Issuu

JULY 2025

Wise Choices for Moms & Families

2025

18 for Cover S age po eP ns o Se

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Offering ALL THINGS SWIM from 6 months old to Adult.

Wise Choices for You & Your Family

HOO’s learning 3

INCREASING

their LISTENING

SKILLS By Linda Ligon, Family & Kids

hen trying to provide instructions for your children or to remind them of the ‘house rules’ you have set for them, it can be frustrating when it feels like your communication is being ignored. Here are some tips on having an open line of communication with your children, so that your message is not only received, but also understood.

snatch his toy.’ Help him understand how his action or lack of compliance affects others and take the time to listen to his point of view. If you sense that your child is resisting compliance, try to find out why. Did he have a bad day at school or is he not feeling well? Avoid dismissing his feelings. Your child is still learning to regulate and cope with his emotions and needs your guidance.

First, ensure your child is ready to receive the message. Try getting down at your child’s eye level and making eye contact. Use a phrase like ‘one, two, three, eyes on me’ to get your child’s attention. After you make eye contact, wait a moment before starting to talk. This pause gives your child a chance to switch gears from what he had been doing to focus on you. Keep your voice calm and avoid yelling. Take a moment to cool before you speak if you need to.

In some cases, your child may not comply with your instructions because he does not understand them, or they are too difficult for him. If you are concerned because your child consistently does not hear or comply with instructions, it may be appropriate to make an appointment with his doctor to rule out hearing or developmental issues that may interfere with him receiving and understanding your communication.

Now that the communication channel is open, you need to start with a phrase that helps keep it open. Avoid using phrases that imply you are about to launch into a lecture full of nagging. Phrases like ‘How many times have I told you not to…’ can cause your child to tune you out. Instead, use phrases that signal you want to have a conversation with your child, such as ‘I need your help with something’ or ‘this is important.’ Next, keep your communication brief and to the point. ‘The dishes are still dirty’ or ‘the dog needs water.’ Use a gentle tone of voice and if possible, turn a chore into an opportunity to spend time together by offering to help him with it. You could even try to turn the chore into a fun game. Your child may feel much less motivated to comply if he feels like he is being given chores as a punishment or if he feels lonely while doing chores. If the purpose of the communication is to give correction, gently remind your child of why the house rule is important. For example, say ‘It hurts your brother’s feelings when you

Finally, consider how often you give commands to your child vs trying to connect with him. Your child is less likely to want to pay attention to you if he associates you only with reminders about chores and feedback about what he is not doing right. Set aside one-on-one time with your child to listen to him and work on fun crafts or activities together.

Wise Choices for You & Your Family

The Scoop!

HOO’s CUTE

CONTEST Have a cute kid? Well, Of course you do! Send us a photo of them so we may feature them in a future issue! One child per photo. www.FamilyAndKidsGA.com/hooscute

Where to Find HOO? Check your local kid-friendly doctors, dentists, attractions, retail shops & restaurants; or see our interactive distro map at: familyandkidsga.com/get-a-copy

TO SUBMIT AD OR EVENT: Tammy Usie, Publisher tammy@familyandkidsga.com 253-212-7270 FamilyAndKidsGA

www.FamilyAndKidsGA.com

$AVING for

HOO’s tips

Education Vs. Retirement?

hile creating a household budget, it is important to include saving and investing money to use in the future. However, one question that may arise is what type of savings should the funds go to retirement savings or saving for your child’s college expenses? According to financial experts, you can include both in your budget, as long as you find the right balance.

What to consider when finding the balance between retirement savings and education savings: $ While you can borrow money for college expenses, there is no such thing as a loan for retirement. Retirement can last for a long period of time, 20 years or more, while college is only four or five years. You will need a significant amount of retirement savings to ensure you can live a comfortable lifestyle for 20 or more years of retirement. $ If you have planned well for retirement and are financially well off, you will be in a much better position to help your child when she needs financial assistance.

By Linda Ligon, Family & Kids

RETIREMENT

EDUCATION

$ You will most likely be getting a higher return on your investment in a retirement savings account such as a 401K than from an education savings account. This is especially true if your employer matches your 401K contribution up to a certain amount. $ In addition to contributing to your 401K, open an additional retirement savings accounts, such as a Roth IRA. The good news about a Roth IRA is that although the main purpose of a Roth IRA is retirement savings, it is possible to withdraw principal from the account to pay for your child’s qualified educational expenses without penalty. In general, parents are advised against withdrawing retirement savings to use for their child’s educational expenses. $ Analyze your savings to determine if you are on track for saving for retirement and how much room in the budget exists for your child’s college expenses. Start college savings early and open a college savings account, such as a 529 plan, even if you cannot put very much money into it at first. The money in a 529 plan can be withdrawn without penalty for qualified educational expenses.

