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PARENTING TIPS

Parenting Pitfalls By Linda Ligon, Family & Kids

ased on your child’s personality, you have worked hard to develop an effective parenting style and created a structured daily routine. However, it does not take much sometimes for issues, such as having to unexpectedly work late or a sick family member, to throw your routine into chaos. Fatigue, stress and sleep deprivation can sometimes lead to slipping up and allowing some common parenting mistakes to creep into your parenting style without realizing it. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

Not managing limits properly

If your child has suddenly developed a habit of testing the limits, it is tempting to dismiss it if you are overwhelmed and feel like you do not have another ounce of energy. However, it is a mistake to assume ‘it is just a phase,’ ignore it and hope it will go away after a few days. By not enforcing a limit, such as ‘do not hit your brother,’ you are sending a message to your child that a limit is not really a limit after all. Also, if you enforce it by giving him negative attention (like sending him to time out) but do not also take the time to praise him for good, appropriate behavior, he learns that crossing the limit is the only way to get attention.

To avoid this increase of limit-testing, attention-seeking behavior, do not ignore problem behaviors. Discuss limits and expectations with your child and calmly enforce them. When you spot your child doing a good job, such as not hitting his brother when his brother snatches a toy away, take a moment to praise him.

Stopping tantrums by ‘giving in’

Your child is wanting another cookie, and you have told him no. He already had a cookie and it is time to leave so his brother can get to practice on time. He tries to reason with you and when that does not work, he has a complete meltdown. You are exhausted and it seems the only way to stop the tantrum and get him in the car, is to give him the cookie. So you do. However, this teaches your child that ‘Hey, if I put on a big enough show, I will get what I want.’ The next time you say ‘No’ and he does not like it, he will remember the success of the spectacular tantrum he had last time, and he is likely to try it again. This is a mistake to try to avoid if it is possible. Instead, wait until your child gets tired of putting on the spectacular meltdown and stand by your decision. He learns that the meltdowns do not work. Waiting out a meltdown may make you late and feel even more exhausted, but you made a crucial investment in your child’s future behavior.

Yelling when your child does not listen

When your child will not comply with requests, such as to come inside for dinner, it can be frustrating. Your child may talk back, telling you he will comply ‘in a minute.’ If you yell at your child to show you mean business, this sends the message that ‘I am not serious unless I yell.” Yelling may work at first, but you will find yourself having to constantly resort to yelling to get your child to listen. Instead, when your child does not listen, calmly explain the consequences of ignoring your request (such as no screen time tomorrow). In addition, when your child does a good job listening to your request and goes out of his way to help out, praise the good behavior.

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What's Trending @BusyToddler

Need an activity to keep the kids busy without spending a fortune? Created by former teacher Susie Allison, Busy Toddler is packed with simple, creative activities, sensory play ideas, learning games and projects that parents can easily recreate at home. Many of the activities use inexpensive supplies parents already have around the house—making this one worth saving for those “What are we going to do today?” moments.

Dopamine Kids

Screens and ultra-processed foods are two of the biggest challenges facing today’s families, and Dopamine Kids takes on both. Written by Michaeleen Doucleff, author of Hunt, Gather, Parent, the book offers five science-based strategies for helping children develop healthier sources of fun and motivation.

Play Therapy Parenting

What’s really behind your child’s behavior? That’s the question at the heart of Play Therapy Parenting, hosted by child therapist Dr. Brenna Hicks. The podcast translates child-therapy concepts into practical advice parents can use at home, covering everything from school anxiety and screen-time battles to self-esteem and challenging behavior.

Ask Dr. Meg

Looking for parenting advice backed by a pediatrician? Ask Dr. Meg is an online parenting resource from pediatrician and bestselling author Dr. Meg Meeker. Its membership includes articles organized by age, webinars, videos, courses, podcasts and weekly parenting emails covering everything from discipline and relationships to raising healthy, confident children.

Kick Holidays our PICKS

off the

From street parades and festive fitness, to lighting trees and gardens, there are a variety of ways to help your family kick off the holiday season around town. Here are a few of our top picks. Broadway Holiday Parade and Tree Lighting - Nov. 20

The evening will begin with a festive Christmas parade at 6:30pm, featuring local holiday spirit throughout Uptown. Attendees can enjoy live holiday music performed by local school bands and choirs, creating a festive atmosphere for families and visitors. At 7pm sharp, the mayor will light the City Christmas Tree. Guests can enjoy Christmas carolers, hot chocolate, and a special appearance by Santa Claus. The event is free.

Fort Benning Turkey Shoot - Nov. 21

Test your skills at Fort Benning’s Rec Shooting Complex using RSC-provided shotguns to shoot clay pigeons for a chance to win. The top four adult participants will each win a turkey and the top four youth participants will each win a pie. Children must be accompanied by an adult; otherwise, participants must be 18 or older. Limit one prize per household in each age category. Register before Nov. 21 by visiting or calling the Recreational Shooting Complex at 706-545-6158.

