Chatt Valley November 2019

NOVEMBER 2019

Wise Choices for Moms & Families

CHATTAHOOCHEE VALLEY

Cover Sponsor See page 6

Join our NEW MOM CLUB for monthly savings and giveaways.

2

Wise Choices for You & Your Family

NOW OFFERING IMPLANTS!

Dr. Cathy Cook

Gentle Dentistry for the Entire Family!

ACCEPTING ALL MAJOR INSURANCES, CARE CREDIT AND OFFERING FINANCIAL OPTIONS

Valid at the following locations only:

3722 S. Railroad St. • Phenix City 3908 U.S. Hwy. 80 W. Phenix City

FREE

Zax Kidz Meal ®

with any adult meal purchase.

7626 Schomburg Rd. Columbus 1915 Auburn Ave. • Columbus 6190 Bradley Park Dr. Columbus 7033 Ruffie Way • Columbus

Participating locations only.

Mondays

5:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M.

Offer only valid Monday 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Kids 10 and under only. Limit one Zax Kidz Meal per adult meal purchase. Adult meals include any Zalad®, Sandwich Meal or Most Popular Meal. Dine-in only. Not valid at any other locations. © 2018 Zaxby’s Franchising LLC “Zaxby’s,” “Zax Kidz” and “Zalad” are registered trademarks of Zaxby’s Franchising LLC. Each Zaxby’s restaurant is independently owned and operated under a license agreement with Zaxby’s Franchising LLC.

www.FamilyAndKidsGA.com

ay

ion

W at o ic

T w mun

m

Co

HOO’s parenting 3

o n e - Way

to success

GOOD COMMUNICATION between you and your child becomes invaluable as your child grows older and needs your support to navigate new challenges. Recent research suggests that when parents start establishing quality two-way communication with their kids during the preschool years, kids develop the strong communication skills that lead to future success in careers and relationships.

Parents can be very good at communicating rules or issuing instructions, such as ‘Clean up your toys now please.’ In addition, young children often seem to have an endless number of questions, ideas and requests. If parents are pressed for time and start to feel impatient, they may issue an instruction like ‘Please don’t do that’ before taking the time to fully understand the idea their child is trying to communicate.

However, if your child feels that your communication includes mostly one-way commands or negative ‘do not’ statements, she may think you are frustrated with her and are not interested in what she has to say. Instead, do your best to make your conversations a two-way exchange of information, during which you take the time to listen carefully to ideas or emotions she wants to share with you.

Listening carefully to your child and providing a response that shows you are engaged in the conversation takes some work and your full attention.  Reduce distractions by putting aside your phone and turning off the TV. Make eye contact to show you are interested, and if you are initiating the conversation, ensure you have her full attention before you begin. Also, if you can tell your child is tired or upset, consider postponing the conversation to a later time when she is rested and her emotions are in check.  When your child is expressing a thought, let her finish describing her idea or concern before responding, instead of jumping in and providing a solution or critique. When you do respond, avoid lecturing. Instead, open the door to a two-way dialogue by saying something like ‘Wow, please tell me more about it.’ Remember, not every conversation has to be a deep dive into philosophy or a problem-solving session. Sometimes, you child just needs someone to listen.  Expressing ideas and listening are skills that take practice. Set aside special times of the day, like dinner time, for everyone to share details of their day and practice having two-way conversations with each other. During these sessions, teach your child how to communicate her emotions by helping her correctly label how she is feeling (angry, sad, etc.). Also, observe and learn your child’s body language while having these conversations. Body language is an unspoken communication that can help you interpret her feelings and thoughts.

Keep even difficult conversations positive and easy to understand Connect more effectively with your child by keeping the tone of conversations positive and expressing your thoughts and easy to understand statements, even when disciplining. Avoid harshly critical statements, like ‘Your room is a mess!’, and don’t forget to praise her for what she has been doing well. Introduce your topics with a simply worded ‘I’ statement, such as ‘I noticed you seem upset and your room was not cleaned up today. Want to talk about what is going on?’ This technique will hopefully encourage your child to join you in a two-way dialogue, where she feels more comfortable sharing her feelings and any ideas she has about resolving the issue.

Resources: https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/0956797617742725

4

The Scoop!

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

www.FamilyAndKidsGA.com

5

6

Wise Choices for You & Your Family

H AV E YO U J O I N E D O U R

New Mom Club?

BEING A NEW PARENT GETS EXPENSIVE! Once Upon A Child wants to help new moms find everything they need while saving real money.