Media for Kids WEBSITES Parents, we can use our kids' love for today’s technology to engage their minds, to empower them to explore their curiosities and to allow them to discover the world around them. A great way to do that is by introducing them to these websites.

Cryptoclub.com

BensGuide.GPO.Gov

Ages vary. Explore ciphers and mystery puzzles to improve math skills.

Ages 4-14+. Learn all about the US Government on this website for kids.

FactMonster.com

En.Childrenslibrary.org

Ages vary. Fact Monster has tons of different subject areas to choose from.

Ages vary. All children deserve access to great books!

Crunchzilla.com

CoolMathGames.com

Prongo.com

Ages 6-15+. Make a character and adventure across many worlds solving puzzles and fun.

Ages vary. This site gives step-bystep tutorials on how to code. Grades K-12. Another website that has games of various genres for kids to play.

FunFonix.com Ages vary. Kids can learn important phonics skills at this website.

Wise Choices for You & Your Family

www.FamilyAndKidsGA.com

Wise Choices for You & Your Family

ACTIVITY PROVIDERS! Showcase your fall activity or program to over 20,000 area parents who will be turning to us to shop & compare in our August & September issues!

AFTER-SCHOOL ACTIVITIES GUIDE DEADLINES: July 1 for August, August 1 for Sept issue. CONTACT: Tammy Usie, 253-212-7270 tammy@familyandkidsga.com

HOO’s HEALTHY Hemolytic Anemia is a blood disorder that occurs when the red blood cells in the body are destroyed faster than the body can replace them with new red blood cells. Red blood cells distribute oxygen to all parts of the body, and when there are not enough red blood cells, the body does not get the amount of oxygen it needs to work properly. The symptoms include jaundice, abnormal paleness or lack of color in the skin, weakness, fever, inability to perform physical activity, tachycardia, heart murmur and confusion. The symptoms can vary and are similar to those of other health conditions. Someone who experiences these symptoms should see a healthcare provider for a diagnosis. The tests ordered to help diagnose hemolytic anemia may include a complete blood count (CBC) and other blood tests, urine test, and bone marrow aspiration or biopsy. Hemolytic anemia can be an inherited condition caused by a genetic condition that a child inherits from their parents. These genetic conditions cause the body to produce red blood cells that do not live as long as normal blood cells: • Sickle cell disease: This condition causes the body to make abnormally-shaped red blood cells that can become trapped in small blood vessels, the spleen or the liver. By Linda, Ligon, Family & Kids

W h a t is : HEMOLY TIC ANEM

• Thalassemia: This condition causes the body to make red blood cells that are easily destroyed • G6PD disorder: This genetic disorder causes a deficiency in an enzyme that protects red blood cells. Hemolytic anemia can also be an acquired condition, meaning that the patient was not born with a condition that causes it but instead developed a condition that causes it after they were born. Acquired hemolytic anemia is sometimes a temporary condition that goes away once the underlying causes are treated, but in some cases it is a chronic, lifelong condition. The major causes of acquired hemolytic anemia include infections, medications, autoimmune disorders such as RA and lupus, and reactions to blood transfusions. Left untreated, hemolytic anemia can cause irregular heart rhythms, an enlarged heart and heart failure. The treatments vary depending on the causes, but can include blood transfusions, bone marrow transplant, medication, and surgery to remove the spleen. Resource: https://bit.ly/4jyqOTC

www.FamilyAndKidsGA.com

HOO’s PICKS

Highlight On The Pastoral Institute, located on 15th Ave in Columbus, meets the needs of our diverse community by providing counseling and education services, igniting the human spirit to thrive in healing and wholeness. They strive to be a safe place for peace and healing where you can be heard without fear of judgment. They offer a haven to tell your story, gain hope, and become stronger. In an effort to expand access to mental health resources, their community programs and education services are designed to promote mental health awareness, provide support, and empower individuals with the tools they need for well-being, while removing the barriers of stigma, cost, and transportation that so often prevent our neighbors from seeking help. They offer a range of initiatives, from workshops and seminars to support groups and outreach events, all focused on addressing the unique challenges our community faces. Here are some upcoming free community programs they are offering.

Summer Wellness Session: July 7, 12pm – 1pm, Columbus Public Library This psychoeducational group will help participants understand common causes, symptoms and coping skills related to anxiety. The difference between stress and anxiety will be discussed and interventions will be explained. Participants will be encouraged to develop a personal plan to manage their current level of stress or anxiety and additional resources will be provided.

Postpartum Circle: July 10 & Aug 1, 11am – 12pm, Columbus Public Library This is a psychoeducational group designed for new mothers, offering support in navigating the emotional challenges of motherhood, particularly those related to postpartum depression. The group focuses on building skills for self-care and self-advocacy, while also encouraging participants to make use of available community and mental health resources.