Salt Dough Botanical Workshop - Nov. 24

Welcome the holidays by making your own unique ornaments. Participants will make salt dough to leave impressions of leaves and flowers from the Columbus Botanical Garden to create a one-of-a-kind gift. This workshop is designed for elementary-aged kids to give them something fun to do while on Thanksgiving break! Sessions at 10am, 11:30am or 1pm. One free adult admission per child per session. FREE for members or $7 for non-members. Tickets: https://bit.ly/4hL9Dzs

SHINE: A Garden Light Spectacular - starts Nov. 27

Columbus Botanical Garden invites you to experience SHINE, the largest holiday light display in Columbus, on select evenings from Nov. 27-December 27 from 6-9pm. The Garden transforms into a festive winter wonderland filled with dazzling lights and family-friendly seasonal activities. Guests can enjoy the beautiful Walk of Stars, photo ops with Santa, kids’ crafts and educational activities, s’mores over an open fire, and festive concessions. Shine is a walk-through experience so guests can go through at their own pace. Pre-purchase tickets at columbusbotanicalgarden.org, as many nights sell out. Guests can also purchase tickets for an add-on experience, Cookies and Cocoa with Santa, from 5-6pm on the evenings of December 17- 23, which includes Shine admission.

Holiday Movies at the NIM Big Screen - starts Nov. 27

All aboard for a holiday tradition the whole family will love! Bring the kids and relive a little Christmas magic of your own, with The Polar Express 3D on the Giant Screen. Wear your favorite pajamas to a Polar Express showing and get a FREE hot chocolate to enjoy during the movie. Then keep the holiday fun going with Arthur Christmas 3D. These larger-than-life holiday favorites are the perfect way to kick off the season at the National Infantry Museum. For showtimes and tickets, visit nationalinfantrymuseum.org.

Holiday Tree Lighting Event at St. Francis Hospital - Dec. 4

St. Francis annual “Light the Spirit” event on December 4 from 5:30-8pm at the Butler Pavilion. It’s a free family Christmas event for all ages. They can watch Santa Clause light the tree, enjoy food trucks, bouncy houses, face painting, meet the Grinch, and enjoy live music from a high school band.

Bi-City Christmas Parade - Dec. 5

Ring in the holiday season with festive floats, marching bands, dancers, and Santa Claus himself at the annual Columbus Christmas Parade on December 5 at 10am. It starts at Broad Street in Phenix City and goes through Broadway in Uptown Columbus. The Christmas Parade brings families and neighbors together to celebrate the joy and spirit of the season. Community organizations, schools, and businesses are invited to participate by entering a float or performance group. For entry forms and guidelines, visit https://parks.columbusga.gov or call 706-225-4658.

Fort Benning’s Holly Jolly 5K and Half Marathon - Dec. 5

Get off the couch and lace up those sneakers for a competitive run on post with MWR Sports and Fitness. Event details and a train-up program can be found at https://bit.ly/4j7uVK7, or call 706-329-1034.

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Hashimoto's Disease is an autoimmune disorder that causes the immune system to mistakenly attack the thyroid gland. The thyroid gland is a butterfly shaped gland at the base of the neck. The main function of the thyroid gland is to regulate many of the body’s important functions by producing and releasing hormones. Functions regulated by the thyroid gland include metabolism, growth and brain development, heart rate and calcium levels. While Hashimoto’s disease is more commonly diagnosed in middle-aged women, anyone can develop it. Hashimoto’s disease is one of the most common causes of hypothyroidism in school-aged children. Children with other autoimmune disorders, such as Type 1 diabetes and celiac disease, are more likely to develop Hashimoto’s disease. When someone has Hashimoto’s Disease and the immune system attacks the thyroid gland with anti-thyroid antibodies, it can lead to the death of the thyroid gland cells that produce hormones. The thyroid gland can become inflamed and enlarged due to the immune system attacking it, a condition referred to as goiter. Goiter will appear to be a swelling in the neck just below the Adam’s apple. The damage to the hormone production cells in the thyroid can reduce the ability of the thyroid gland to produce hormones, a condition called hypothyroidism. Hypothyroidism can lead to many of the symptoms associated with Hashimoto’s. By Linda Ligon, Family & Kids

W h a t is : HASHIMOTO'S DISEASE Along with goiter, symptoms of Hashimoto’s disease include: slow height growth, fatigue, hair loss, memory problems, brittle nails, unexplained weight gain, increased sensitivity to cold, depression, heavy or irregular menstrual cycles, and trouble swallowing. If your child has symptoms of Hashimoto’s disease, she may be referred to a specialist called an endocrinologist. The doctor will ask about your child’s medical history, family medical history and symptoms your child is experiencing. After reviewing this information, the doctor may then order blood work to test for thyroid hormone levels and the presence of anti-thyroid antibodies. Treatment for Hashimoto’s disease is not always necessary. The doctor will decide if the thyroid hormone levels indicate treatment is necessary or if only monitoring of thyroid hormone levels is necessary. Treatment typically consists of medication and a monitoring of thyroid hormone levels. RESOURCE: https://bit.ly/4rZrWWn

