Idaho Family November/December 2021

FREE

Nov/Dec 2021

Peace on Earth

PARENTS WANTED

National Adoption Month

FAMILY OF BROTHERS A military Thanksgiving

PLAYTIME’S VALUE How kids learn

Gracie, of Boise, will turn 9 in November and looks forward to the coming holidays

www.encorecreativecenter.com

1045 S. Ancona Ave #140 Eagle Stop to Ancona ask about trying class!

1045in S. Ave #140a Eagle Stop in to ask about trying a class!

www.encorecreativecenter.com

YOUR WHOLE FAMILY'S DESTINATION YOUR WHOLE FAMILY'S DESTINATION for positive, Arts Education for positive, Arts Education Drawing Painting Drawing Sculpting Painting Crafting Sculpting Crafting

Musical Theater Musical Dance • Theater Filmmaking Dance • Filmmaking

Music Musicfor Lessons Lessons for ages 2 to adult ages 2 to adult

Has academic success become a

fantasy for your

bright, but struggling student?

The Learning Academy at Chatterbox is your real, permanent solution to your child's learning challenges EVERY CHILD DESERVES TO BE SUCCESSFUL!

The Learning Academy at Chatterbox boosts underlying learning skills while simultaneously addressing academic deficits, unlike traditional tutors or school support.

The Learning Academy helps children with and without formal diagnoses. Good candidates for the Learning Academy may struggle with any of the following: Reading and Spelling

Processing Speed

Writing

Memory Skills

Math

Dyslexia

Comprehension

Dysgraphia

Attention and Focus

ADD and ADHD

Auditory Processing

Primitive Reflexes

Through our intensive, proven academic therapy methods, our students become comfortable and independent learners!

Visit boisechatterbox.com/getstarted or scan to complete a free screening tool.

Contents

Features

Volume 9, Number 6 Publisher J.J. Plew Associate Publisher Adrianne Goff Adrianne@globalpsd.com

November/December 2021

5

Playtime

It’s learning time

Editor Gaye Bunderson editorgaye@gmail.com Sales & Marketing J.J. Plew jj@idahofamilymagazine.com 208-697-2043 Contributors Kimberly Blaker, Luke Erickson, Macaile Hutt, Cara Johnson-Bader, Tina Kierce, Dennis Lopez, Molly O’Shea Graphic Design Carol Smiley csmileydesign@gmail.com Distribution Shauna Howard, Doris Evans

Idaho Family Magazine, published monthly

by Gem Production Co., LLC, is committed to providing readers with informative and entertaining information to help them in maintaining healthy families and positive lifestyles. It is distributed throughout the valley as a free publication. Idaho Family Magazine does not assume responsibility for statements or opinions expressed by editorial contributors or advertisers. The acceptance of advertising does not constitute an endorsement of the products, services or information. Idaho Family Magazine does not knowingly present any product or service which is fraudulent or misleading in nature. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced without express written consent of the publisher. Reader correspondence and editorial submissions are welcome. Idaho Family Magazine reserves the right to edit or reject all materials submitted.

All rights reserved. Copyright 2021 by Gem Production Co., LLC. Follow us on Facebook

12 Real Money,

Real Families

Alexander Hamilton

Cover Photo Editor Dennis Lopez (Globe courtesy NASA)

Columns

National Adoption Month

6

Choices for kids

8

Bathtub safety

11

Family of brothers

14

‘Green winter’

15

13 Wednesday’s Child

Parents wanted

Meet Joseph

Two options, one result

In Each Edition

Tips for wee ones

Thankgiving near the Korean DMZ

10 Family Events Calendar

Some holiday tips

Children’s Photos Wanted Idaho Family Magazine would love to put your child or children on our cover. All photos should be high quality, sharp and clear, and high resolution of around 300 ppi.

Color photos are preferred, and all photos need to be vertical not horizontal. Please identify the children in the photos, the children’s ages, and what Treasure Valley community they reside in. (If chosen for the cover, their last names will not be used without permission.) Send the photos to editorgaye@gmail.com.

4 NOV/DEC 2021 | Idaho Family Magazine

FREE

Nov/Dec 2021

Peace on Earth

PARENT S WANTED

National

Adoption

Month

FAMILY O BROTHER F S A military

Thanksgi

ving

PLAYTIM E’S VALUE How kids learn

Gracie, of

Boise, will looks forwa turn 9 in Novem ber rd to the coming holidaand ys

www.idahofamilymagazine.com

HOW KIDS LEARN

A child’s playtime is also learning time

By Cara Johnson-Bader

W

hen children are playing, there’s more going on than meets the eye. Your little one is engaged in learning and brain development.

Through play, babies, toddlers, and preschoolers try out new skills, explore their imagination and creativity, enrich their emotional development, cultivate language skills, foster problem-solving skills, and so much more.

As a parent, you are your child’s first teacher Cara Johnson-Bader and playmate. Here are a few tips to make playtime learning time.

Play builds imagination and creativity.

When your child builds with blocks, plays with Play-Doh, or creates a masterpiece with arts and crafts materials, they are developing vital creativity skills. Join in on the fun and build a fort, create a city with blocks, or paint together.

—Fred Rogers Encourage your child to use his imagination as you play and learn together.

“Play is really the work of childhood.”

Play supports cognitive development.

Ninety percent of a child’s brain develops by age 5 and play is an essential component of making that happen. Paying attention, figuring out how things work, learning how to make decisions are just a few of the cognitive skills that your little one will develop through play. Provide your little one with opportunities to explore objects, like floor mirrors, pop-up toys, push cars, board games, and puzzles. These play opportunities will result in the development of foundational cognitive skills.

Play aids the development of physical skills.