Music Therapy: July 21, 11am – 12pm, North Columbus Public Library A refreshing music therapy session designed to boost your mood, reduce stress, and promote emotional well-being. Through rhythm, RESOURCES:connection, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6659987/ sound, and creative expression, you'll discover how music can support relaxation, and healing. There is no musical experience needed!

10 10

Wise Choices for You & Your Family

STRESS

BUSTERS!

www.FamilyAndKidsGA.com

Hoo’s Tips

By Linda Ligon, Family & Kids

he challenges of parenting are not easy and when added to other daily sources of stress, such as a fast-paced job, it is understandable that some parents start to feel overwhelmed and burnt out. Here are some strategies to help cope with stress and help you parent well, instead of feeling like one more toddler temper tantrum will send you over the edge.

Leave other stressors at work

Dealing with a difficult coworker or an urgent deadline at work? Try not to bring this stress home with you. On the way home, imagine placing work issues into a container that is placed on a shelf and not opened again until you arrive at work again in the morning. Listen to music and avoid reacting strongly to traffic issues. When you arrive home, give your child a hug and enjoy a few minutes spending time with him before launching into evening activities and chores.

Reduce stress with time management strategies

Set a routine for your household that gives structure to your family’s day and prevents stressing over having to micromanage your kids to get homework and chores done. Be mindful of over-scheduling your child for activities, as having to jump from one activity to the next without free time, can be very stressful for both you and your child. Use chore charts and other tools to set expectations or rewards for your child to complete their routine tasks like cleaning up toys and taking a bath. Use apps to help your family view the weekly schedule and resolve schedule conflicts in advance, such as multiple birthday party invites. This schedule can help you and your partner ‘divide and conquer’ appointments, errands, school events and after-school activity pickups.

Do not neglect self-care

When forming a daily routine for your family, do not forget to schedule daily time for self-care. Physical activity, quiet ‘alone’ time and participating in a sport or hobby you enjoy can help to reduce stress. Work with your partner to schedule time for your yoga class or find a gym with childcare. Instead of using the entire time between the kids’ bedtime and yours for chores, use some of it to relax, read, do a guided meditation or a craft you enjoy. Good communication with your partner is key in working together towards mutual self-care opportunities. This includes getting enough sleep each night. If you and your partner are on the same page about your child’s bedtime, then it will be easier to enforce it and take advantage of the time before you go to bed. If, despite your best efforts, you still constantly feel stressed and worried, seek professional help from a therapist or counselor.

Seek the support of other parents

Each child is unique, and you may feel stressed with a parenting issue you are not familiar with, such as a toddler who has night terrors and will not sleep in her bed. Even if the strategies that they suggest for resolving the issue do not apply to your unique situation, feeling connected to a community can help reduce stress. It can be comforting to know that other parents have traveled a similar path and are there to support you while you work through the issue. You’ll feel less isolated and will know that if you experience a difficult situation, such as an unexpected severe illness, the other parents in your group are there to assist you and support you. Look for connections with other parents at your child’s school, your church or Facebook groups.

Wise Choices for You & Your Family

HOO’s CRAFTY

CUTE PATRIOTIC

TIE-DYE SHIRT This flag-inspired shirt is great for Independence Day, family reunions, summer camps, parades, backyard bbqs and fireworks!

DIRECTIONS Begin by soaking the shirt in some warmish water. Then gather in a diagonal from the edge you want to start on. This picture shows starting at the bottom right corner and rolling up to the top left sleeve. Zip tie the first tie about 4 inches or so from the shoulder edge, then every 2 inches until the end. Now the big section by the shoulder/collar is blue. Then alternate RED and leave white for the rest of the sections. Wear gloves and work over plastic on a drying rack. Gently squeeze out the dye in each zip tied section of the shirt. Lay out a garbage bag or plastic tablecloth and then use a baking rack...this will keep the dye from puddling and running together underneath. Wrap it in a grocery bag and place in warm area for 6-8 hours. Then remove from bag and rinse out with warm water. Rinse, ring, rinse, ring, rinse, etc... Then clip off the zip ties carefully. Rinse and ring until the water runs clear. Then throw it in the washing machine with soap and everything. Dry and wear! Great way to sport the stars and stripes!

SUPPLIES • 100% cotton T-Shirt • Tulip One Step Tie-Dye in Blue and Red • Zip Ties • Cookie Cooking Rack • Plastic Cloth • Bucket Warm Water • Grocery Bags COURTESY OF: doodlecraftblog.com

www.FamilyAndKidsGA.com

New Releases

Make it a movie night with these new kid-friendly titles.