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our PICKS

Highlight On Thrive is a special needs adaptive sports program for children and young adults of all abilities, located at the Northside Christian Church at 9801 Whiteville Rd in Fortson. The goal of the program is to create a safe, fun, and encouraging environment where everyone can participate, grow and feel like they belong. Program events are held on the 2nd Saturday of each month, April – November. A sports activity is planned in advance for each month’s event, with a different type of sport being featured each month. Previous events have featured sports such as adaptive volleyball, soccer and basketball. Kickball is planned for the November event on November 14th. Some of the adaptations that are made for the events include lower nets, shorter fields, larger balls and lighter equipment. All program participants get a “team” t-shirt. At each event, participants receive a snack and have an opportunity to make a craft and join in to play music and to participate in sports adapted to their abilities. Every participant has a one-to-

one “buddy” assigned to help them during the event so that parents and caregivers can sit back with a cup of coffee and chat with the other parents and/or watch the game. There is no cost to participate. Thrive is directed by Ronni Anderson, who says her commitment to the program grew from her nephew KJ’s experience with cerebral palsy. Growing up, KJ struggled to find an organization or activity where he felt welcomed, comfortable, and included. As a member of an athletic family, he found that lack of opportunity especially frustrating. Ms. Anderson says she wishes a program like Thrive had existed when KJ was a child. She says, “Since I became involved, I’ve fallen in love over and over again—with the participants, their families, the hugs, and the smiles. I’m wholeheartedly committed to this incredible ministry!” Parents interested in registering their child for the monthly Thrive program events, can visit https://www. RESOURCES: www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6659987/ comeandseencc.com /thrive-adaptive-sports-program.html.

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be helpful

OPERATION

By Amanda Merrill, Family & Kids

ratitude fills our minds every Thanksgiving. As we gather with our friends and families to celebrate with a feast, we give thanks to those that surround us. We watch parades, cheer for football teams and eat turkey. We may even play a game of football in the front yard if our body allows. This time of year, we gather around a table to express gratitude for our blessings and make “giving back” a priority; as we remember that Thanksgiving first started with a friendship.

In September of 1620, Pilgrims made their journey from England to America on the Mayflower. When they arrived, Native Americans taught Pilgrims how to plant corn, pumpkins and squash and how to fertilize the crops. The Pilgrims learned how to create nets and tools to be able to catch fish and hunt for food. The Native Americans even introduced them to trading animal furs, enabling them to pay off their trip debt with England! The Pilgrims were thankful for the Native Americans and celebrated them in 1621 with the first Harvest Feast. This feast took place in what is now Plymouth, Massachusetts. It was a great celebration of a friendship and a successful harvest! As a reminder of this day, in 1789, President George Washington designated a day to “give thanks.” Years later, in 1863, President Lincoln with the encouragement of an editor named Sarah Josepha Hale, designated the 4th Thursday in November, for this day of “giving thanks,” and called it Thanksgiving Day. What traditions does your family participate in to celebrate Thanksgiving? Do you watch football, play card games or feast on turkey and pumpkin pie? Do you pull the “wishbone” off the turkey and see who gets to make a wish? Do you run a "gobble jog” or plan a ‘Friendsgiving' weeks in advance? This November, I encourage you to make Thanksgiving a little different and create a new tradition that will harbor friendships. Today, prepare to ‘give thanks’ to the people you interact with each day. This could be a coworker, a friend, a firefighter, a police officer or even the construction workers working on the road you drive down each morning. I encourage you to bless those around you with encouragement, as gratitude tends to multiply and reciprocate. I encourage you, friends, to “give thanks” to others this Thanksgiving. Then on Thanksgiving Day, as you share a feast at the table with your family and friends, you will have a story to tell. This Thanksgiving, let's pour into our local community!

New Family-Friendly Traditions

Feeding the Valley Food Bank- Big Gobble Event Feedingthevalley.org Goal: Deliver over 6,000 meals this November! Task: Prepare meals for delivery. Volunteer: Prepare meals, drive to deliver meals or sponsor a meal

Paws Humane Society pawshumane.org

Goal: Spend time with animals! Task: Volunteer at the Humane Society. Volunteer: Animal care and fostering opportunities.

Firefighters

Goal: Support our firefighters! Task: Deliver food to a local fire station this week. Firefighters enjoy gift cards to healthier eateries such as Subway and Firehouse Subs.

Teachers

Goal: Spread the joy to our teachers! Task: Send the teachers home with a gift card from a locally-owned business and a ‘thank you’ note. Volunteer: Contact the schools in your area.

Nurses, Doctors, Patients and Dentists

Goal: Show appreciation to our health care providers! Task: Drop off lunch, gift cards or sweet treats. Volunteer: Serve your local community in the hospital during the holidays.

