CharlottesvilleFamily's BLOOM Nov Dec 2019

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We have plenty of affordable activities for your family this winter.

200+

classes and programs

Charlottesville Parks & Recreation invites you to discover our selection of over 200 classes and programs for kids, adults and seniors!

Classes include skateboarding, dance, gymnastics, aquatics, sewing, art, athletics, adaptive recreation and much, much more.

Register online at

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or call (434) 970-3260

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Just Between Us…

volume 20 issue 7 november/december 2019 PUBLISHERS

Robin Johnson Bethke Jennifer Bryerton

CREATIVE DIRECTOR Robin Johnson Bethke

Dear Friends,

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Jennifer Bryerton TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Peter D. Bethke SENIOR EDITOR Sarah Pastorek

The holidays are a time for family, friends, dinners, parties and gifts, but

ONLINE EDITOR Madison Stanley

they are also a time to reflect and give thanks. We had a lovely season last year.

GRAPHIC DESIGN

Our college student was home and baked up a storm. Our dancer performed

beautifully in “The Nutcracker,” and our boys were young enough to still be amazed and delighted by everything. We watched a lot of classic films, played board games and peace reigned. The most celebrated gifts were the ones bought

Barbara A. Tompkins

SENIOR MARKETING CONSULTANT Susan Powell

MARKETING CONSULTANTS Carter Schotta, Jenny Stoltz

with arcade prize tickets or homemade, which we strongly encourage. We had

FAMILY HEALTH EDITOR Katharine Paljug

much to be thankful for as a family.

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS & PHOTOGRAPHERS

Rick Epstein, Kathryn Jewusiak,

Sally Kuzemchak, Sara J. Marchessault,

Jacqueline Moon, Megan Othersen

Gorman, Katharine Paljug, Mandy

nevertheless, I was prepared to share around the remaining bounty. Upon closer

Reynolds, Brette Sember, David Sparrow,

inspection, I read a carefully handwritten label on the tin titling it, “Innards

Angela Stokes, Bob Taibbi, Whitney

of Bouncy Ball.” Oh wow! It was getting interesting. Curious, I tore in to find

Woollerton Morrill, Denise Yearian

My personal favorite was a gift to me from our youngest son. I eagerly unwrapped a tin of Pirouline cookies, well known to be a favorite treat of mine.

I did notice the seal had been broken and thought perhaps he’d sampled; but

wrapped in pink tissue a bouncy ball in pieces… I’d been given a science exhibit!

It was awesome, and he was so very proud of himself. I was pretty proud of him, too. He’d stayed within his budget and found something he thought fascinating to share that he knew I’d be intrigued by as well. He mentioned it just the other

BOOKKEEPER Theresa Klopp OFFICE ADMINISTRATOR

Christine DeLellis-Wheatley

INTERN Kathryn Jewusiak DISTRIBUTION Ray Whitson

day and lit up when I told him that I knew right where it was on my bedroom bookshelf.

This year, there have been whispers about favorite colors, the appearance of a few mysterious terra cotta pots labeled “do not water please” under my grow light where I am nurturing salad greens, and the girls have been oddly quiet about what projects they’ve undertaken in their pottery classes. Most unusual, last week I spotted a can of WD-40, a pile of twigs and poster paints out on the project table. Signs are good for a fascinating season of gifting.

Wishing you and your family a happy holiday season filled with fun surprises!

CharlottesvilleFamily™ Bloom Magazine and CharlottesvilleFamily. com™ are published jointly by Ivy Life & Style Media.

CharlottesvilleFamily.com™ is published weekly online at www.

CharlottesvilleFamily.com, the weekly Newsletter is distributed via email, and the Magazine is published in print format 6 times per year along with a CharlottesvilleFamily.com™ Directory. The views and opinions expressed by the writers and advertisers do not necessarily represent those of CharlottesvilleFamily magazine, its officers, staff or contributors. The information presented here is for informational purposes only and although every effort has been made to present accurate information, we do not in any way accept responsibility for the accuracy of or consequences from the use of this information or for the businesses and organizations presented herein. We urge all parents to confirm any information given herein and consult with your doctor or an appropriate professional concerning any information of question. All images not credited are property of and provided by iStock by Gettyimages. No portion of this publication may be reproduced in part or in whole without the express written consent of the publisher. Copyright ©2019. All rights reserved.

We welcome reader comments, submissions and the support of advertisers!

Please direct all correspondence to Ivy Life & Style Media 4282 Ivy Road, Charlottesville, Virginia 22903 voice 434.984.4713 www.CharlottesvilleFamily.com editor@IvyLifeandStyleMedia.com We reserve the right to refuse or edit any materials submitted to us that we deem inappropriate for our audience. Include a SASE with any submission to be returned. We do not accept responsibility for unsolicited materials.

2004 Community Award Winner

6

November/December 2019

Contents TABLE OF

OUR TOWN

LIVING WELL

New Mom 28 Comfort & Soothe

News 8

The Buzz Around Town 10

Do you let your child cry it out in public?

Snapshot 12

Josh & Anika Eagan, Writer & Illustrator

Our Schools 14

Helping Those Students Who Are

Ready to Fly

INSPIRATION

Dear Bob 30 Your Parenting Questions Answered

Table Manners for Kids 42

How to Coach Your Kids Through Table Etiquette

Healthy Family 32 Understanding Autism

Tips & Trends 34 Fabulous Finds and Fun

2019 CharlottesvilleFamily Favorite Winners 52 Your Winning Picks for Family-Friendly Fun & Services

Prepped for Potty Time

Toilet Training Basics

Out & About Calendar 16

32

Editor’s Pick

Holiday Events for Families

Trim that Tree 26

Local Farms Offer Petting Zoos,

Cookies with Santa and More

We hope you are able to enjoy all this holiday season has to offer, from fun and festive outings (pg 18), to local tree farms (pg 28), local shops (pg 50) and handmade gifts your furry family members (pg 78).

68

Pet Projects 76

Heartfelt Gifts for Furry Friends

RESOURCES

Buy Local Shopping Guide 48

Support Our Community

Give the Gift of Camp 66

Residential Camp is A Gift That Lasts

A Lifetime

HOME & GARDEN Your Home Office 36 Creating a Child-Friendly Work Space

From Our Family to Yours 40 Tasty Thanksgiving Recipes from the

34

Staff at CharlottesvilleFamily

Local Handmade & Vintage 49 Holiday Gift-Giving Ideas

Guide to Local Preschools

Local Resources for Ages

70

Local Pet Guide 77

Caring for Your Precious Pets

UNTIL NEXT TIME

Never Turn Your Back on A Christmas Tree 78

A Dad’s Humorous Tales

So Love This!

“I love making treats and gifts for our four cats, so I can’t wait to try the Pet Projects (pg 76).”

— Barbara, graphic designer

68 CharlottesvilleFamily.com

7

{our town community}

News

local buzz

CharlottesvilleFamily proudly sponsors: Montpelier Hunt Races

The Flying Karamazov Brothers

James Madison’s Montpelier November 2

The Paramount Theater November 30

GardenFest of Lights

Irving Berlin’s White Christmas

Toy Lift

Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden November 22–January 6, 2020

Four County Players November 22–December 15

Fashion Square Mall December 6

Grand Illumination

Paramount at the Movies: Elf

Santa Pancake Breakfast

Sprint Pavilion December 6

The Paramount Theater December 8

Virginia Discovery Museum December 8

Expanding Young Minds in New Building

Peabody School is welcoming a new facility and outdoor space to enhance its students’ hands-on learning. This new building will feature a STEM Maker Lab to stimulate math and science learning with a 3D printer, and laser cutting and sewing machines. A performing arts space includes special acoustics, soundproof practice rooms and recording technology.

Peabody’s plans also unite the classroom and nature. A new outdoor court and amphitheater, pollinator and vegetable gardens, and an outdoor activity trail will integrate outdoor exploration in the school day. The pre-K through eighth grade independent school teaches gifted and academically advanced students in Charlottesville. The new building project is part of Peabody’s 25th anniversary and expects to be completed in June 2020.

8

November/December 2019

Testing the Best Quality education is a priority in Albemarle County, and it shows in the academic performances of high school seniors this past school year. In four public schools, seniors performed above their peers on the SAT test, averaging 603 points on the verbal test. This average is 39 points above the average for seniors throughout the rest of the state and 79 points above seniors across the country. Average scores of 589 on the math portion exceeded the state average by 33 points, as well as the national average by 66 points.

Despite a nationwide decrease in SAT performance, Albemarle County seniors’ scores improved by 17 points. These results confirm the significance of programs aimed at reducing the achievement gap in area public high schools.

Naturally Playful

Nature spaces challenge kids to be creative and engage their senses, so St. Anne’s-Belfield School opened a natural playground. The outdoor space includes a mud kitchen, tree cookies, balance logs, gathering space and a sandbox. Traditional playgrounds have limited uses for each toy. While the design of these playgrounds encourages safe play, naturally adventurous kids want to push the limits of their play space.

Nature offers more uses for the young curious mind. Science teacher Kayla Wilson has seized the outdoor space as part of her outdoor science curriculum for students in Grades K, 1 and 3. Additionally, nature playgrounds allow kids to dig and build, which helps develop motor skills. The sensory input from playing in nature prepares students for returning to the classroom with increased focus, and a larger empathy and understanding for the world around them.

Saving Goals and Saving Lives For 10-year-old soccer player Brady Krysiewicz, every goal he saves means more than just the outcome of the game. Inspired by compassion and his own family’s struggles with breast cancer, Brady wants to help other families who are fighting the disease.

That’s why he started his Keeper for a Cure campaign. Throughout the month of October, Brady asks people to donate money to the Virginia Breast Cancer Foundation for every goal he saves. Originally, Brady hoped to raise $50 to support research efforts for a cure, but within two minutes of posting, he exceeded this goal. Brady will continue to save and block his way through October, while raising money for a cause that’s close to his heart in the process.

CURIOUS ABOUT COVENANT? CA LL U S TODAY !

THE COVENANT SCHOOL PRE-K THROUGH GRADE 12

admissions@covenantschool.org | www.covenantschool.org | 434.220.7330 CharlottesvilleFamily.com

9

{our town community} The

Buzz

Giving the Gift of a Good Story

AROUND

TOWN Do you let your child cry it out in public?

25% say “yes” 75% say “no” “It’s healthy and normal to show feelings, just please don’t scream about it!”

– Mother of two, Scottsville “It depends on where we are. If we are at a noisy amusement park, then yes. If we are in a restaurant where the crying could disturb the other patrons, we remove our children from the situation.”

– Dad of three “We do when it is our infant and we are not in a particularly quiet space, as sometimes she can be easily soothed and the crying does not last long.”

– Charlottesville mom of two “When it is an injury or pain, yes. When it is a fit, no.”

– Mom of three, Crozet

“I do not give in to my child, but if they are crying/throwing a fit and won’t be quiet, I will take them outside or to the car so they don’t disturb others.”

– Whitney, Charlottesville,

Mom of four

“In opposition of ‘crying it out,’ I prefer to talk with my child to help calm them down or work through the situation. Sometimes they may continue to cry, but I don’t believe ignoring the crying helps alleviate the issue.”

– B. Mills, Afton, Mama of a

little boy

“We think it is important to teach our kids the consequences of their actions at an early age, including that tantrums are not a way to get what they want. When we remove them from the situation/location, that is both respectful of the other people around, and another way for us to signify to our child that their behavior is not appropriate.”

– Barboursville Mom

Children love a good bedtime story.

Due to the work of the Soho Center in New York City, kindergarteners at 19 local Title I schools, including those in Charlottesville City and Albemarle, Orange and Louisa Counties, were each able to take home and keep 10 books at the start of the school year. By donating thousands of books to schools with a high percentage of students from lower-income families, Jeanna Beker’s nonprofit aims to reduce the achievement gap in Central Virginia. The Soho Center donates 300,000 new childrens’ books every year across the state. The donation to Albemarle County alone is estimated at $67,000. While kids at Title I schools have books at school, these donations allow them to have books at home, too, providing the opportunity for reading practice and an enjoyable bonding activity for families. You can learn more about the Soho Center’s work at child2000.org.

Visit CharlottesvilleFamily.com to answer next issue’s question:

Do you allow family pets to sleep with your child(ren) at night?

10

November/December 2019

BIZ BITS OPENINGS/ RELOCATIONS Basketful Lifestyle & Gifts, 416 West Main Street Blue Moon Diner, 512 West Main Street Emerson House Learning, 308 East Market Street

CLOSINGS Little Planets Playroom at IX Art Park, 937 2nd Street SE

ANNOUNCEMENTS Albemarle County Public Schools now has guidelines for solutions to address anti-racism in the classroom.

It lays out ways to address both individual and systemic racism through training, curriculum, and other methods.

The Albemarle County School Board voted to rename Cale Elementary.

Over the last few months, Cville Ice Park has raised $2,700,000 towards its fundraising campaign and needs only $500,000 more before they can break ground on the new rink. To pledge, visit cvilleicepark.com/donate.

4P Foods has partnered with Local Food Hub to merge distribution operations.

The UVA Children’s Hospital recently opened a new Explorer Playroom on the fourth floor of the Battle Building.

This therapeutic, interactive playroom incorporates the Lewis and Clark theme that inspired some of the outdoor landscape.

Submit Biz Bits to: editor@IvyLifeAndStyleMedia.com

CharlottesvilleFamily.com

11

{our town interview}

SNAPshot words by Jacqueline Moon

Josh & Anika Eagan Super (Hero) Team of Dad, Writer, & Daughter, Illustrator

They’re the perfect match. Josh Eagan, dad of two, had a great idea for a children’s book. His daughter Anika, who is 14, knew the best way to illustrate it. Together, they teamed up and created the recently released The Adventures of Ninja and Luche: The Great Piggy Rescue—a brand-new adventure/comedy for kids age 6–11. Josh and Anika live in Roanoke, and Josh is the president and publisher of Roanoke Valley Family Magazine.

this, I did it all in ProCreate instead of on paper. I wanted it to look silly and cute, so I drew the characters more simplistically than I normally would. I originally tried making it more complex, but it didn’t look right for these characters.

JOSH: It’s been a long process. We’ve been talking about doing this for more than a year now. Ani would come up with lots of different styles until she honed in on this one. It’s fun, silly and colorful.

Okay, The Adventures of Ninja and Luche. What’s it about?

JOSH: It’s about two kids named Monica and Stevie who take matters into their own hands to help people around town. They do little things that might not seem like typical “superhero” things, but to other kids, they’re definitely superheroes. They do it under the radar, and no one knows their true identities.

And then Stevie/Luche is distractable and a bit hyperactive.

Would you say that describes your sister Evelyn?

ANI: Yeah, she’s always running around the house, tackling things, running into things.

JOSH: The idea always was that the alter-egos bring out the characteristics of the people behind the masks. The alter-egos magnify the character traits. That does kind of describe their personalities in general.

And these superhero characters ... they actually come from characters you and your sister used to dress up as, right?

ANI: Yeah, we happened to have a ninja mask when I was about 8 or 9, and I would run around wearing it. Evelyn, my sister, wanted a luche wrestler costume, so my mom made one. We’d sneak up on the foreign exchange student we were hosting and play tricks.

JOSH: Right, that’s how it started. Then, Ninja and Luche would show up at random times and do random and crazy things.

What kinds of random and crazy things?

ANI: Well, there’s a scene in the book that has to do with shaving cream on a cake, and that’s actually a true story. We took a cereal box and put a balloon inside filled with shaving cream. Then you decorate it like a cake. When someone cuts into it, it explodes.

Ani, how did the distinct style in your illustrations come to be?

ANI: This is a different style than I usually use when I draw. For

12

November/December 2019

What’s your favorite part of the story?

ANI: I think the funniest part is the one that’s the most random—a flying dog! It’s not necessarily my favorite part, but it’s the funniest.

Do you have any favorite superheroes?

ANI: Definitely Ant-Man. I watched Ant-Man and the Wasp on the plane back from Bolivia this summer, and I loved it. I also like checking out random comics from the library.

JOSH: I never was a superhero person until the Marvel movies. We started watching them as a family, and, now, I like the whole Marvel Universe. *Find The Adventures of Ninja and Luche: The Great Piggy Rescue on Amazon or at your local bookstore!

Edward T. Wolanski, MD PC

Charlottesville City Schools

Every Learner. Every Day. Everyone.

CharlottesvilleFamily Favorite Award Winner

2019 Thank you for voting for us year after year!

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Neighborhood schools with a global perspective, offering excellence in the arts, sciences, and more!

434-245-2400 • CharlottesvilleSchools.org CharlottesvilleFamily.com

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{our town community}

Ouorols

Sch

gela

by An

s

Stoke

Helping Those Students Who Are Ready to Fly

Although they come from varied walks of life—a constitutional lawyer, a biochemist, a realtor, a few athletic coaches, some stay-at-home moms, a retiree and a recent college grad—they all signed up this year for one mission: to provide the support and guidance that will lead at-risk fifth graders to achieve sustained academic and personal growth.

Although it’s a time-honored program that began several years ago at the University of Minnesota, Check & Connect was new to Albemarle County Public Schools, having just concluded its first year in May 2019. A total of 24 academic coaches engaged with 120 students, helping them prepare to complete one of the most difficult academic transitions—moving from elementary to middle school.

Research shows the move to higher academic rigor and levels of personal responsibility for students entering middle school can be overwhelming.

How well students handle this transition can have a lasting impact on their academic performance through high school and college. It can erode confidence and problem-solving skills.