JULY/ AUGUST > Now: Shark Whisperer (Netflix) > July 2: Dora & Search for Sol Dorado

(Paramount+) > July 11: Superman (Theaters) > July 18: Smurfs (Theaters) > July 18: Snoopy Summer Musical (Apple) > July 19: My Neighbor Totoro (Theaters) > July 25: Fantastic Four: First Steps (Theaters) > July 31: Nothing But a Winner (Theaters) > Aug 1: The Bad Guys 2 (Theaters) > Aug 8: Freakier Friday (Theaters) All movies listed are rated G or PG. Please check the appropriateness for your own child.

Wild LET THEM RUN

We buy & sell kids clothes and gear!

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

/onceuponachildcolumbusga

Wise Choices for You & Your Family

DON’T SWEAT THE SMALL STUFF, JUST NAIL THE BIG STUFF. What’s another teeny, tiny stain? You’ve got more important things to think about—like making sure your kids are buckled correctly in the right seat for their age and size.

Check at NHTSA.gov/TheRightSeat

www.FamilyAndKidsGA.com

Dining Deals

for Kids

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

friday

Sapo’s

Denny’s

5pm until close: free kid's meal with adult entree, dine in only

4-10pm: Up to two free kids entrées with adult entrée for kids 10 and under

Tuesday

Saturday

Chicken Salad Chick

The Food Mill

Free Little Chick Meal with purchase of adult meal

Denny’s

Free kid's meal with any regular priced brunch item from 9am-2pm

4-10pm: Up to two free kids entrées with adult entrée for kids 10 and under

multiple days

Ruby Tuesday

Bruster’s Ice Cream

5-10pm: Kids 12 and under eat free with adult entrée

wednesDAY Your Pie

Kid's meals half off with adult entree

Kids under 40” get free baby cone

McAlister’s

Kid’s meals are $2.79 with dine-in order

Smokey Bones

Free kid's meal off kid's menu with adult entrée

Red Robin

Kid’s meal half off with adult meal, for kids 11 and under

thursDAY Tuesday's Street Tacos & Burritos Free kids meal with adult purchase; dine-in only

All locations are Columbus, GA unless noted. Specials are subject to change without notice, so please verify them directly before dining. Send kids deals to Tammy@FamilyAndKidsGA.com.

Does your restaurant have a special offer for kids?! Let us know and we can promote it here for free to 20K local parents monthly. Email it to us at: Tammy@familyandkidsga.com

July Ev

1 Summer Craft Series – Sand Art. RSVP. Families.

8 Kids Art Studio. Ages 5-12. 4pm. Columbus

1 Little Sprouts. 10am. Ages 0-5. $5/family. Co-

8 Tabletop Tuesday. Teen. 4pm. South Colum-

8 Groove & Glow Paint Party. Teen. 6pm. Mil-

11am. Mildred L. Terry Library; 706-243-2782

lumbus Botanical Garden; 706-327-8400

“Color Our World” Family Stories. Ages 4-11. 3pm. South Columbus Library; 706-683-8805

1 Pony Bead Party. Ages 5-12. 4pm. RSVP

groups 7+. Columbus Library; 706-243-2813

Summer Cinema: The Sorcerer’s Apprentice (PG, 2010). Families. 2pm. RSVP for groups of 7 or more. Columbus Library; 706-243-2813

3 Creativi-Teen: ‘Zines. 6pm. North Columbus Library; 706-748-2855

3 Freedom Celebration & Fireworks. 6:30pm.

Library; 706-243-2813

bus Library; 706-683-8805

dred L. Terry Library; 706-243-2782

8-10 Learn to Play Street Hockey. 10am. Ages 4-17. Columbus Ice Rink; columbusstreethockey.org

9 MAMA B.E.A.R.S. (Part 2) Breastfeeding

Support meeting. 12:30pm. Columbus Pediatric Assoc; 706-221-4602

9 Summer Cinema: Alice in Wonderland (G).

Inner Beast Teen Challenges for Teens. 3pm. North Columbus Library; 706-748-2855

Summer Cinema: Dog Man (PG). Families. 10am. RSVP. North Columbus Library; 706-7482855

14 Teen Book Club. 4pm. North Columbus Library; 706-748-2855

14-18

Frogwarts Summer Camp. 9am4pm. Ages 7-11. Oxbow Meadows; 706-5078550

15 Summer Craft Series: Sponge Art. RSVP.

Families. 11am. Mildred L. Terry Library; 706243-2782

15 Pony Bead Party. Ages 5-12. 4pm. RSVP

Opelika High School; opelika-al.gov/

Families. 2pm. RSVP groups 7+. Columbus Library; 706-243-2813

Independence Day Celebration & Concert. 10am-4:30pm. $7. National Civil War Naval Museum; 706-327-9798

9 Graphic Novel Book Club. Ages 6-11. 4pm.

16Gallery Play Date. 10-11am. Ages 2-4. Co-

10 Simple Steps: Play. Ages 2-5. 10am. South

16 Summer Cinema: Raya and the Last Dragon

4 4th of July Celebration & Fireworks. 5pm.