Police

Goal: Show appreciation for our local police force! Task: Drop off lunches, gift cards or thank you notes at a local station ahead of the holiday.

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Food Focus

Maple Cinnamon

•

APPLE JELLY

Made with unsweetened apple juice, pure maple syrup, cinnamon, and a touch of apple pie spice, this jelly has all the flavors of a crisp fall day in one little jar.

INSTRUCTIONS

Add apple juice, maple syrup, lemon juice, cinnamon, apple pie spice, and salt to a large saucepan.Whisk in powdered pectin until completely dissolved.Bring to a full rolling boil over medium-high heat, stirring frequently. Add the granulated sugar all at once and stir well. Return to a hard rolling boil and boil for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Remove from heat and skim off any foam. Carefully pour into clean jars, leaving a little room at the top. Cool at room temperature, then refrigerate for 6–12 hours, or until fully set. If you want to make a shelf-stable canned version, use a tested canning recipe and follow current safe-canning instructions rather than simply processing this refrigerator recipe.

INGREDIENTS

l 4 cups unsweetened apple juice l ½ cup pure maple syrup l 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice l 1 package powdered fruit pectin (1.75 oz) l 3 cups granulated sugar l 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon l ¼ teaspoon apple pie spice l 1 small pinch of salt

Apples

BENEFITS OF

here's a reason apples show up in lunchboxes, orchards, and school pictures every fall. They're one of the most family-friendly fruits around: affordable, portable, and loved by kids and grown-ups alike.

Why apples earn their reputation

A medium apple has about four grams of fiber, which helps keep little tummies happy and keeps kids feeling full between meals. Much of that fiber is pectin, a soluble type that supports healthy digestion. Apples also provide vitamin C and antioxidants, and most of the beneficial compounds are in the skin, so leave it on when you can. Apples are also a smart snack for busy families. They need no refrigeration for a day of school or errands, they're naturally sweet, and the crunch is satisfying. Pairing slices with nut butter or cheese adds protein and staying power.

Fun facts to share at the kitchen table

• Apples float. About a quarter of an apple is air, which is why they bob in a tub at fall festivals. • They're related to roses. Apples belong to the rose family, as do pears, peaches, and strawberries.

• There are thousands of varieties. Roughly 7,500 apple varieties exist worldwide, in colors from deep red to golden green. • Seeds don't grow true. Plant a seed from your favorite apple and you'll get a completely different tree. That's why orchards graft branches onto rootstock instead. • An old saying has staying power. "An apple a day" traces back to a Welsh proverb from the 1860s.

Pectin: the secret behind your jelly

Here's a fun science lesson for your little kitchen helpers. That same pectin that's good for digestion is what makes jelly set. Apples are naturally rich in it, so when you cook the fruit with sugar and a little acid, the pectin forms a gel. It's a delicious demonstration of how ingredients transform, and kids love watching it happen.

A safety note for the youngest eaters

Raw apple chunks can be a choking hazard for children under four. For toddlers, grate the apple, cook it until soft, or serve it as a smooth sauce or spread, which makes homemade jelly a gentler option on toast. This season, let your kids pick, peel, and stir. Apples are good for growing bodies, and they're even better for making memories. Courtesy of: Sagebrush & Satin

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BE CRAFTY

Pumpkin pie

PLAY DOUGH This easy pumpkin pie playdough smells just like fall! Made with simple pantry ingredients and warm pumpkin pie spices, it is a fun sensory activity for toddlers and preschoolers. Add small pie tins and playdough tools, and

DIRECTIONS Add the flour, salt, cream of tartar and spices to a medium saucepan. Stir the dry ingredients together until they are evenly combined. Mix a few drops of orange food coloring into the water. Pour the colored water and vegetable oil into the saucepan. Stir until combined. The mixture will become smoother as it cooks. Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring frequently. The mixture will begin to thicken and pull away from the sides of the pan. Continue stirring until the play dough begins to form a ball and no longer looks wet or sticky. Remove the pan from the heat and place the dough on a heat-safe surface. Allow it to cool until it is comfortable to touch. Knead the warm dough until it becomes soft and smooth.

TIPS: If the play dough still feels sticky after kneading, add flour one tablespoon at a time until it reaches the right consistency. Be careful not to add too much at once, or the dough may become dry. The Playdough can last several weeks to a few months if stored in a resealable plastic bag, pressing out as much air as possible before sealing it. If the dough becomes slightly dry, try kneading in a few drops of vegetable oil. If it becomes sticky, knead in a small amount of flour.