Join our New Mom Club & receive exclusive monthly specials just for new moms (or dads!).

NO COST TO JOIN! SIGN UP IN-STORE! Located in The Landings at exit 8 off I-185 2521 Airport Thruway, Columbus, GA 31904 706-507-3737 | onceuponachildcolumbusga.com onceuponachildcolumbusga

HOO’s PICKS

www.FamilyAndKidsGA.com

7

Take a Hike!

You hear it all the time, kids aren’t spending enough time outdoors. It’s an astounding change in the upbringing of America’s children. Their parents spent everyday outdoors, sometimes dawn to dusk. Today’s children often are too busy in structured activities and technology to experience finding a cicadid shell or collecting as many rocks as their shirt can hold.

If you’re trying to reconnect your child with nature, consider going on a nature walk at one of these area locations:

Fall LineTrace This trail runs through part of Columbus, starting at Pslamond Road in Midland and ending at the 14th Street pedestrian bridge Uptown.

The trail is smooth concrete and has access points throughout town, with occasional rest stops along the way. It connects to the Riverwalk for a total of 26 miles of walkable terrain.

Riverwalk This 15-mile linear park spans the riverfront from the Lake Oliver City Marina south to the National Infantry Museum. When on this concrete path, expect to see fishermen, bicyclists, rafters and more.

It provides a great view of the river and wildlife .

Roosevelt State Park 2970 GA-190, Pine Mountain, GA

Georgia’s largest state park has 42 miles of hiking trails. Experience rolling mountains, small waterfalls, towering pines and more. A must-try trail is Dowdell’s Knob loop, the views are breathtaking.

Providence Canyon State Park 8930 Canyon Road, Lumpkin

Often referred to as “Little Grand Canyon” the Providence Canyon is a direct result of poor farmer practices in the 1800s that caused significant erosion. Despite that, it is a beautiful and unique site to see.

The canyon is home to 10+ miles of hiking trails and hosts gullies up to 150 feet deep with pink, red and orange soil.

Standing Boy Creek

1701-1891 Old River Road, Columbus

The newest trail in Columbus GA, Standing Boy Trail, offers 25 miles of natural surface trail. The trails are marked for different skill levels, including kid-friendly trails. These trails are multi-use trails used by bicyclists, hikers and runners and are very well shaded.

For a map of trails, closures and more, visit their website at standingboy.org.

* TIPS FOR TAKING YOUR KIDS ON A NATURE WALK * Let your child lead: Where’s the rush? Your child will enjoy being in control of the pace and direction. Of course, use your best judgement and only allow your child to take designated trails.

Allow Exploration: If your child wants to spend an extended amount of time staring at tree branches or flipping rocks for worms, let them! Really, the woods provide endless opportunities for discoveries, big and small. You’d be surprised how long you can discuss the different textures of leaves or branches.

Be prepared: Bring bug spray, sunscreen and a first-aid kit to be prepared for what nature may bring your way. Always

pack protein-packed snacks for your hike, as you’ll be burning lots of energy. Of course, you also need an abundance of water. Your child may like to have their own backpack with supplies, but don’t overdo it as you will likely end up carrying this bag too.

Be mindful: Yes, we’re in the great outdoors and you want to connect with nature and shut out the worries of the world…but, we’re parents. Before you hike, be aware of natural dangers of the area. These dangers include venomous snakes, coyotes, poison ivy, unexpected changes in terrain, deep waters and roadways. After hiking, always do a thorough check for ticks, as they carry diseases.

For ways to make a nature walk with your child more educational and enriching, see our companion story on page 19.

Wise Choices for You & Your Family

8

COME & enjoy the Stories you'll hear

NOWHERE

else!

1002 VICTORY DRIVE • COLUMBUS, GA 31901 WWW.PORTCOLUMBUS.ORG

HOO’s CRAFTY

FALLING LEAF ‘SNOW’ GLOBE Beautiful project that also serves as a sensory item Courtesy of thesoccermomblog.com

DIRECTIONS Collect a small tree branch or twig from your yard. Make sure it’s clean, without peeling pieces of bark that might cloud up your bottle. Trim the tree branch to fit inside your mason jar. Test to make sure that it fits with the lid closed, then add a generous drop of hot glue on the middle of the bottom side of your mason jar lid. Place your tree branch in the middle of the glue and hold until it is set.