North Columbus Library; 706-748-2855

Columbus Library; 706-683-8805

groups 7+. Columbus Library; 706-243-2813

lumbus Museum; 706-748-2562

(PG). Families. 2pm. RSVP groups 7+. Columbus Library; 706-243-2813

Phenix City Amphitheater; facebook.com

10 Creative Kids: Green Screen. Ages 6-11.

Independence Day Celebration & Fireworks. 5pm. Behind Duck Samford Stadium, Auburn; auburnalabama.org/4th-of-july

10 Budding Naturalists. 10-11am. $7.18. Columbus Botanical Garden, 706-327-8400

17 Simple Steps Storytime: Family. Ages 0-5.

works. All day. Callaway Gardens; 855-885-3841

10 Creativi-Teen: Cozy Coloring. 6pm. North Columbus Library; 706-748-2855

17 Creative Kids: Yarn Hanging. Ages 6-11.

17 Creativi-Teen: Print Making. 6pm. North

18 Art in the Park. Families. 11am. North Co-

12 West Point Lake Dragon Boat Race. 8am.

18 Mini Adventure: Canada Day. Families.

18The Big Sing! Concert. 7pm. Ages 14+. Leg-

12 Honey Harvest. 10am-1pm. Oxbow Mead-

19 Sumpter Explorer Train. 9:30am. SAM

19 Uno, Dos, Tres Craft! Ages 4-8. 3pm. Ap-

4-5 Star-Spangled Beach Party & Fire5 Cool Pool Summer Splash Celebration.

1-3pm. Regular pool admission. $5 parking. Liberty Bell Pool, F.D. Roosevelt State Park, Pine Mountain; 706-663-4858

5 Eye Spy Scavenger Hunt. 9am-4pm. F. D. Roosevelt State Park; 706-663-4858

5 Artful Babies. 1:30am. Ages 6-24mo. Columbus Museum; 706-748-2562

7-11 Invention Convention Day Camp.

8:30am-3:30pm. 1st-5th graders. Oxbow Meadows; 706-327-2634

7-11 Camp NIM Kids: Operation Walking in

Their Boots. 9am-4pm. Ages 7-8. National Infantry Museum; 706-685-5800

7 Family Fun Night: Frida Kahlo Self Portraits. 4pm. Columbus Library; 706-243-2813

3pm. North Columbus Library; 706-748-2855

Kidchella. Families. 10am. Columbus Library; 706-243-2813 Summer Cinema. Families. 2pm. Mildred L. Terry Library; 706-243-2782 Christmas in July Food Truck Festival. 4-7pm. River Oak Boutique; Facebook.com

Pyne Rd Park, LaGrange; wpldragonboatrace.com Sumpter Explorer Train. 9:30am. SAM Shortline, Cordele; 1-877-GA-RAILS ows; 706-507-8550

Enchanted Fairy Fest. 10am-2pm. $8-$12. Columbus Botanical Garden, 706-327-8400

Mini Makers. 10:30am. Ages 2-4. Columbus Museum; 706-748-2562

16 MAMA B.E.A.R.S. (Part 1) Breastfeeding

Support meeting. 5:30-7pm. Columbus Pediatric Assoc; 706-221-4602 10am. South Columbus Library; 706-683-8805 3pm. North Columbus Library; 706-748-2855 Columbus Library; 706-748-2855

lumbus Library; 706-748-2855

4pm. Columbus Library; 706-243-2813

acy Hall, RiverCenter; 706-649-7243 Shortline, Cordele; 1-877-GA-RAILS

pointment required. Mildred L. Terry Library; 706-243-2782

Events

PROVIDED IN PARTNERSHIP WITH:

19 Star Light, Star Bright. 9pm. $5 parking. F. D. Roosevelt State Park; 706-663-4858

19-27 Alice in Wonderland. Times vary.

$21-$23. McClure Theatre, Springer Opera House; 706-327-3688

29 Sweet Summer Celebration: Ice Cream

Party. Families. 2pm. Mildred L. Terry Library; 706-243-2782

29 Pony Bead Party. Ages 5-12. 4pm. RSVP groups 7+. Columbus Library; 706-243-2813

21 Family Fun Night: Andy Warhol Pop Art.

29 Teen Takeover. 4pm. South Columbus

21-25 Summer Camp. 10am-4pm. Ages

30 The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, The

4pm. Columbus Library; 706-243-2813

6-12. $175. Family Theatre; 706-431-3752

22 Family Stories. Ages 4-11. 3pm. South

Columbus Library; 706-683-8805

22 Kids Art Studio. Ages 5-12. 4pm. Columbus Library; 706-243-2813

23 MAMA B.E.A.R.S. (Part 2) Breastfeeding Support meeting. 12:30pm. Columbus Pediatric Assoc; 706-221-4602

23 Summer Cinema: Beauty and the Beast

Library; 706-683-8805

Witch, and The Wardrobe (PG). Families. 2pm. RSVP groups 7+. Columbus Library; 706-243-2813