We know that not all students succeed in their transition to middle school, with the earliest signs of difficulty often present before the move.

Check & Connect offers a blueprint for broadening their circle of support. By going to the community for coaches,

The check part links coach to 2nd Annual student on a weekly basis, where the coachfor aids Preemies” students with their “Play

students are matched with role models who have personal stories about overcoming obstacles in their own lives.

program theme is “helping students who are ready to fly to SOAR.”

preparation for school and study, such as with organizational skills, the completion of assignments and the identification of specific needs.

They are dependable, personable and trustworthy advocates for the students, and were often a valuable advisory voice for each student’s teacher.

The connect part struck deeper.

Through encouragement, enthusiasm and support, coaches helped students build the belief “they want to, they value, they can” be a star in the classroom.

The results were encouraging.

Students in the program raised their hands more often in class. Additionally, they became more passionate about their work and were more eager to come to school each day. Coaches told us their experiences were close to the “best thing they have done with their life in a long time.” We also saw strong gains in the standards-of-learning (SOL) test scores of students in the program, including 15 students passing SOL tests for the first time in their academic experience. Another 58 students passed multiple tests, 40 students improved their attendance and 24 reached perfect attendance. While, another 33 students increased their rate of being on time.

When asked if they would like to return this year, 100 percent of the coaches said “yes.” Our informal

Angela, the current assistant principal for Stone-Robinson Elementary School, led the Check & Connect Program in 2018–19 and discussed the program at the Virginia School Board Association’s annual education conference.

14

November/December 2019

Nationally SPORTS ZONE Ranked Basketball Team

Photo by Robert Deweess

There’s nothing like sports to bring a community together. The Charlottesville Cardinals, a local nationally ranked wheelchair basketball team, faced University of Virginia (UVA) athletes for a friendly game of hoops in September.

The game, held at Charlottesville High School, had an attendance of about 400, all to support a good cause. The money raised by the game went to Bennett’s Village, a local organization whose mission is to build an inclusive playground for children with disabilities in Charlottesville.

The Cardinals outplayed the Cavaliers on the court, even lending the Cavaliers their leading scorer in an attempt to even out the game. Even so, the Cardinals beat the UVA athletes 50 to 46. Through this fundraiser and other efforts, Bennett’s Village has raised over $100,000 towards Bennett’s Village’s $5 million goal to create a space where all children can play. To donate time or money, visit bennettsvillage.org/donate.

Orchestrating a Fundraiser

4th Graders Receive “Yes” to Their Concerns Fourth grade teacher Nancy Rickabaugh at Johnson Elementary School challenged her students to find a problem outside the classroom that they could propose a solution for that would also help make a difference in the community. In response, the students made a video, took pictures and wrote a letter to the City of Charlottesville about their concerns for

The Charlottesville High School Orchestra (CHSO) String Ensemble received an invitation to participate in the 2020 Lisbon International Youth Music Festival. The festival features youth interested in classical music, such as in choirs, orchestras and symphonic bands, with concerts in the best venues in Portugal. This is an exciting opportunity for a local string ensemble to travel to Europe for their music.

The orchestra began its fundraising efforts at the end of September with a short public performance at Central Place on the Downtown Mall. The string ensemble is led by CHSO orchestra director Laura Thomas.

their classmates’ safety when playing on the nearby blacktop during recess. The students shared that the cracks were big enough for them to trip on when playing basketball and soccer. To the students’ surprise, the city responded with a resounding “yes” and has already patched the cracks. Through this experience, they learned that they, too, have a voice in their community, no matter their age, and are excited to help devise other solutions for problems that affect others.

FOSTER. MENTOR. ADOPT.

Share a moment, change a life!

Discover the skills you already have to be a foster parent.

On any given day, there are nearly 443,000 children in foster care in the United States, and over 5,000 of these children reside in Virginia.

Be an InsIder Get the latest updates on area fun and news!

Visit us at CharlottesvilleFamily.com and sign up for our weekly E-Newsletter packed with calendar highlights, daytrip ideas, and much more!

People Places offers:

• Foster care & adoption services • Parent training & support • Counseling & Mentoring services And more!

“I can see lives changing while we do the ordinary, everyday things that families do.”

—People Places foster parent

Call us today!

Staunton: (540) 885-8841 Charlottesville: (434) 979-0335 Harrisonburg: (540) 437-1857

CharlottesvilleFamily.com

15

{our town calendar}

&

Out

About

THANKSGIVING Turkey Trot

November 17 at Crozet YMCA Enjoy this special holiday event and active fun for the whole family. Check the website for more information. 434-205-4380, piedmontymca.org YOU CAN HELP!

YOU CAN HELP!

11th Annual Earlysville Turkey Trot 5K & Kids’ Half-Mile Run

November 28, 8:30am kid’s race (12 & under), 9am 5K (6 & up) at 601 Earlysville Green, Earlysville Kids can participate in a free half-mile race.

Benefits the Blue Ridge Area Food Bank. app.racereach.com/event/earlysville-turkey-trot

38th Annual Boar’s Head Turkey Trot

November 28, 9am at Boar’s Head Inn Run or walk the annual 5K to raise money for the UVA Children’s Hospital. No pets. Early registration is recommended. 434-972-2237, raceplace.com/events/55739/38th-annualboar-s-head-turkey-trot

Blessing of the Hounds

November 28, 10–11am at Grace Episcopal Church Enjoy a brief blessing ceremony with bagpipes, a soloist, hounds and horses, then cider and donuts and the beginning of the hunt. No pets allowed. 434-293-3549, gracekeswick.org

Check out our online calendar for more local family events and fun!

NOVEMBER + DECEMBER 2019 workshops, an apple pie contest and more.

434-979-1663, albemarleciderworks.com

ArtCHO

November 2, 10:30am–5:30pm at IX Art Park Enjoy this annual festival with art, music, food and fun in a family-friendly environment.

Donations support local charities. artcho.org

25th Annual Artisans Studio Tour

SPECIAL EVENTS Pancake Breakfasts

Now–December 22, Saturday 9–11am; Sunday 10am–12pm at Chiles Peach Orchard Enjoy all-you-can-eat pancakes with a fruit topping and a side of sausage and OJ/milk/ coffee. 434-823-1583, chilesfamilyorchards.com

Montpelier Hunt Races

November 2, 9am–6pm at James Madison’s Montpelier Experience world-class steeplechase horse races. Enjoy the Jack Russell Terrier races, kids’ stick-horse races and vendor row.

CharlottesvilleFamily is a proud sponsor!

540-672-0027, montpelierraces.org

19th Annual Apple Harvest Festival

November 2, 10am–5pm at Albemarle CiderWorks, North Garden Annual festival featuring local food and artisan craft vendors, hayrides, live music all day,

November 9 & 10, 10am–5pm at Charlottesville and Surrounding Counties You’ll see 46 artisans set up in 25 studios displaying their craft on this self-guided tour.

434-823-1882, artisanstudiotour.com

VETERANS DAY Veterans Day Weekend

November 8–11 at James Madison’s Montpelier Montpelier says “thank you” to all U.S. military veteran guests with a free House tour and Museum Shop discount. 540-672-2728, montpelier.org

Annual Salute to Hometown Heroes

November 9 at Carter Mountain Orchard See military and rescue vehicles, and visit booths honoring and providing services for those who serve and have served. Hometown heroes (with ID) receive discounts.

434-977-1833, chilesfamilyorchards.com

4th Annual Warrior Hike

YOU

November 10, 12–3pm CAN HELP! at The Market at Grelen, Somerset This annual event will benefit Warrior Expeditions. Hike the trails, picking up tokens along the way. Turn them in at the end for a chance to win raffle prizes. More miles equals more tokens and better chances at winning.

540-672-7268, themarketatgrelen.com

HOLIDAY HAPPENINGS Christmas Town

38th Annual Boar’s Head Turkey Trot

November 28, 9am at Boar’s Head Inn. See this page.

16

November/December 2019

YOU CAN HELP!

November 16–January 5, 2020 at Busch Gardens, Williamsburg Enjoy over 10 million glittering lights, shows and traditional Christmas culinary delights.

Experience Christmas traditions from around the world. Visit Santa Claus and sip some hot chocolate. 757-229-4386, buschgardens.com

Maymont Mansion Holiday Tours

November 22–January 5, Tuesdays–Sundays, 12–5pm at Maymont Mansion, Richmond Lavish decorations and old-timey activities bring a Victorian Christmas to life.

804-358-7166, maymont.org

Dominion GardenFest of Lights

November 22–January 6, 2020, 5–10pm at Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden, Richmond Features more than half-a-million lights, botanical decorations, trains, holiday activities and more. CharlottesvilleFamily is a proud sponsor! 804-262-9887, lewisginter.org

Letters to Santa

November 29–December 20 at Horton Vineyards, Gordonsville All are invited to stop by and write a letter to Santa, seal it up and place it in the Santa Letter Box to be mailed. 540-832-7440, facebook.com/events/1133829070151515

Enjoy the holidays at

Horton Vineyards!

November 2

Fall Cellar Tasting

November 29 - December 20 Letters to Santa

Gingerbread House Competition YOU CAN HELP!

YOU CAN HELP!

December 2–11 at the Ronald McDonald House & Omni Hotel This year’s theme is “Christmas Around the World.” Entry forms are due by Dec. 2 at the Ronald McDonald House. Creations are due Dec. 6–7 at the Omni Hotel, and will then be on display from Dec. 8–11. rmhcharlottesville.org

December 7

Port Pairing | Limited Seating Call for Tickets

2019 Toy Lift

December 6 It only takes one to make a difference this holiday. CharlottesvilleFamily is a proud sponsor! toylift.org

Charlottesville’s Grand Illumination

December 8 & 15

Holiday Shopping Day

December 6, 4:30–9:30pm at Sprint Pavilion This holiday event is free for all ages and features live music, games and activities, kids’ crafts, food and beverages, and over 20,000 LED bulbs illuminating the tree at City Hall Plaza.

CharlottesvilleFamily is a proud sponsor!

434-409-8226, charlottesville.org

YOU CAN HELP!

YOU CAN HELP!

Christmas Wonderland

December 6–20, Saturdays, 5–9pm at Creative Works Farm Enjoy music performances, visits with Santa, a walk-through light display, cookies and hot chocolate, decorate gingerbread cookies, make ornaments and more. All proceeds benefit Camp LIGHT. creativeworksfarm.org

Santa Picture Event & Holiday Gift Drive

December 7, 1–4pm at Cardinal Point Winery Have a blast with Santa and help your neighbors in need at this holiday picture and gift drive event. cvillemeals.org

Enchanted Extravaganza IV

December 7 & 8, 9am–4pm at The Market at Grelen, Somerset Experience festive fare, gifts by local vendors, music, Christmas trees and greens, wreath workshops and more. Visit with Santa from 11am–2pm. 540-672-7268, themarketatgrelen.com

6399 Spotswood Trail, Gordonsville (540) 832-7440

hortonwine.com

CharlottesvilleFamily.com

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{our town calendar} Santa Pancake Breakfast

December 8, 9am, 9:20am, 11:30am & 11:45am at Virginia Discovery Museum Enjoy a yummy breakfast and meet with Santa, too. CharlottesvilleFamily is a proud sponsor!

434-977-1025, vadm.org

Santa and Mrs. Claus at Pharsalia

Join us for a very special event that will create Holiday Memories for the entire family!

Gingerbread House Competition There is a competition category for everyone—children, youth, adults, businesses, organizations, and professionals.

And NEW this year we have a “virtual” category for those who live more than 75 miles away from Charlottesville. So, spread the word: this state, other states, other countries—everyone can enter! Our theme is “Christmas Around the World”. How perfect! We need to receive your entry form by December 2, 2019, but the actual creations (or videos for virtual entries) are not due until December 6-7. See our website for this year’s guidelines and entry form.

All of the beautiful gingerbread creations will be open for viewing at the Omni Charlottesville Hotel (free of charge) during the following days/times: December 8 • 4pm-8pm December 9 & 10 • 10am-8pm December 11 • 10am-2pm

December 9, 1–5pm at Pharsalia, Tyro Join Santa and Mrs. Claus for a day of stories, crafts and Christmas cheer. Professional photos with Santa and snacks are included.

434-277-5231, pharsaliaevents.com

Let There Be Light: An Outdoor Art Exhibit For full details and updates visit: rmhcharlottesville.org/Events

q

Volunteer opportunities available for this event. Email info@rmhcharlottesville.org to learn of available volunteer time slots.

Winners of each category will be announced the evening of December 10.

There will be special visitors to join us along the way, too!

December 13, 6–9pm at Piedmont Virginia Community College An evening of light-centered art and performances illuminating the outdoors. The exhibition celebrates the approach of winter solstice. Rain date December 14.

434-961-5362, pvcc.edu

Breakfast with Santa Presented by:

December 14 at Crozet YMCA Enjoy this holiday event.

434-205-4380, piedmontymca.org

NEW YEAR’S FUN Countdown to Happy Noon Year!

December 31, 11am–12pm at Central Library Enjoy games, crafts, dancing and a balloon drop to ring in the new year at the stroke of 12pm, that is! Ages 11–18. 434-979-7151, jmrl.org

Noon Years Eve Family Dance Party

December 31, 11:15am–12pm at Northside Library Put on your dancing shoes and ring in the new year a little early with a fun family dance party.

Music and snacks will be provided at this allages event. 434-973-7893, jmrl.org

New Year’s Eve Family Frolic

December 31, 2–5pm at Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden, Richmond Enjoy an afternoon of fun family activities. Stick around for the Dominion Energy GardenFest from 5–10pm. 804-262-9887, lewisginter.org

38th Annual First Night Virginia

December 31, 4pm–12am at Downtown Mall Ring in the New Year at this community arts fest featuring performers, a bubble wrap stomp, a kids’ fun zone and more.

434-975-8269, firstnightva.org

MARKETS & SHOPPING Scottsville Community Farmers Market Now–November 16, Saturdays, 8am–12pm at Scottsville Pavilion 434-286-9267, scottsvillefarmersmarket.org

18

November/December 2019

PRESENTS:

December 19-22 8 Performances at Piedmont Virginia Community College

CharlottesvilleFamily Favorite Award Winner 2019

www.CharlottesvilleBallet.org/Nutcracker

Tickets starting at $20. Use discount code CVILLEMAG22 for 10% off!

THE BIZARRE BAZAAR® presents...

The 44th Christmas Collection!

Thursday, December 5th Friday, December 6th Saturday, December 7th Sunday, December 8th

10 - 7 10 - 7 10 - 7 10- 5

RICHMOND RACEWAY COMPLEX 600 E. Laburnum Avenue, Richmond, VA 23222 Adults - $9.00 - Children (2-12) - $1.50

50¢ off One Adult Admission at door with this ad.

The Bizarre Bazaar®

Advance Tickets & Early Bird Tickets Sold Online at: www.thebizarrebazaar.com

CF 11/19

CharlottesvilleFamily.com

19

{our town calendar} YOU CAN HELP!

26th Annual Martha’s Market

November 15–17 at Boar’s Head Resort, The Pavilion Over 40 boutiques will transform the pavilion into a marketplace with something for everyone. Martha’s Market benefits women’s healthcare. A Celebration of Hope Gala will be held on November 16. 434-654-8258, mjhfoundation.org

The Bizarre Bazaar Christmas Collection December 5–8 at The Richmond Raceway Complex This annual holiday marketplace features over 475 exhibitors. thebizarrebazaar.com

Rivanna Garden Club Christmas Market YOU CAN HELP!

December 7, 9:30am–12:30pm at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church Find one-of-a-kind wreaths, fresh greens, delicious food, a large selection of crafts and other fabulous items. This fundraiser allows the club to support a variety of nonprofit organizations. 434-296-7143, therivannagardenclub.org

Village School Craft Fair YOU CAN HELP!

20

December 7, 10am–2pm at Village School This free event will feature jewelry, scarves, baked goods, homemade candy, soaps and much more. 20 percent of the proceeds go to charity. 434-984-4404, villageschool.us

November/December 2019

Holiday Shopping Days at Horton

December 8 & 15, 12–4pm at Horton Vineyards, Gordonsville Local vendors will fill the tasting room with gifts for every age. Each vendor will have items priced at $5 or less, so that children can also do their holiday shopping. 540-832-7440, hortonwine.com

STAGE & SCREEN Popcorn at the Movies

November 2, 2–4pm at Scottsville Library Snuggle up and enjoy a movie based upon a classic children’s story. Feel free to bring a stuffed animal and a blanket.

434-286-3541, jmrl.org

Annie Kids

November 15–16 & 22–23 at Belmont Arts Collaborative DMR Adventures presents the culmination of the Fall Kids Broadway Adventure program.

Annie KIDS, based on the comic strip and adapted from the musical, features everyone’s favorite orphan. belmontarts.org

14th Annual Best of Both Worlds Dance and Step Competition November 16, 3:30pm at The Paramount Theater See a fusion of dance and step teams when

some of the top college, high school and community teams throughout the region compete in a highly competitive event.

434-979-1333, theparamount.net

Peter and the Starcatcher

November 21–24 at Albemarle High School Albemarle High School Drama Department presents “Peter and the Starcatcher”—a humorous and fantastical backstory for the beloved character of Peter Pan and his arch-nemesis Captain Hook. 434-975-9300, ahsplayers.weebly.com

Irving Berlin’s White Christmas

November 22–December 15 at Four County Players Mainstage, Barboursville Enjoy this holiday-themed production, based upon the Paramount Pictures Film.

