Parenting NH April 2018

parenting APRIL 2018

COMPLIMENTARY

NEW HAMPSHIRE

THEY SHOOT, THEY SCORE

CROSS-ICE HOCKEY

Healthy Families special section inside ParentingNH.com

April Vacation fun

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NEW HAMPSHIRE PRESIDENT/PUBLISHER:

Sharron McCarthy, x5117 smccarthy@mcleancommunications.com EDITOR:

Melanie Hitchcock, x5157 editor@parentingnh.com GROUP ADVERTISING SALES DIRECTOR:

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Barbara Gallaher, x5156 bgallaher@parentingnh.com Debbie Birch, x5133 dbirch@parentingnh.com OFFICE MANAGER:

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Parenting New Hampshire Magazine® is published by McLean Communications, 150 Dow St., Manchester, NH 03101, (603) 624-1442. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without the written permission of the publisher is prohibited. The publisher assumes no responsibility for any mistakes in advertisements or editorial. Statements/opinions expressed herein do not necessarily reflect or represent those of this publication or its officers. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in this publication, McLean Communications, LLC.: Parenting New Hampshire Magazine disclaims all responsibility for omission and errors.

• contents features 10

april

Kids score big with cross-ice hockey

43

21

Healthy families SPECIAL 22-PAGE SECTION

43

Have a blast this April vacation

departments From the Editor’s Desk

The Short List

I Want That

Cook with Your Kids

Dad on Board Learning Curve House Calls

Raising Teens & Tweens

Out and About

Five for Families

4 6 8 46 48 49 50 51 52 55

ON THE COVER: Remy and Avery (in red) and Drew and Trevor (in white) of the Manchester Flames. Photo taken at West Side Arena in Manchester on Saturday, April 10 by Kendal J. Bush, Parenting NH’s longtime cover photographer.

april 2018 www.parentingnh.com 3

from the editor’s desk IF THEY WALK OUT, WE NEED TO STEP UP We complain that kids won’t get off their phones or stop playing video games. We accuse them of having no idea what is going on in the world. We think they are apathetic, uneducated and self-involved.

So when they do something that applies the civics lessons they’ve learned in school, it is a prime opportunity to give them positive reinforcement, to applaud them for exercising their rights and engaging in the democratic process.

Take the March for Our Lives, for example. On March 24, after Parenting NH goes to press, a peaceful protest put together by students who survived the mass shooting at their Parkland, Fla., high school is scheduled to take place across the country. Hundreds of thousands of people are expected to participate in more than 800 events worldwide.

While the organizers’ efforts have been widely supported, the teens have also been accused in the national media of being “paid actors,” told they are too young to have any rights or know anything about the issue, and have been discredited and dismissed.

Regardless of your personal feelings on gun control, all of us should be supporting kids who want to exercise their First Amendment rights and be active participants in a democratic society.

We want our kids to be good citizens, so it is hypocritical to discourage them from acting on their convictions. Or better yet, trying to divert them from doing so with a completely different concept like #walkupnotout, where students, instead of walking out of class, are told to walk up to classmates and be nice to them, inferring that it is on them to prevent the next shooting by putting them in charge of their friend’s mental health.

March for Our Lives, and the protests and walkouts that follow, are real-life teachable moments schools and parents should use to reinforce their knowledge of civics.

We cannot send the contradictory message – be a good citizen but when you get older or it’s something I agree with or it’s more convenient. We have so much to lose in the future if we don’t allow their voices to be heard now.

Melanie Hitchcock Editor Check out Parenting NH’s gold-award winning Democracy Deconstructed series at www. parentingnh.com. Topics include civics education in New Hampshire, teaching tolerance to children, participating locally in the democratic process and the role of media in keeping government accountable – all with a focus on educating our kids to be better and engaged citizens.

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www.LetGoYourMind.com

We did it again!

We are proud to announce that Parenting New Hampshire was honored with 7 gold awards and a bronze award by the Parenting Media Association at its annual Design and Editorial Awards Competition.

Parenting New Hampshire brought home gold awards for Best Website, Humor Column,

Special Series, Editor’s Note/Publisher’s Note, Travel Feature, Ancillary Publication Overall Design and Ancillary Publication General Excellence (Family Summer Fun Guide); and a bronze award for Profile Story.