Active play is vital for your child’s physical development. Crawling, rolling over, walking, climbing on the jungle gym, or hopping like a bunny are just a few of the activities that help your little one acquire skills such as coordination, balance, large motor skills, and fine motor skills.

Find ways to get active with your little one – not Continued on Page 9

THINK. BELIEVE. SERVE. The goal of classical Christian education is formation, not merely information.

We work with parents to prepare young people to think with depth, believe with courage, and serve with compassion.

Learn more at theambroseschool.org

@theambroseschool

PreK - 12 Classical Christian Education

www.idahofamilymagazine.com

Idaho Family Magazine | NOV/DEC 2021 5

NATIONAL ADOPTION MONTH

Children are waiting for adoptive families

By Tina Kierce

W

e’ve all seen those adorable pictures on social media where kids or teenagers are holding up a sign that says something like, “I was in care 1,572 days, 23 different homes, and switched schools 6 times, and today I was adopted!” At first, we as viewers feel happy and may even think, “This is so incredible he/she now has a family.” The next moment, the viewer considers the magnitude of how long 1,572 days (4.3 years) actually is and tries to imagine the child switching homes 23 times and starting as the new kid at 6 different schools. It can be overwhelming to consider the child’s experience. Finally, we celebrate the adoption of each child as they finally have a permanent home in which to be loved, cherished, safe, and thriving. Many are still waiting to hold up their sign.

November is National Adoption Month and is dedicated to bringing awareness to the need for families to adopt older children, teenagers, and sibling groups from our nation’s foster care system. These children are placed in care at no fault of their own. Over 400,000 children are placed in foster care each year. It is intended to be temporary placement, but 125,000 of those children will not be reunited with their

6 NOV/DEC 2021 | Idaho Family Magazine

biological families and will wait to be adopted. It can take months or years. At age 18, foster kids age out of the system.

Aging out of the system means they no longer receive services and enter their young adulthood without stability or a family to call their own.

Idaho families are desperately needed to adopt older children, teenagers and sibling groups. Children are waiting right now. These children have experienced trauma and/or abuse but remain resilient, beautiful, incredibly amazing. They want to be loved unconditionally, accepted, and be part of a permanent family.

“We don’t want to saved, we just want to be with our siblings, loved and have a family again.” — Maddi, adoptee “I remember when we first went into care. There were five of us and we were split into different homes. Health & Welfare couldn’t find one foster home for four boys and a girl. All I thought about was when I could see my brothers again.” — Richard, adoptee The oldest of the five had immediately assumed the role as parent so his concern for his siblings was constant. This is very common for sibling groups. The oldest becomes the protector, the parent and grows up a little faster. They also learn quickly

www.idahofamilymagazine.com

Kenia, Ian, and Tristan (left to right) are all members of an Idaho adoptive family: mother, son, and father. November is National Adoption Month. Many children are eager to be adopted, and for anyone who’s ever considered adopting a child, now is a great time. (Courtesy photo) how the system works. Sometimes splitting sibling groups makes it easier to find homes for the children. The brothers were posed with the decision to allow their baby sister to be adopted without them. They gave her the opportunity to be adopted without them. She was adopted by a family and her brothers haven’t seen or heard from her since. After a couple of years in care, the boys were adopted together.

National Adoption Month’s theme for 2021 is “Every conversation matters.” Take a moment and talk about adoption with friends, family, classmates, adoptive parents, adoptees, or women who have chosen adoption plans for their babies. If you are an adoptive parent, start the conversion by inviting your child to share the memories they have of being in their biological homes (there are often very good memories) or how they envision their relationship with their new family. Provide a safe place for the adopted child to honor their life journey. If you have ever considered adoption as a way to grow your family, talk with your significant other or support system. The time is now.

The legal adoption of foster children in the United States is handled through licensed private agencies who specialize in foster-adoption and individual states’ Health & Welfare departments. Families complete a home study evaluation to become approved adoptive parents and then begin searching for adoptable children through statewide and regional databases. Adoption can be overwhelming. Research and learn about the programs that will work best for you.

A New Beginning is an Idaho-based non-profit adoption agency that provides a foster-adopt program. Parents are not required to foster first; instead, A New Beginning is working with Health & Welfare departments across the nation to find homes for the kids who are ready for permanent placement.

A New Beginning has been involved in the placement of over 100 children from foster care with a high rate of permanency. For more information about adoption, visit www.adoptanewbeginning.org or Idaho’s Department of Health & Welfare. www.idahofamilymagazine.com

Upcoming information seminars, both free and virtual, include: • November 2 at 6:30 p.m. – Infant Adoption Information Seminar hosted by A New Beginning Adoption Agency, RSVP at https://adoptanewbeginning.org/about/ seminars/ • November 18 at 6 p.m Foster-Adoption Information Seminar with guest foster-adopt families, hosted by A New Beginning Adoption Agency, RSVP at https:// adoptanewbeginning.org/about/seminars/ • Idaho Wednesday’s Child Go to https://www. idahowednesdayschild.org/ • December 7 at 6:30 p.m. Infant Adoption Information Seminar hosted by A New Beginning Adoption Agency, RSVP at https://adoptanewbeginning.org/about/ seminars/ • December 9 at 6 p.m. Foster-Adoption Information Seminar hosted by A New Beginning Adoption Agency, RSVP at https://adoptanewbeginning.org/about/ seminars/ • Every child deserves a home, and 122,000 U.S. children are waiting to be adopted.