SUPPLIES • 1 cup all-purpose flour • ¼ cup salt • ½ tablespoon vegetable oil • 1 cup water • 1 teaspoon cream of tartar • ½ teaspoon nutmeg • ½ teaspoon allspice • 1 teaspoon ground ginger • 1 teaspoon cinnamon • Orange food coloring Courtesy of whereimaginationgrows.com

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be INSPIRED

Raising Gratitude Raising Resilience By Imani Jones, Manager of Resilient Chattahoochee Valley

esilient Chattahoochee Valley believes gratitude is more than simply saying ‘thank you’ and as we move into the season of gratitude, it is important to keep this in mind. Gratitude enables a child and a family to acknowledge who, what, and how they are supported in their journey through life. Gratitude is a habit that strengthens families and empowers them to be resilient, adapt, recover and grow through tough times. Resilient families do not shun adversity. Instead, they acknowledge challenges while focusing on hope, connection, and the strengths that help them move forward. Gratitude helps children see themselves as being supported, valued and able to overcome challenges. So, this November, why not help children and young adults think about not just what they are thankful for, but also, who helps them get stronger -- and how can they help someone else get stronger? There are ways to practice gratitude, kindness, and connection that will help families become more resilient and sustain that for the whole year!

Simple ways families can practice gratitude Make a Gratitude Jar and Strengths Jar

Families record something they are thankful for and a personal strength they used to help them each day, as examples: kindness, courage, perseverance. Read the notes together at the end of the month.

Do the exercise “Rose, Thorn and Growth” at the dinner table or at night:

A Rose: something positive that happened. A Thorn: a problem overcome. A Growth: what was learnt and/or how the challenge was overcome. Children learn that they can experience growth from challenging experiences.

Thank the Helpers

Invite children to recognize and express gratitude to people in their lives who help them, like their teachers, coaches, neighbors, family members or friends. Children feel connected and develop a sense of belonging through recognizing support systems.

Take part in a Family Kindness Challenge

Volunteer, donate, assist a neighbor, leave a positive note. Kindness encourages children to think about how they have the power to make a difference to someone else.

Novembe

1 Christmas Made in the South. 10am-5pm. 7-8 Ready, Set, Rocket! Theatre for the 14 Second Saturday Tour at Historic WestColumbus Trade Center; 706-327-4522 Very Young. Sat 11am & Sun 2pm. Ages 0-8. ville Village. 11-11:45am. 3557 South Lump2 Family Fun Night: Coco (PG). 4pm. Colum- Springer Opera House; 706-327-3688 kin Road; facebook.com bus Library; 706-243-2813

9 Crochet Club. 4pm. Columbus Library; 706- 14 Midland Commons Concert Series:

3 Little Sprouts. 10am & 2:30pm. $5. Colum- 243-2813 Groove Monkey. 6:30-10pm. Midland Combus Botanical Garden; 706-327-8400 9 Teen Movie Mondays. 4:30pm. Columbus mons; facebook.com 3 Simple Steps Storytime: Meet the Mascot Library; 706-243-2811 14 Movie Under the Stars: A Goofy Movie

Scorch, Columbus River Dragons. 11am. North Columbus Library; 706-748-2855 Pony Bead Party. Ages 5-12. 4pm. Columbus Library; 706-243-2813 Teen Crafternoon: Perler Beads. 4:30pm. Columbus Library; 706-243-2811 Songs of Love and Faith: Music Under the Dome Series. 5pm. $10. Coca-Cola Space Science Center; 706-649-1486 American Girl Book Club. Ages 5-12. 4pm. Columbus Library; 706-243-2813 Curious George and the Golden Meatball. 10:30am. $18. RiverCenter; 706-323-5059 Teen Takeover: Art Lab – Watercolor Bookmarks. 6pm. North Columbus Library; 706-748-2855 Light of the Valley Glow Run 5K and Fun Run. 6:30pm. The Park at Cascade Hills; givesignup.org 2026 National Peanut Festival. Dothan, AL; 334-793-4323 Artful Babies. 10:30am. Columbus Museum; 706-748-2562 ext 6520 Mini Makers. 1:30pm. Ages 2-4. RSVP. Columbus Museum; 706-748-2562 ext 6520 Free Astronomy Night. 6pm. FD Roosevelt State Park; ccssc.org Steeplechase at Callaway Gardens. All day. Pine Mountain; 706-324-6252