This marks the 11th year in a row that Parenting New Hampshire has been honored by PMA, and we are pumped!

NEW HAMPSHIRE

april 2018 www.parentingnh.com 5

the short list ...TIPS, TRENDS & NEWS COMPILED BY MELANIE HITCHCOCK

This month on www.parentingnh.com:

Get ready for Spring

Spring is here, so that means longer and warmer days. Check out our web-exclusive Guide to Spring to find out where to hike, bike, go on a picnic and more. Also, this year Easter is on April 1. Looking for an Easter Egg Hunt? We have you covered. Our event calendar at www.parentingnh.com is filling up with lots of other great events for families. Check us out before you head out!

• Easter Egg Hunts: www.parentingnh.com/easter • Earth Day: www.parentingnh.com/earthday • Guide to Spring (hikes, picnics, bike trails, gardening with kids): www.parentingnh.com/spring

MCMS student named to National Youth Orchestra Manchester Community Music School student Roric Cunningham, 17, of Manchester, has been invited to be a member of the National Youth Orchestra of the United States of America.

Each summer, Carnegie Hall’s Weill Music Institute brings together the brightest young players from across the country to form the National Youth Orchestra of the United States. Students undergo an extensive and competitive audition process. Selected participants come together for a three-week training residency with leading professional orchestra musicians. NYO-USA returns to Asia this summer. The tour kicks off with the orchestra’s annual concert at Carnegie Hall, continuing with stops in Taipei, Shanghai, Beijing, Seoul, and Daejeon.

Rory has studied cello under the direction of Harel Gietheim since 2012. He is also a member of the Dino Anagnost Youth Symphony Orchestra.

YWCA NH launches its newest program – Every Women’s Center The mission of Every Women’s Center is to provide a place for women to engage in conversation, education and support within their diverse communities. The programming through EWC offers personal and professional development for women ages 18 and older. It is designed to strengthen personal leadership skills, build confidence, and explore the myriad of ways in which women can be inclusive leaders in the workplace, their personal lives, and their communities.

EWC will be offering monthly programming around culture, financial literacy, health and wellness and social and professional networking. Go to www.ywcanh.org for more information and event calendar.

New lineup of art programs for teens at the New Hampshire Institute of Art The New Hampshire Institute of Art’s Youth Arts program is offering a new group of after school art programs for teens. Providing safe spaces for teens to express their creativity is part of NHIA’s mission. Youth Arts programming was designed to give young artists, creatives and makers ages 12-18 the opportunity to push their artistic boundaries.

ARTLAB is designed to help teens build their artistic confidence and individual style while offering exposure to new materials and techniques.

Students will be challenged to step out of their creative comfort zones and explore a theme through various independent and collaborative 2D and 3D projects.

CoLAB is a safe space for creativity, ideas, experimentation and materials to collide. Artists, age 13-18, will spend Friday nights developing a shared vision and creating an original collaborative art piece. Emphasis will be placed on the creative process, communication, collaboration and fun.

For information on sessions, times and cost (scholarships available), go to www.nhia.edu/youtharts.

6 www.parentingnh.com april 2018

Amoskeag Fishways ALL FISH, all the TIME! Fish Season April 30 - June 16

Festival with Dash and Splash April 26

World Fish Migration Day April 21

Learn to Fly Fish April 4, 11, 18 & 25

www.AmoskeagFishways.org www.facebook.com /AmoskeagFishways 4 Fletcher St. • Manchester, NH

Celebrate the Magic of the Merrimack THE AMOSKEAG FISHWAYS PARTNERSHIP Eversource • NH Audubon • NH Fish & Game • US Fish & Wildlife

MIDWEEK Free WATERPARK! Stay Sunday-Thursday during select dates through June 14 and receive free daily water park admission.

Some restrictions apply, and this offer is not valid during holidays and school vacation periods.

Call 800-RJACKET use offer code ‘MWKL’ or book online.

A p ri l sc ho o l vac at ion week i s f i l l ed wit h f u n ac tivities!

Visit us online at redjacketresorts.com to view the activity schedule.

