 1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped • 1 cup shredded mozzerella • 3 oz. turkey pepperoni, chopped • 1/2 teaspoon salt • 1 teaspoon dried oregano • pizza sauce for dipping

www.FamilyAndKidsDigest.com

HOO’s HEALTHY Taking your child for a routine eye exam is most likely part of your ‘back to school’ routine.

However, there are some eye conditions that may appear between the yearly visits that warrant an immediate visit to the doctor.

EYE LOVE HEALTH! Here is an overview of a few of them and action you should take if you suspect your child has one.

Conjunctivitis (‘Pink Eye’) - An eye infection that can be caused by bacteria or a virus. The infected eye will appear red or pink as a result of the inflammation of the thin film over the eye. Other symptoms include eye discomfort, tearing, and discharge from the eye. Conjunctivitis is highly contagious.

Your child should stay home, away from other kids, until the tearing and discharge stop. The doctor may prescribe antibiotic drops to treat the infection.

Styes and Chalazions - A stye is a red, sore bump on the edge of the eyelid. It is caused by an infected eyelash follicle. Symptoms include irritation, tearing, and crusting along the edge of the eyelid. A chalazion is also a red bump on the eyelid, but it is caused by a blocked oil gland in the eyelid. A stye is generally located close to the edge of the eyelid. Treat with a warm compress several times a day. The doctor may prescribe an antibiotic ointment if using a warm compress does not resolve it.

Cellulitis - This is an infection of the eye typically caused by staph or strep bacteria.

There are two kinds, orbital cellulitis and pre-septum cellulitis. Orbital cellulitis affects the structure around the eye. Pre septum cellulitis affects only the eyelid. Symptoms include reduced eye movement, bulging eyes, fever, and red eyelids. Take your child to see the doctor promptly. This is a serious infection that could damage his vision permanently if left untreated.

Blocked Tear Duct - If the eye’s drainage system for tears is blocked, the eye looks irritated and watery, and it may become infected. Some babies are born with a blocked tear duct and this condition usually resolves itself with a few months. If it does not, the doctor was may use a procedure to open up the tear duct. Antibiotic drops are needed to treat an eye infection, so take your newborn to see the doctor if you think he has one.

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AIM IS THE GAME!

We all know the sense of accomplishment when we manage to hit the target we are aiming at. And a precisely delivered projectile reaching its destination is the definition of success in the world of aim games. Set your sights on the following recommended items that will train the eye and hand to focus on a target and score a bullseye every time!

Baby Farm Bowling

( Early Years)

Building a solid ground for a child’s aim game, the Baby Farm Bowling set gets the ball rolling for the preschool set. The jingling ‘bowling’ ball is easy to roll toward six brightly colored animal-themed pins that make soft rattling sounds when they topple. The farm animal pins feature flat, weighted bottoms that make setting up the next round a cinch. An early boost for hand-eye coordination, kids can also up their counting game as they take aim at the numbered pins, keeping score along the way. Easy to surface clean and portable with its own carrying bag, Baby Farm Bowling scores a strike for boosting early aim skills.

Flickerz Target Net Set

(Jungo)

Ideal for all ages, the Flickerz Target Net game challenges players to master the art of flicking lightweight plastic discs into a scored target net. Score sheets are included but style is the real journey as players learn to put their own spin on the Flickerz discs, developing trick shots and disc moves that add more action to the game. The target net is collapsible and the six discs are easily pocketed making the game infinitely portable for gameplay indoors and out. Addictive once you start, kids may have to compete with adults for target practice time once the Flickerz discs come out to play.

Rebelle Agent Bow

(Nerf/Hasbro)

Adding secret agent flair and fantasy styling to the ancient art of archery, the Rebelle Agent Bow combines legit targeting skills with Nerf’s proven take on soft target firing. This bow comes with three soft foam arrows with a secret hidden in plain sight; the arrows’ design allows customizable messages that can communicate secret intel to their targets who can be equipped with the included decoder.