CharlottesvilleFamily is a proud sponsor!

540-832-5355, fourcp.org

The Flying Karamazov Brothers – Live!

November 30, 7pm at The Paramount Theater See the four self-proclaimed eccentric lunatics spicing things up with a zany showcase filled with laugh-out-loud comedy, wild theatrics, arcane errata, and astonishing juggling feats.

CharlottesvilleFamily is a proud sponsor!

434-979-1333, theparamount.net

The Nutcracker Mini-Suite

December 2, 4:30–5:30pm at Crozet Library Studio for the Performing Arts presents excerpts of The Nutcracker, danced by students of Albemarle Ballet Theatre, and a reading of the story. Audience members will have the chance to learn steps from the ballet! Registration requested. 434-823-4050, jmrl.org

A Christmas Carol

December 4–29 at American Shakespeare Center’s Blackfriars Playhouse, Staunton Experience the traditional tale with new twists, turns and surprises, and enjoy a production filled with music and cheer for the whole family.

540-885-5588, americanshakespearecenter.com

97th Season Holiday Concert

December 15, 3:30–5pm at Martin Luther King Performing Arts Center, Charlottesville High School The Municipal Band plays seasonal and YOU CAN traditional music at its annual holiday HELP! concert. Please bring a canned good to donate to the Emergency Food Bank.

434-295-9850, cvilleband.org

The Nutcracker

December 19–22 at Piedmont Virginia Community College Sweeten your holiday season with Charlottesville Ballet’s professional production of the classic holiday ballet class.

434-277-7592, charlottesvilleballet.org

BE A PART OF THE CHANGE THROUGH IMPACT INVESTING

Picture Book Film Fest

December 6 & 7, 10:30–11am at Crozet Library Bring a blanket and pillow if you’d like to cozy up and watch a few of your favorite stories on the big screen. Registration requested, but dropins are welcome. Recommended for ages 2–6.

434-823-4050, jmrl.org

Family Holiday Concerts

December 6 & 7, 8pm Friday, 3:30pm Saturday at Old Cabell Hall, UVA The Charlottesville Symphony at UVA and the University Singers join forces to present their annual concerts. Recommended for ages 6+.

434-924-3376, cvillesymphony.org

Virginia Glee Club’s 79th Annual Christmas Concert

December 7, 8pm at Old Cabell Hall The UVA Glee Club performs seasonal favorites with plenty of audience participation and family entertainment. virginiagleeclub.org

Every Christmas Story Ever Told

December 7–January 1 at American Shakespeare Center’s Blackfriars Playhouse, Staunton This family-friendly, fast-paced romp takes you on the Christmas journey of a lifetime, through your favorite holiday classics. 540-885-5588, americanshakespearecenter.com

Paramount at the Movies Presents: Elf

December 8, 1pm at The Paramount Theater You don’t want to miss the big screen showing of the seasonal comedy classic.

CharlottesvilleFamily is a proud sponsor!

434-979-1333, theparamount.net

Vienna Boys Choir – Christmas in Vienna

December 14, 7pm at The Paramount Theater Showcases gifted musicians in an extraordinary program featuring Austrian folk songs, classical masterpieces and, of course, holiday favorites.

434-979-1333, theparamount.net

Moscow Ballet Presents: The Great Russian Nutcracker

December 15, 3pm & 7pm at The Paramount Theater Experience the artistry of world-class Russian dancers, the exuberant jig of playful puppets and the splendor of handcrafted sets and costumes. 434-979-1333, theparamount.net

Cirque Dreams Holidaze

December 23, 7pm at John Paul Jones Arena Experience gingerbread men flipping mid air, toy soldiers marching on thin wires, snowmen daringly balancing, icemen powerfully sculpting, penguins spinning, puppets dancing and reindeer soaring high above a landscape of wonderment. 434-243-4960, johnpauljonesarena.com

Marvelous Morning Matinee

December 30, 10:30–11am at Central Library Enjoy the annual showing of “The Snowman,” based on the book by Raymond Briggs. All ages welcome. 434-979-7151, jmrl.org

SPORTS & OUTDOORS Charlottesville Heart Walk

November 3 at 415 Ray C Hunt Drive The Heart Walk creates an environment that’s fun and rewarding for the entire family. Choose from a 5K or 3.1-mile noncompetitive walk.

434-607-7719, charlottesvilleheartwalk.org

UVA Women’s Basketball Home Games November 5, 16 & 30 and December 1 at John Paul Jones Arena Cheer on the ‘Hoos at home.

800-542-8821, virginiasports.com

CONTACT US TO LEARN MORE ABOUT

Environmental, Social, Governance (ESG) Investing at YourLegacy Foundation.com /ESG-Investing

UVA Football Home Games

November 9, 23 & 29 at Scott Stadium Cheer on the ‘Hoos at home.

800-542-8821, virginiasports.com

Park Hop with A Doc

November 10, 1–3pm at Washington Park Join local pediatricians from Pediatric Associates and Wildrock’s Pop-Up Play Crew for a day of play at the park. 434-987-0638, wildrock.org

UVA Men’s Basketball Home Games

November 10, 16, 19 & 27 and December 18, 22 & 29 at John Paul Jones Arena Cheer the ‘Hoos at home.

800-542-8821, virginiasports.com

434-971-5917 info@yourlegacyfoundation.com Investment Advice offered through Private Advisor Group, LLC, a Registered Investment Advisor.

CharlottesvilleFamily.com

21

{our town calendar} Monticello Holiday Classic 5K & Deck the Halls Kids’ Dash!

December 7, 8:10am kids’ dash, 8:20am 5K at the David M. Rubenstein Visitor Center, Monticello Enjoy a family-oriented 5K. Kids 12 and under can enjoy the Deck the Halls Kids’ Dash, a quarter-mile loop around the West Lawn.

434-984-9800, monticello.org

ARTS & CRAFTS Kids Vote: Winnie the Pooh or Curious George?

November 5, 1–5pm at Scottsville Library Kids can cast a ballot on Election Day. After you vote, enjoy a craft. 434-286-3541, jmrl.org

Holidays at the Museum: Centerpiece Spectacular

November 26, 4:15–5:15pm at Virginia Discovery Museum It’s the season of giving thanks, so create your own autumnal centerpieces to take home. Ages 4+. 434-977-1025, vadm.org

Turkey Cookie Decorating

November 26, 6–7:30pm at Central Library It’s almost turkey time, but we’re serving turkey cookies right now. Make yourself a special treat.

Ages 12+. Registration required.

434-979-7151, jmrl.org

Holiday Craft Extravaganza

Santa Pancake

Breakfast Sunday, Dec. 8 | 524 E Main St, Charlottesville 9:00 & 9:20 a.m. | 11:30 & 11:45 a.m.

$15/PERSON UNDER 1 FREE. ANNUAL MEMBERS: 15% OFF.

Special: 4 Seats for $50 Late Reservations: Dec. 2-6 | +$15 Table Charge

December 4, 6:30–8:30pm at Northside Library Enjoy different stations with different crafts, as well as some holiday refreshments. Ages 14+.

Registration required. 434-973-7893, jmrl.org

Holiday on the Hill

December 7 & 14, 10am–5pm at Carter Mountain Orchard Enjoy family-friendly crafts and decorating activities, with samples, sales and Christmas music. Registration recommended.

434-977-1833, chilesfamilyorchards.com

Holiday Table and Mantle Centerpiece Workshop

December 12–15, 10–11:30am at the David M. Rubenstein Visitor Center, Monticello In this workshop, led by expert floral designers, you will learn techniques for crafting your own centerpiece to adorn your table or mantle. All materials will be provided. Recommended for ages 14+. 434-984-9800, monticello.org

Family Art Drop In: Paper Gingerbread Houses

RESERVATIONS: VADM.ORG/SANTA-PANCAKE-BREAKFAST (434) 977-1025 x102 Thank you to Sponsor CharlottesvilleFamily for Donating This Ad on Behalf of the Museum.

22

November/December 2019

December 13, 3–4:30pm at Northside Library Families are invited to make a non-edible gingerbread house. Great art can be messy, so come dressed to create at the library. For children up to age 12. 434-973-7893, jmrl.org

Snowflake Symmetry

December 13, 4:15–5:15pm at Virginia Discovery Museum Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow. Create your own unique snowflakes as you learn about symmetric designs. vadm.org

Holidays at the Museum

December 18, 19 & 20 at various times at Virginia Discovery Museum Enjoy seasonal crafts, including making Grinch Slime, holiday-inspired snow globes and holiday baked goods. 434-977-1025, vadm.org

LEARNING FUN & STORYTIMES Stuffed Animal Clinic

November 4, 10am–5pm at Central Library Fuzzy friends of all sizes and descriptions can visit the library for a checkup. Discover how your stuffed animal measures up at this drop-in STEAM session. 434-979-7151, jmrl.org

2019 Home Educator Day at Highland

November 6, 9am–3pm at James Monroe’s Highland Enjoy an exclusive walk-through of the presidential guest house and exhibit spaces, along with additional activities, including historic games and crafts. 434-293-8000, highland.org

2nd ANNUAL Meals on Wheels

Santa Picture Event & Holiday Gift Drive Saturday, December 7th • 1–4pm at Cardinal Point Winery with professional photography by Amy Smith

Find out more by visiting our website at cvillemeals.org or on Facebook & Instagram @cvillemeals

Lego-Palooza

November 8, 4:15–5:15pm at Virginia Discovery Museum Calling all budding builders ... collaborate on engineering challenges as you design and build balloon-powered cars and more.

434-977-1025, vadm.org

Imagination Story Station!

November 13, 10:30–11:30am at Northside Library Take a multi-sensory journey through a favorite children’s book. Creative drama, activities and play will help bring a story to life. Ages 4-7 with a caregiver. 434-973-7893, jmrl.org

Crazy Contraptions

November 16, 2–4pm at Crozet Library Build a Rube Goldberg machine that uses a complicated and elaborate chain reaction to do something. Though materials will be provided, you may bring some of your own. Grades 5–8.

Registration required. 434-823-4050, jmrl.org

A Classical Christian School • Grades K-12

Motor to Success: Motor Skills Play

November 18, 9:30–11:30am at Gordon Avenue Library Explore fun hands-on activities that use motor skills. Ages 3–5 and an accompanying adult.

434-296-5544, jmrl.org

OPEN HOUSE

Tuesday, November 12th • 7:00 p.m.

Join us at our Community Dinner Friday, November 8th • 6:30 p.m. • For Tickets: RegentsCelebration@regents-school.org

(434) 293-0633 • regents-school.org CharlottesvilleFamily.com

23

{our town calendar} Easy as Pie

is proud to support Toy Lift!

November 22, 4:15–5:15pm at Virginia Discovery Museum Mmm-mmm ... whip up your own homemade crusts and miniature pies as you learn some baking basics. 434-977-1025, vadm.org

Winter Wonderland Art

December 2, 4–4:45pm at Central Library Listen to a frosty winter tale and then get cozy creating a soft and fuzzy winter scene.

434-979-7151, jmrl.org

Wildrock Nature Friends: Winter Warrens December 5, 10:30–11:30am at Gordon Avenue Library Create cozy homes in a sensory bin, learn about how creatures construct homes and go on a pretend woods adventure. For ages 2–5.

Registration required. 434-296-5544, jmrl.org

It Only Takes

ONE to make a

difference this holiday season!

2019 TOY LIFT

Friday, December 6, 2019

toylift.org 24

November/December 2019

ESPECIALLY FOR TEENS Money Smart Workshop: Building Your Financial Future

November 13, 7–8:30pm at Gordon Avenue Library Create a plan to build a solid financial future. Learn types of assets, pros and cons of buying and leasing a car, tips for getting a car loan, and more. 434-296-5544, jmrl.org

Star Wars Countdown

November 19, 6:30–8pm at Crozet Library Count down the days until the release of Star Wars IX with snacks and themed activities.

Cosplay welcome. Grades 7–12. Registration required. 434-823-4050, jmrl.org

Teen Escape Room: Lost in the Archives

November 30, 1–3pm at Central Library Central Library has once again partnered with Cville Escape Room. Work under a time limit to unravel the mystery. Ages 11–18.

Reservations required. 434-979-7151, jmrl.org

Hot Cocoa PJ Party

December 3, 6–8pm at Crozet Library Make your hot cocoa as simple or as ridiculous as you like it, then relax in pajamas before exams with a movie. Grades 6–12.

434-823-4050, jmrl.org

Plushie Factory 2.0: Snowball Critters

December 9, 6:30–7:30pm at Northside Library Plushie Factory is back to show you how to make your own fun plushies. It is recommended that participants have basic hand-sewing skills. Ages 11–18. Registration required. 434-973-7893, jmrl.org

Snowball Fight

December 28, 2–3pm at Central Library Make indoor-safe snowballs, and then face off against other teams in an exhilarating indoor snowball battle. Recommended for ages 11–18. 434-979-7151, jmrl.org

ESPECIALLY FOR PARENTS Free CPR Training

November 2, 16 & 30, December 7 & 14, 9–11am at Charlottesville-Albemarle Rescue Squad Non-certifying classes aimed towards new parents, families and caretakers in adult, child and infant CPR, and choking relief.

434-296-4825, carsrescue.org

Affordable Housing Resource Fair

November 9, 10am–12pm at Central Library Meet with local organizations working towards providing affordable and quality housing in the community. 434-979-7151, jmrl.org

Raising a Self-Disciplined Child

November 9, 3:30–5pm at Our Neighborhood Child Development Center Discuss how to move from an other-disciplined model to a self-disciplining model. RSVP for childcare, which is $10 per child.

434-202-8639, ourneighborhood.community

OPEN HOUSES

FAMILY ART JAMs:

October 19 | Wondrous Weaving November 16 | Composition/Construction

These popular programs combine age-appropriate tours with hands-on art activities that make the museum’s exhibitions accessible to children. The introduction of new art materials and techniques challenges children to think in new ways, and interactive tours help them develop the confidence to talk about art. Registration required.

WRITER’S EYE:

Tours Through November 15

Writer’s Eye is an annual literary competition that challenges writers of all ages to use visual art as inspiration for the creation of original poetry and prose. Each year we select 8 works of art for Writer’s Eye, and interactive tours of the art selections are offered from September through November. Entries are judged by distinguished writers from central Virginia, and winners are honored at a ceremony in the spring, and 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place winning entries are published in the annual Writer’s Eye anthology.

Visit our website for more information about tours.

Fall Open House

November 4, 8am–4pm at Renaissance School 434-984-1952, renaissanceschool.org

uvafralinartmuseum.virginia.edu | museumoutreach@virginia.edu | 434.243.2050

Admissions Info Sessions

November 5 & December 9, 9–10:30am at Tandem Friends School Call to RSVP. 434-951-9314, tandemfs.org

Open House

November 12, 7pm at Regents School of Charlottesville 434-293-0633, regents-school.org

Poinsettia Open House

November 29 & 30 at Milmont Greenhouse, Waynesboro This annual holiday festival offers up homemade donuts and coffee, door prizes and poinsettias to get you feeling festive. Vendors will sell food, gifts and arts and crafts.

540-943-8408, milmont.com

This Christmas, support a child fighting cancer and their siblings.

Holiday Open House at Montpelier

December 7, 9am–5pm at James Madison’s Montpelier Tour the home, decorated according to 19thcentury customs, and visit with the Madisons.

At the David M. Rubenstein Visitor Center, enjoy visits with Santa, hands-on history activities, and food. 540-672-2728, montpelier.org

We provide a private germ-free holiday party for children with cancer and their families to experience Christmas at its best.

Visit www.ishangala.org provide holiday cheer to local fighting families.

The Ishan Gala Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. All donations are 100% tax deductible.

CharlottesvilleFamily.com

25

{our town calendar}

find the perfect tree! **Chisholm

Bees & Trees Farm Elkwood 540-423-9020, beesandtrees.biz

Belmont Christmas Tree Farm Spotsylvania 540-854-6757, facebook.com/BelmontChristmasTreeFarm/

Claybrooke Tree Farm Mineral 540-872-3817, claybrookefarm.com

Vineyards at Adventure Farm

Beginning November 29, Thursdays– Sundays, 11am–5pm at Chisholm Vineyards at Adventure Farm, Earlysville Choose from cut Frazer Fir trees from Southwest Virginia. Check website for holiday events and offerings.

434-971-8796, chisholmvineyards.com

Christmas Trees at The Market at Grelen Somerset 540-672-7268, themarketatgrelen.com/christmastrees

Foxfire Christmas Tree Farm Scottsville 434-286-3445, foxfireva.net **Greene Meadows Farm Open the Friday after Thanksgiving until Christmas Eve, Friday–Sunday, 10am–5pm at Greene Meadows Tree Farm, Stanardsville Choose and cut White Pine & Canaan Fir (limited) or choose a fresh pre-cut Fraser Fir, Concolor Fir or Canaan Fir. Fresh wreaths and garland will also be available.

Visit with lambs in the petting zoo while you sip a complimentary cup of cider or hot chocolate.

434-990-1999, greenemeadowsfarm.com

Premieres Monday, November 11 at 9:00 am

vpm.org/schedules

Join us for the Family Service at 4:00 pm Christmas Eve!