Glue leaves to the twig and allow to set until all the glue is completely dry. Fill mason jar with water (if using a quart jar this will be about 4 cups), then add the glycerin (I used a little over ½ cup). Stir with a spoon then add a handful of the confetti to the jar. Swirl again with spoon and if the confetti immediately sinks to the bottom then add more glycerin. Place the twig carefully down into the water and twist on the lid tightly. You can glue it to make sure it stays in place.

SUPPLIES LARGE MASON JAR GLYCERIN FOIL LEAF CONFETTI TREE BRANCH HOT GLUE GUN WATER

www.FamilyAndKidsGA.com

HOO’s HEALTHY HELLP syndrome is a disorder of the liver and blood that occurs usually during the third trimester of pregnancy but in some cases develops earlier in the pregnancy or postpartum. The acronym stands for ‘Hemolysis Elevated Liver Enzymes Low Platelet Count.’

WHAT IS: HELLP SYNDROME

• Hemolysis is a state where the red blood cells break down too quickly, resulting in a low red blood cell count. A low red blood cell count can lead to anemia, a condition in which not enough oxygen is reaching cells in the body.

hand and face. If HELLP is in an advanced state, the patient may act confused or have a seizure. Time is of the essence in treating HELLP syndrome, so an expectant mother experiencing HELLP symptoms should seek medical attention right away.

• Elevated liver enzymes are released by damaged liver cells and indicate that the liver is not functioning properly.

HELLP syndrome is diagnosed through a medical exam, during which the doctor looks for abdominal tenderness, signs of an enlarged liver and may order blood tests.

• Low platelet count increases the risk of excessive bleeding HELLP syndrome is rare, only occurring in about 1% of pregnancies.

Risk factors include being over age 35, developing preeclampsia or having it during a previous pregnancy, diabetes and high blood pressure. A patient with HELLP syndrome may develop a lifethreatening complication, such as liver failure, separation of the placenta from the uterine wall, kidney failure, acute respiratory failure or excessive bleeding.

The symptoms of HELLP syndrome include headache, nausea and vomiting, upper abdominal pain and feeling fatigued. Some patients may also experience changes in vision or swelling in the

Treatment for HELLP syndrome centers around preventing the development of potentially life-threatening complications. If HELLP symptoms are mild and the patient is less than 34 weeks pregnant, the patient may be hospitalized and closely monitored while the HELLP symptoms are being treated. However, most of the time, doctors decide to deliver the baby early. HELLP symptoms decrease rapidly after delivery in most cases, disappearing within a few weeks.

Experts have not been able to identify an exact cause for HELLP syndrome, so there are not specific steps for prevention outside of receiving routine prenatal care and reducing risk factors, such as high blood pressure and diabetes.

9

10

Choices for You & Your FamilyGUIDE AFTERWise SCHOOL ACTIVITY

Do you provide a Kid’s activity?

Let us know!

We'd love to feature it in our directory.

Email: tammy@familyandkidsga.com

www.FamilyAndKidsGA.com AFTER SCHOOL ACTIVITY GUIDE

WE ARE A 3 STAR QUALITY RATED PROGRAM! Small class sizes, homework time, recess, character building curriculum, and much more!

706-221-5947

STRENGTH SPEED AGILITY POWER CONFIDENCE The Only After School Program for Athletes Ages 7- Adult Go to www.ImpactPerformanceRX.com and schedule a FREE class today!

You could reach over 15,000 moms in this space for only $75..

Call 253-212-7270

11

12

Wise Choices for You & Your Family

www.FamilyAndKidsGA.com AFTER SCHOOL ACTIVITY GUIDE

13

14

HOO’s PICKS

Wise Choices for You & Your Family

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: 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.

FOOD: 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!

www.FamilyAndKidsGA.com

15

military discounts available

BOOK YOUR Event OR PartY TODAY! 706-489-1980

RollingvideogamesofSWGA.com

Falling

high def TVs 6 widescreen 4 inside and 2 outside

Custom stadium seats with built-in speakers and vibration synced to action PS4, XBOX ONE & NINTENDO SWITCH

!

Holidays

Accepting New Patients!

16

Novembe Wise Choices for You & Your Family

1 MOPS and MOMSnext. 9:30-11:15am.Wyn- 5 1

Chess: Unplug for Chess’ Sake. 4:30pm.