Tina Kierce is in charge of communication and marketing for A New Beginning. She may be reached at tina@adoptanewbeginning.org

Idaho Family Magazine | NOV/DEC 2021 7

A TALE OF TWO CHOICES

Dual options can produce one outcome

By Macaile Hutt

A

s a pediatric occupational therapist, I have seen a lot of success with many of the I see a lot of power struggles and components utilized in the Parenting with Love attempts to gain control from our tiny and Logic teachings, but one of my favorite go-to clients in the clinic. Over my years tools is giving two choices that yield the of practice, I’ve noticed a trend with children same outcome. impacted by medical involvements requiring Giving choices can help a child feel autonomy lots of doctor’s visits, surgeries, procedures, or without fully handing over all control. Giving hospitalizations and the attempt to control his or choices that result in the same outcome allows her environment in any way possible. for everyone to feel successful and content. A I empathize with these children, and I can silly example that I often use with parents to understand why it would feel so “out of control” Macaile Hutt introduce the idea is the child not wanting to to have things being done to your body seemingly against leave the park when it’s time to go. We can calmly and your will, even if it was always in your best interest. I also rationally ask the child, “Would you like to go to the car with see power struggles when new siblings are born, parents your feet on the ground or in the air?” Hence, asking the experience marital transitions, families move to new cities child if they would like to walk or be carried to the car. or change schools, the list goes on and on. Power or control If the child continues to play and does not answer the struggles can also happen seemingly out of nowhere when question, we would follow up with, “It looks like you’re children reach new developmental stages urging them to having a hard time answering the question. If you’re unable create independence and autonomy in any way they can. to answer me in five seconds I will have to choose for you.”

We’re often told to “pick our battles” when it comes to Five seconds passes. “Okay, Johnny, you’ll have to go to these struggles, and sometimes it’s not a big deal to concede the car with your feet in the air.” Pick up the child without to switching out the blue cup for the green one or playing showing too much reaction if possible, safely carry and for just five more minutes before getting out of the bathtub. buckle them into the car, and carry on with your day. This But what happens when the need for power creates elephant moment is about giving two choices, not about engaging reactions to mouse problems? What happens when the need further in a power struggle, so a larger lecture isn’t necessary, for control overtakes the outcome entirely? as Johnny made it to the car with his feet in the air and will I use a lot of principles from Parenting with Love and have the opportunity to make a different choice next time Logic, and I highly recommend the books or the course to around. anyone interested in finding tangible solutions to everyday I use that example because it depicts the notion that parenting or child-raising issues. There’s an answer for sometimes it has to get a little bit worse before it gets everything and the approach is calm, rational, and loving. a lot better. We expect this to happen in the clinic, and it always gets better with more practice. The nature of this tool There are 2 basic rules in Love & Logic: is to create harmony, independence, and consistency within 1. Adults set firm limits in loving ways without anger, lecture, the home. It allows for two choices to be given to promote threats or repeated warnings. Set limits using enforceable independence, but it always results in the desired outcome statements, regard mistakes as learning opportunities, in order to still set healthy boundaries the child can feel save and resist the temptation to nag. existing within. Sometimes it works wonderfully and the 2. When children misbehave and cause problems, adults child makes a choice and moves on with his or her day, and hand these problems back in loving ways. Provide empathy other times the child desires to exercise defiance in order to before describing consequences, use few words test the waters to see if the caregiver will truly follow through and more loving actions, delay consequences when with their end of the deal. This can still be done calmly necessary, and give kids the gift of owning and solving and rationally and further builds trust within the child and their problems.

“Giving choices that result in the same outcome allows for everyone to feel successful and content.”

8 NOV/DEC 2021 | Idaho Family Magazine

www.idahofamilymagazine.com

How Kids Learn Continued from Page 5

caregiver. Below, I have listed more examples of giving two choices with the same result: • Would you like to clean your room before or after you have a snack?

• Would you like to read a book or do stretches together before bed? We only have time for one.

• Would you rather have peanut butter and jelly or chicken nuggets for lunch? We aren’t going through the drivethru today.

• Is it better for you if I carry your clothes to your bed for you to fold them or put them in a laundry hamper so you can fold them wherever you’d like?

• Do you want me to help clean up 10 pieces of Legos or 0 pieces of Legos? I am not going to clean them all up for you, but I will help with 10.

The following examples set clear boundaries from a place of love while still allowing the child to make choices and feel empowered in his or her daily life. After a while, this exercise becomes second nature and giving choices happens almost automatically. We must be willing to follow through with our end of the deal by making a choice for a child unwilling to make his or her own choice, but I always calmly narrate what I am doing in order to give the child a sense of understanding and still maintain some control of his or her environment while doing so.

This tool has helped foster autonomy in so many children, while still allowing parents and caregivers to maintain healthy boundaries and structure within all daily environments. It’s made a big difference in my life with children, and I hope it will make a difference in yours, as well.

Good luck and happy choosing!

Macaile Hutt is the Director of Occupational Therapy for Star Speech and Occupational Therapy located in Star, Idaho. Her therapy style takes a holistic and child-directed approach, with the goal of children succeeding across multiple environments. She holds a master’s degree in occupational therapy from A.T. Still University and has received continuing education as a Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional for Children and Adolescents (CCATP-CA), Handwriting Without Tears, pediatric kinesiotaping, Interactive Metronome, and Beckman Oral Motor. In her free time, she enjoys creative writing, backpacking, and traveling. www.idahofamilymagazine.com

only is it fun but you are helping with brain development.

Play encourages communication.

Play provides your child with an opportunity to develop speech and language skills and expand her listening skills. Whether you are making animals with Play-Doh, pretending to be a customer in your child’s make-believe restaurant, or playing peek-a-boo, talk about what you are doing, ask questions, and engage in conversations. Doing so will help your child foster important communication and listening skills.

Play promotes social and emotional development.

Through play, your child develops critical social skills, such as cooperation, compromise, recognizing and responding to other’s feelings, resolving conflict, and learning how to navigate interacting with others.

The benefits of play are endless, so find ways to play with your little one. Not only will you have fun but will help them learn important lifelong skills.

“Play is really the work of childhood.”