CharlottesvilleFamily Favorite Award Winner

locally owned and operated

313 East Main Street

Charlottesville First Presbyterian Church

26

November/December 2019

500 Park Street

FirstPresCharlottesville.org

(434) 234-3634

2019

Long Meadow Tree Farm Waynesboro 540-649-4307, facebook.com/longmeadowtreefarm

Saunders Brothers Farm Market Piney River 434-277-5455, saundersbrothersfarmmarket.com

Stonehearth Christmas Tree Farm Leon 540-547-2576, facebook.com/stonehearth-christmas-treefarm-181376008540160

**See ad below

Spruce Rock Farm Brightwood 540-543-2309, sprucerockfarm.com

eene Meadow r G s Farm

Chisholm Vineyards at adVenture Farm FAMILY FRIENDLY TASTING ROOM 100% estate grown wine Tastings, glass or bottle purchases

A Traditional Christmas Experience

Order a Kelly Bronze Heritage Breed Turkey for Thanksgiving

Less than 30 minutes from Charlottesville!

BEGINNING FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 29TH Fraser Fir Trees from Southwest Virginia Wreaths & Roping Holiday Events: Live Music & Santa

choose & cut:

White Pine Canaan Fir (limited) fresh pre-cut

Frazer Fir Concolor Fir Canaan Fir

plus wreaths • swags garland

FOR TuRkEY ORDERS AND cALENDAR EvENTS, GO TO chIShOLMvINEYARDS . cOM

Visit the Christmas Shop to help outfit your perfect tree.

Visit the lambs in our Petting Zoo while enjoying a complimentary cup of hot cocoa or cider, a candy cane and coloring book.

Open the Friday after Thanksgiving

Fri., Sat., Sun. 10 am - 5 pm

434.990.1999

www.greenemeadowsfarm.com

1135 cLAN chIShOLM LANE EARLYSvILLE (NExT TO chO)

Open Thursday-Sunday 11am-5pm CharlottesvilleFamily.com

27

{living well new mom}

Comfort & Soothe How to Cope with Colic

New Mom

Come dusk, you don’t see many mothers of newborns out running errands.

Because, as the day winds down, most newborns experience an “evening fussy period.” During this time, which can vary in duration from approximately 30 minutes to several hours, babies cry often with impressive zeal and volume. But for parents of colicky babies, the crying can be truly unnerving.

The terms “colicky” and “fussy” are sometimes used interchangeably by the uninitiated. But, colic is a specific condition that pediatricians identify by asking parents about the frequency and duration of their baby’s crying. Doctors typically follow what’s known as “the rule of three” in babies that are healthy and eating well: • The crying lasts at least three hours; • The episodes occur at least three times per week; and • The crying pattern lasts for at least three weeks.

What causes colic? Doctors believe colic is caused by painful spasms and/

by Whitney Woollerton Morrill or cramping in baby’s still-developing gastrointestinal tract. Certain foods in mom’s diet (if she’s nursing), may contribute to the discomfort. Pediatricians may advise mothers to avoid eating broccoli, onions, garlic and legumes, as these may increase gas in baby’s belly. Some mothers may also eliminate foods such as dairy or soy.

How common is colic? According to the National Institute of Health, colic affects one in five infants. The vociferous crying typically starts at around 2–4 weeks of age and lasts until approximately 4 months old.

Is there a cure? Although there’s no known cure for colic, it’s not a permanent condition. In the meantime, parents are encouraged to use the following coping strategies: Call in the troops. Do you have local family members or friends to lend a hand? Now’s the time to enlist their help to care for older children, clean the house or prepare meals so you can focus on soothing baby.

Establish a routine. Colic can make you feel like your Find more information and life’s been turned upside-down. Take back some control advice on colicky babies at by implementing an action plan. What time does your baby nih.gov. usually start crying? A half-hour beforehand, get yourself ready. Clear a space on your bed and prop up some pillows, Gather supplies you need for nursing and diapering, and put them within arm’s reach. Get yourself a glass of water and a snack for the nightstand, and put your phone on mute. Dim the lights and close the blinds to create a calm, non-stimulating environment to help baby relax. Then, before baby starts crying, settle in with him and do what helps him most. You’re his greatest source of comfort, so hold him close.

Stick with it. Switching from rocking and swaddling to walking and bouncing may overstimulate baby when he’s already overwrought. Choose one modality, and give it a chance to work before branching out.

Colic isn’t your fault. It’s hard, but try to center yourself with deep breaths.

Babies absorb maternal stress. If you can stay calm, it will help your newborn relax. Put baby is his crib for a few minutes if you’re hitting your limit.

Sometimes taking care of baby means taking a few minutes to care for yourself.

MORE HELPFUL TIPS

Whitney is an architect who designs and writes for families. Her blog is theCoconutgirl.com.

28

November/December 2019

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29

{living well dear bob}

Expert Advice

Your Parenting Questions Answered

Dear Bob

by Bob Taibbi

We’ve tried a variety of ways to discipline our 8-year-old son, but nothing seems to stop incidents from happening again. Do you have any suggestions on how we can see that these “punishments” are working?

I can imagine how frustrating this must be for you both. If your child is misbehaving in certain ways, it’s natural to want to set limits and consequences to discourage his or her negative behavior. If it doesn’t seem to work, it’s also natural to increase or change those consequences with the hope they will finally understand it’s serious and he needs to change. But, if the consequences aren’t working, the problem is usually that the child is being “too punished.” He may not understand why this is a big deal, or perhaps he is micro-managed and feels he can’t do anything right or can never get out of the doghouse. When this sets in, he gets discouraged, gives up, and resists or doesn’t care. The way to break this cycle is to focus less on the “sticks” and more on the “carrots,” such as offering rewards for good behavior, and when he does act appropriately, making sure you notice it.

The rule-of-thumb is to be firm but matter-of-fact about negative behavior, and make a big deal about positive behavior.

The second part is having a conversation with your child about his troubling behaviors. Children often “act up” because they are frustrated or are struggling with some other emotional problem. You want to sit down with him when you both are calm, and talk about your “worry” rather than what you are angry about, letting him know the rules followed by getting his feedback. You want to try and find out what might be bothering him and what the underlying problem is. Listen and take what he says seriously, and see if there is a way of solving his problem.

Finally, if you think you may be overreacting or micro-managing him, step back and decide on what you want to focus on most. And, to avoid his seeking only negative attention, provide some one-on-one quality time for the two of you. If after trying this for several weeks and you feel it isn’t working, it may be time for family or individual counseling.

WANT TO ASK BOB A QUESTION?

How can we better balance our kids’ day? We fear we are planning their schedule too much and want to encourage their use of imagination as well as how to manage their own responsibilities.

When my son was young, we found that keeping him filled with lots of outside activities seemed to work best in terms of his feeling happy and responsible and creative, while my daughter needed a slower pace and more downtime. She would be easily tired and irritable if too busy. My point is that you need to read each of your kids and see what works for them in terms of their overall mood and ability to do what they want and need to do. Are they generally in a good mood or tired and overwhelmed? Are they complaining that they’re feeling rushed all the time or that they have too much downtime and use video games as a default activity? Are they able to manage their day and keep up with home and school responsibilities?

Check-in with them on a regular basis, especially when you see they are struggling or complaining. It’s too easy to go on autopilot and do what we always do. By having these conversations with them, though, you are not only solving problems as they arise but also teaching them how to best run their lives.

Email your parenting concerns and queries to editor@ IvyLifeandStyleMedia.com.

Yours might be included in an upcoming issue!

Author of 11 books and more than 300 articles—including the regular “Ask Bob” column in this magazine—Bob has 44 years of experience in couple and family work and is in private practice in Charlottesville (bobtaibbi.com).

30

November/December 2019

CharlottesvilleFamily Favorite Award Winner 2019

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31

{living well healthy family}

Understanding Autism

Healthy Family

Showing Support & Friendship to Children with ASD Children with autism and their families can feel isolated, but you can help break that isolation. Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) isn’t a single condition and affects as many as 1 out of every 59 children in the United States. “It’s a whole range of conditions and behaviors,” says Kara Reagon, the director of education at the Virginia Institute of Autism. “An individual [with autism] has a set of either behavior deficits or behavioral excesses. They might have challenges with social skills, difficulty communicating or some repetitive behaviors.”

Children are usually diagnosed with ASD around age 2 or 3, or when they begin regular schooling at age 5. Some may need intensive, daily support, while others may live independently by the time they are adults.

However, most children who have ASD struggle with communication. They may have delayed speech development, struggle to read social cues and body language, show repetitive verbal and non-verbal behaviors, or not know how to

by Katharine Paljug have a conversational exchange. “Some of them may not have a functional way of communicating, and that impacts their behavior,” says Reagon.

Tips for communicating. Children with ASD need help from the adults in their lives—including those who meet them on the playground—to learn how to interact with others and express their needs, thoughts and feelings.

No matter your experience (or lack of experience!), there are strategies you can use to communicate with a child who has ASD. First, meet them where they are. If a child doesn’t use words, pay attention to their gestures. “If you see them reaching for a cup of juice, say ‘juice’ and hand it to them,” says Reagon.

Second, watch the people around them. “Observe how they communicate with their siblings, with their peers or how their parents or teachers interact with them,” Reagon advises. Take your cue from them.

If you’re going to be interacting regularly with a child who has ASD, such as with a neighbor, relative or classmate from your child’s school, ask their parent about tools for facilitating communication. Families may use sign language, apps like ProLoquo2Go or tools like the picture exchange To learn more about autism communication system (pecsUSA.com). and how you can make Helping your kids be kind. Teaching your own kids how an impact, visit to communicate with children who have autism doesn’t need autismspeaks.org. to be complicated. Have your child say hello and introduce himself as he normally would, even if the other child responds in unexpected ways. Encourage your child to show an interest in what the other child is doing. “If they want to go down the slide at the playground over and over, your child can help them do that,” says Reagon.

“Like you would with any other child, teach them to be kind and patient,” she adds. “Really try to be a friend. It might take a little longer, but it means a lot to those children and their families.”

Above all, encourage your children to be open and friendly to every other child in their community, even if they communicate a little differently. “I really think that if you take the time to get to know children with autism, and get to know their families, it can change your life for the better,” Reagon shares.

MORE INFORMATION

Katharine is a freelance writer, Bloom’s Family Health Editor and mother to one busy toddler. You can see more of her work at katharine-writes.com.

32

November/December 2019

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33

{living well tips & trends} Little Fires Everywhere

by Celeste Ng

In the town of Shaker Heights, everyone is content to go with the status quo until enigmatic single mother Mia Warren comes to town. Her art and mysterious past collide with the placid residents’ way of life and challenge the very idea of motherhood.

Available at Barnes & Noble for $11.45.

&

Tips

TRENDS

by Mandy Reynolds

Beating the Winter Blues Don’t let the shorter days and dropping temperatures get you down. Instead, try these easy remedies.

1. Make your home a refuge not a point of stress. Try a new organization system like KonMari to keep things clutterfree.

2. Get your vitamins. Less sunlight can lead to Vitamin B deficiency. So, try incorporating vitamin-rich foods into

your diet like whole grains and fish.

3. Get social. One of the most proven ways to beat depression is by socializing with loved ones. Grab a coffee with a family member or set up scheduled phone calls with friends.

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November/December 2019

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“The reason the KonMari method truly changes lives is that if you do the method from start to finish your own items become the tools that clarify your vision for life,” shares Jeannine Woods, a KonMari certified organizing consultant. “It becomes clear during the process how to create calm in the chaos and to not accumulate excess things. You start thinking differently about purchases before you leave for the store, which in the end, saves money, time and sets you free.”

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GIXO Exercise is one of the best ways to keep spirits up in the colder months. Try a fitness app like Gixo with personalized fitness plans all in the warmth and comfort of your home.

Sunrise Alarm Clock Less sunlight in the winter leaves many of us struggling to get up most mornings.

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35

{living well home & garden}

Your Home Office

by Brette McWhorter Sember

Creating a Child-Friendly Work Space “Without hard work, nothing grows but weeds.

– Gordon B. Hinckley

With high-speed Internet keeping us constantly connected and fast-paced careers that go beyond 9 a.m.–5 p.m., home offices are commonplace these days. Whether you’re working after hours to get a new venture off the ground or you’re trying to keep a deadline while tending to a newborn or a sick child, a home workspace can be a convenient (and maybe even necessary) addition to your house.

One of the perks (and challenges!) of working from home is being close to your family. The home office workplace is bound to be visited frequently by your children. Childproofing kitchens, bedrooms, bathrooms and living rooms is a given, but home offices are often overlooked and may pose the greatest danger to children. Think of all the electrical wires, cords, outlets and pinching drawers that fill your home office. With some basic precautions and a little thought, you can not only make your office a place that is safe for all members of your family but welcoming to children.

Cord Crazy. Start by dealing with all of those cords and wires that are snaking around your office. Tuck them all behind desks and cabinets by using cord gatherers and cord shorteners to secure them together or cord clips to run them along a baseboard to an outlet. Wind up any cords for window blinds and secure them out of reach to prevent strangling. Consider

purchasing cordless electronics to help reduce the wires you’ll need to hide away. Cordless phones, keyboards and other office equipment are widely available.

Out of Sight, Out of Mind. Purchase covers for your computer monitor, keyboard, tower, fax and printer. Cover everything when you are done. Out of sight is out of mind for those with exploring fingers. Lift your keyboard up on top of your monitor or place your keyboard, mouse and other computer attachments in a drawer or somewhere else out of reach. Consider purchasing or building a desk with cubbies (and doors) for a computer tower, speakers and other equipment so they can easily be covered when not in use. You can also use safety straps that will secure your computer equipment to the tabletop so it cannot be pulled off.

Get a desk with locking drawers or install childproof locking mechanisms on the drawers. Keep all pens, pencils, paper clips and staplers inside the desk or up on a shelf. If you are unable to secure your drawers, keep these items in small plastic containers with lids. Place all of your CDs, DVDs and storage drives in boxes out of reach. Keep all important papers in files in the file cabinet. An errant toddler with a pen can cause incredible injury.

If you have a bulletin board, be sure it cannot be reached by cont’d on pg 38

36

November/December 2019

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Home, Family

Garden

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{living well home & garden} a child. Keep extra tacks in a plastic box in a drawer and not on the bulletin board where they can easily fall to the floor.

Drawer Danger. Buy file cabinets that have locks and keep your drawers locked at all times. Getting a finger shut in a heavy metal drawer can cause serious damage. Another danger that exists with file cabinets is the danger of having them tip over on a child. Secure anything taller than a two-drawer file cabinet to the wall with tip resistant furniture brackets.

Bookcases can be especially dangerous because their shelves just cry out to be climbed on. Secure these to the wall as well.

Safety First. If you have an office chair with casters, be careful when rolling

covers, too. Consider using a plastic container with a snap on lid as a garbage can if you routinely throw away staples, paper clips and other objects a child could swallow or be harmed by. Keep paper shredders in a closet or out of reach. Never leave them plugged in.

Desks, file cabinets, side tables and small bookcases all have sharp edges and corners near eye level of a small child. Soft padding and corner covers will help prevent more serious injuries if your little one happens to bump into a piece of furniture.

Create a Play Area. Designate a special area of your office as childfriendly. Place a basket of books and toys on the floor. Add a small child-size table

a last resort. A few throw pillows and blankets on the floor will make a comfy reading spot as well as great possibilities for tents. Keeping the kids happy and entertained is key to getting your own work done.

Get Resources. Childproofing devices are available at most hardware stores, baby centers and toy stores as well as from online specialty stores like KidsSafe (kidsafeinc.com) and Safe Beginnings (safebeginnings.com). Check out Safe Kids (safekids.org) for a list of recommended safety devices and tips for childproofing your entire home based on your child’s age. With a little effort, your home office can be a place where your children are welcome, safe and entertained, and you

across the floor. It’s easy to run over small fingers and toes. Using a plastic floor pad on top of carpeting can make your chair roll easier and make it more difficult for a child to wiggle a finger underneath a caster without you realizing. Make it a rule that the children should not play on the floor pad.

Cover all open outlets with outlet covers. Purchase power strip safety

and chair if you have room. Add some crayons and coloring books, stickers, puzzles and maybe a small chalkboard on the wall. A magnet board made from a cookie sheet is another great option.

Keep a special box of toys in the closet to pull out for use when you absolutely have to talk on the phone or get some pressing work done. Hide an emergency box of animal crackers in a drawer as

can accomplish a lot.

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November/December 2019

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39

{living well food & family}

traditions TASTY

Ben’s Turkey and Stuffing Madison, Online & Social Media Editor

While passed down recipes can be a wonderful way to preserve a family’s heritage, new traditions can be just as meaningful. This year, I’m celebrating having my now husband, Ben, join in all the family festivities and show off his amazing cooking skills for the first time in years; as he is a firefighter, and his schedule doesn’t usually allow for him to be able to travel for the holidays. May your holiday season be filled with meaningful traditions, both old and new, as well as those who matter the most.

Stuffing • 13–15 cups dry bread cubes (A hearty bread is best – boule or baguette are good basic options.)

• 1 cup chopped celery • 1 cup diced onion • 1 ½ cups butter • 2 ¼ teaspoons salt • 1 teaspoon ground black pepper • 1 ½ tablespoons poultry seasoning • 1 ½ cups chicken stock • 2 large eggs 1. If bread is not already stale, place cubes on two sheet pans in a single layer and bake at 350 degrees until dry but not overly crisp.

2. In a frying pan, sauté the onion and celery in the butter for 10–12 minutes, or until the onion and celery are tender.

3. Place the bread cubes in a large bowl.

Pour the butter, onion and celery mixture over the breadcrumbs and mix. Add the remaining ingredients and mix well.