To ensure that the messages (and the missiles) reach their chosen targets the bow also features an electronic red dot sight so shots can line up perfectly. Archery action meets mystery and adventure when the Rebelle Agent Bow takes aim!

www.FamilyAndKidsDigest.com

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Thank You, Donors & Corporate Partners!

Thanks to you, we packed & shipped 10,000 meals to Haiti!

Wynnton Road

J. Holcomb Construction, Inc.

Crazy Dave’s Fireworks

HOO’S PLUGGED IN WWW.HoOKNOWSTHEVALLEY.COM

Dining Deals

www.FamilyAndKidsDigest.com

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

MONDAY

thursday

Chick-fil-A, Phenix City

Captain D’s

5-8pm: Free kid’s meal with regular priced combo

Chick-fil-A, Wynnton Rd

5-8pm: $.99 kid’s meal with regular priced combo

Get 2 free kid’s meals with purchase of an adult entree. Dine in only

MOE’s Southwest Grill

Chill Yogurt Cafe & Pizzeria

5-9pm: Free kids meal per $5 minimum adult entree Ryan’s Family Steakhouse Thursday Nights: Kids 11 and under eat for $1.99

Sweet Frog Yogurt

saturday

Kids 12 & under eat free (1 topping 8” pizza & drink) with purchase of adult entree (11” pizza and a drink). Limit 1 per adult. Dine in only.

6-8pm. Buy one yogurt mix, get one 50% off

Zaxby’s 5-8pm: Free kid’s meal with per adult entree

Tuesday Atlanta Bread Company

5pm-close: Free kid’s meal with tan adult meal

Chick-fil-A, Midland

5-8pm: Free kid’s meal with regular priced combo Chill Yogurt Cafe & Pizzeria Buy one regular 11” pizza, get one of equal or less value at 50% off with valid school ID. Limit 1 per customer, with ID only.

Steak & Shake Free kids meal with every $8 purchase

sunday Steak & Shake

Free kids meal with every $8 purchase

Stevi B’s Pizza

Kids eat for .99 after 4pm

Texas Roadhouse

Sundays: Kids 12 & under get Jr. Kids Meal for $1.99 with adult entree (certain holidays are excluded)

Denny’s

Willy T’s

TGIF Friday’s

3-10pm: Kids under 13 eat free with adult entree

everyday

Willy T’s

Golden Corral

4-9pm: 1 free kids meal per regular meal purchase

Kids 3 & under eat free with adult meal purchase

wednesday

Children 3 & under eat free with purchase of an adult entree. Kids ages 5-7 get discounted prices

4-10pm: Up to two free kid’s entrees with adult entree. For kids 10 and under

Applebee’s Kids meals are half off with the purchase of an adult entree. Limit: 4 kids per adult

11-5pm: 1 free kids meal per regular meal purchase

Hartz Chicken Buffet PhoVy

Free kids meal when you show their “Family & Kids” ad in this issue

All locations are Columbus, GA unless noted. Specials are subject to change without notice.

Please verify them directly before dining. If you know of a kids’ special not listed here, contact Tammy@HooKnowsTheValley.com.

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Wise Choices for You & Your Family

HOO’s CRAFTY do-it-yourself sidewalk

chalk

A piece of chalk and a driveway can provide hours of entertainment. Here is a fun DIY recipe that will make tons of cute chalk, to fight summer boredom, or to give as a neat gift. And the best part is how inexpensive it is!

Directions Fill a cup with 3/4 cup of water, 1/4 cup of paint, and 1 cup of plaster of paris. Mix until well blended. Make a new cup for each color of chalk you want to use. Then, pour mixture into your mold.

You can actually even layer the colors for a cool effect. Let the mixture dry in the molds for 24 hours, then carefully pop your chalk out of the molds, and let the pieces dry for another 24 hours.

Now your one-of-a-kind chalk is ready to go.

www.FamilyAndKidsDigest.com

Hoo’s Tips Pet owners need to take steps to keep their four legged friends happy and healthy during the hot and humid ‘dog days’ of summer.