—Fred Rogers Cara Johnson-Bader is the Vice President of Marketing and Parent Experiences at New Horizon Academy and mother of two young boys. Learn more about New Horizon Academy at newhorizonacademy.net.

We understand your time is valuable.

We won’t waste a minute of it.

Hassle Free Scheduling Upfront Pricing Clean & Professional

“Believe in Magic”

Schedule Today

TheMagicTeam.com

208-944-2107

Idaho Family Magazine | NOV/DEC 2021 9

CALENDAR of Events

Foster care informational meetings

Foster parents are needed to provide a safe, temporary home for children and youth who are in foster care.

Attending an informational meeting will give potential foster parents a basic understanding of who the children in foster care are, the roles and responsibilities of foster parents, and what’s needed to become licensed to foster. The meetings are being held through Zoom, so anyone can join from the comfort of their own home. Meetings are sponsored by Fostering Idaho through the EWU-Family Resource and Training Center. Visit their website at https://familyrtc. org/fosteringidaho/events for the full calendar of upcoming meetings. If you have questions, contact Monique Layton, recruitment coordinator, at (208) 249-0180 or mlayton4@ewu.edu.

National Adoption Month

November is National Adoption Month, but anytime is a good time to look into adopting a child. A New Beginning (see the story in this issue) is holding Adoption Information Seminars during both November and December as follows: • November 2 at 6:30 p.m. – Infant Adoption Information Seminar, RSVP at https:// adoptanewbeginning.org/about/seminars/ • November 18 at 6 p.m. – Foster-Adoption Information Seminar with guest foster-adopt families, RSVP at https://adoptanewbeginning. org/about/seminars/ • December 7 at 6:30 p.m. – Infant Adoption Information Seminar, RSVP at https:// adoptanewbeginning.org/about/seminars/ • December 9 at 6 p.m. – Foster-Adoption Information Seminar, RSVP at https:// adoptanewbeginning.org/about/seminars/ The seminars are free and virtual.

Beginning Nov, 2021

Please send family-related calendar items to editorgaye@gmail.com

Craft & Chocolate Affaire

The annual Craft & Chocolate Affaire is set for 5 to 9 p.m. Friday, November 5, and from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, November 6, at the Nampa Civic Center. More than 100 artisans will be selling crafts of all kinds. And don’t forget the sweets – everything from fudge to pie to cake, all made of chocolate. Children may come visit Santa for free from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday. For more information, go to nampaciviccenter.com.

Eagle Holiday Bazaar

Enjoy one of Idaho’s longest-running craft bazaars – the Eagle Holiday Bazaar – Saturday and Sunday, November 13-14, at Eagle High School, 574 N. Park Ln. in Eagle. Check out Eagle Holiday Bazaar on Facebook.

Show auditions for 2022

Music Theatre of Idaho will hold auditions November 19-20 for the 2022 season. Go to broadwaynampa.org for more information.

(See information below about MTI’s production of “Little Women” in December.)

Canyon County Christmas Show

Enjoy a wonderful holiday experience for the entire family at the Canyon County Christmas Show November 19-21 at the Ford Idaho Center. Cost is $5 for adults, $4 for seniors, and free for children 12 and under. For times and other information, go to fordidahocenter.com.

NEW YEAR'S EVE

at the harward rec center RING IN THE NEW YEAR AND STAY LOCKED IN AT THE REC CENTER!

DECEMBER 31 • AGES 6-12 7PM FRIDAY - 8AM SATURDAY Members $20, Non-members $25* Bring: A sleeping bag, pillow, pajamas, swimming suit & a towel!

Winter Wonderland Festival

Caldwell’s annual Winter Wonderland opening weekend event is set for 6 to 9 p.m. Friday-Sunday, November 19-21, at Indian Creek and the nearby Indian Creek Plaza. The million-light show down the creek in and through downtown Caldwell runs for the entire holiday season. For more information, go to indiancreekplaza.com.

Winter Garden aGlow

The annual Winter Garden aGlow is set for November 24-January 1 from 6 to 9 p.m.

Wednesday through Friday at the Idaho Botanical Garden in Boise. For more information, go to idahobotanicalgarden.org.

“The Nutcracker”

Children from the Ballet Idaho Academy will grace the stage, along with professional dancers and live musical accompaniment from the Boise Philharmonic, during a holiday production of “The Nutcracker” November 26, 27, 28 and December 3 (evening and matinee performances scheduled) at the Morrison Center in Boise. For tickets or more information, go to morrisoncenter.com. (Facial coverings required regardless of vaccination status.)

DECEMBER Meridian Winterlights Parade

The City of Meridian will host a Winterlights Parade beginning at 7 p.m. Friday, December 3, in the city’s historic downtown. The nighttime event will feature floats, bands, cars, and walkers. For more information, go to christmasinmeridian.org.

Boise Christmas Show

The Boise Christmas Show, featuring a wide range of Christmas gift items and products such as lights, ornaments and garden art, is set for December 3-5 at Expo Idaho in Garden City. For more information, go to expoidaho.com.

Letters to Santa

The Village in Meridian is helping Santa collect Christmas letters from children in the Treasure Valley from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Wednesday, December 8, at a special mailbox sent from the North Pole and located by the cozy Santa House near the fountain area at The Village. For more information, go to thevillageatmeridian.com.

Holiday Light Stroll at Scentsy Commons

Gather for a casual but “bright” stroll through the Scentsy Commons holiday light display from 6 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, December 8, or drive down Eagle Road and see the display from your car.

SIGN UP AT THE HARWARD REC CENTER, OR CALL 208-468-5858 FOR MORE INFO.