Gallery Play Date. 10-11am. Ages 2-4. Columbus Museum; 706-748-2562

30 Seedling Storytime. 10-11am. $7.18. Columbus Botanical Garden, 706-327-8400

31 HP Birthday. Teen. 6pm. North Columbus Library; 706-748-2855

Simple Steps Storytime: Family. Ages 0-5. 10am. South Columbus Library; 706-683-8805

Weekly Events

North Columbus Library; 706-748-2855

MONDAY

(G). Families. 2pm. RSVP groups 7+. Columbus Library; 706-243-2813

24 Creative Kids: Edible Art. Ages 6-11. 3pm.

L. Terry Library; 706-243-2782

Simple Steps Storytime: Babies & Toddlers. Ages 0-36mo. 10am. Columbus Library; 706243-2813 Simple Steps: Play. Ages 0-5. 10am. Mildred L. Terry Library; 706-243-2782

1:30-5pm. Columbus Library; 706-243-2689

TUESDAY

24 Creativi-Teen: Plarning. 6pm. North Columbus Library; 706-748-2855

25 Summer Cinema. Families. 2pm. Mildred 25 Friends of the Libraries Big Book Sale. 26 Autism Awareness Resource Fair. 10am1pm. Macy’s Court, Peachtree Mall; 706-327-1598

26 Edible Art. Ages 6-11. RSVP. 3pm. North Columbus Library; 706-748-2855

26 Summer Saturdays. 10am-2pm. $8-$12. Columbus Botanical Garden, 706-327-8400

26TikTok Dance Class. Noon-2pm. $5. Hospi-

tality Suites, Columbus Civic Center; civiccenter. columbusga.gov

28 Summer Cinema: Mufasa (PG). Families. 10am. RSVP. North Columbus Library; 706-748-2855

Simple Steps Storytime. Babies & Toddlers. Ages 0-24 mo. 10am; Preschoolers. Ages 3-5. 11am. Mildred L. Terry Library; 706-243-2782 Tuesdays at 10. 10am. Ages 4+. Columbus Museum; 706-748-2562 Family Stories. Ages 6-11. 12noon. North Columbus Library; 706-748-2855 Teen Takeover: Get Your Game On. 2pm. Columbus Library; 706-243-2811 Get On Board With Board Games: Chess & More. Families. 4:30pm. Mildred L. Terry Library; 706243-2782

WEDNESDAY

Simple Steps Storytime. Ages 0-5. 11am. Mildred L. Terry Library; 706-243-2782 Storytime with Grammy Trish. 11am. Columbus Bound Bookshop; visitcolumbusga.com Discovery Hub. Ages 3-5. 11am. RSVP group 7+. Columbus Library; 706-243-2813 Teen Takeover: Crafternoons. 2pm. Columbus Library; 706-243-2811

THURSDAY

Simple Steps Storytime: Family. Ages 0-5. 10am. Columbus Library; 706-243-2813 Toddler Tales. 10am. Barnes & Noble Columbus; 706-653-7880 LEGOS® in the Library. Families. 3pm. RSVP groups 7+. Columbus Library; 706-243-2813 Teen Takeover: Merry Pop-Ins. 2pm. Columbus Library; 706-243-2811

FRIDAY

Farmstand Friday. 9-Noon. The MercyMed Farm, 3820 2nd Ave, Columbus; 706-507-9209 Simple Steps Storytime: Rhythm & Rhyme. Ages 0-5. 10am. Columbus Library; 706-2432813 (Not 7/ 4) Story time Tour. 10am. Ages 4-10. Columbus Museum; 706-748-2562 (Not 7/4)

SATURDAY

Market Days on Broadway. 9am-Noon. 900, 1000 & 1100 blocks of Broadway; uptowncolumbusga.com Toddler Time. 10am-Noon. $10. Ages 5 and under. Launch Trampoline Park; 706-221-8680 Chipley Square Farmers Market. 10am-2pm. McDougal Ave and Broad Street, Pine Mountain; facebook.com Please call ahead to confirm event dates, times and age-appropriateness, in case changes were made after the info was obtained.

2025

YMCA Fall Youth Programs

Registration Open Now!