• Never leave your pet in a parked car. A few minutes is all it takes for the temperature in the car to reach over 100 degrees F, creating a deadly situation for any person or pet.

The Dog Days of Summer • Keep your pet hydrated by providing them with plenty of cool water.

• Check with the veterinarian before shaving your pet for the summer, as shaving some breeds can actually • Anytime your pet rides in your vehicle, keep them cause more harm than good by increasing the risk of secured inside. Letting your dog put his head out of sunburn. an open window is dangerous. He could fall out or get • Keep your dog safe by never letting them near a injured by debris from the road. Cats travel best inside pool unattended and by putting a doggie lifejacket on a pet carrier. them before taking them out on a boat.

• Your pet needs to exercise during the summer but avoid walking your pet during the hottest parts of the day. Dogs can suffer heat stroke or could burn their paws on hot pavement. Instead, allow your dog to stay cool indoors. Set the thermostat to about 78 degrees and close the blinds when you leave your home to conserve energy. If your dog stays outside, provide them with access to shade.

• Watch for signs of heatstroke and take your pet to the vet without delay if they seem overheated.

Symptoms of heatstroke include trouble breathing, an elevated heart rate, and acting confused.

LOCALLY OWNED!

ANCHORS AWAY

SAIL INTO CLOTHES & CASH TODAY!

Located in The Landings at exit 8 off I-185 | 2521 Airport Thruway Columbus, GA 31904 | 706.507.3737 | onceuponachildcolumbusga.com facebook.com/onceuponachildcolumbusga

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JUNE E

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pr o vi d e d in partne r ship w

1 Superhero Cinema: The Incredi- 8 bles. 10am. Free. Columbus Public Library; www.cvlga.org/events

Superhero Cinema: The Box Trolls. 10am. Free. Columbus Public Library; www.cvlga.org/events

2 Super Hero Summer Academy: 8-10 Mr. Damon’s Theater: Arts

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American Girl Book Club.

6:30pm. Ages 10+. Barnes & Noble, 5555 Whittlesey Blvd, Columbus; 706-653-7880

13 - 15

Be a Graphic Hero. 2pm. Free. Ages 6-11. Phenix City-Russell Co Library; www.phenixcitylibrary.com

and Puppets. 10:30am. Free. Multiple library locations. cvlga.org/ events

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9 Super Hero Summer Academy: 13 -18 Fun in the SummerBe a Music Hero. 2pm. Free. Ages 6-11. Phenix City-Russell Co Library; www.phenixcitylibrary.com

time at The Rock Ranch. 10am-4pm.

5020 Barnesville Hwy, The Rock, GA; www.therockranch.com

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Fantastic Friday: Rialto Jazz.

10:30am. Free. Columbus Museum; columbusmuseum.com

Hooray for Community Heroes. 11am. Columbus Public Library; www.cvlga.org/events

6 - 11 Fun in the Summertime at

Make & Take. 4pm. Free. Phenix City-Russell Co Library; www. phenixcitylibrary.com

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14 LEGOs in the Library. 2pm.

Home Depot Kids Workshop.

9am-Noon. Free. Ages 5-12. Columbus store; 706-322-9240. Phenix City store; 334-297-2045 American Girl Book Club.

6:30pm. Ages 6-9. Barnes & Noble, 5555 Whittlesey Blvd, Columbus; 706-653-7880

The Rock Ranch. 10am-4pm. 5020 Barnesville Hwy, The Rock, GA; www.therockranch.com

7 Hooray for Community Heroes.

11am. Columbus Public Library; www.cvlga.org/events

7 LEGOs in the Library. 2pm. Free.

Columbus Public Library; cvlga.org

activities Chattahoochee Valley www.CVLGA.org

Phenix City-Russell County www.phenixcitylibrary.com

Troup-Harris

www.thclibrary.net

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Free. Columbus Public Library; www.cvlga.org/events