10 NOV/DEC 2021 | Idaho Family Magazine

www.idahofamilymagazine.com

Please say “I Saw It In The Parents Guide”

6

PEDIATRICIAN-APPROVED Bath safety tips for infants & toddlers

By Molly O’Shea

I Fly a Plane

a Rocket Kiadns... BeMilkInside a Talking Cow c

Steer a Pirate Ship Make and Bake a Pizza Shop at a Grocery Store Visit a Cave with Critters Be a Doctor, Play Operation Be a Veterinarian & X Ray a Dog ...and so much more!

Bring this ad and get

$1.00 OFF

Limit one per person per visit. Expires 12/31/21

790 S Progress Ave • Meridian Idaho

Music Theatre of Idaho ted o V “Little Women” production

BEST

Music Theatre of Idaho has announced its n production of “Little will be held aloWomen” g10,S11 n i December 9, at the Nampa Civic Center, n n a T ! n matinee shows. Based on Louisa with evening and Towlife, inAlcott’s May “Little Women” follows the adventures of sisters Jo, Meg, Beth and Amy March. Jo is trying to sell her stories for publication, Buy 2 Tans but the publishers are not interested. Her friend, Professor Bhaer, tells her that she has to do better and write more from herself. Begrudgingly taking Limit onethe perstory new client his advice, Jo weaves of herself and her sisters and their experiences growing up in Civil 141 Caldwell Blvd., l teri@tanninghut.biz War America.

ForNampa more information or tickets, click on broadwaynampa.org. www.tanninghut.biz l 467-3495

Get One FREE

Santa’s Workshop

The Nampa Rec Center will present a Santa’s from noon to 1:30 p.m. on Saturday, December 11. Cost is $5 for members and $6 for non-members.

Go to nampaparksandrecreation.org for more information.

Workshop kids ages 3-12 **Parents Guidefor Sept-Oct '21.indd 6

Christmas Light Tour

Experience the beauty of the holidays through spectacular light displays around Nampa through Nampa Parks & Rec’s Christmas Light Tour December 17 or 18. Buses will depart the Nampa Rec Center at 6 p.m.; boarding begins at 5:45 p.m.

Go to nampaparksandrecreation.org for more information.

www.idahofamilymagazine.com

t’s always a wise time for parents to brush up on a few safety tips to keep their children protected in the bathtub. The following are pediatrician-approved bath safety tips for infants and toddlers.

1. Supervision Children can drown in as little as two inches of water, so never leave a young child alone in the bath, even for a moment. Bath seats and rings are meant to be bathing aids and will not prevent drowning if the child is left unattended. Also be sure to never leave water in the bathtub when it is not in use – drain immediately after bath time.

2. Don’t overfill the tub For the little ones who are just learning to sit up and are still getting used to their own coordination, there’s no need to fill the tub with water up to their necks. Put enough water in to be about belly button level.

This way, should a reach for a bath toy turn into a slight tumble, there’s less worry about being submerged, and getting back upright is quicker and easier.

3. Use anti-slip grips & safety gadgets Make bath time more fun – and safe – by adding colorful rubber nonslip grip adhesives to your tub. You might also consider installing a nonpermanent grab bar for your little one to hold onto as he or she grows, to make the transition in and out of the tub trip-free. To protect your child’s head, put a cushioned cover over the water faucet so there won’t be any injuries following a bump or scratch. Finally, get in the habit of closing the lid of the toilet, and get a toilet lid lock. A curious top-heavy toddler who tries to play in the water can lose balance and fall in.

4. Don’t shy away from splashing – explore the water The best way to start getting your child comfortable in and around the water is during bath time. Perhaps one of the oddest things to get used to is unexpected splashes, but it can do wonders to get your child acclimated to the water. Teach your child to mimic your splashing. You can also try gently pouring water down the back of your infant’s head while in the tub or take them in the shower with you to get used to the idea of water in their face.

8/17/21 8:35 PM

5. Practice submerging in a controlled environment Helping your baby feel comfortable while submerged in the water can help immensely to prepare them for swim lessons, which can reduce the risk of childhood drownings by 88%. Start by holding your baby on your chest while you slowly pour water over their backs and legs with a cup, and as they get used to the sensation, you can flip them onto their back as you support their head, neck and lower back so they get used to having their head and ears under water.

Dr. Molly O’Shea is an American Academy of Pediatrics journal editor, water safety and drowning prevention advocate, and official pediatrician of Goldfish Swim School.

Idaho Family Magazine | NOV/DEC 2021 11

REAL MONEY, REAL FAMILIES

Financial lessons from Alexander Hamilton

By Luke Erickson

A

s a transplant from Eastern Idaho Hamilton,” we see that the first U.S. Secretary about four years ago, one thing I can of the Treasury had a few good life lessons we say is that Boise rarely has a shortage can learn from that could help us in our own of fun things to do. This December financial journeys. I’ll call them the 10 “Dollar is no exception – theater-goers are in a for a Commandments”: treat. First, and most important, yours truly (who 1. Get an education dabbles a bit in theater here and there) is in a 2. Set financial goals community production of Little Women produced 3. Question conventional wisdom by the Music Theatre of Idaho. Get your tickets 4. Don’t try to do it all by yourself soon! And a very distant second is that one of 5. Don’t let money define you Luke Erickson the biggest Broadway shows of the last decade, 6. Learn from your mistakes Hamilton, is coming to our town as part of 7. Make the most of what you have the show’s official North American tour.

8. Tke care of those around you I’ll be honest, before Hamilton became a hit, I knew he 9. Balance your life was on the ten-dollar bill, and heard once somewhere that 10. Keep records of your finances he was a U.S. Secretary of the Treasury a long time ago.

First, Hamilton was orphaned at a young age, but through And… that’s it, folks. Nothing else floating around in this a combination of friends, hard work, and persistence he was noggin about a guy, who, as it turns out, was one of the most able to secure a solid education, first by reading on his own, influential individuals in early American history. and then through formal schooling.