4. Butter a two-quart casserole pan. Put the stuffing in the prepared pan. Bake at 350 degrees for 30–35 minutes or until golden brown. If while baking, your stuffing appears too dry, add additional chicken stock in ¼ cup increments as needed.

40

November/December 2019

Turkey • 1 fresh turkey (10–12 pounds) • 1 cup herbed butter (you can make your own) • 1 large bunch fresh thyme • 1 whole lemon, halved • 1 medium sweet onion, quartered • 1 head garlic, halved crosswise • 2 cups turkey or chicken stock 1. Take the giblets out of the turkey and wash the turkey inside and out. Remove excess fat and leftover pinfeathers, and pat the outside dry.

2. In the roasting pan, coat outside and underside of skin with herb butter.

Stuff the cavity with the thyme, lemon, onion and the garlic, along with any remaining butter. Tie the legs together with string, and tuck the wing tips under the body of the turkey. Pour stock into base of pan.

3. Roast the turkey about 2 ½ hours at 350 degrees, or until the juices run clear when you cut between the leg and the thigh and the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees.

Baste turkey with pan drippings intermittently during roasting. Remove the turkey to a cutting board and cover with aluminum foil; let rest for 20 minutes.

4. Slice the turkey and serve.

Low Carb Pumpkin Muffins with a Cream Cheese Swirl Susan, Senior Marketing Consultant

When my son developed an autoimmune disease (Type 1 Diabetes), mealtimes and snacking became a challenge to keep his blood sugar controlled even with insulin therapy.

Some foods trigger a spike in blood sugar more than others, so it became my mission to find low carb recipes, especially during the holidays for family. After a lot of trials, he gave these muffins a thumbs up, which is quite an accomplishment—satisfying a growing teenage boy! Now every Thanksgiving, I can bring a delicious dessert that all will love while never knowing it’s low carb and a healthier version of a holiday favorite. Enjoy!

Muffin • 5 eggs • ½ cup coconut oil melted or use liquid coconut oil • 2 tablespoons butter • 1 cup pumpkin puree • 1 tablespoon + 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice • 1 ½ cups Swerve Confectioners • 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla • ½ cup + 2 tablespoons coconut flour • ½ teaspoon salt • 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder Filling • 3 oz cream cheese, room temperature • 1 tablespoon heavy whipping cream • 1 ½ tablespoons Swerve Confectioners • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract 1. Melt coconut oil and butter.

2. Beat eggs, Swerve Confectioners, pumpkin puree, vanilla and pumpkin pie spice until combined.

3. Add coconut oil and butter to the mixture and mix well.

4. Add coconut flour, salt and baking powder to other ingredients, then mix thoroughly and set aside.

5. In a small bowl, combine the ingredients for the filling and stir until combined.

6. Fill muffin liners with batter.

7. Spoon approximately ½ teaspoon of cream cheese filling mixture on top. With a toothpick, swirl the cream cheese mixture into the batter.

8. Bake at 350 degrees for 18–22 minutes or until a knife inserted comes out clean.

Chocolate Crust Cheesecake Theresa, Bookkeeper

This recipe was given to me by my mother. I started making and adjusting the recipe in my early teens when we lived on a family farm. I milked my own dairy goats for about 10 years, and my original recipe included Chevre cheese from our French Alpine goats. However, since I’ve grown up, I no longer have goats to milk or cheese to make. The current version of this recipe is made with regular cream cheese.

Crust • 1 1/4 cups dried, chocolate cake crumbs • 4 tablespoons softened butter • 1 tablespoon honey • 1 tablespoon flour Filling • 16 oz soft, cream cheese (or plain Chevre cheese) • 1/3 cup sugar • 4 eggs • 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla • 1 lemon, juice & zest Topping • 2 cups sour cream • ½ cup sugar • 1 teaspoon vanilla

1. Combine and press crust ingredients firmly into bottom of 9-inch spring-form pan.

2. Blend topping ingredients in mixer until smooth and creamy.

Pour on top of crust and bake at 375 for 20–25 minutes (or until set). Cool to room temperature.

3. For the topping, blend and pour on top of cooled filling. Bake at 375 for 5–8 minutes. Refrigerate for at least 12 hours before serving.

4. Garnish with fruit, chocolate or nothing at all!

CharlottesvilleFamily.com

41

{living well food & family}

Table Manners

for Kids How to Coach Your Kids Through Table Etiquette

Some of the traits you love about your

“You should introduce no more than

child—her boundless energy, honesty, and

two or three concepts at a time,” Senning

hands-on approach—may be the very

explains.

things that drive you absolutely crazy

information for a young child to process.”

• Use your napkin frequently (instead

at mealtime. If you’re at the end of your

Explain that mealtime manners display

of sitting through the whole meal

rope with how she behaves at the table,

kindness and respect for other people at

with spaghetti sauce on your cheeks);

consider yourself in good company and

the table. Correct mistakes gently, and

• Ask to be excused before leaving the

take comfort in this: “You can teach any

praise him when he does something

5- or 6-year-old basic table manners in

right. Above all, practice what you preach.

a few weeks, but it takes repetition and

With constant reinforcement, good eating

practice,” says Cindy Post Senning, Ed.D.,

habits should become automatic.

it’s

too

much

• No conversation topics that may ruin someone’s appetite;

table; and • Clear your plate and utensils.

“I always expect my toddler to come to the table and stay with us, even if she

great-granddaughter of manners guru

But in case they don’t, Post and other

is not hungry, “ says Natalia Stasenko,

Emily Post and co-author of Emily Post’s

manners experts suggest simple steps

M.S., R.D., co-author of 5 Steps to Raising a

Table Manners for Kids. With holiday season

that will end suppertime shenanigans

Happy Eater. “The basic manners that are

upon us there will be many parties and

once and for all.

required from her are coming to the table,

dinners for your children to show off their skills.

42

“Otherwise,

• Chew with your mouth closed;

November/December 2019

Table Etiquette. some of the beginner

sitting in her chair for a few minutes, and

dinner-table rules you may want to instill

spending some time with us. Even if she

in your kids include:

decides to skip the meal, like toddlers

What Every Kid Should Know 1. Come to the table with clean hands and face.

2. Put your napkin on your lap.

3. Start eating when everyone else

by Megan Othersen Gorman, David Sparrow and Sally Kuzemchak

does—or when given the okay to start.

often do, she is learning to be a pleasant

child that “please” changes a demand into

4. Stay seated and sit up straight.

mealtime companion and being polite

a request and sounds nicer while “thank

enough to consider the meal options.”

you” shows someone that you care about

5. Keep elbows (and other body

Please and Thank You. You taught your child these words when she was 2 or 3, but maybe she uses them inconsistently

(or appreciate, if your child understands the word) what he’s done.

To

get

these

words

to

become

or only with reminders from you. If your

automatic for your child, emphasize

kid tells you, “Oh, yeah,” when you ask if

and enforce them at every meal. Start

she’d like a drink or she snatches a roll

the day with, “Please come to the table

out of your hand without thanking you,

for breakfast.” When your child says he

help her understand why it’s important to

wants milk, don’t pour it until he says

be gracious.

“please,” and wait until he says “thank

Your child is trying to do things on

you” to hand him the glass.

her own, so don’t scold her. Instead, say

Table Manners at Restaurants. By the

something like, “I’d be glad to pass the

time kids are 5 or 6, they should be able

peas to you, honey. Just remember to ask

to sit at the table and remain relatively

next time.”

wiggle-free for at least 20 minutes, says

Senning suggests explaining to your

Lynn Rosen, author of Elements of the Table:

parts!) off the table while eating.

6. Chew with your mouth closed and don’t talk until you’ve swallowed.

7. Don’t make bad comments about the food.

8. Say “Please pass the…” instead of reaching.

9. Chat with everyone at the table.

10. Don’t make rude noises like burping or slurping.

11. Ask to be excused when finished.

12. Thank your host or whoever prepared the meal.

13. Offer to help clear the table.

CharlottesvilleFamily.com

43

{living well food & family} A Simple Guide for Hosts and Guests. Start by finding a comfy (yet appropriate) position for your child. Chances are you no longer use a booster seat at the table for her, but your chairs are designed for adults. A cushion might help, and you may find that using a stool from the bathroom as a leg rest also works wonders to keep her facing forward.

At restaurants—when you know the meal is going to last at least an hour or so—take a planned trip to the bathroom right after ordering to give your kid time to stretch, suggests Rosen. Also talk to your child in advance about what to do if something goes wrong, like a crayon falls or she spills.

“My husband and I taught our kids, ‘May I please have...’ and they all use this phrase to this day when we are out for meals,” says Jill Castle, M.S., RDN, childhood nutrition expert and creator of Nutrition Prep School. “We often hear about how polite our children are, which makes us both happy!”

Forks Are Your Friends. Teach your child how to use a spoon by age 2 and

Efficient and resourceful.

CharlottesvilleFamily Favorite Award Winner 2019

CharlottesvilleFamily

Located at 915 GARDENS BLVD behind CRUTCHFIELD in ALBEMARLE SQUARE

Favorite Award Winner 2019

Lunch & Dinner daily

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Whether it's local or global, every little bit we do makes a difference.

That's just part of being there. Like a good neighbor, State Farm is there.

Open 7 days a week Affordable fine dining Carry-out and delivery Greg Leffler LTCP FSS, Agent 503 available Faulconer Drive, Suite 1A Charlottesville, VA 22903

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503 Faulconer Drive, Suite 1A Charlottesville, VA 22903 Bus: 434-296-1010 greg@gregleffler.us

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CharlottesvilleFamily Favorite Award Winner 2018

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November/December 2019

Take-out & Catering Available see website for hours

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a fork by age 3. Start with small plastic utensils that are easy to handle, and provide lots of encouragement: “This is how big boys do it.”

Five- and 6-year-olds eat so many finger foods that they can legitimately be confused about what parts of their meal require utensils. “Let your child know that if he’s unsure, it’s best to ask you,” says Betsy Brown Braun, author of Just Tell Me What to Say: Sensible Tips and Scripts for Perplexed Parents. And, be consistent about what you require. If, for instance, you don’t put a fork in your child’s lunch box to eat his mandarin oranges, he’ll think it’s fine to use his fingers to do it at Grandma’s house.

Another way to get your kid more comfortable with utensils: Put him in charge of setting the table. You can say something like, “Now that you’re getting older, I think you’re ready for a grown-up job of getting the table ready for dinner.

We’ll do it together the first few days, and then you can do it by yourself.” Talk to your child about what to expect at restaurants as well. “Let your kid know that it’s okay to wipe his mouth with the fancy cloth napkin in a restaurant,” adds Rosen.

“Many kids this age think you’ll be upset with them if they get the napkin dirty.”

Show

Respect.

and “thank-yous”

All in

the

the

“pleases”

world

will

seem insignificant if your kid responds, “Eww, that looks gross,” when your best friend asks her if she’d like an eggsalad sandwich. Teach your child that if she doesn’t want to eat food offered at someone else’s house, she simply has to respond, “No, thank you.” You may be inclined to push—“Honey, why don’t you give it a try?”—but then you’re inviting a bigger manners no-no: What if she hates it and spits it out?

“One expectation I have is that my children don’t speak negatively about what we’re eating,” says Jessica Levinson, M.S., RDN, CDN, culinary nutrition expert and healthy living blogger. “For example, words like ‘gross,’ ‘yucky’ and ‘disgusting’ are not permitted. I like to remind them it’s not nice to ‘yuck someone else’s yum.’

If they don’t like something, they simply can say ‘no thank you’ or put it to the side

CharlottesvilleFamily.com

45

{living well food & family} of their plate.”

“It’s important for your child to taste new foods and work on picky-eating habits, but save it for your house,” says Rosen. Using this approach, it seems like it would be easy for a kid to “no thank-you” her way to never eating a green vegetable.

But Rosen suggests that, at home, you follow your established rules for trying

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the boundaries.

Ask to be Excused. “With a 3- and 5-year-old, keeping the girls in their seats until everyone is finished is one of our biggest challenges,” says Holley Grainger, M.S., R.D., founder of Holley’s Kitchen. “I try to have the meal on the table as soon

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UVA CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL & KOHL’S CARES ®

WORKING TO MAKE OUR CHILDREN HEALTHY

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food; just make sure your kid understands

Clinic®

Managing

Expectations.

Let

the

children know ahead of time what may happen if you are doing something out of your usual mealtime routine, such as a picnic with friends or guests for dinner can change up the rules. Share what you expect and talk together about what situations might come up and plan how to handle them. The planning is key and can help manage awkwardness that may otherwise be tricky.

The most important rule of teaching your little one manners is that it’s OK to make mistakes. Learning and showing manners is something he’ll do over the course of his lifetime, so as long as you teach him the basic skills and work to improve on them, he’ll be confident in social situations as he gets older. Maybe one day he’ll even thank you! Laying the groundwork for good etiquette at the dinner table means your children will become pleasant dinner companions for family meals in the years to come.

Megan, David and Sally are writers, helping parents mine their way through parenthood. *This article originally appeared on parents.com.

46

November/December 2019

LOVE YOUR HABITAT cvillehabitatstore.org

1221 Harris Street Charlottesville, VA Up the road from Cville Coffee Open Mon-Sat

CharlottesvilleFamily Favorite Award Winner 2019

Thank you, Charlottesville!

Shower Better!

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Upgrade your showerhead to WaterSense labeled showerhead (free at City Hall). Replacing your Take 5-minute showerhead can save you $70 on your utility bill showers! and 2,900 gallons of water annually. A WaterSense labeled showerhead saves 4 gallons of water every time you enjoy a shower and saves the energy to power a 60-watt bulb for 8 hours. WaterSense labeled showerheads perform at or above typical showerheads and are certified to save at least 20%!

Don’t forget! Our $100 WaterSense Labeled Toilet Rebate are available, too!

CHARLOTTESVILLE

113 W Market St, Charlottesville monsoonsiamcville.com | 434.971.1515

IS FOR WATER

Charlottesville Water Conservation

Charlottesville.org/WaterConservation

CharlottesvilleFamily.com

47

{resources shop local}

BUY LOCAL shopping guide

Support the community by doing most of your holiday shopping at Charlottesville’s many locally owned stores!

Gifts for All Ages

Entertainment Gifts

Downtown Business Association

Charlottesville Ballet

See ad page 50

See ad page 19

End Game Center

Charlottesville Wine & Country Shop

See ad page 49

See ad page 79

Fashion Square Mall

The Paramount Theater

See ad page 13

See ad page 22

Horton Vineyards See ad page 17

Gifts for the Home

Penelope See ad page 48

Basketful Lifestyle & Gifts See ad page 49

Gifts for Children

Cavalier Window Cleaning

Alakazam Toys

DesignSmart Blinds & Shutters

See ad page 51

See ad page 46

Health & Fitness for Grown-Ups

See ad page 45

See ad page 72

Feast!

Habitat Store, The ACAC

See ad page 47

See ad page 35 Milmont Greenhouses Anytime Fitness – Ruckersville

See ad page 38

See ad page 58 Rebecca’s Natural Food Massage Envy See ad page 39 YMCA See ad page 33

48

November/December 2019

See ad page 56

LOCAL

handmade

for the holidays from the Wine & Country Shop

Maria Pace Tea Towel

Chuck Kraft Fishing Flies

Blue Ridge Bow Ties

Gearharts Fine Chocolates

MAGIC THE GATHERING POKEMON YU-GI-OH! DUNGEONS & DRAGONS WARHAMMER PUZZLES TOYS GAMING ACCESSORIES RETRO VIDEO GAMES BOARD GAMES FOR ALL AGES EVENTS DAILY FREE PLAY SPACE LAN CENTER FAMILY GAME NIGHTS CharlottesvilleFamily Favorite Award Winner 2019

Bring in this ad for a 20% off one item!

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Start your holiday shopping at Basketful. Now Open inside Main Street Market, next to Feast!

Unique gifts & services, fun cards, great space and a little less waste.

Come in to learn more!

434.218.2481 | shopbasketful.com | @shopbasketful Main Street Market | 416 West Main Street, Charlottesville

Booster boxes excluded.

theendgames.co 374 Hillsdale Drive, Charlottesville Located in Seminole Square Shopping Center | 434-973-2205

WHEREVER YOU GO, LEAVE JOY. CharlottesvilleFamily.com

49

LOCAL

handmade

for the holidays from the Wine & Country Shop

Lineage Backpack & Log Carrier

Elysium Honey Company

Barrons-Hunter Key Fob

Shea Mango Body Butter

Harriet & Vee Earrings

CharlottesvilleFamily.com

51

{inspiration family favorites}

I C N N G U .

O ..

N N A s for Family-Friendly Fun and Servic k c i P g n i es inn W r u o Y

Favorite Awards 2019

52

FAMILY FUN FAMILY DAYTRIP (WITHIN 3 HOURS) 1. Washington, D.C. 2. Massanutten Resort 3. Colonial Williamsburg 3. Busch Gardens Williamsburg

HISTORIC ATTRACTION (WITHIN 1 HOUR) 1. Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello 2. Frontier Culture Museum 3. James Madison’s Montpelier

FESTIVAL 1. Lockn’ Festival 2. Dogwood Festival 3. Crozet Arts & Crafts Festival

CHILDREN’S MUSEUM 1. Virginia Discovery Museum (pg 22) 2. Amazement Square 3. Children’s Museum of Richmond

HIKE 1. Humpback Rock 2. Sugar Hollow 2. Saunders-Monticello Trail 3. Crabtree Falls 3. Shenandoah National Park

LOCAL RESORT/SPA 1. Boar’s Head Resort 2. The Greenbrier Resort 3. Keswick Hall

November/December 2019

SPORTS RESORT 1. Wintergreen Resort 2. Massanutten Resort 3. Snowshoe Mountain Resort

We asked and you answered! Nearly 1,000 of you shared your favorite places to eat, shop and play in the eighth annual CharlottesvilleFamily Favorite Awards.