11 Insectival. 10am. $5. Oxbow 15 Superhero Cinema: The Iron Meadows; http://oxbow.columbusstatue.edu/Insectival.php

Giant. 10am. Free. Columbus Public Library; www.cvlga.org/events

11 Lowes Build & Grow Clinic. 10- 15 Midday Movies. Noon. Free.

11am. Free. 1st-5th grades. 6750 Veterans Pkwy, Columbus; 706320-9292

Columbus Public Library; www.cvlga.org/events

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Super Hero Summer Academy: Be a Science Hero. 2pm. Free. Ages 6-11. Phenix City-Russell Co Library; ions. 11am. RSVP Required.TO HollySHOWCASE YOUR BUSINESS wood Connections, 1683 Whittlesey ON OURwww.phenixcitylibrary.com MOM’S MARKETPLACE Blvd; autismhopecenter.com/carCALL Fantastic 253-212-7270 mike-sensory-movie.html Friday: Andy Ouffutt Irwin. 10:30am. Columbus MuseJuly Second Saturday. 10am. um; columbusmuseum.com Storytime and craft. Columbus Museum; columbusmuseum.com Make & Take at 4. 4pm. Free.

Phenix City-Russell Co Library; Fandom Film Fest. 3pm. Co- www.phenixcitylibrary.com lumbus Public Library; cvlga.org/ events

11 Carmike Sensory Movie: Min-

Librar y

Summer Family Film Fest. 9am & 11am. Free. National Infantry Museum.org

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EVENTS ith:

18 Puppy Tales. 2pm. Free. Co- 26 lumbus Public Library; www.cvlga. org/events

Fandom Film Fest. 3pm.

Free. Columbus Public Library; www.cvlga.org/events

20 -22

27 - -31 Fun in the Summer

Summer Family Film Fest. 9am & 11am. Free. National Infantry Museum.org

20 -25 Fun in the Summer-

Time at The Rock Ranch. 10am4pm. 5020 Barnesville Hwy, The Rock, GA; therockranch.com

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21 Hooray for Community He-

Autism Support Group Meeting. 6:30pm. Columbus Regional Conference Center, 710 Center St; 706-604-6333 or autismhopecenter.com

22 Superhero Cinema: Under-

Superhero Cinema: Big Hero 6. 10am. Free. Columbus Public Library; www.cvlga.org/events

time at The Rock Ranch. 10am4pm. 5020 Barnesville Hwy, The Rock, GA; www.therockranch.com roes. 11am. Columbus Public Library; www.cvlga.org/events

dog. 10am. Free. Columbus Public Library; www.cvlga.org/events

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31 Make & Take at 4. 4pm. Free.

23 Super Hero Summer Acade-

Phenix City-Russell Co Library; www.phenixcitylibrary.com

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Weekly Events

my. 2pm. Free. Ages 6-11. Phenix City-Russell Co Library; phenixcitylibrary.com

Fantastic Friday: Sean Driscoll; 10:30am. Free. Columbus Museum; columbusmuseum.com

24 Make & Take. 4pm. Free.

Phenix City-Russell Co Library; www.phenixcitylibrary.com

25 Young Eagles Day at Flight-

ways Columbus. 8:30-11:30am.

Free. Ages 8-17. Columbus Airport; 706-323-6565 or youngeagles. com/flightplan/flight.asp

25 It’s a Superhero Party! 2pm.

Free. Columbus Public LIbrary; www.cvlga.org/events

Monday

Family Night at Chick-fil-A Wynnton Rd. 5-7:30pm. Crafts and fun.

Buy a combo at regular price and get a kid’s 4-pc meal free. 2421 Wynnton Road, Columbus Family Night at Chick-fil-A Phenix City. 5-7:30pm. Crafts and fun. Buy a combo at regular price and get a kid’s 4-pc meal free. 3711 U.S Hwy 280, Phenix City Astronomy Nights. 9pm. Free.

Overlook Pavilion at Callaway Gardens; www.callwaygardens.com

Mon - Wed

Summer Family Film Fest. 9am & 11am. Free. National Infantry Museum.org

Wednesday

Fort Benning Summer Reading Program. 1-2pm. Ages 2-12. Free.