Historian Richard B. Morris identified seven key Founding Second, Hamilton knew his values and stuck to them.

Fathers of the United States: George Washington, John Similarly, our personal values should dictate everything about Adams, Thomas Jefferson, James Madison, Benjamin our financial plan including career paths, financial goals, and Franklin, John Jay, and Alexander Hamilton. Nobody asked lifestyle pursuits. me, but I would have added good ol’ King George III to Third, the founding fathers questioned the British this list, because after all, the revolution never would have government’s actions. Similarly, we should question happened without him, am I right? (Ya-da-da-da-daaaa….:) conventional financial wisdom and habits that include large Most of these founding fathers were presidents, and mostly amounts of debt for school, cars, homes, life goals and good ones to boot (I know it’s hard to fathom these days). timelines. Instead let your values and goals dictate what you The other one we all know was not a president, but he spend your money on, and thus, how you live your life. discovered electricity, invented bifocals, told lots of jokes to Fourth, Alexander Hamilton was George Washington’s lighten the moods of the other founding fathers, and most “right-hand man” both during the revolution and during importantly, has his face on the $100 bill, so, of course no Washington’s presidency. They didn’t always get along one forgets him. The Jay guy? Hmmm…drawing a blank. perfectly but were nearly unstoppable together. Similarly, we It’s very likely that I slept through that day in middle school are not on our financial journeys by ourselves. Get help from history class, so he can’t be completely blamed for being sorta experts, friends, and family in your goals, and work together forgettable. And last, the other guy nearly everyone missed in to achieve common dreams. history class, “A dot Ham.” Fifth, money is not an end, it is a means to an end.

Thank you, Broadway, for resurrecting one of the most Hamilton wasn’t in pursuit of money during his life, that important figures in early American history and making him was a byproduct of the meaningful life he sought to live. a superstar…and also, for teaching us that the Wicked Witch Similarly, money can’t be your goal if you really want to be was really just very misunderstood. happy, it should be a byproduct of other life goals you pursue Alexander was the first U.S. Secretary of the Treasury and based on your values. was instrumental in laying the foundation of what would Sixth, as a child there was no blueprint for someone who eventually become the greatest economy the world has ever wanted to be an orphan turned influential revolutionary. It seen. So maybe it’s not too crazy to think that we could learn is key to learn from others, but use that knowledge to blaze a few financial lessons from the guy. your own path, don’t try to replicate anyone’s success because In an article by popular finance bloggers Camilo and ultimately that person’s goals and values will be different from Francisco Maldonado (twins, with interesting stories of their yours. In doing this you’ll make mistakes, but that’s OK, it own) entitled “10 Lessons About Money from Alexander should even be expected. Simply learn from them and persist.

12 NOV/DEC 2021 | Idaho Family Magazine

www.idahofamilymagazine.com

“Hamilton wasn’t in pursuit of money during his life, that was a byproduct of the meaningful life he sought to live.”

Seventh, Hamilton had few possessions, friends, or family when he came to the colonies from the West Indies. He didn’t let that stop him. He acted like he belonged everywhere he went, though inwardly he knew that wasn’t the case. But one thing he realized quickly is that few people are as grand, rich, successful or as flawless as they often try to appear. In today’s social media driven society, develop your skill at looking past the apparent wealth and staged happiness of your friends and acquaintances and realize that we’re all pretending to some degree. We’ve all got flaws, debt, challenges of some sort. You belong. You deserve success and happiness as much as anyone else. Indeed, that is the America that Hamilton helped forge.

Eighth, Hamilton’s legacy is in what he left for future generations. Promoting success and happiness for others is perhaps one of the noblest life pursuits one can have.

Financial tools such as life insurance and savings accounts can help set up your children for financial success. Trusts, donations, giving of time and energy to a cause bigger than yourself also inspires others. This is likely to bring more happiness and satisfaction to you than most other financial goals.

Ninth, some of Hamilton’s deepest regrets came from times he worked too much and didn’t enjoy life balance between work and family. Work is necessary, and leaving a legacy is noble, but it shouldn’t come too often at the expense of your immediate family and friends.

Tenth, Hamilton took meticulous notes on his reading, his speeches, and even his finances. Keeping records facilitates a master plan that will propel us toward our most important goals for life and finances.

Now, if I may, I’ll leave you with an inspirational quote from the show.

“Everything is legal in New Jersey.” Oops, not that one.

“I am not throwin’ away my shot!” That’s better.

Don’t overthink it. You have one life, one shot. If we can learn anything from Alexander Hamilton it’s that if we spend our lives focused on values and dreams, the necessary resources will follow.

Luke Erickson, Ph.D., AFC®, is an associate professor of personal finance for the University of Idaho. He works and lives in the Treasure Valley with his wife and four energetic children. Contact Luke at erickson@uidaho.edu.

WEDNESDAY’S CHILD

Joseph, 17, fond of taking care of animals The following information is provided by Wednesday’s Child, an organization that helps Idaho foster children find permanent home.

Joseph, 17, is an outgoing young man with a passion for riding anything with wheels, including his bike, electric scooter, longboard or roller blades. When he’s not busy being active, he can be found reading novels by his favorite authors, JK Rowling and Rick Riordan, or building something awesome with Legos or K’nex. Board games are another of his favorite pastimes and he would really like to one day start a Rubik’s Cube club at school. Those closest to Joseph describe him as a smart and funny jokester who is extremely talented and creative when it comes to art and building things.

Joseph understands the need for a good education and is working hard to be successful at it so that one day he can fulfill his dream of going to college to become a computer www.idahofamilymagazine.com

programmer or coder. Caregivers who can help support him educationally will be an integral part of helping him to realize his future dreams.

Joseph describes his ideal Forever Family as including both a mom and a dad. He looks forward to each of those relationships and what they can add to his life. A family where he can be the only, or the youngest, child in the home is an ideal fit for him. Joseph values his faith and wants a Christian family that shares his religious beliefs and attends church regularly.