Mildred L. Terry Library; 706-243-2782

12 Blockheads LEGO Challenge. 3:30pm.

Sensory Friendly Storytime. 3pm. Columbus Library; 706-243-2813

Harry Potter Night. 6:30pm. Mildred L. Terry Library; 706-243-2782

12 Friendsgiving: Amateur Chef Trials (Ages

8-11). 4:30pm. Columbus Library; 706-243-2813

atre; 706-431-3752

Oxbow Meadows; 706-507-8559

Mildred L. Terry Library; 706-243-2782

nbrook Baptist Church; 706-323-4374

5

South Columbus Library; 706-683-8805

1-2 Pilgrim. 7:30pm. $5-$14. Family The- 6 Little Naturalists. 1:30pm. RSVP required. 12 Chess: Unplug for Chess’ Sake. 4:30pm.

1-2

7 Veterans Day Celebration. 4:30pm. Mildred 13 Mommy Meet-Up. 11am. North Columbus L. Terry Library; 706-243-2782

Library; 706-748-2855

Home Depot Kids Workshop. 9am-Noon.

Free. Ages 5-12. Columbus store; 706-3229240. Phenix City store; 334-297-2045

brary; 706-243-2813

Wynnbrook Baptist Church; 706-323-4374

bus Library; 706-748-2855

bus Library; 706-243-2813

Park; 706-221-8680

& 12:30pm. $4-$10. Springer Opera House; 706-327-3688

atre; 706-431-3752

Click, Clack, Type! 10am. Mildred L. Terry Library; 706-243-2782

River Dragons Hockey Game. Columbus Civic Center; 706-653-4460

2

2 National Pumpkin Destruction Day. 10am-

8pm. $19.99. The Rock Ranch, 5020 Barnesville Hwy, The Rock, GA; 706-647-6374

2 Fore Kids Junior Golf Tournament. 10am.

$20. Ages 8-15. Godwin Creek; 707-324-0583

2 Beaver Moon Harvest Fest. 11am-4pm. $5-

$10. Historic Westville, 3557 South Lumpkin Rd; 706-940-0057

2

Uno, Dos, Tres Craft. 3pm. Mildred L. Terry Library; 706-243-2782

3 Sensory Sensitive Sunday. 9-11am. Chuck E. Cheese; 706-568-6887

4 The Magic of Recycling. 4:30pm. Mildred L. Terry Library; 706-243-2782

5 Discovery Hub: Art. 10:30am. Columbus Library; 706-243-2813

5 STEAM Punks: Stories & Science. 3:30pm.

South Columbus Library; 706-683-8805

7 LEGOS in the Library; 5pm. Columbus Li- 15 MOPS and MOMSnext. 9:30-11:15am.

7 Books Before Bedtime. 6pm. North Colum- 15 Sensory Friendly Storytime. 3pm. Colum7 VIP Time! 6-8pm. $10. Launch Trampoline 16 Going on a Bear Hunt (G). 9:30am, 11am 8-9 Pilgrim. 7:30pm. $5-$14. Family The8-10

Christmas Made in the South. Fri 10am-8pm, Sat 10am-6pm, Sun 11am-5pm. $8. Columbus Trade Center; 704-847-9480

9

16 16

Kids’Yoga Storytime. 10:30am. Columbus Library; 706-243-2813

16

Tri-City Veterans Day Parade. 10am. Phenix City/Uptown Columbus; columbusga.gov

Little Naturalists. 1:30pm. Pre-registration required. Oxbow Meadows; 706-507-8559

706-507-8550

Pinkalicious Princess Party (Ages birth-12). 3pm. North Columbus Library; 706748-2855

9 Frogwarts. 1-4pm. $5. Oxbow Meadows; 16 9

March of Dimes Walk at Fantasy in Lights. 6pm. $10.50-$21. Callaway Gardens; 844-887-6735

10 Bicycle Night at Fantasy In Lights. 6pm.

$10.50-$21. Callaway Gardens; 844-887-6735

12 Mini Makers: Funny Bones. 10:30am. Columbus Library; 706-243-2813

16

The Illusionists: Magic of the Holidays.

7:30-10pm. RiverCenter; 706-256-3612

19

Discovery Hub: Art. 10:30am. Columbus Library; 706-243-2813

er Events www.FamilyAndKidsGA.com

17

Thanksgiving Crafter-noon. 3:30pm.