Faith Middle School Gym; www. benningmrw.com

Thursday

Toddler Tales at Barnes & Noble.

10am. 5555 Whittlesey Blvd. 706653-7880

Friday

Fantastic Fridays. 10:30am-12pm.

Free. Columbus Museum; www. columbusmueums.com

Saturday

Market Days on Broadway. 9amnoon. 900-1100 Blocks of Broadway, Columbus; 706-596-0111 or www.uptowncolumbusga.com Michael’s Kids Club Meeting. 10amNoon. Ages 3+. Store for details.

Saturday Storytimes at Barnes & Noble. 11am. 5555 Whittlesey Blvd. 706-653-7880 Guided Tour: Tree Top Canopy Trail.

10am & 1pm. $5. RSVP. Oxbow Meadows; 706-507-8550 or http:// oxbow.columbusstate.edu/ Please call ahead to confirm event dates, times and age appropriateness, in case changes were made after the info was obtained. For more event info, visit www.MuscogeeMoms.com

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Wise Choices for You & Your Family

Keeping Your Family’s Medical History Organized One challenge every mom faces is keeping the family medical records organized and updated.

You probably have a folder for each family member with lab results, appointment information, and immunization records. However, all that information on paper is not very portable. Anytime it is necessary to fill out a medical form, you probably wished there were a way to take all that with you.

Thanks to web- based applications called Personal Health Records (PHR) that can be accessed by your smart phone or your computer, having your health info with you wherever you go is now possible.

First, you will need to choose which Personal Health Record application to use. There are a couple of free ones, including Microsoft HealthVault. Your insurance company may also have one, but remember that you won't be able to transfer the info when you switch insurance providers.

Next, contact your family's health providers to request the last two years of records. You will probably need to fill out a medical record release form and may be required to pay a fee. Include dental information, lab results, allergies, blood type, checkup information like weight and height, immunization records,

HOO’s tips and your child's growth chart in the information you are gathering and then typing or scanning into the PHR. Also collect information on past hospitilizations by requesting records from the hospitals where family members have been treated.

Along with the data from the medical records, also include emergency contact information, phone numbers for current health care providers, insurance information, and a list of medications taken daily. Also, if adults have important medical documents such as living wills, provide a link to them.

www.FamilyAndKidsDigest.com

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Moms Marketplace LOVE ON YOUR LAWN

Turfscapes

LAWN MAINTENANCE & LANDSCAPING COMPANY

COMMERCIAL . RESIDENTIAL . LICENSED . INSURED

DWTURFSCAPES@BELLSOUTH.NET

706-587-4666

1/2 OFF

1ST MONTH WITH NEW ANNUAL CONTRACT

Dance Classes.

Art Lessons.

Orphan Care.

Summer Camp at My Gym! Enroll Now! Gymnastics, arts & crafts, music, and more! Perfect for ages 3-8.

(706) 507-2966 • mygym.com/columbus

Showcase your business to over 15,000 local moms. Call Tammy at 253-212-7270.

www.clement-arts.org

Wise Choices for You & Your Family

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HOO’s CUTE

CONTEST Visit our website to enter: w w w. h o o k n o w s t h e v a l l e y. c o m

Amelia, 6 years Columbus

Ridge, 19 months Upatoi

Emerson, 7 months Columbus

IFM Arts Academy Piano - Violin - Cello - Art - Dance For children and adults to help them develop their talents and skills for the glory of God.

Family Music Classes for children ages birth–kindergarten (917) 612-9568 • MusicTogether.com

3400 University Ave. Columbus, GA www.ifmga.org (706) 653-0097

PARENT’S ONLINE SHOPPING GUIDE www.Hoo.KnowsTheValley.com

Call for a free trial!

A Page In A Book www.FamilyAndKidsDigest.com

Recommending the Best Books

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for Children and Teens By Paige Gardner Smith

The Gift of Grandparents

The relationship between kids and their grandparents benefits them in immeasureable ways. Drawing on their extra decades of life experience, grandparents share the gift of history, tradition and life lessons that come with the authority of their years. The following titles celebrate the warmth, wisdom and wonder that is revealed when kids and grandparents enjoy their own special together time!