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10 Kids’Art Studio. Ages 5-12. 4pm. Colum- (G). 8pm. The Patio at The Springer Opera House; 706-327-3688 bus Library; 706-243-2813 10 Teen Takeover: Board Game Arcade – 14-15 Columbus Fall Craft & Vendor Dominoes: Chicken Foot. 4pm. South Colum- Market. Times vary. Peachtree Mall; facebook bus Library; 706-683-8805 1 -15 Ready, Set, Rocket! Theatre for Young. Sat 11am & Sun 2pm. Ages 10 Artful Babies. 10:30am. Columbus Muse- the4Very 0-8. Springer Opera House; 706-327-3688 um; 706-748-2562 ext 6520 10 Mini Makers. 1:30pm. Ages 2-4. RSVP. 15-30 Fantasy in Lights. 6-8:30pm. Callaway Gardens; 844-887-6735 Columbus Museum; 706-748-2562 ext 6520 10 Breath of Fresh Air: Tai-Chi. 4pm. South 16 Creative Kids’ Theatre. 4pm. Columbus Library; 706-243-2813 Columbus Library; 706-683-8805 12 Teen Takeover: Board Game Arcade – 16 Teen Takeover: Movie Mondays. 4pm. South Columbus Library; 706-683-8805 Games of Chance. 4:30pm. Columbus Library; 706-243-2811 17 Budding Naturalist. 10am. $7. Columbus 13 River Dragons Hockey Game. 7:35pm. Botanical Garden; 706-327-8400 Columbus Civic Center; 706-653-4460 17 Crafty Kids: Basket Weaving with Historic 13-14 Fantasy in Lights: Bicycle Nights. Westville Village. Ages 6-11. 3pm. South Columbus Library; 706-683-8805 Callaway Gardens; 844-887-6735 13-15 The Art of Glass Making: Orna- 17After School Art Break. 2:30-4:30pm. ments & Snowman. Times vary. $65-$75. Columbus Museum; 706-748-2562 ext 6520 RSVP. Columbus Museum; 706-748-2562 17 Pony Bead Party. Ages 5-12. 4pm. Colum13-15 Columbus Home Expo. Times bus Library; 706-243-2813 vary. Columbus Trade Center; eventbright.com 17 Teen Crafternoons: Felt “Award” Ribbons. 14 Smiths Station Holiday Bazaar. 9am- 4:30pm. Columbus Library; 706-243-2813 2pm. City Hall; smithsstational.gov 19 Edible Engineering: Cookie Cars. Ages 6-12. 14 Tri-City Veterans Day Parade. 10am. 3:30pm. N. Columbus Library; 706-748-2855 Broadway, Columbus; columbusga.gov/parks 19 Homeschool at the Park: All About Bam706-748-2562 ext 6520

boo. 9:30am-Noon. $5 plus parking fee. F.D. Roosevelt State Park; 706-663-4858

er Events 20 Kids’ Art Lab. 3pm. North Columbus Library; 706-748-2855 20 Crafty Chaos Club. 4pm. Columbus Library; 706-243-2813 20 Broadway Holiday Parade and Tree Lighting. 6:30pm. Uptown Columbus. 20-21 River Dragons Hockey Game. Columbus Civic Center; 706-653-4460 21 FT BenningTurkey Shoot. Adult and youth division. Shooting Complex. 706-545-6158. 21 Mercer Teddy Bear Clinic. 10:30am. Mildred L. Terry Library; 706-243-2782 21 Cozy Christmas Market. 11am-3pm. Midland Commons; facebook.com 21 CSO Open Rehearsal. 12:30pm. Free. All ages. RiverCenter; 706-323-5059 21 CSO: Wagner & Strauss. 7:30pm. $30$58. RiverCenter; 706-323-5059 21-22 American Frontier Days. Sat

9am-5pm, Sun 9-3pm. $5 parking. F. D. Roosevelt State Park; 706-663-4858 Folk Fair Saturdays. 10am-6pm. Rose Hill Heights Park; 706-330-7806 Teen Crafternoon Cinema: Middle-Earth. 2pm. Columbus Library; 706-243-2813 Salt Dough Ornament Workshop. Times vary. $7. RSVP. Columbus Botanical Garden; 706-327-8400 Kids’ Art Studio. Ages 5-12. 4pm. Columbus Library; 706-243-2813 Teen Crafternoon Cinema: Middle Earth. 2pm. Columbus Library; 706-243-2813 Seedling Storytime. 10-11am. $7. Columbus Botanical Garden, 706-327-8400 Teen Crafternoon Cinema: Middle Earth. 2pm. Columbus Library; 706-243-2813

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River Dragons Hockey Game. 7:05pm. Columbus Civic Center; 706-653-4460 Dec Shine: A Garden Light Spectacular. Columbus Botanical Garden. See ad on page 7 for details. Dec Polar Express and Arthur Christmas on the Giant Screen. National Infantry Museum. See ad on page 13 for details. Holly Jolly Market. 9am-Noon. Uptown Columbus; 706-596-0111 Outdoor Market. 11am-4pm. Bluebelle Local Mercantile; 706-327-1181 Teen Takeover: Thankful for Teens and Screens. 3pm. N. Columbus Library; 706-748-2855 Dec Frozen: The Broadway Musical. Times and dates vary. $30-$75. Springer Opera House; 706-327-3688 Kids and Family Wreath Class. 1pm. $10-$15. Columbus Botanical Garden, 706327-8400

Storytime with Grammy Trish. 11am. Columbus Bound Bookshop; visitcolumbusga.com

FRIDAY

Weekly

Fun Fridays. Ages 5-12. 2pm. North Columbus Library; 706-748-2855 (Not 27th )

Simple Steps Storytime: Babies & Toddlers. Ages 0-36mo. 10am. Columbus Library; 706243-2813

Nature Play. 10am-Noon. $5/child. Oxbow Meadows; 706-507-8550

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MONDAY

TUESDAY

Simple Steps Storytime. Babies & Toddlers. Ages 0-24 mo. 10am; Preschoolers. Ages 3-5. 11am. N. Columbus Library; 706-748-2855