South Columbus Library; 706-683-8805

25 Halloween Glow Jump. 8pm-10pm. Sky Weekly Events Zone. skyzone.com/columbus-ga

Mildred L. Terry Library; 706-243-2782

19

19 Chess: Unplug for Chess’ Sake. 4:30pm. 26 Halloween Lock-in. 11pm-7am Sky Zone.

MONDAY

19

skyzone.com/columbus-ga

Winterfest 2019. 6-9pm. Columbus State University; 706-507-8800

26 Halloween Toddler Time. 10am-12pm.

Family Storytime. 10:30am. South Columbus Library; 706-683-8805 (not 11/11)

Sky Zone. skyzone.com/columbus-ga

ASL: Silent Chat. 4:00pm. Mildred L. Terry Library; 706-243-2782 (not 11/11)

under). 4pm. North Columbus Library; 706748-2855

10:30am and 4:30pm. Mildred L. Terry Library; 706-243-2782

& 11am. $4-$10. Springer Opera House; 706327-3688

lumbus Library; 706-243-2813

20 If You Give A Kid A Donut…(Ages 11 & 26 Holiday Cards for First Responders.

20-23 Going on a Bear Hunt (G). 9:30am 26 Mini Makers: Tinker Time. 10:30am. Co21 LEGOS in the Library; 5pm. Columbus Library; 706-243-2813

22

Friday Family Flicks: “Wonder Park.”

3:30pm. S. Columbus Library; 706-683-8805

22 River Dragons Hockey Game. Columbus

Civic Center; 706-653-4460

23 It’s Turkey Time! 9:30am. $10. Ages 5+.

Callaway Gardens; 844-887-6735

23 Parent & Child Workshop: Augmented Vi-

sionary Reality. 10am-Noon. RSVP. Columbus Museum; 706-748-2562 ext 6520

23 CSO: Musical Fireworks. 7:30pm. $20$35. Ages 5+. RiverCenter; 706-256-3612

24 Going on a Bear Hunt (G). 2pm. $4-$10.

Springer Opera House; 706-327-3688

26 Picture Book Club. 3:30pm. South Columbus Library; 706-683-8805

26 Chess: Unplug for Chess’ Sake. 4:30pm.

Mildred L. Terry Library; 706-243-2782

26 Family Fun Night. 6:30pm. Mildred L. Terry Library; 706-243-2782

27 River Dragons Hockey Game. Columbus Civic Center; 706-653-4460

29-30 River Dragons Hockey Game. Co-

TUESDAY

Afterschool Games. 3pm. Columbus Library; 706-243-2813

WEDNESDAY

Family Storytime. 10:30am. Columbus Library; 706-243-2813

THURSDAY

Get Your Game On. 3:30pm. South Columbus Library; 706-683-8805 (not 11/28)

FRIDAY

Music ‘n Motion. 10:30am. Columbus Library; 706-243-2813 (not 11/29)

SATURDAY

Market Days on Broadway. 9am-Noon. Uptown Columbus; uptowncolumbusga.com

lumbus Civic Center; 706-653-4460

Michael’s Kids Club Meeting. 10am-Noon.

Ages 3+. See store for details

bus. 8:30-11:30am. Free. Ages 8-17. Columbus Airport; 706-323-6565

Saturday Storytimes at Barnes & Noble. 11am.

5555 Whittlesey Blvd; 706-653-7880

Uno, Dos, Tres Craft. 3pm. Mildred L. Terry Library; 706-243-2782

Please call ahead to confirm event dates, times and age-appropriateness, in case changes were made after the info was obtained.

30 Young Eagles Day at Flightways Colum30

PROVIDED IN PARTNERSHIP WITH:

Wise Choices for You & Your Family

18

Richard Mansfield, D.O. FAAP Amy Cool, M.D. FAAP Veronica Manka, MD, FAAP Neha Potini, MD, FAAP Trina Williamson, FNP Sallye Anne Pyle, FNP

PEDIATRICS at brookstone centre 706.571.9699

2001 Brookstone Centre Pky

pediatricsatbrookstonecentre.com

HOO’s PICKS

19

Making the Most of a

NATURE WALK with the kids by kimberly blaker

What better way to spend quality time with your family and get in touch with nature than a fresh, invigorating walk in the woods, along a river, or the beach? What’s more, family hikes make for fun learning opportunities for kids and parents alike.

A stone is a stone is a...mineral?

Which way do we go?

Take an excursion along a shoreline to learn about rocks and minerals. Before you go, learn which rocks and minerals are abundant in the area. Take along baggies or plastic containers, a rock and mineral guide, and magnifying glass for viewing the colors, layers and details. As you identify stones, discuss their uses and other neat facts.

Roam the countryside and teach your children directional skills such as how to read a map and use a compass or the sun to determine direction. Before setting out, choose a trail system that provides maps or make up your own. Take a trail that branches off for directional skill-building opportunities.