A Walk in Paris

By Salvatore Rubbino (Candlewick)

A young girl’s walk through Paris with her grandpa reveals the City of Lights in a whole new way as he shares the backstories and hidden history behind the city’s famous sites. As they pass each landmark her Grandpa shares local history and traditions that have evolved over time.

Their walk through the pages also features small historical trivia sidebars to accompany her Grandpa’s narration. Illustrating the living history that our elders add to our landscape, ‘A Walk in Paris’ is a colorful journey shared between a grandparent and a grandchild that bring history to life for both.

I Wanna Go Home

By Karen Kaufman Orloff (G.P. Putnam’s Sons / Penguin)

When his parents take a trip to Bora Bora, Alex and his siblings are sent off to spend a week with their grandparents at their retirement community. Visions of the dull time ahead loom large for Alex who begins to lament the anticipated boredom through a series of letters to his parents. What develops is the discovery that Alex’s grandparents are full of surprises and fun adventures.

His letters evolve from pleas for rescue to missives of adventure that have him begging to stay an extra week with his (definitely not boring) grandparents. “I Wanna Go Home” is a laugh-out-loud primer for kids anticipating a long visit with the ‘grands’!!

Tea Cakes for Tosh

By Kelly Starling Lyons and E. B. Lewis (G.P Putnam’s Sons/Penguin)

So When Grandma Honey prepares her special tea cakes for her grandson Tosh, she also shares stories of how the sweet treat played a role in the lives of their enslaved ancestors long ago. Her tea cake tales share with Tosh a history stretching back before his own memories. But over time, Grandma Honey starts to forget things. She can’t remember where she parked her car. Her sister’s once familiar phone number is forgotten. But when it’s time for tea cakes, Tosh uses her own shared stories to bring Grandma Honey’s memories back to life with a sweetness that will charm young readers again and again.

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Wise Choices for You & Your Family

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HOO’s HEALTHY

The

Bee stings: In most cases, these are just annoying and home treatment is all that’s necessary, but if you’re allergic to bee stings or you get stung numerous times, you may have a more serious reaction that requires emergency treatment.

Most symptoms from a bee sting are minor.

Your child may experience a burning pain, a red welt and slight swelling. Some kids have a stronger reaction, with extreme redness and swelling. Anyone allergic to bee stings may have a severe reaction called anaphylaxis.

Symptoms include: skin reactions like hives, itching and flushed or pale skin; difficulty breathing; swelling of the throat and tongue; a weak, rapid pulse; nausea, vomiting or diarrhea; dizziness or fainting; loss of consciousness; convulsions; shock. For most bee stings, apply an ice pack or cool compress, or a meat tenderizer solution made by mixing one part meat tenderizer and 4 parts water.

A baking soda paste works well or a topical anti-itch cream such as Calamine. Ask your pediatrician about ways to prevent bee stings and possible immunotherapy if your child is allergic. If your child is allergic to bee stings, always have an EpiPen available. Wasp, hornet and yellow jacket stings are similar.

Fire ants: These insects are so named because their

Kids

Doctor

preparing for bites & stings part 1 As kids head outside this summer, insect bites and stings are sure to follow. Most are just an annoyance, but make sure you know which bites to be concerned about and which require just a hug and a kiss.

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Sue Hubbard, MD kidsdr.com

venom induces a painful, fiery sensation.

When disturbed, fire ants are very aggressive.

To help kids avoid fire ants, regularly check your yard and play areas. If a child is stung, apply ice to the site and elevate the extremity. Check with your pediatrician for the correct dose of an oral antihistamine to ease itching and inflammation. A small number of children experience a severe (anaphylactic) reaction within minutes of a sting and may experience hives, weakness, dizziness, wheezing, difficulty swallowing, shortness of breath, or confusion. Head to the nearest emergency room.