Discover the top vote winners here!

MOVIE THEATER 1. Alamo Drafthouse Cinema 2. Regal Stonefield Stadium 14 & IMAX 3. Violet Crown Cinema MUSIC VENUE 1. UVA’s John Paul Jones Arena 1. Jefferson Theater 2. The Paramount Theater (pg 22) 3. Sprint Pavilion CITY PARK/PLAYGROUND 1. Greenleaf Park – Charlottesville Parks & Rec (pg 4) 2. Pen Park – Charlottesville Parks & Rec (pg 4) 3. Tonsler Park – Charlottesville Parks & Rec (pg 4)

COUNTY PARK/PLAYGROUND 1. Pen Park – Charlottesville Parks & Rec (pg 4) 2. Mint Springs Valley Park – Albemarle County Parks & Rec 3. Wildrock PICK-YOUR-OWN FARM 1. Carter Mountain Orchard 2. Chiles Peach Orchard 3. Bellair Farm PRIVATE POOL 1. ACAC Adventure Central (pg 35) 2. Fry’s Spring Beach Club 3. Boar’s Head Resort 3. YMCA (pg 33) PUBLIC POOL 1. Onesty Family Aquatic Center 2. Crozet YMCA (pg 33) 3. Smith Aquatic & Fitness Center RAINY DAY OUTING 1. Bounce, Play-n-Create 2. Jump Trampoline Park 3. Virginia Discovery Museum (pg 22) STUDIOS FOR CRAFTING 1. Lazy Daisy Ceramics & The Pottery Paintin’ Place 2. Muse Paintbar 3. Crozet Arts THEATRE GROUP 1. American Shakespeare Center 1. Live Arts 2. Black Box Players 3. Four County Players

CELEBRATE YOUR SMILE THIS HOLIDAY SEASON! with Hamer & Glassick Orthodontics We offer a variety of treatment options for patients of all ages. Call (434) 296-0188 to schedule a FREE exam or visit cvillebraces.com for a VIRTUAL SMILE CONSULT.

THEME PARK 1. Busch Gardens Williamsburg 2. Kings Dominion 3. Massanutten Water Park 3. Great Wolf Lodge Water Park UVA SPORTS TEAM 1. Basketball 2. Soccer 2. Football 3. Baseball

CharlottesvilleFamily.com

53

{inspiration family favorites} ZOO 1. Smithsonian Zoo 2. Metro Richmond Zoo 2. Virginia Safari Park 3. Natural Bridge Zoo

CharlottesvilleFamily Favorite Award Winner 2019

PARTIES & PORTRAITS LOCAL BAKERY 1. Chandler’s Bakery 2. Albemarle Baking Co. 3. The Pie Chest

Congratulations to CharlottesvilleFamily Favorite teacher!

KATRIEN VANCE North Branch middle school teacher

“I love to introduce students to new ideas and then see where they take those ideas. The delight that lights up a student’s face when he or she wrestles with a complicated historical quandary, reads a gorgeous poem, or untangles a math puzzle is my greatest reward.”

——Katrien Vance Preschool – 8th Grade • Rooted in a Love of Learning

540-456-8450 • north-branch-school.org North Branch School does not discriminate on the basis of race, creed, color or income & actively seeks minority

Thanks for

voting for us!

SOCCER! • Leagues for All Youth & Adult Players!

• In-Season Clinics • Top QualityInstruction • Visit Us on the Web or Call...

SOCA 975-5025 www.SOCAspot.org 54

November/December 2019

Thank you for choosing SOCA!

PARTY ENTERTAINMENT 1. Bounce, Play-n-Create 2. Wes Iseli – Magician 3. Cville Inflatables with Superfun Attractions PARTY LOCATION 1. The Little Gym (pg 59) 2. Jump Trampoline Park 2. Wildrock 3. Bounce, Play-n-Create LOCAL PARTY SUPPLIES 1. The Party Starts Here 2. Rock Paper Scissors 3. Caspari PHOTOGRAPHER 1. Sarah Cramer Shields 1. 3 Cats Photo 2. Jen Fariello Photography 3. Rob Garland Photography

SHOPPING BABY GEAR & CLOTHING – LOCAL 1. Here WEE Grow Again 2. Whimsies 3. Green Bean Baby Boutique BABY GEAR & CLOTHING – NATIONAL 1. Target 2. Old Navy 3. Baby Gap BIKE SHOP 1. Blue Ridge Cyclery 2. Blue Wheel Bicycle 3. Crozet Bicycle Shop

BOOKSTORE FOR KID’S TITLES – LOCAL 1. New Dominion Bookshop 2. Over the Moon Bookstore & Artisan Gallery 3. Shenanigans Toys BOOKSTORE FOR KID’S TITLES – NATIONAL 1. Barnes & Noble 2. Amazon CHILDREN’S CLOTHING – LOCAL 1. Here Wee Grow Again 2. Green Bean Baby Boutique 3. Whimsies CHILDREN’S CLOTHING – NATIONAL 1. Target 2. Old Navy 3. Gap Kids LOCAL CUSTOM FRAME SHOP 1. The Great Frame Up 2. Creative Framing & The Art Box 3. Fast Frame

FARMERS MARKET LOCATION 1. Charlottesville City Market 2. Forest Lakes Farmers Market 3. Crozet Farmers Market

KITCHEN GEAR & SUPPLIES – LOCAL 1. The Happy Cook 2. Found Market KITCHEN GEAR & SUPPLIES – NATIONAL 1. Bed Bath & Beyond 2. HomeGoods 3. Williams-Sonoma

GROCERY STORE – LOCAL 1. Foods of All Nations 1. Rebecca’s Natural Foods (pg 56) 2. Reid Super-Save Market 3. Feast! (pg 45) 3. Crozet Great Valu

MATERNITY CLOTHING – LOCAL 1. Green Bean Baby Boutique

GROCERY STORE – NATIONAL 1. Wegmans 2. Trader Joe’s 3. Whole Foods

MATERNITY CLOTHING – NATIONAL 1. Motherhood Maternity 2. Target 3. Old Navy

HOBBY SHOP 1. Michael’s Arts & Crafts 2. A.C. Moore 3. JO-ANN Fabrics & Crafts

MUSIC STORE 1. Stacy’s Music Shop 2. Music & Arts Center 3. Plan 9 Music

JEWELRY BOUTIQUE 1. Schwarzschild Keller & George Jewelers 1. Penelope (pg 48) 2. Andrew Minton Jewelers 3. Tuel Jewelers

PET SUPPLIES – LOCAL 1. Pet Supplies Plus 2. Pet Food Discounters 3. Crate & Marrow

Jefferson Obstetrics & Gynecology,LTD

Sue A. Woodson, CNM, MSN Christy O. Wamhoff, MD Brooke S. Kilfoil, MD Matthew T. Montgomery, MD Robert R. Heider, MD Kelly A. Owens, MD Michael L. Arnold, MD James M. Culver, MD Emily B. Huffstetler, M.D. Rachelle Keng, M.D.

Caring for Women through all stages of life

Please call to schedule an aPPointment. new Patients are welcome!

CharlottesvilleFamily Favorite Award Winner 2019

434.977.4488 600 Peter Jefferson Parkway, Suite 290

www.jeffersonobgyn.net CharlottesvilleFamily.com

55

{inspiration family favorites} PET SUPPLIES – NATIONAL 1. PetSmart 2. Petco 3. Tractor Supply PLACE TO BUY GREEN 1. Whole Foods 2. Rebecca’s Natural Foods (pg 56) 3. Integral Yoga Natural Foods 3. Charlottesville City Market PLACE TO BUY JEANS 1. Old Navy 2. American Eagle 3. Jean Theory RESALE/CONSIGNMENT FOR KIDS – LOCAL 1. Here WEE Grow Again 2. Schoolhouse Thrift Shop 3. Natalie Dressed RESALE/CONSIGNMENT FOR KIDS – NATIONAL 1. Kid to Kid Charlottesville 2. Plato’s Closet RESALE/CONSIGNMENT FOR WOMEN 1. Twice as Nice 2. Natalie Dressed 3. ReThreads SPORTING GOODS – LOCAL 1. Ragged Mountain Running Shop 2. Freestyle 3. Crozet Running Shop

CharlottesvilleFamily Favorite Award Winner 2019

Thanks for voting for us!

Gift Certificates Available

No matter the season, Rebecca’s friendly knowledgeable staff is here to help you with your healthy lifestyle!

Mon-Sat 9-8, Sun 10-6 434-977-1965 RebeccasNaturalFood.com

56

November/December 2019

SPORTING GOODS – NATIONAL 1. Dick’s Sporting Goods 2. L.L. Bean 3. Play It Again Sports TOY SHOP – LOCAL 1. Alakazam Toys & Gifts (pg 51) 2. Shenanigans Toys 3. End Game Center (pg 49) TOY SHOP – NATIONAL 1. Target 2. Walmart

WOMEN’S CLOTHING SHOP – LOCAL 1. Boutique Boutique 2. Bittersweet Clothing & Accessories 3. Darling Boutique 3. Natalie Dressed WOMEN’S CLOTHING – NATIONAL 1. Ann Taylor Loft 2. Lululemon 3. Talbots

HEALTH & WELLNESS ALTERNATIVE CARE PROVIDER 1. Downtown Family Health Care 2. Family Medicine of Albemarle (pg 58) 3. M Clinic CHIROPRACTOR 1. Scott Wagner Chiropractic & Sports Medicine 2. Heppner Family Chiropractic & Wellness Center (pg 65) 3. Cox Chiropractic Clinic COUNSELING SERVICE 1. New City Counseling 3. The Women’s Initiative 3. Virginia Center for Family Relations Services (pg 60) DENTIST, FAMILY PRACTICE 1. Sapon & Swisher Dental, PLLC 2. Crozet Family Dental (pg 61) 2. DJ Bickers 2. Aesthetic Dentistry of Charlottesville 3. Swett Dentistry (pg 60) DENTIST, PEDIATRIC SPECIALTY 1. Piedmont Pediatric Dentistry (pg 57) 2. Charlottesville Pediatric Dentistry 3. Children’s Dentistry with a Mother’s Touch (pg 60) 3. Crozet Pediatric Dentistry DERMATOLOGIST 1. Albemarle Dermatology Associates 2. UVA Dermatology Clinic 3. Charlottesville Dermatology

CharlottesvilleFamily.com

57

{inspiration family favorites} FAMILY MEDICINE PRACTICE 1. Sentara Healthcare 1. Family Medicine of Albemarle (pg 58) 2. Downtown Family Health Care 3. Charlottesville Family Medicine 3. Albemarle Center for Family Medicine (pg 29) HOSPITAL FOR CHILDREN’S HEALTH 1. UVA Children’s Hospital 2. Sentara Martha Jefferson Hospital 3. Augusta Health HOSPITALITY FOR MATERNITY CARE 1. Sentara Martha Jefferson Hospital 2. UVA Health System 3. Augusta Health OBSTETRICS & GYNECOLOGY 1. Jefferson Obstetrics & Gynecology (pg 55) 2. Edward T. Wolanski, M.D., PC Gynecology Service (pg 13) 3. UVA Northridge 3. Obstetrics & Gynecology Associates

OPTOMETRIST 1. Blue Ridge Ophthalmology 2. MyEyeDr. 3. Primary Eyecare

VETERINARIAN 1. Georgetown Veterinary Hospital (pg 76) 2. Autumn Trails Veterinary Clinic 3. Monticello Animal Hospital

ORTHODONTIST 1. Charlottesville Orthodontics (pg 3) 2. Hamer & Glassick Orthodontics (pg 53) 3. Dr. Suzanne M. Dennis Orthodontics

EDUCATION NANNY/SITTER SERVICE 1. ASAP Sitters 2. HooSitting 3. Local Nanny Network

PEDIATRICIAN 1. Pediatric Associates of Charlottesville (back cover) 2. Piedmont Pediatrics (pg 31) 3. Northridge Pediatrics at UVA PHYSICAL THERAPY 1. ACAC (pg 35) 2. Spectrum Physical Therapy 3. Atlantic Sports & Rehabilitation Services 3. Scott Wagner Chiropractic & Sports Medicine

DAYCARE – FULL-TIME INFANT CARE 1. Foundations Child Development Center 1. Westminster Child Care Center 2. Bright Beginnings Preschool (pg 71) ART CLASSES 1. Crozet Arts 2. McGuffey Art Center 3. The Glass Palette 3. The Hive

PLASTIC SURGEON 1. The Center for Plastic Surgery at Sentara Martha Jefferson 2. UVA Plastic Surgery Clinic

Comprehensive Family Medicine including Obstetrics Ray Marotta MD Stephanie Gillan FNP-C Maggie Wilson FNP-C Krystyna Portell FNP-BC Allison Robey PA-C Florie Fournier PA-C

Accepting New Patients

FamilyoMedicine f albemarle CharlottesvilleFamily Favorite Award Winner 2019

1st Place Winner in the Family Medicine Practice category

(434) 973-9744

1450 Sachem Place, Suite 201 | Charlottesville, VA 22901 58

November/December 2019

CharlottesvilleFamily Favorite Award Winner

Only $89!

2019

Anytime Fitness Rt. 29N – Ruckersville 434.985.3523 Ruckersvilleva@anytimefitness.com Rt. 250W - Pantops 434.971.5566 Charlottesvilleva@anytimefitness.com 24/7 Access To Over 4000 Clubs Worldwide!

EDUCATIONAL CONSULTANT/TUTORING PROGRAM/LEARNING PROGRAM 1. Clayborne Learning 1. LearningRx 2. Aloha Mind Math, Reading, Writing 3. Wahoo Tutors 3. Connections Achievement & Therapy Center EDUCATIONAL RECREATION 1. Bounce, Play-n-Create 2. Alliance Française of Charlottesville 2. The First Tee of the Virginia Blue Ridge 3. The Han Studio 3. Ivy Creek Nature Program LIBRARY BRANCH 1. Northside Library 2. Central Library 3. Crozet Library SPECIAL NEEDS EDUCATION 1. Peabody School 2. Oakland School (pg 62) 3. Little Keswick School 3. Virginia Institute of Autism PRESCHOOL 1. North Branch School (pg 54) 2. Charlottesville Catholic School 3. First Presbyterian Church Preschool (pg 72) 3. International School of Charlottesville (pg 56) 3. St. Mark Lutheran Preschool (pg 70)

Give HER a leg up, even before SHE can walk

PRIVATE SCHOOL – ELEMENTARY 1. St. Anne’s-Belfield School (pg 64) 2. The Covenant School (pg 9) 2. North Branch School (pg 54) 3. Regents School of Charlottesville (pg 23) 3. Charlottesville Catholic School PRIVATE SCHOOL – MIDDLE SCHOOL 1. Tandem Friends School (pg 65) 1. North Branch School (pg 54) 2. Charlottesville Catholic School 3. The Covenant School (pg 9) 3. St. Anne’s-Belfield School (pg 64)

Try us out! Sign up now and get 3 weeks for $45.

The Little Gym thelittlegym.com/charlottesvilleva CharlottesvilleFamily Favorite Award Winner (434) 975-5437 2019 CharlottesvilleFamily.com

59

{inspiration family favorites}

SWETT DENTISTRY CharlottesvilleFamily Favorite Award Winner 2019

PRIVATE SCHOOL – HIGH SCHOOL & COLLEGE PREP 1. Tandem Friends School (pg 65) 2. St. Anne’s-Belfield School (pg 64) 3. The Covenant School (pg 9) 3. Woodberry Forest School SPEECH-LANGUAGE PROGRAM 1. UVA’s Speech-Language-Hearing Center 1. Alliance Française of Charlottesville 2. Speak! Language Center 3. Small Talk Speech & Therapy Center, LLC

Dr. David Swett

Dr. Rebecca Swett

N N N N N I have complete faith in the excellent quality ... — D. S.

I have complete faith in the excellent quality of care and complete trust in this dental practice.

I don’t know if it’s possible to find better care anywhere. I enthusiastically recommend them without reservations.

N N N N N Polished, Professional & Positive — D W. Unlike most people who dread going to the dentist, I love being treated by David & Rebecca and their polished, professional, positive crew! They are tops in my book because I know my family and I will receive the utmost in dental care.

Caring for you like family.

900 Rio E Court, Suite B, Charlottesville | swettdentistry.com | 434.979.3940

Charlottesv

VIRGINIA CENTER FOR

Favorite illeFamily Award Winner 201 9

FAMILY RELATIONS Counseling Excellence

PC

from a Christian perspective since 1986

434.973.5640 | www.VCFR.org

“Solutions for life”

Thank you for voting for us!

CharlottesvilleFamily Favorite Award Winner 2019

Children’s Dentistry with a Mother’s Touch® Laughing gas, conscious sedation, and general anesthesia Kathryn A. Cook,D.D.S. Jacqueline Carney,D.D.S.

Board Certified Pediatric Specialist

Board Certified Pediatric Specialist, Dental Anesthesiologist

Gail Kim, D.M.D.

Pediatric Specialist

Participating providers with United Concordia, Delta Dental, Anthem, Aetna, and Cigna.