Sounds of nature

Animals all around

Wander through a forest and listen for a variety of bird and animal sounds. Carry a cell phone to record some of the sounds you hear. Listen to the recording again at home and play a game of detective to determine the source of the sounds.

Search the Internet to discover the makers of the mystery calls.

Take a quiet hike in a wooded area with grassy clearings and see how many animals you meet. Discuss the animal’s unique features and how those qualities help or hinder the animal.

Talk about what the animals eat, their shelters and species they are related to. Also, keep eyes peeled for animal tracks to identify and determine how recently they were made.

Photo adventure

Creepy crawly things

Capture nature’s splendor. Hiking trails provide plenty of photo opportunities, and kids will love snapping the shots. When you get home, print out the best photos, then create a nature scrapbook with them.

Tree tales These giants of nature are not only intriguing because of their sometimes-massive size but also because of the variety and history behind them.

Borrow books on trees from your library that describe trees’ unique features and their history. Use clues such as the shape of the tree’s leaves, the texture of its bark, and even its size to determine the kind of tree.

Scouting for insects is an all-time favorite among kids, and the variety in the woods is remarkable. Carry an insect book, clear container, tweezers and a magnifying glass for close examination of insects’ fascinating features. Read about insects’ defense behaviors and characteristics that warn predators of danger.

Plant life - old and new Discover the fantastic diversity of plant life. Before you head out, review books on plants to spark your children’s interests.

As you inspect plants, look for their seeds and notice the variations. Learn how certain plants evolved to have natural defenses to protect against creatures that would otherwise devour them.

For our top picks on area trails along with tips on how to prepare before you go, see our companion story on page 6.

Wise Choices for You & Your Family

20

HOO’s CUTE

CONTEST VISIT OUR WEBSITE TO ENTER YOUR CUTIE: www.FamilyAndKidsGA.com

Aaron, 8 years Cataula

Olivia, 1 year Fort Benning

Sawyer, 3 years Hamilton

www.FamilyAndKidsGA.com

Sky Zone whenever you want with a MEMBERSHIP!

COLUMBUS, GA

AY! JOIN TOD

21

ELITE PLUS

BASIC

ELITE

JUMP EVERYDAY 90 MINS

JUMP EVERYDAY 120 MINS $1.00 FOUNTAIN DRINKS FREE GLOW NIGHT PARENT 50% OFF 50% DISCOUNT MEMBER ONLY EVENTS

$1.00 FOUNTAIN DRINKS ACCESS TO MEMBER ONLY EVENTS

$19.99

/mo

$24.99

JUMP EVERYDAY ALL DAY $1.00 FOUNTAIN DRINKS FREE SNACK WITH JUMP FREE GLOW NIGHT PARENT FREE JUMP FREE MEMBER ONLY EVENTS BIRTHDAY PACKAGE PERKS

/mo

AND MORE!

$29.99

/mo

Jump everyday for less than the cost of two visits with a Membership!

It sounds like magic, ...but its actually just math.

3716 Gentian Blvd Columbus, Ga 31907 706-507-9559 skyzone.com/columbus-ga

HOO’s HUNGRY

PUMPKIN PIE

DESSERT DIP

It combines all the flavors of fall in a creamy dip that tastes just like pumpkin pie. Courtesy of happygoluckyblog.com

DIRECTIONS Beat cream cheese and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Add pumpkin and pumpkin pie spice.

Continue to mix. Slowly add in whipped topping.

Mix until well-combined. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.

INGREDIENTS

Dip into this delicious Pumpkin Pie Dessert with ginger snaps, graham crackers or your favorite fruit for a creamy bite of pumpkin goodness.

• 1 tub (8 ounces) whipped topping

• 8 oz cream cheese • 1 cup powdered sugar • 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice • 1 (15 oz) can pumpkin puree

22

Wise Choices for You & Your Family

Tuesdays Kids Eat Free!

From 5-9pm with each adult entrée

Over 10 Kids Meals under $4 each!! (includes drink)

FREE ICE CREAM Because everyone deserves dessert!