WEDNESDAY

Simple Steps Storytime. Ages 0-5. 11am. Mildred L. Terry Library; 706-243-2782 (Not 11th )

Discovery Hub. Ages 3-5. 11am. Columbus Library; 706-243-2813 (Not 11th )

THURSDAY

Simple Steps Storytime: Families. Ages 0-5. 10am. Columbus Library; 706-243-2813 (Not 26th ) Simple Steps Storytime: Families. Ages 0-5. 10am. South Columbus Library; 706-6838805 (Not 26th ) Sight Word Support. K-3. 3-5pm. Mildred L. Terry Library; 706-243-2782 (Not 26th ) LEGOS® in the Library. Families. 4pm. Columbus Library; 706-243-2813 (Not 26th ) Simple Steps Storytime: Rhythm & Rhyme. Ages 0-5. 10am. Columbus Library; 706-2432813 (Not 27th )

SATURDAY

Simple Steps: Play. Ages 0-5. 10am. Columbus Library; 706-243-2813

Discovery Time. 2-4pm. $5/child. Oxbow Meadows; 706-507-8550 Please call ahead to confirm event dates, times and age appropriateness, in case changes were made after the info was obtained.

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be INSPIRED

campfire

TRADITIONS By Amanda Merrill, Family & Kids

n the fall, many gather around a campfire to share stories and traditions. For decades, campfires have brought communities together. Campfires were often used in the Native American culture as a classroom. Generations learned from each other gathered around the flames telling stories of the lessons they had learned.

Countries around the world traditionally use campfires to share stories and build community. If attending a European campfire, traditionally each person around the campfire would contribute a piece to the entertaining frightful storyline, often involving ghosts. In Asian countries, a firepit is a place to honor ancestors of the past, while India often uses animal fables to teach moral lessons to be learned about friendship and life. Sitting around a bonfire in South America, you may be sharing myths about creation, playing music and explaining how to protect the environment. While communities in Africa, focus on preserving memories as they often share history, instructions, weather, values and survival skills around a campfire. Fires are traditionally used to celebrate new beginnings and bring communities together around the world. What kinds of traditions will you start this year around a campfire?

Many countries use fire to symbolize celebrations including: 4 In Scotland’s Hogmanay, fire is used as a symbol of a New Year. 4 China’s Qiang Fire Festival uses fire as a symbol of a new harvest. 4 Celtic Beltane celebrates the arrival of Spring and crop growth with the symbol of fire. 4 India’s Lohri celebrates a new harvest with fire. 4 Bhogi in India uses fire as a symbol, as old belongings are thrown away and there are new beginnings.

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Extra-Curricular Activity Guide www.FamilyAndKidsGA.com

Season 19

now open Classes are designed for ages 2-18 years old. Visit our website to learn more!

Enroll Now for a season of fun & dance! prodigydancecentrega.com

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OuR PICKS

hosting

friends giving Being away from family can be a lonely affair, it’s an especially hard void to fill during the holidays. You have traditions you can’t recreate without your loved ones and meals that just never seem the same. This Thanksgiving, make the holiday your own with a Friendsgiving. It’s thought the 90s sitcom “Friends” inspired the instagrammable holiday with their potluck dinners and iconic 'turkey on head' episode in 1998, but there’s no documented proof, only inspiring friendships. In any case, this gathering is becoming a common trend across the country. Instead of sitting alone on the holiday, friends are getting together and making it something special. Even if you have local family, some people get together to celebrate their friendships the week before Thanksgiving. After all, isn’t good company something to be thankful for? And honestly, it’s a little more fun when Aunt Nancy isn’t casting shame over my second glass of wine or inappropriate political jokes.

Here are some tips for planning a successful Friendsgiving:

HOSTING:

FOOD:

If you’ve decided to host Friendsgiving, you’re the captain of the team. Most frequently, a host is responsible for the turkey and gravy, because…have you ever tried transporting a massive cooked bird? Not easy. Hosts also assign duties to the rest of their friends, including dishes and supplies. If you have a friend who can’t even cook ramen, ask them to bring paper plates, napkins and drinks. These are your friends, you don’t need fancy plateware, and why have the extra cleanup? You can also assign a friend to come up with the “fun” aspect for the event and another friend for décor, especially the festive table. Ask each friend to bring either an appetizer or dessert for a well-rounded eating affair. Don’t forget to-go containers. The best way to organize these responsibilities is on a sharable google spreadsheet.

A typical Thanksgiving consists of turkey, gravy, stuffing, vegetable, vegetable casserole and rolls. This isn’t Thanksgiving, though, it’s your Friendsgiving, and if your friends don’t like turkey, don’t make it! If a friend makes a kickbutt macaroni and cheese, have them bring it! If everyone is a huge fan of sushi, then there will be sushi! The best part of Friendsgiving is that all traditions are out the door! Hello, Jello shots and Krispy Kreme donuts. Just make sure the dishes account for any dietary restrictions or allergies, so nobody is left out of the feast.