Language Assistance Services Available

895-B Rio East Court (434) 817-KIDS (5437) 60

November/December 2019

TEACHER 1. Katrien Vance – North Branch School (pg 54) 2. Jody Taylor – Sutherland Middle School 3. Christopher Cantone – Albemarle High School

DINING OUT BREAKFAST SPOT – LOCAL 1. Tip Top Restaurant 2. MarieBette Café & Bakery 3. Bodo’s Bagels 3. Bluegrass Grill & Bakery BREAKFAST SPOT – NATIONAL 1. International House of Pancakes 2. Panera Bread 3. First Watch BUFFET RESTAURANT – LOCAL 1. Milan Indian Cuisine (pg 44) 2. Hibachi Grill & Supreme Buffet 3. Himalayan Fusion BUFFET RESTAURANT – NATIONAL 1. Wood Grill Buffet 2. Sushi King COFFEE SHOP – LOCAL 1. Greenberry’s Coffee Co. 2. Grit Coffee 3. Shenandoah Joe Coffee Roasters 3. Mudhouse Coffee Roasters COFFEE SHOP – NATIONAL 1. Starbucks 2. Panera Bread 3. Dunkin’ Donuts

DATE NIGHT RESTAURANT – LOCAL 1. Mas Tapas 2. The Local 3. Vivace 3. Tavola

CharlottesvilleFamily Favorite Award Winner 2019

DATE NIGHT RESTAURANT – NATIONAL 1. Burtons Grill 2. Bonefish Grill 3. The Melting Pot FROZEN DESSERT PLACE – LOCAL 1. Splendora’s Gelato 2. Daily Grind Coffee & Creamery 3. Crozet Creamery FROZEN DESSERT PLACE – NATIONAL 1. SweetFrog, Barracks Road Shopping Center 2. Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream (pg 18) 3. Kilwins (pg 26) 3. Coldstone Stone Creamery

Thank you for voting us a winner 6 years in a row!

2014-2019

Dr. James Willis • Dr. Emery Taylor • Dr. Amanda Magid • Dr. Marissa DeAngelis

FAMILY RESTAURANT – LOCAL 1. Tip Top Restaurant 2. Guadalajara (pg 62) 3. Michael’s Diner & Restaurant FAMILY RESTAURANT – NATIONAL 1. Burtons Grill 2. Zinburger Wine & Burger Bar 3. Outback Steakhouse

Before school & evening appointments Gentle professional care Free Invisalign Consultations Featuring Itero Element 3D Modeling & Digital Scanning

FAST FOOD – LOCAL 1. Riverside Lunch 2. Bodo’s Bagels 3. Sticks Kebob Shop

HAMBURGER RESTAURANT – LOCAL 1. Citizen Burger Bar 2. Riverside Lunch 3. Martin’s Grill HAMBURGER RESTAURANT – NATIONAL 1. Burtons Grill 2. Zinburger Wine & Burger Bar 3. Five Guys

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Insurance Accepted!

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FAST FOOD – NATIONAL 1. Panera Bread 2. Chipotle Mexican Grill 3. Chick-fil-A

YEARS

Take advantage of world class dental care in your backyard of Western Albemarle!

Call Today for an Appointment!

434-823-4080 | crozetfamilydental.com 5690 Three Notch’d Road, Suite 100, Crozet CharlottesvilleFamily.com

61

{inspiration family favorites} INTERNATIONAL FOOD – CHINESE 1. Peter Chang’s China Grill 2. Taste of China 3. The Red Lantern INTERNATIONAL FOOD – INDIAN 1. Milan Indian Cuisine (pg 44) 2. Maharaja 3. Taste of India INTERNATIONAL FOOD – ITALIAN/ MEDITERRANEAN 1. Bella’s 1. Vivace 2. Tavola 3. Sal’s Pizza INTERNATIONAL FOOD – SOUTH OF THE BORDER 1. Guadalajara (pg 62) 2. Al Carbon Chicken 3. El Jaripeo INTERNATIONAL FOOD – TAPAS 1. Mas Tapas 2. Bang!

3. Al Carbon Chicken

Voted Best South of the Border Restaurant!

CharlottesvilleFamily Favorite Award Winner 2019

Locally Family-Owned & Operated since 1988 Four Locations!

29 North 395 Greenbrier Dr | 434-978-4313 UVA Area 2206 Fontaine Ave | 434-979-2424 Downtown 806 East Market St | 434-977-2676 Pantops 108 Town Country Ln | 434-293-3538

GuadalajaraMexicanVa.com

INTERNATIONAL FOOD – THAI 1. Monsoon Siam (pg 47) 2. Thai ’99 II (pg 44) 2. Lime Leaf Thai 3. Tara Thai LOCAL KID’S MENU 1. Michael’s Diner & Restaurant 2. The Brick Oven 3. Tip Top Restaurant NATIONAL KID’S MENU 1. Burtons Grill 2. Chick-fil-A 3. Outback Steakhouse PIZZA – LOCAL 1. Christian’s Pizza 2. Lampo Neapolitan Pizzeria 2. Dr. Ho’s Humble Pie 3. The Brick Oven PIZZA – NATIONAL 1. Domino’s Pizza (pg 39) 2. MidiCi 3. Mellow Mushroom

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November/December 2019

SALAD BAR 1. Jason’s Deli (pg 46) 2. Whole Foods 3. The Brick Oven SANDWICH – LOCAL 1. Bodo’s Bagels 2. Take It Away Sandwich Shop 3. Feast! (pg 45) 3. Ivy Provisions SANDWICH – NATIONAL 1. Panera Bread 2. Jersey Mike’s 3. Whole Foods 3. Jason’s Deli (pg 46) SWEETS & TREATS – LOCAL 1. MarieBette Café & Bakery 2. Chandler’s Bakery 3. Paradox Pastry SWEETS & TREATS – NATIONAL 1. Whole Foods 2. Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream (pg 18) 3. Kilwins (pg 26)

KID’S ACTIVITIES BABY/TODDLER PROGRAM 1. The Little Gym (pg 59) 2. YMCA (pg 33) 3. Charlottesville Waldorf School (pg 75) 3. Bend Yoga DANCE SCHOOL 1. Charlottesville Ballet Academy (pg 19) 2. Albemarle Ballet Theatre 2. Wilson School of Dance 3. Charlottesville Performing Arts School GOLF COURSE 1. Birdwood Golf Course 2. Greene Hills Club 3. Meadowcreek Golf 3. Kandi Comer Golf at Old Trail Golf Course GYMNASTICS PROGRAM 1. The Little Gym (pg 59) 2. Classic Gymnastics Center 3. Friendship Gymnastics Center

HORSEBACK RIDING LESSONS 1. Camp Friendship (pg 67) 2. The Barracks Farm 3. Millington Stables 3. The Pony Academy (pg 67) MARTIAL ARTS 1. Laughing Dragon Kung Fu 2. Mountain Kim Martial Arts 3. UpLevel Martial Arts 3. MMA Institute of Charlottesville MUSIC TEACHER/SCHOOL 1. Blue Ridge Music Together (pg 56) 2. Music Education Center 2. The Front Porch (pg 63) 3. Stacy’s Music Shop TEAM SPORTS PROGRAM 1. SOCA (pg 54) 2. YMCA (pg 33) 3. VABA TENNIS LESSONS 1. Boar’s Head Resort 2. ACAC (pg 35) 3. Matilda Blue Tennis

MUSIC BRINGS US TOGETHER REGISTER FOR LESSONS TODAY

A place for all ages to learn bluegrass, old time, gospel and the blues from master musicians CharlottesvilleFamily Favorite Award who love to teach as much as they love to play.

Winner 2019

THE FRONT PORCH | WWW.FRONTPORCHCVILLE.ORG 221 EAST WATER STREET | 434-242-7012

CharlottesvilleFamily.com

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{inspiration family favorites}

FALL CLASSES

CharlottesvilleFamily

FOR CHILDREN, TEENS & ADULTS

Favorite Award Winner 2019

with LEE ALTE R

Children (Ages 3-12) Tuesdays Now through Dec 3 • 3:30-5:30pm Thursdays Now through Dec 5 • 3:30-5:30pm

(Thanksgiving week off)

SUMMER DAY CAMP 1. The Little Gym (pg 59) 2. ACAC (pg 35) 2. Triple C Camp 3. Living Earth School Camp 3. Steam Discovery Academy (pg 67) SUMMER RESIDENTIAL CAMP 1. Living Earth School Camp 2. Camp Friendship (pg 67) 3. Camp Motorsport 3. Camp Horizons

(Thanksgiving week off)

Adults and Teens Mondays Now through Dec 2 • 6-9pm Wednesdays Now through Dec 4 • 10am-1pm

THEATRE PROGRAM 1. Live Arts 2. Black Box Players 3. Four County Players

Watercolor, sand tray work, graphite and making art with nature.

Call 760-9658 to register | www.leealterartist.com

SWIM PROGRAM 1. ACAC (pg 35) 2. Charlottesville Parks & Rec (pg 4) 3. YMCA (pg 33)

Painting & Drawing | Clay & Collage | @McGuffey Art Center in Studio 6 (in the basement on the park side)

CREATING AN ENVIRONMENT FOR

OUR YOUNGEST LEARNERS THAT

EMPHASIZES CREATIVITY, WONDER, & JOY

FITNESS & BEAUTY BEAUTY SALON 1. Anew Salon 1. Moxie Hair & Body Lounge 2. Bristles 3. Alternative Hair Solutions (pg 34) 3. Thairapy BARBER SHOP 1. Barber House Barber Shop 2. Chung’s Barber Shop 3. His Barber Shop EXERCISE CLASS – MOMMY & ME 1. The Little Gym (pg 59) 2. Bend Yoga 3. ACAC (pg 35) EXERCISE CLASS – WOMEN 1. YMCA (pg 33) 1. Anytime Fitness (pg 58) 2. ACAC (pg 35) 3. Tread Happy

Two-Year-Olds, Pre-School 3 & 4, and Junior Kindergarten www.stab.org | (434) 296-5106 | admission@stab.org 64

November/December 2019

FAMILY HEALTH CLUB/GYM 1. ACAC (pg 35) 2. YMCA (pg 33) 3. Anytime Fitness (pg 58)

Engaged Inspired Purposeful

KID’S HAIRCUTS 1. Barber House Barber Shop 2. Hair Cuttery 3. Bubbles Salons MANICURE/PEDICURE 1. Nail Design 2. Holly’s Nails Salon 3. Glamour Nails & Spa MIND/BODY CLASSES 1. ACAC (pg 35) 2. Anytime Fitness (pg 58) 3. FlyDog Yoga 3. The Elements Studio PLACE FOR A MASSAGE 1. Spa at Massanutten Resort 2. ACAC (pg 35) 3. Massage Envy SPA 1. Signature Medical Spa 2. Spa at Massanutten Resort 3. ACAC (pg 35) 3. Silver Lining Day Spa YOGA STUDIO 1. FlyDog Yoga 2. Hot Yoga Charlottesville 3. ACAC (pg 35)

ADMISSIONS INFO SESSIONS

Tandem Friends School

Nov 5 & Dec 9 9-10:30 am

Grades 5-12 www.tandemfs.org

Call to RSVP (434) 951-9314

Voted Charlottesville’s Favorite Chiropractor 2009 - 2019 Charlottesville 2 0 1 4

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CharlottesvilleFamily Favorite Award Winner 2019

Maternity Care • Pediatric Services Low Back/Neck Pain • Massage Therapy Sports Injury, Prevention & Treatment

Dr. Michelle Heppner

CharlottesvilleFamily’s 2019 Home Category Winners will be announced in the January/February issue!

• www.heppnerfamilychiropractic.com •

3450 Seminole Trail Forest Lakes • 974-7955 CharlottesvilleFamily.com

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{resources summer camps}

Camp GIVE THE GIFT OF

This holiday season, consider the gift of camp!

Now is the perfect time to begin exploring the variety of summer camp opportunities, and consider gift giving especially from grandparents! According to the American Camp Association, this is one gift that lasts the whole year, helping your camper grow in many ways!

February 16, 2020

Fun Fair& Camp Expo

2020

Looking for more camp resources?

Visit the cf online camp fair at charlottesvillefamily.com

See page 2 for more information!

2020 KidsCollege@PVCC SUMMER ACADEMIES KidsCollege@PVCC KidsCollege@Fluvanna KidsCollege@Louisa NEW! KidsCollege@Albemarle NEW!

KidsCollege@PVCC Learn today...Lead tomorrow

66

November/December 2019

Check online for registration open date www.pvcc.edu/kidscollege 434.961.5354

CharlottesvilleFamily

™

Premier summer camp camp in your backyard.

Premier overnight overnight summer in your backyard.

CharlottesvilleFamily Favorite Award Winner 2019

www.campfriendship.com

The Pony Academy Building self confidence and a lasting relationship with the horse Lessons for children (6+) & adults are offered Monday-Friday, year round

• Private,

Semi-Private & Group Lessons

• Adult lessons on a limited basis

Group lessons are only $38/student!

STEAM Discovery Academy

Join us this summer at STEAM Discovery Academy and let us cultivate your student’s passion for all aspects of STEAM: Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math.

Students learn to think on their feet, evaluate challenges, and experiment their way to solutions.

CharlottesvilleFamily

CharlottesvilleFamily Favorite Award Winner 2019

434.823.6929 Visit us on Facebook for more information

Favorite Award Winner 2019

Visit our website at

STEAMDiscoveryAcademy.com to view our course catalog and apply!

CharlottesvilleFamily.com

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{resources parenting}

68

November/December 2019

Prepped for

POTTY TIME

by Sara J. Marchessault

Toilet Training Basics

As you start to plan for preschool, potty training is bound to come up. While not all schools require children to be potty trained to attend, it’s something that’s generally encouraged. And, after years of changing diapers, you’re probably eager to make the transition, too.

But when it’s finally time to potty

child around this age doesn’t need to be

train, many parents learn the hard way

changed as often, which shows they have

that it’s not nearly as cute as when their

some control over their bladder. Potty

toddler takes a step, not as endearing

training as early as 18 months can be

as the first time they hear “Mama” and

successful, although Reynolds suggests

nowhere near as adorable as the first

that parents only potty train between 18–

wave.

24 months if the child is “very interested.”

It can be messy, exhausting and

Most kids will be ready between their

downright hard to keep your cool when

second and third birthdays, which also

it’s time to start the potty training

happens to be a very trying time for

process. Why is potty training so difficult

parents of toddlers. At this stage, it’s all

sometimes? The answer may lie in when

about doing everything on their own and

we choose to potty train our children.

wanting to be in charge.

Dr. David Reynolds, who recently

“This often carries over into eating

retired from Pediatric Associates, says

and potty training because kids realize,

that a child’s readiness for potty training

‘I’m in charge of this, and you can’t make

is based on multiple factors.

me do it,’” explains Reynolds.

Children first gain the neurological

If your child is going through a stage

ability to “hold” and “let go” around 12–18

where “no” is the response to everything,

months, and by 18 months, most children

it may be best to hold off. It’s important

will show signs before they have to go—

to remember not to force the idea too

such as wiggling around and clutching

much, he adds.

their hands. You may also notice that a

“The only way you’re going to harm CharlottesvilleFamily.com

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{resources parenting}

Coming Fall 2019

Ivy School House Preschool Infant and Toddler Care

LOCAL

Preschool GUIDE 2019 ACAC Preschool A comprehensive curriculum, including Spanish, music, physical education, indoor/outdoor play, swimming and more. Year-round, full-day program.

Ages 2–Pre-K acac.com, 434-978-7529 See ad page 35

Bright Beginnings Preschool

for more information

434.882.0665 ivyschoolhouse@gmail.com

Programs that support original core values of trust, nurture, learn, communicate, play and fun.

Ages 0 months–5 years brightbeginningsva.com Crozet: 434-823-7129; Forest Lakes: 434-973-8414; Mill Creek: 434-979-8585 See ad page 71

Charlottesville City Schools A ministry of St. Mark Lutheran Church, ELCA A ministry of

St. Mark Lutheran Church, ELCA 100 Alderman Road, Charlottesville VA 22903

434-293-0792

Charlottesville Waldorf School

www.stmarkpreschool.net Open Year Round, 6-6, Mon-Fri Full & Part-Time Programs Available

“Loving care you can count on!”

Open Year Round • 6am-6pm • Monday-Friday Full & Part-time Programs Available

Certified Nature Explore Outdoor Classroom

Loving care you can count on!

100 Alderman Road, Charlottesville 434-293-0792 • stmarkpreschool.net November/December 2019

Nurtures children with a homelike experience through active play, natural materials and rhythm.

Age 2–Grade 8 cwaldorf.org, 434-973-4946 See ad page 75

Explore,Play,Wonder,Grow!

Explore, Play, Wonder, Grow!

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Offers free preschool education by licensed educators for qualifying 3- and 4-year olds. Applications are due by March 1. charlottesvilleschools.org 434-245-2797 See ad page 13

The Covenant School Provides a traditional, Christian Liberal Arts and science education where students are encouraged to explore and engage with the world around them.

Pre-K–Grade 12 covenantschool.org, 434-220-7330 See ad page 9

them is by pushing too hard,” explains the doctor. “Sometimes, you have to back off and act like you don’t care.”

It’s also a good idea to spend some time preparing your child for the potty before you start any training.

“You should be talking about it and reading about it before you start doing it,” he says. “Coach them to get interested and excited about it so they think that this is a neat thing to do.”

It’s up to us as parents to prepare our child for potty training by providing a calm, safe experience. It doesn’t pay for us to get too excited before potty time or to put too much pressure on our child to perform. To help create the right atmosphere, consider staging an activity that takes place at potty time.