All-natural

ingredients

Diet Restriction Friendly

jasonsdeli.com

706-494-8857 • 5555 Whittlesey Blvd, Columbus • Hours: 10am-10pm

Online Ordering Catering

FOLLOW US @FAMILY ANDKIDSGA

Instagram

www.FamilyAndKidsGA.com

23

Dining Deals

for Kids

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

MONDAY Barberitos

Free kid’s meal with adult entrée

Sapo’s

5-8pm: Free kid’s meal with adult entrée

Zaxby’s

5-8pm: Free kid’s meal with adult entrée

Tuesday

The Chicken Lady’s COOP

5-8pm: Kids chicken plate for $3.25

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

Hudson’s Free kids’ meal for 12 and under with adult entrée

Jason’s Deli 5-9pm: Free kids’ meal for kids 12 and under with each adult entrée; dine-in only

Ruby Tuesday

thursday MOE’s Southwest Grill 5-9pm: Free kid’s meal per $5 minimum adult entrée

Captain D’s Kids’ meals .99 cents all day

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

sunday The Simple Greek Kids 12 & under get free kids bowl with purchase of regular bowl or pita

every day 219 On The Lake 5-9pm: Kids eat for $2.19 on kids menu (M-TH)

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

Bruster’s Ice Cream

TGI Friday’s

Kids under 40” get free baby cone

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

wednesDAY Applebee’s Half off kid’s meal per adult entrée. Limit: 4 kids to adult

Pita Street Food 4-9pm: Kids eat free, per $8 min. adult buy; dine-in

Your Pie

Golden Corral Kids 3 & under eat free with adult meal purchase

McAlister’s Kids’ meals are $1.99 with dine-in order

Newk’s 4pm-till: free kid’s meal with adult meal (M-W)

O’Charley’s Free kid’s meal per adult entrée for kids 10 & under

Kid’s meal $1.99 (pizza, drink & gelato) w/ adult meal

Red Robin Kid’s meal $1.99 w/ adult meal for kids 11 and under

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.

24

Wise Choices for You & Your Family EDUCATION/CARE GUIDE

Experience St. Luke School at one of our Open House Events!

Jr-K & Kindergarten Open House

Wednesday, November 13 9:30 – 11:00 am

Monthly Open Houses for all grades will be held October through December

Turner Chapel at St. Luke Church Visit our website for more details

318 11th Street | 706.256.1301 | stlukelions.com

We Make Math Make Sense This Is Their Year.

Are They Ready?

Give them the Mathnasium advantage This school year, your child is taking on new subjects and exploring new ways to unlock their potential.

The Mathnasium Method™ gives them the solid math and critical thinking skills they need for their classes, test prep, graduation, and beyond. With over 1,000 learning centers worldwide, we’re the authority in math education. Our expert instructors help students develop good habits so they can succeed in high school and college, thrive in their careers, and take on the world!

Contact us today to schedule a risk-free assessment.

Mathnasium of Columbus Bradley Park www.mathnasium.com/columbusbradleypark (706) 322-4244• 6501 Whitesville Road #100, Columbus, GA 31904

Changing Lives Through Math.™

www.FamilyAndKidsGA.com EDUCATION/CARE GUIDE

HOO SAYS...

What are you thankful for?

Brie, 4 years, FT Benning

Asher, 5 years, FT Mitchell

...for my daddy, mommy, Grammy, my dogs bravo & Piper

...For Food

Marley, 5 years, LaGrange

Mary Claire, 9 years, Phenix City

...my bike!

...for Adventure!

McKenna, 9 years, LaGrange

Morgan, 7 years, LaGrange

...my family, my house & food!

...my family & two pet geckos

NEXT MONTH: How does Santa get into your home? Respond at familyandkidsga.com/hoo-says

Preparing Your Child For Success!

Now Enrolling for the 2019-2020 School year!

Our children enjoy a curriculum focusing on language development that includes the study of math, science, social studies, phonics, sign language, art, music, self-help skills, emotional growth and character. 6 weeks to 12 years.

Growing Room - 706-596-1234 1200 Manchester Expressway Growing Room Too - 706-653-0088 6110 Bradley Park Drive GR Christian Academy - 706-221-3248 7572 Kayne Blvd.

www.growingroomusa.com

25

26

Wise Choices for You & Your Family EDUCATION/CARE GUIDE

Learning through physical activity & Sports

Math & Reading Tutoring & Enrichment

Ages

3-11 free academic assessment

Bridging The Gap for Learning and Opportunity

Sign up Online btglearning.com (762) 208-5048

www.FamilyAndKidsGA.com EDUCATION/CARE GUIDE

27

Become a Knight!