ACTIVITIES: You and your friends are most likely parents, so to make this get together a fun occasion for every age, plan a few kids’ activities. Although activities are strictly age-dependent, a coloring station is always an easy go. If you are having a large gathering, consider each parent chipping in for a bounce house rental. This will be a hit and kids will be tuckered out by dinnertime. A fun, festive game to play is “turkey baster race.” Kids simply push a feather across the table while pumping a turkey baster. It’s good for all ages, simple, silly and fun. For even more fun, ask each adult to write on a card what they’re thankful for, then pick a card out of the batch and guess who wrote it. It’s a fun way to celebrate the goodness of the day without putting anyone on the spot. The best part about “Friendsgiving” is spending the day with your friends, the people you enjoy outside of family gatherings, so make the most of your day together and customize it to your interests. Happy Celebrating!

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EDUCATION/CARE GUIDE www.FamilyAndKidsGA.com

To feature your school option, call Tammy 253-212-7270 or email tammy@ familyandkidsga.com.

Newlibrary

By Ren Sibley

let’s learn

Chattahoochee Valley Libraries

What if a trip to the library could turn into an afternoon of exploring, building, experimenting and discovering at home?

make connections along the way. And parents and caregivers don’t have to be experts—the activities and materials in each kit help get you started.

There’s always something new to discover at Chattahoochee Valley Libraries. From homework help and park passes to story times and programs, your Library is full of resources designed to help children learn, grow and satisfy their curiosity. One of the newest ways families can bring that learning home is through Discovery Kits.

There are five Discovery Kits to explore: • Exploring Rain & Water • Bug Detectives • Let’s Build • Exploring Colors & Patterns • Fun with Shapes & Colors

Each one offers a different way for your child to learn through play while building early skills and encouraging creativity, problem-solving and curiosity. And the fun doesn’t have to stop when the kit goes back to the library. Pairing Discovery Kits with story Designed for children ages 3–5, Discovery Kits make hands-on times, programs and other resources at your local branch gives learning easy—and fun—for kids and their grown-ups. Each kit combines books with hands-on learning tools and a caregiver families even more opportunities to learn and explore together. guide filled with tips and activities. It’s a simple way to turn a Ready to discover something new? Discovery Kits are availchild’s natural curiosity into an opportunity to explore a new able at all seven branch locations. Visit cvlga.org to learn more, idea together. or ask our staff about Discovery Kits the next time you visit. Why hands-on learning? Because young children learn by Pick a kit. Bring it home. See where your doing. They can listen to a story, ask questions, experiment, child’s curiosity takes you! build something, look closely at the world around them and

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What is...

By Linda Ligon, Family & Kids

let’s learn

WORKING MEMORY I

n the evenings, you give your child instructions about completing tasks such as packing his backpack and finishing up his chores so he can get ready for bed. However, when you check back a few minutes later, he is still playing with his toys and has not even started complying with your request.

Your first reaction may be to assume he is being defiant. However, if your child often has trouble following instructions at home and at school, he may not just be ignoring you. He may have an issue with what is referred to as working memory. Working memory is an executive function that helps us process and remember information provided to us, such as when someone provides instructions on how to fix something or gives you directions on how to get to their house. Working memory also helps us remember how to perform mental tasks such as how to do math equations or how to write a review of a book we read. Working memory is like a cognitive scratchpad, where we store the information we need to actively access. However, this workspace has limits on how much information you can store and access at one time. It is like a small dry erase board, which cannot hold any more information once it is full unless something is removed to make space. When your working memory reaches its information limit, you may forget something on your to do list or forget the next step in the process you just learned about. For kids with learning disorders, such as dyslexia, having to consciously work to cope with challenges posed by the learning disorder can take up additional working memory, leaving them with less cognitive workspace. For example, a child with dyslexia needs to apply coping skills when attempting to read and understand test instructions. Kids with ADHD are also prone to reductions in working memory capacity. A child with ADHD has to work harder to filter out distractions and stay focused. If your child is showing signs of struggling with working memory, consult his pediatrician to see if further evaluation, such as screening for a learning disorder, may be necessary.

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Dining Deals

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for Kids

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

Thursday

Sapo’s

Tuesday's Street Tacos & Burritos

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

tuesday

Denny’s

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

Mellow Mushroom Dine in for two free kids meals (ages 10 and under) per adult purchase of $15

The Food Mill Buy a family meal, get 2 kids meals for free!

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

wednesday Your Pie Kid's meals half off with adult entrée

Crumbl Free mini cookie with purchase of regular cookie

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

Free kids meal with adult purchase; dine-in only

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

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

SUNDAY Vallarta Mexican Restaurant Free kids' meal with the purchase of adult entrée

everyday Bruster’s Ice Cream Kids under 40” get free baby cone

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

Moe’s Free kid’s meals with adult entrée through app (once per week)

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.

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