He has a real affinity for animals and hopes that his new home will have pets that he can help care for and spend time with.

Joseph is sure to add fun and adventure to his future family. If you think that your family would be a great match for this resilient teen, inquire today (see below).

For more information on the Idaho Wednesday’s Child Program, visit www.idahowednesdayschild.org, or contact Recruitment Coordinator Shawn White at swhite52@ewu.edu or cell 208-488-8989 if you have specific questions.

Idaho Family Magazine | NOV/DEC 2021 13

FAMILY OF BROTHERS

Thanksgiving near the Korean DMZ

By Dennis Lopez

T

here were six of us living in an isolated compound of green Quonset huts not far from the Korean Demilitarized Zone: a staff sergeant, two engineers and three announcers – two Army, one Air Force.

It was 1969 and we were the voice of the U.S. Army’s Second Division; we were Radio Tomahawk.

Our 10,000-watt AM radio station was a part of the American Forces Korea Network, the largest military radio and television network in the history of American military broadcasting. For my small part, I was the morning man, the guy who played the music of an America that was thousands of miles away to a division of soldiers for whom the radio was their only way to keep in touch with “the world.”

We worked three shifts – morning, afternoon and evening.

The evening block was called the “Letter from Home” show and had been a part of our station’s history since the Korean War. It involved reading letters on the air mailed to our station by wives or sweethearts to their loved ones serving in the Second Division and to play songs requested in those letters.

It was one of those touching letters that brought home the fact that we were headed into the winter holidays, Thanksgiving and then Christmas. I have long forgotten who wrote the letter or for whom it was written. I do remember that it was like a verbal battering ram, breaking down the collective protective mental wall that, in normal times, insulated and isolated us from thinking too much about home. But now we were half a world away from our families and friends who would be celebrating the holidays without us.

Ultimately somebody caught the homesick bug, which quickly infected us all. The cohesiveness of our station began to break down. We bickered over nothing and nearly everything. Found fault in each other’s on-air work. Shirked our off-air duties. Our well-oiled routine became monotonous drudgery. Our small, cooperatively-funded bar regularly ran out of beer and whiskey before the night was over. Yet oddly it was alcohol that may have saved the day.

One evening someone, in a moment of alcohol-fueled truth, admitted to being sad about being away from home during the holidays. From that rivulet a river of sadness washed over us. We began to talk about home, Thanksgiving or Christmas dinners and our friends and families. It was a sort of verbal baptism, cleansing the weeks of anger and pent-up longing for home. There were heartfelt, if not selfconscious hugs, tears and stories of home and of families.

We were young men experiencing an unfamiliar closeness, of family, within our group.

I have no idea who suggested it, but we decided we each

14 NOV/DEC 2021 | Idaho Family Magazine

would contribute to cooking Thanksgiving dinner. Because of our isolation, we were self-contained with our own kitchen facility. Fresh food was routinely delivered to us and cooked by a wonderful Korean gentleman whom we paid out of pocket. But in the case of Thanksgiving, he would be off and we would go it alone.

We agreed to syndicate the job of cooking a turkey to the closest mess hall. They had the bird, the ovens and the skills we lacked. That freed us to work on side dishes. We wrote letters home asking moms, grandmothers, aunts, dads, anyone who ever cooked our favorites at the holidays, for recipes. And then we waited…and waited, hoping that the mail would come before Thanksgiving.

Ultimately, responses began to trickle in, some doable, others way beyond our culinary abilities. My mom sent a complex recipe on the “not doable” list because it required pickling and days of preparation and, as a result, I was tagged to drive our Jeep the 60-odd mile round trip to pick up our turkey. A blinding snowstorm and unpaved gravel roads made it a grueling four-hour drive. The others began working on the side dishes. Youthful enthusiasm was abundant; cooking skills, limited.

The turkey and I returned early afternoon to an array of traditionally named, but unusually prepared dishes. It was a complete meal with sweet potatoes, stuffing, cranberry jelly and of course the mandatory mushroom soup-based green bean casserole…sort of.

We were young men and planning was not our strong suit, which of course meant some of the key ingredients for the aforementioned dishes were never located and creative substitutions were made instead. Our sweet potatoes were made from lumpy instant mashed potatoes and pancake syrup, the gummy baked stuffing made with fresh bread. Our “cranberry sauce” was grape jelly from our supplies and the green bean casserole? Well, canned string beans in a viscous grey gravy with cornflakes baked on top weren’t exactly what any of us expected. Yet we ate everything until we hurt, laughed until we cried and shared a closeness only soldiers far from home can understand.

That Thanksgiving was over half a century ago, yet I still remember it as one of the best of my life. I would go on to have holidays with my parents and then with my own wife and children. I recall them all with fondness. But somehow, that odd collection of dishes served in our small Quonset hut, with a snow storm howling at our door, remains one of the best. For one small slice of time, we were not soldiers, but a family of brothers giving our own personal thanks for one another.

www.idahofamilymagazine.com

GREEN WINTER LIVING

Tips for holidays & the winter through

By Kimberly Blaker

www.idahofamilymagazine.com

solar-powered outdoor lights are better for the planet and your wallet. You can also use timers for outdoor decorations, so you don’t have to worry about remembering to turn them off.

Eco-friendly gifting – A big highlight of winter is holidays and get-togethers with gift exchanges. But all the gift-giving leads to a lot of waste and overconsumption of goods. The best option is to eliminate gift exchanges. Instead, make the holidays special by focusing more on fun activities and quality time with family and friends.

But there are many ways to go green, even with gifts. Doing so is also an excellent opportunity to share environmentally friendly practices with your loved ones. A few ideas for green gifting include: • Give experiences instead of things.