The activity can be the focus, and it just so happens that while this activity is taking place, your child is sitting on the potty. The more often your child sits on the potty, the more comfortable they will become with the idea, and the greater the chance that one of those times they will successfully go to the bathroom.

it. This gives them a sense of ownership

HERE ARE A FEW IDEAS TO TRY: Easy Art with Recycled Paper. Hang a page from a large drawing pad on the bathroom wall near the potty. Provide stickers, crayons or markers, and see what your trainer can create while sitting on the potty. Other options are handheld chalkboards, window crayons on a mirror or window, or even an Etch A Sketch. Of course, stay close by so none of your supplies end up in the potty.

Use a Timer. Provide your child with a basic kitchen timer and let them decorate it with stickers or even paint

for their special “toilet timer.” Choose a pre-set length of time to spend in the bathroom and explain that when the timer goes off, it will be time to get up from the potty. Fill that time with songs or a word game. When the timer goes off, if the deed isn’t done, get up and try again in a few minutes. Be sure to set the timer to remind you when to head back to the potty. Parents need reminders too, right?

“I Spy.” This is an oldie but goodie.

Choose an object in the room, such as

THANK YOU FOR VOTING FOR US!

Your child’s safety is our number one priority Staff training hours exceed licensing standards 150% High tech cameras with video and audio

NOVEMBER EXCLUSIVE During the month of November all new, full-time enrollments will receive 2 FREE Weeks!*

NURTURING CHILDREN SINCE 1984 Crozet 434-823-7129

Forest Lakes 434-973-8414

Mill Creek 434-979-8585

*Mention this ad to qualify for the November Exclusive Special Officer

CharlottesvilleFamily.com

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{resources parenting} 100% Worry-Free Guarantee.

First Presbyterian Church Preschool

The way home services should be. woman-owned • eco-friendly

window cleaning power washing Fully licensed and insured for your safety (434) 823-1737

www.cavalierwindowcleaning.com CharlottesvilleFamily

A Play-Based Christian Preschool

Favorite Award Winner

Release the clutter, free your life.

2019

9AM to Noon Serving ages 20 months to 5 years old

See our website for additional information! firstprescharlottesville.org/preschool

434.296.1447

jeanninewoods.com | 434.249.6227 jeannine@jeanninewoods.com the toilet paper and say “I spy something white” and let your child guess. Follow up with different clues if they don’t guess it right away. For instance, try, “I spy something white and shaped like a circle.”

“I Spy” can be played at almost any age and is a great way to distract them from the task at hand and build vocabulary

PROVIDING COMPASSIONATE INDIVIDUALIZED MIDWIFERY CARE

at the same time. If “I Spy” is effective,

EVIDENCE BASED, WATER BIRTH, FREE IUD REMOVAL

consider stocking the shelves with an

OFFERING SAFE & AFFORDABLE CARE

Led by Licensed Midwife Dominique Clothiaux a Out-of-Hospital Birth Specialist CPM, RCST®

WWW.BIRTHANDBIODYNAMICS.COM 434-996-5095

Opening Doors to Bright Futures for Kids

434.296.4118 readykidscville.org

ever-changing

parade

of

interesting

objects. It could even be a seasonal shelf in the bathroom to keep up with what’s going on outside the realm of the bathroom.

Celebrating our 43rd Anniversary this year!

Now taking applications for the 2019 & 2020 school years!

Serving children ages 21 months - 6 years

Foam Letters in a Bag. Fill a canvas bag with foam alphabet letters (found with the bath toys at most department stores) and play a game. You could have your child pull out a letter randomly and identify the letter, sound, words that start with that letter, or if that letter appears in his or her name. For a child who’s really familiar with their letters, have them put their hand in the bag and guess the letter by the way it feels.

Cutler Lane & Gordon Avenue | 434-295-0029 | montessoriofcville.org

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November/December 2019

Run the Water. It sounds obvious, but sometimes as parents we forget the

First Presbyterian Church Preschool Creating a foundation for continuous growth and development through imaginative play and exploration.

Ages 20 months–5 years firstprescharlottesville.org/preschool 434-296-1447 See ad page 72

CHOOSING THE RIGHT PRESCHOOL IS ESSENTIAL

Frost Montessori School is a certified preschool for ages 2-6, that fosters the whole child and prepares a well-rounded foundation for our children. Visit our website today to schedule an individual tour and learn more about our school.

Frost Montessori School An enriching contemporary Montessori program fostering the academic, social, physical and emotional parts of the whole child.

Ages 24 months–6 years frostmontessori.com, 434-979-5223 See ad page 73

Grymes Memorial School Private, coeducational day-school with small classes, hands-on active learning, an emphasis on the arts and a character-driven community.

Pre-K–Grade 8 grymesschool.org, 540-672-1010 See ad page 75

Hillsboro Christian Preschool Focuses on school preparation with challenging academics, crafts and games in a Christian environment.

Ages 2½–5 hillsborobaptist.church 434-823-5342 See ad page 74

www.frostmontessori.com 434-979-5223

NOW ENROLLING!

The International School of Charlottesville Children become global citizens through hands-on exploration, open-ended experimentation, and full immersion in a multilingual, multicultural community.

Ages 2–5 theisc.org, 434-984-2174 See ad page 56

Full + Part Time Preschool: Ages 2 - 5 Before & After School Care: Ages 5 -12

Mention this ad for free registration fee!

Ivy School House A small community providing supportive and loving care with age appropriate development for children.

Ages 6 weeks–6 years ivyschoolhouse.org, 434-823-4060 See ad page 70

(434) 985-1185 |

@Piper Ivy Preschool CharlottesvilleFamily.com

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{resources parenting} JABA Shining Star Preschool Children learn academic skills while developing valuable social and emotional skills that come from interacting with teachers, students and elders.

Ages 2–5 jabacares.org, 434-817-5266 See ad page 31

Little Explorers Discovery School In a child-centered, Reggio-inspired environment, children will spend their time exploring their world with the space and time to deeply investigate their interests.

Ages 2–5 littleexplorersdiscoveryschool.com 434-205-4177 See ad page 74

Montessori School of Charlottesville A Montessori Preschool founded in 1976 that creates a peaceful community by supporting independence and social responsibility in young children.

Ages 21 months–6 years montessoriofcville.org, 434-295-0029 See ad page 72

North Branch School Sharing a love of learning on an 11-acre campus through hands-on experiences, outdoor time daily, arts and academics.

Preschool–Grade 8 north-branch-school.org, 540-456-8450 See ad page 54

Olivet Preschool Provides a Christian preschool opportunity to ready children academically, socially and spiritually for Kindergarten.

Ages 2 ½–5 olivetpreschool.org, 434-295-1367 See ad page 74

Piper Ivy Preschool

Offers full- and part-time preschool, as well as before- and after-school care, with a focus on learning, playing and growing.

Ages 2–12 facebook.com/piper-ivypreschool-297503390779533/ 434-985-1185 See ad page 73

St. Anne’s-Belfield School Curriculum includes language, science, mathematics and fine arts as well as social and cognitive development.

Ages 2–Grade 12 stab.org/pre-school, 434-296-5106 See ad page 64

St. Mark Lutheran Preschool For over 40 years, parents have trusted St. Mark Preschool to provide child care and early education in a safe, loving environment.

Ages 2 ½–5 stmarkpreschool.net, 434-293-0792 See ad page 70

YMCA Early Learning Center Licensed year-round, full-day early childhood education and school readiness program at the Jefferson School. Ask about new curriculum.

Ages 6 weeks–Pre-K piedmontymca.org, 434-202-0118 See ad page 33

Come visit

Olivet Preschool!

Providing a Christian preschool opportunity for families in our community.

Olivet Preschool at Olivet Presbyterian Church 2575 Garth Road, Charlottesville • 434.295.1367

olivetpreschool.org • olivetpresbyterian.org • rebecca@olivetpresbyterian.org

Hillsboro Christian Preschool (ages 2 1/2 - 5 years)

Pre-K Spanish Enrichment Friendly, Loving, and Experienced Staff Nurturing, Christian Environment

434-823-5342

www.hillsborobaptist.church • hcpdirector@gmail.com 74

November/December 2019

Preschool for children ages 2-5 After-school program for elementary children A child-centered, Reggio-inspired learning environment with an emphasis on outdoor play, natural materials and Schedule cultivating imaginative a tour today! play experiences.

434-205-4177

littleexplorersdiscoveryschool.com 5804 St. George Ave., Crozet

things that worked for us. Turn on the sink, or try the tub or shower. Experiment.

Turn on the water and take the focus off your child for a moment while you occupy yourself with something else.

Notice if taking your attention away helps your child relax.

Launching Joyful Learners Music & Visual Arts • Drama & Public Speaking Small Classes • Interscholastic Sports • Bus Services Spanish starting in Pre-K • Engineering “Rad Lab”

Launching Joyful Learners grymesschool.org

Audio Books and Apps. You can purchase books that come with an accompanying

audio

recording

of

someone reading the story or you could create your own recording. Smartphones and iPads offer an easy way to bring entertainment into the bathroom. Look for apps that offer audio versions of childrens’ books or other kids games and you’ll be ready anytime, anywhere.

Get Ready to Share. Kids are often going to want to be “like Mommy” or “like Daddy.” When we model using the bathroom for them and talk with them about what we are doing, we help them overcome fears and doubts. They will also become more familiar with the process of using the toilet rather than diapers.

Don’t be afraid to experiment with many ideas until you find a combination

Call a tour today!

Callforfor a tour today!

540.672.1010

13775 Spicers Mill Road, Orange, VA 22960

of techniques that work for your child.

Taking a step back from the potty training process and preparing activities that make the time more inviting can

CHARLOTTESVILLE WALDORF SCHOOL 120 WALDORF SCHOOL ROAD CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA 22901

help your son or daughter feel more comfortable on the toilet.

Keep in mind that everyone you know learned how to use the potty at some point. With your loving support and attention, your kids will master the potty, too.

CharlottesvilleFamily

EARLY CHILDHOOD AT THE WALDORF SCHOOL Favorite Award Winner 2019

Sara spends her time playing with her two delightfully messy children when she’s not working as a writer, professor and speaker.

DISCOVER A GENTLE INTRODUCTION TO A LIFELONG LOVE OF LEARNING.

Now enrolling!

TODDLER • NURSERY • KINDERGARTEN Contact our Admissions Director at enrollment@cwaldorf.org to learn more!

LEARN MORE AT CWALDORF.ORG / 434.973.4946 AN AWSNA ACCREDITED MEMBER OF THE INDEPENDENT

SCHOOLS OF NORTH AMERICA

CharlottesvilleFamily.com

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{inspiration pets}

PET PROJECTS Heartfelt Gifts for Furry Friends

If you have faithful feline or canine friends, this is the perfect time to give them the love and appreciation they deserve. Your pet will think these special gifts are purrfect‌ and your kids will love to help you make them.

by Denise Yearian

Curly Catnip Toy

and tie curling ribbon around it to close it off. Sprinkle catnip through the open end

Materials: empty toilet paper roll,

into the roll, then gather the overlapping

colored tissue paper, tape, curling ribbon,

paper on this end and tie curling ribbon

scissors, catnip, dowel rod or long stick.

around it to close it off. Attach a long strand of curling ribbon to one of the

Cut an empty toilet paper roll in half

tied-off ends. Attach the other end of

to make two cylinder shapes. Wrap one

the curling ribbon strand to a dowel rod

of the cylinders with colored tissue paper,

so it resembles a fishing rod. Dangle the

leaving an additional two inches of paper

catnip toy in front of your cat and let

on each end. Secure the paper to the roll

him bat at it! Store in a zipper seal bag to

with tape. On one end, gather the paper

maintain freshness.

Paw Print Treat Tub Materials: empty oatmeal box or coffee can, large piece of white paper, ink pad, small potato, newspaper, tape, plastic toy dog or cat, glue.

Measure and cut a piece of white paper to fit around a clean, empty oatmeal box or coffee can. Lay the white paper on top

UNIQUE LODGING FOR DOG-FRIENDLY DOGS RATED FOUR PAWS UP

BY SATISFIED CLIENTS AND LOCAL VETERINARIANS

(formerly The Canine Clipper)

434.981.2031 CanineCountr yInc@gmail.com

THECANINECLIPPER.COM OWNED BY AMY PELOQUIN AND FAMILY SINCE 1990

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November/December 2019

of the newspaper. Open the ink pad and lay it on the newspaper next to the paper.

Slice one end off the potato to create a flat, round surface. Press the cut end of the potato onto the ink pad and then the paper to make a paw print shape. Set the potato aside. Press your index, middle and ring fingers together onto the ink pad and then onto the paper just above the circle to complete your paw print. Repeat these steps until the paper is covered in paw prints. Wrap paw print paper around the can and secure with tape. To make the lid, glue a small plastic dog or cat to the can lid and let it dry. Fill the jar with treats for your favorite pet.

Tail Waggin’ Doggie Treats Materials: 2 cups whole wheat flour, 1 tablespoon baking powder, 1 cup natural peanut butter, 1 cup skim milk, two mixing bowls, measuring cups and

Local Pet GUIDE

spoons, mixing spoon, rolling pin, bone-

Canine Country Inc.

shaped cookie cutter, greased cookie

See ad page 76

sheet.

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Mix flour and baking powder in one bowl,

CharlottesvilleAlbemarle SPCA See ad page 77

and peanut butter and milk in another.

Combine the two mixtures and stir.

Dough will be stiff. Place dough on a floured surface and knead until smooth.

Roll out to Âź-inch thickness with a rolling pin and cut into bone shapes with cookie cutter. Place on a greased cookie sheet and bake for 20 minutes or until lightly brown. Turn off the oven and leave

Georgetown Veterinary Hospital See ad page 76

Virginia Veterinary Specialists See ad page 5

biscuits inside until cooled and hardened.

Denise is the former editor of two parenting magazines and the mother of three children.

CharlottesvilleFamily.com

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{until next time humorous reflections}

Never Turn Your Back On a Christmas Tree

A Dad’s Humorous Tales

by Rick Epstein

If my father had made a list of his top 10 fears, it would probably consist mostly of ways in which I might embarrass or disappoint him. But, nestled in there at about number 5 would be the fear of Christmas-tree fires.

Dad would always buy a living tree—roots, dirt and all—partly so he could plant it in the back yard later on, but mostly to reduce its flammability. He would make sure it was watered well, and he’d unplug the lights if the tree was unsupervised for even a few minutes.

Back then, very few things lit up, except for light bulbs or actual fire. So, against a relatively dim background, a Christmas tree in full twinkle and glow must’ve seemed alarmingly bright. And, what is an electric light except a teeny bit of fire under glass?

The fact that Dad endured the Christmas-tree menace one season after another was a powerful testimony of his love for my mother. Mom was You see, the moment I of Scandinavian Lutheran became a father, I also descent, and she had to have a tree at Christmas. became MY father, Dad would have walked inheriting his imagination through fire for her, when it comes to things and fully expected that that might crash, fall, someday he’d have to.

When she looked at explode, cause a rash or each year’s tree—with burst into flames. its colored lights glowing, tinsel glittering and ornaments gleaming—she’d get a dreamy, peaceful feeling that started back in the ancestral homeland of Norway and flowed through her own childhood and on forward to that particular spectacular tree. But, for all the joy it gave him, Dad would just as soon wrap festive electric lights around a vat of oily rags.

Dad had been brought up Jewish, a tradition in which beautifully decorated evergreens do not figure.

But, he was familiar with the story of Moses and the Burning Bush.

After New Year’s, Dad would sigh with relief and plant the tree in the back yard. Years later, the accumulation of tall, droopy evergreens huddles together, and looks like a habitat for Hansel and Gretel.

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November/December 2019

It’s spooky.

So, my wife and I don’t bring in live firs or spruces, but I always make sure that the cut trees have plenty of water. You see, the moment I became a father, I also became MY father, inheriting his imagination when it comes to things that might crash, fall, explode, cause a rash or burst into flames. And, it’s lucky, because all my daughters seem to dash through life, as reckless as if they are competing in the Running With Scissors 5K. At home, they leave the mayonnaise out to fester and put slippery magazines on the stairs. On the road, they tailgate and speed. Out shopping, they leave pocketbooks unattended and never save their receipts.

So, now, we approach the Christmas season with Sally, our 21-year-old, working in one of the world’s danger-spots—Denmark. Seriously, it’s a place where they put real burning candles on their Christmas trees and laugh at the possibilities.

But, that’s nothing compared to the pyromania at the core of the Feast of St. Lucia. On December 13, there are processions all through Scandinavia—queues of little girls in white gowns brandishing candles.

A slightly bigger girl, who wears a wreath of lighted candles on her head, then leads those little girls!

Wikipedia says that’s how St. Lucia achieved handsfree illumination as she carried supplies to Christians who were hiding in caves. But, Wikipedia does not mention what a bad idea this is.

What if the girl looks up and the fiery crown tumbles down her back? What if she bends over to tie her shoe? What if the kid behind her gets too close?

What if, in the festive confusion, she tries to put on her gown after her candles have been ignited? Is there at least adult supervision?

And by “adult,” I mean “parental.” Because, safety is up to us parents. Although I’ve been kidding around about obsessive fears, there really are a lot of house fires at this time of year, and a bit of caution is called for in our holiday observances. If you have a loved one in Scandinavia, advise her to leave the wearing of flaming crowns to specially trained children.

Rick can be reached at rickepstein@yahoo.com.

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