Afterschool Program • Fall Soccer

FREE GAMES OF BOWLING MONDAY-FRIDAY OPEN - 5PM SATURDAY OPEN - NOON SHOE RENTAL REGULAR PRICE

ALL SUMMER ALL SUMMER

APRIL 28th THROUGH OCTOBER 31st

SCAN TO REGISTER!

www.StarsAndStrikes.com

FREE ENTRY FOR KIDS THIS SUMMER! Sign up for a Free Summer Kids’ Membership online.

Enchanted Fairy Fest, Summer Saturdays, Herbal Workshops, and more!

columbusbotanicalgarden.org

Wise Choices for You & Your Family

Power of

HOO’s Healthy

PROTEIN

By Linda Ligon, Family & Kids

for weight loss

f you have a weight loss goal, it is important to remember that about 10%– 35% of your daily caloric intake and your diet should be eating enough protein goes hand-in-hand with weight loss. balanced out with healthy fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Some key benefits to adequate protein intake while on a weight loss Talk to your doctor before starting a high-protein diet. A plan include: high-protein diet may not be appropriate for people with certain • A high-protein diet helps you retain muscle mass and avoid the medical conditions, such as kidney disease, diabetes, liver dysfuncconsequences of muscle mass loss, such as a slower metabo- tion, and other chronic conditions. Your doctor can help you determine what your daily protein intake goal should be. lism and feeling weak and fatigued. Next, find sources of quality protein that you enjoy eating. Not • Eating enough protein will help you feel full longer. all protein sources are equal. For example, eating a lot of fatty meat • Including enough protein in your diet can help improve blood could cause you to consume a high amount of ‘bad’ cholesterol. Qualsugar levels and reduce cravings. ity sources of protein include lean meats and poultry, nut butters, Nutrition experts recommend adults eat 0.80 grams of protein eggs, seafood, Greek yogurt, tofu and soy milk. Try to avoid processed per 1 kg of body weight, but advise that someone who is trying to convenience foods marketed as high in protein, as they can be high in lose weight may need to increase their daily protein intake. If you sodium and fat. There are plenty of healthy plant-based alternatives, are attempting to lose weight, you may need to increase your daily such as spinach, beans and legumes. If you choose to use a protein protein intake to 1.0 gram to 1.2 grams per kilogram of body weight. shake in place of a meal, try to make your own instead of buying preThis is especially true if you lead an active lifestyle. Protein should be made shakes, which often contain artificial ingredients and sugars.

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CHILDREN’S RESALE AND MORE

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HOO’s learning

Press Play on Reading with Wonderbooks By Sabrina Lambeth, Children’s Services Coordinator • Chattahoochee Valley Libraries

A fun way to build reading confidence-and win prizes this summer! The leap from “read to me” to “I can read it myself!” is exciting—but it can also feel big. That’s where Wonderbooks come in. These allin-one read-along books feature a built-in audiobook, so kids can listen and follow along with the story—no internet, downloads, or batteries required!

You Do: As their confidence grows, kids can start reading aloud themselves. The Wonderbook’s “Learning Mode” even includes questions that help boost comprehension and critical thinking. This gentle support helps children move toward independent reading in a fun, low-pressure way—especially helpful for busy families looking to make the most of story time.

We’ve got Wonderbooks for every level: from decodable texts to early Wonderbooks are perfect for supporting your child’s reading devel- chapter books, with new titles added regularly. They’re great for quiet opment through a proven approach called “I Do, We Do, You Do.” time, car rides, or those moments when you need an extra reading buddy. I Do: Kids listen to expert narration that models how fluent read- And don’t forget—every Wonderbook your child reads counts toing sounds—tone, phrasing, and expression. ward our Summer Reading Challenge, running now through July We Do: Together, you and your 31. Log your reading to earn prizes like books, games, and more! child can pause and talk about what’s Find Wonderbooks and log your reading at cvlga.org or visit any Chathappening in the story, predict what tahoochee Valley Libraries location. Let’s make this a summer full of stories, smiles, and success! comes next, or make connections.

Check one out. Press play. And let the reading journey begin!

Wise Choices for You & Your Family

HOO’s CRAFTY

paper bag FLYING KITE The kids will have so much fun decorating and making their very own paper bag kites. With using basic supplies, allowing for tons of creativity, and encouraging outdoor play, this craft is a summertime win!

DIRECTIONS

SUPPLIES

Decorate – To make your paper bag kites, start by having the kids decorate their paper bags. Use a variety of colors and your favorite embellishments. Stickers and washi tape work really well to add some fun prints and colors! They could also draw designs with markers and crayons or add polka dots and stripes using washable paints. Just make sure the paint is dry before moving on to the next step.