• Do a white elephant or Secret Santa exchange where each person gifts one item.

• Look for gifts at second-hand or thrift stores (if everyone can agree to this, no one will feel like a cheapskate).

• Gift eco-friendly products like reusable straws or mugs.

• Choose wooden toys over plastic.

• Shop locally from small businesses.

• Green gift wrap. Once you’ve found the perfect gifts, get creative with wrapping! Traditional wrapping paper is typically used once then discarded, which consumes more resources. Some alternatives are to: • Reuse old wrapping paper.

• Repurpose other products like newspaper or paper bags from the grocery store (some stores even have themed bags during the winter).

• Look for gift bags that can be reused (nice fabric ones, such as reusable tote bags, can be passed along for years to come).

Small changes to your winter routines can help you stick to your values and reduce your consumption of the planet’s resources. So look for opportunities to reduce, reuse, and recycle throughout the winter months to help keep our Earth evergreen.

Kimberly Blaker is a freelance lifestyle writer. She also writes content, blog posts, and more for businesses in a variety of industries and is an expert in on-page SEO. Find her at kimberlyblaker.com.

Be a legend.

Insure your life.

Be a legend.

Insure your life.

Be a legend.

Insure your life.

Ken Wells, Agent 600 N Midland Blvd Nampa, ID 83651 Bus: 208-466-4162 www.kenwells.net

KenKen Wells, Agent Wells, Agent 600600 N NMidland Blvd Midland Blvd Nampa, ID 83651 Nampa, ID 83651 208-466-4162 Bus:Bus: 208-466-4162 www.kenwells.net www.kenwells.net 1708145

T

aking steps to reduce our negative impact on the Earth is a year-round job. But it can seem much harder during the winter season. Cold weather and long, dark nights, along with holiday celebrations, make it challenging to prioritize planet-healthy habits.

Still, there are ways to reduce our impact for a more sustainable planet. So follow these tips to keep your winter – and our world – green!

Watch the thermostat – One thing people struggle with most during winter is the chilly temperatures. As the weather gets colder, it’s tempting to crank up the thermostat. But over-using your heater consumes a lot of energy. Depending on the size of your home, you’re likely warming up areas that aren’t even being used. Before you turn up the thermostat, add some layers of clothing, socks, and warm fuzzy slippers.

It may be enough to keep you warm and comfy. If you’re just relaxing, get cozy and cuddle up under a blanket with warm food and a hot drink.

Getting a smart thermostat is also a smart investment which will pay for itself in a relatively short time. There are many brands available that offer features to help you stay eco-friendly. These include timers to set specific temperatures for when you’re at home, away, or sleeping. There are also recommended eco-friendly temperature settings and even the ability to control the thermostat from your phone.

Starting a fire in your fireplace can be a fun heat alternative for winter. It gives off heat in a smaller, concentrated space and uses less energy than a furnace. If you have a woodburning fireplace, be sure to have your chimney cleaned and inspected annually for fire safety.

Be aware of light use – With the sun setting earlier and more gray days, it’s tempting to switch on a lot of extra lights.

But lights also use a lot of energy. So make a conscious effort to turn off lights when you leave a room (unless you’ll be returning in a reasonably short time), and only use the lights you need.

Another way to cut back on energy use from lights is to switch to LED or CFL bulbs, which are more energy-efficient.

Also, consider lights with dimmer switches. There are lights with sensors that turn them off automatically when there’s no movement in the room for a set amount of time, as well.

Another fun alternative is to use candles, which also add ambiance. Just make sure they’re eco-friendly! Also, if you have pets or young children, the candles should be kept in a high, secure spot to reduce the risk of injury or fire.

Conserving on electrical lights also goes for outdoor holiday lights. These lights use a lot of energy. So consider more Earth-friendly options. Holiday lights with LED bulbs and

With the right life insurance, you can leave a legacy for your family. I’m here to help.

LET’S TALK TODAY.

With the right life insurance,

With the right life insurance, leave you canyou leavecan a legacy for a legacy for your family. here to help. yourI’mfamily.

I’m here to help.

LET’S TALK TODAY.

LET’S TALK TODAY.

State Farm Life Insurance Company (Not licensed in MA, NY or WI)

State Farm Life Insurance Company (Not Assurance licensedCompany in MA,(Licensed NY or WI) State Farm Life and Accident in NY State and WI) Farm Life Bloomington, and Accident1708145 Assurance Company (Licensed in ILNY and WI) Bloomington, IL

Idaho Family Magazine | NOV/DEC 2021 15

YOUR FINANCIAL SUCCESS FAN CLUB

At Idaho Central Credit Union, the most important thing to us is helping our members At Idaho Central Credit Union, the most important thing to us is helping our members succeed. We’re here to help you with a full range of both personal and business financial succeed. We’re here to help you with a full range of both personal and business financial services like checking, loans, mobile banking, and more. Come visit your local ICCU branch services like checking, loans, mobile banking, and more. Come visit your local ICCU branch and see for yourself how we can help you achieve your financial success. and see for yourself how we can help you achieve your financial success.

• Ranked #1 in the Northwest for member giveback** • Ranked #1 in the Northwest for member giveback • 1 in 5 Idahoans are ICCU members • 1 in 5 Idahoans are ICCU members • Helping members achieve financial success for over 80 years • Helping members achieve financial success for over 80 years • Over 42 branches throughout Idaho to serve you • Over 42 branches throughout Idaho to serve you • 24/7 access with eBranch Mobile and Online Banking • 24/7 access with eBranch Mobile and Online Banking

Become a member today.

Become a member today. *Callahan & Associates’ Return of the Member value. *Callahan & Associates’ Return of the Member value.

WE BELIEVE being rich has little to do with wealth.

WE BELIEVE being rich has little to do with wealth.