K3-12th grade * Biblical Instruction * Weekly Chapel Challenging Academics * AP & Honor Classes Dual Enrollment * 5th & 6th Grade Academy Pre-engineering and Space Science Class 1 of 5 schools worldwide with an experiment on the International Space Station Full Athletic Program * Extra-Curricular Activities Fine Arts * Before & After School Care OPEN HOUSE: Thursdays, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Guided tours at 9:30 a.m. and 11 a.m. or contact our Admissions Director at saraketcham@calvaryknights.com

A Ministry of Calvary Baptist Church

Calvary Christian School CalvaryKnights.com / 706.323.0467, ext. 204

HOO’S PLUGGED IN WWW.Familyandkidsga.COM Visit our website to get plugged in, join our HOO’s-Letter list, read our online issue and enter contests.

28

Wise Choices for You & Your Family

www.FamilyAndKidsGA.com

HOO’s Fun

BENEFITS OF TAKING YOUR CHILD TO A THEATRE EVENT: Taking your child to a live show is known to have many more benefits than watching a movie or television episode. In fact, studies have shown live theatre provides your child with a lasting impression, children will reference to a character or moment for months to come.

INCREASES AWARENESS OF EMOTIONS: Seeing a live show builds a deeper connection with live, tangible characters than most shows on screen. Young theatre-goers can sympathize with a character’s emotions as well as gain exposure to new emotions and ways to cope with these new feelings.

INFLUENCES IMAGINATION: Oftentimes, a stage show requires a bit of imagination to come to life. A regular stair is a balcony, a broom becomes a tightrope and arms are the wings to an airplane. Seeing a live show teaches your child ways to improvise. The heightened theatrics in movement and props will inspire your child’s imagination.

ALLOWS FOR A MORE TECHNICAL EXPERIENCE: Unlike television, a live show gives your child the opportunity to view stage resets, lighting and costume changes. For some children, this technical aspect may be the star of the show.

TIPS FOR GOING TO A LIVE SHOW: You may think theatre is reserved for an adult audience or perhaps you’re just intimidated or nervous to take your child along. With a little bit of preplanning, the theatre can become a new favorite outing for you and your child.

CHOOSE A SHOW BASED ON INTERESTS AND AGE:

For your child’s first show, consider something specific to their interests and age-appropriateness. Although you think your child may enjoy Cats, it’s really meant for an older audience, with heavy storylines and impactful lyrics.

DISCUSS THEATRE ETIQUETTE AND EXPECTATIONS:

For your child’s first show, everything is new. Discuss using whispers and limiting conversation for neighboring theatregoers.

Teach your child about stage setup and where the characters will enter. Show your child the orchestra pit. They may not realize that music comes from an instrument played there.

PICK AISLE SEATS: Aisle seats may be harder to come by but securing one will allow you to exit the theatre faster and with less disruption for bathroom breaks and antsy children.

SCOUT OUT THE BATHROOMS: If you’re in an unfamiliar place, make sure you know your route to the bathroom. This allows for less time away from the excitement of the show.

PREVIEW THE STORY: Your child may enjoy the story more if they have some familiarity with the plotline. If the story is based on a book, read your child the book a few times before and ask questions about character development. If it’s a musical, get your child familiar with the songs before the show.

AFTER THE SHOW: Use this theatre opportunity to bond with your child and have a conversation regarding the differences between television and live theatre. If the show is based on a book, after the show you can discuss the differences between the book and the play, and which your child preferred.

Upoming live theatre opportunities for kids: Jingle ARRGH the Way! A “How I Became a Pirate” Christmas Adventure CSU Theatre, December 4-8, $12 adult, $10 senior/military/alumni, $6 kids Cinderella-The New Broadway Musical Springer Theatre, December 5-22, $48 adult, $42 senior, $40 military, $22 student Musical Fireworks RiverCenter, November 23, $35 adult, $32 senior, $32 military, $10 student The Nutcracker RiverCenter, Dec 14 & 15, $20-$35, 20% off students and military at B.O. Best Christmas Pageant Ever

Family Theatre, Dec 6-21 weekends, $12 military/student, $14 adults, $10 student, $5 kids

29

30

Wise Choices for You & Your Family

THE SOUTH'S HOLIDAY TRADITION! NIGHTLY, NOVEMBER 15 - JANUARY 4 SAVE TIME, BUY ONLINE! TICKETS.CALLAWAYGARDENS.COM

Pine Mountain, GA

www.FamilyAndKidsGA.com

31

Columbus Georgia Convention & Trade Center presents

Breakfast with Santa Saturday, December 7th, 2019 | 8am-10am Pancake Breakfast Professional Pictures Time with Santa

For more family fun, visit the Bi-City Christmas Parade beginning at 10am!

Proceeds from this event benefit the Children's Miracle Network Hospitals