• paper lunch bags • yarn or strong twine/string • popsicle sticks • scissors • streamers • tape • scissors • embellishments: stickers, paint,

Cut – Using a pair of scissors, snip a little hole on the bottom base of the bag. This will be used for the kite string. String – Cut a piece of yarn or string about 18-24 inches long. Tie one end to the middle of a popsicle stick and feed the other end through the hole in the bag. The popsicle stick will keep the kite string from pulling out when it’s flying.

markers, crayons, construction paper, washi tape

Connect – Attach streamers to the open end of the bag using tape. Fly – Go fly your kite! Courtesy of: somewhatsimple.com

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HOO’s tips

By Linda Ligon, Family & Kids

Tummy Time tips

newborns and infants with tummy time is considered Providing essential to their development by many pediatricians. Here are

some key benefits. • Helps your baby strengthen her upper body muscles essential for rolling, crawling and walking. • Helps your baby avoid a condition called torticollis, which occurs when the neck muscles become tight on one side. • Helps prevent positional plagiocephaly (flat head syndrome). • Provides an opportunity for motor skill development and sensory exploration. Start out with short tummy time sessions of about 3 - 5 minutes each, three times a day for your newborn and gradually increase the amount of tummy time as your baby grows. By two months of age, babies should be getting about 30 minutes of tummy time a day and by four months, your baby should get about an hour of tummy time a day. Traditionally, tummy time is done by placing your baby on her tummy on a blanket on the floor. However, this may not work for all babies. • Newborns may become upset in this position, since they are not yet able to lift their heads.

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Babies with reflux may find this position undesirable, as it can make them more prone to spit up. • Newborns may find the position unfamiliar since they spend most of their time on their backs.

If your baby strongly dislikes traditional tummy time, here are some ways that will allow her to get her tummy time each day. •

Place your baby on a ‘tummy time’ pillow so that she is on an incline and can see her surroundings.

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Place your baby on your chest. This is perfect because it also provides an opportunity for her to spend time close to you.

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Place your baby across your lap while you rub her back.

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Hold your baby in a tummy-down carry, also referred to as a ‘football hold.’ Your baby will be able to practice controlling her upper body and can also better see her surroundings. Always supervise your baby during tummy time and place her in a safe sleep environment on her back if she falls asleep during tummy time.

Wise Choices for You & Your Family

HOO’s HUNGRY

Banana

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SUSHI ROLLS

Give their lunch box or snack a delicious upgrade with a variation of banana sushi. Or have a smorgasbord waiting on the table when the whole family comes home!

INGREDIENTS

INSTRUCTIONS

• 1 taco-size flour tortilla • 1 ripe but firm banana, peeled

butter, cream cheese, or Nutella evenly over the surface.

For Peanut Butter Banana Sushi • 3 tablespoons peanut butter, divided • 1/2 cup chopped peanuts

1. Lay out one tortilla, and spread two tablespoons of peanut 2. Place a peeled banana at the end of the tortilla. 3. Roll the banana in the tortilla snugly. Place the tortilla seam-

side-down on the cutting board.

4. Spread the remaining tablespoon of peanut butter, cream cheese, or Nutella over the top of the tortilla roll. 5. Sprinkle chopped peanuts, freeze-dried strawberries, shredded coconut, or other toppings of choice on top.

6. Slice into 1-inch slices and serve!

Strawberries and Cream Banana Sushi • 3 tablespoons softened cream cheese • 2 strawberries, thinly sliced • 2 tablespoons freeze-dried strawberries For Chocolate Coconut Banana Sushi • 3 tablespoons Nutella, divided • 2 tablespoons shredded coconut flakes

BENEFITS OF Bananas

ananas are not just a delicious and convenient snack; they are also packed with essential nutrients that offer a range of health benefits. Rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber, bananas can help boost your energy levels, improve digestion, and support heart health.

Packed with Potassium.

One of the key benefits of bananas is their high potassium content. A medium-sized banana contains about 400– 450 mg of potassium, which is crucial for maintaining healthy blood pressure and proper muscle function. Potassium also helps balance electrolytes, preventing cramps and promoting hydration, making bananas an excellent choice for athletes.

Natural Energy Source.

Bananas provide a quick, natural source of energy thanks to their carbohydrates, primarily in the form of sugars like glucose, fructose, and sucrose. This makes them a great pre- or post-workout snack, giving your body the fuel it needs without the sugar crash that often follows processed energy foods.

Digestive Health

Bananas are rich in dietary fiber, particularly pectin, which helps regulate digestion. The fiber content promotes regular bowel movements, reduces bloating, and supports overall gut health. Additionally, bananas contain resistant starch, which acts as a prebiotic, feeding beneficial gut bacteria.

Heart Health

The combination of potassium, magnesium, and fiber in bananas helps promote cardiovascular health by supporting healthy blood pressure and reducing cholesterol levels. Incorporating bananas into your diet is an easy way to enjoy a natural, nutritious snack that benefits both your body and overall health.

Recipe courtesy of: Wholefully.com