Mosquito bites: Ivillage.com offers these tips for treating/ preventing mosquito bites. The usual reaction is a local skin inflammation that’s red, raised and itchy. Apply anti-itch creams like calamine as needed to help prevent scratching. Use an anti-inflammatory like cortisone cream.

For severe itching and multiple bites, use antihistamines like Benedryl. These make children drowsy, so work well at night.

Antihistamines like Claritin, Allegra, and Zyrtec are less sedating. Check with you doctor on dosage. An insect repellant with DEET is the most effectiveness against flies, gnats, chiggers, ticks and other insects.

Next Month: Part 2: featuring ticks, spiders and scorpions

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HOO’S at the Movies Wise Choices for You & Your Family

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MINIONS PG | Ok for kids 6+ Since the dawn of time, they’ve served the most despicable of masters, from T. Rex to Napoleon.

Follow a Minion named Kevin -- alongside teenage rebel Stuart and lovable little Bob -- on a thrilling journey to find their next potential master, Scarlet Overkill (Sandra Bullock), the world’s first female super-villain. From Antarctica to 1960s New York City, ending in mod London, they face their biggest challenge to date: saving all of Minionkind from annihilation.

ANT MAN PG-13 | Ok for kids 12+ The next evolution of the Marvel Cinematic Universe brings a founding member of The Avengers to the big screen for the first time. Armed with the ability to shrink in scale but increase in strength, master thief Scott Lang (Paul Rudd) must embrace his inner-hero and help his mentor, Dr. Hank Pym (Michael Douglas), protect the secret behind his spectacular Ant-Man suit from a new generation of towering threats. Against seemingly insurmountable obstacles, Pym and Lang must plan and pull off a heist that will save the world.

PIXELS PG | Ok for kids 6+ The story features aliens who misinterpret video-feeds of classic arcade games as a declaration of war against them. They attack Earth, using the games as models for their assaults. President Will Cooper (Kevin James) calls on ‘80s video game champion Sam Brenner (Adam Sandler), to lead a team of old-school arcaders (Peter Dinklage and Josh Gad) and a unique weapon specialist (Michelle Monaghan) to defeat the aliens and save the planet. Good fun for kids and grownups.

NEW ON DVD | BLU-RAY: SESAME STREET: COUNT ON ELMO Not Rated | Ok for kids 3+ Join Elmo, Grover, Abby and Cookie secretly nominate Count von Count as The World’s Greatest Counter. When the Nobel Counting Prize committee arrives to give him the prestigious award, the Count is nowhere to be found! So his friends step in and do their best Count impression, but can they save the day? Little ones will learn different math concepts while celebrating the Count and his love of counting

THE HUNTERS PG | Ok for kids 8+ A visual feast from start to finish, the timeless tale of “The Black Stallion” centers on a young boy named Alec (Kelly Reno) who survives a shipwreck and is stranded on a deserted island with a black stallion, with whom the boy develops a friendship. After being rescued and returned home, the two make a winning team as jockey and lightning-fast racehorse under the watch of a passionate trainer, played by Mickey Rooney (who was nominated for an Oscar). Beautiful cinematography, breathtaking race scenes, and a delightful story make this a timeless family movie.

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www.FamilyAndKidsDigest.com SUMMER CAMPS & SUMMER FUN

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FunFunThings thisSummer summer Thingsto to do Do this • Make a friendship bracelet

• Visit family • Practice an instrument • Practice a new language • Plant something and help it grow • Write a letter to a friend • Sew something • Spot and indentify birds in your area

• Make a collage with old magazines

• Call your grandparents and ask about their grandparents • Make homemade playdough • Learn to use chopsticks • Read a book from a genre you normally skip • Donate clothes that don’t fit and stuff you don’t use

• Make homemade popsicles

• Read a book of poetry

• Pick, dry, and indentify leaves

• Start a collection

and flowers

• Make a blanket fort

• Organize a drawer or closet

• Make lemonade

• Learn to find constellations

• Write a poem or song

• Make and fly a kite

• Have a picnic

• Solve a jigsaw puzzle

• Learn to juggle

• Learn to tie two kinds of knots

• Make a family tree

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