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vacations perfected

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For more information, contact us at: (603) 539-4552 office@campmarist.org Or check us out online at: www.CampMarist.org

Camp Marist

Ossipee Lake · New Hampshire

april 2018 www.parentingnh.com 7

I want that COMPILED BY MELANIE HITCHCOCK

No more tying shoes BILLY Footwear is ideal for children, especially those with autism and sensory issues. Created by an individual who is paralyzed, they are perfect for those with special needs who might not be able to tie shoes. Zippers run along the side of the shoes and around the toe, allowing the upper portion of each shoe to open and fold over completely. Choose from many styles and colors.

Available at Zappos.com and Nordstrom; prices vary

All flavor, no guilt The Black+Decker PuriFry Air Fryer cuts out the oil to give you crispy food without the added fat. A pair of powerful convection fans surrounds food with heated air to cook all of your favorite fried delights quickly and evenly. The basket can hold about 8 cups of food, making it easy to fry up a main dish for the whole family. Available in black and white.

Available at Amazon, Macy’s and Bed Bath & Beyond; $99

Hydrate your sick baby BabyComfy Hydrator is a simple solution to keep sick kids hydrated. The Hydrator combines the best of a sippy cup with a syringe and is a much smarter alternative to handing a cup to a child who is ill or lethargic. Use with water or electrolyte rehydration fluids.

Play this at your next family game night Utter Nonsense was created by an adult brother and sister who were tired of seeing their nieces and nephews staring at screens and gadgets. Utter Nonsense contains 50 accent cards and 450 phrase cards that players combine and act out. You don’t have to be good at accents and the combinations don’t need to make sense. Players are encouraged to improvise and make the phrases their own.

Available at www.utternonsensegame.com; $24.99

Available at Walgreens and Amazon; $9.99

Earth Day fun What decays faster—a banana peel or a Styrofoam cup? Find out with the only transparent composting kit designed just for kids. Nancy B’s Science Club Garbage to Gardens Compost Kit includes a 22-page activity journal. A fun introduction to life cycles and environmental science. For ages 8-12.

Available at www.educationalinsights.com; $24.99

8 www.parentingnh.com april 2018

CAMP Open to girls in Grades K-12.

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Camp CenterStage is a 12-day overnight camp for girls & boys ages 8 – 17 exploring Music, Theater, Dance & Leadership Skills through the Arts.

Day Camps Camp Kettleford—Bedford, NH Camp Seawood—Portsmouth, NH Camp Whispering Pines—Meredith, NH

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Kids score big with

ockey is synonymous with New Hampshire. Whether it’s a homemade rink on Atkinson’s Big Island Pond, or one of the elite team training centers throughout the Granite State, hockey — and its fans— exude a passion truly worthy of the Live Free or Die mantra.

For the 2016-17 season, USA Hockey logged 637,744 players, coaches and officials—a 2.32 percent increase from the previous year. Fueling this growth was advancing interest from the eight and under (U8) age group that has seen a steady increase in the four years prior. U8 player registrations reached 115,694, the highest total in USA Hockey’s 80-year history.

In the same year, New Hampshire’s youth hockey

10 www.parentingnh.com april 2018

statistics mirrored national progress. U8s increased by 109—up 7.3 percent to 1,612—with female participation hitting 350, a new record.

USA Hockey has growth down to a science As part of its plan to cultivate continued interest, USA Hockey launched the American Development Model (ADM) in 2009, a nationwide program for youth hockey associations based on age-specific competition that makes skill building, team-based fun and a love for the game its primary objectives.

At the heart of the ADM for U8s is a phenomenon called cross-ice, which is played on a rink

85 feet in length versus the full ice standard of 200 feet.

The cross-ice concept was developed more than 40 years ago from a 60-minute game study with six-to-eight year olds, conducted by Canadian ice hockey legend George Kingston.

Kingston found that on full ice kids had fewer puck touches (some none at all), possessions and playing time. They wasted effort and precious seconds during line shifting, and took fewer shots on goal. He concluded that full ice could actually inhibit player interest, development and retention.

According to USA Hockey’s ADM website, “Ageappropriate, age-specific programming promotes

cross-ice hockey More play time and puck

goals h c a re rs e y la p lp e h s touche

on and off the ice

By Jessica Ann Morris

the integration of high-performance cross-ice practices and games into youth hockey. This programming enhances players’ skills, creativity and participation level, while also creating a positive environment for every child to play, excel and reach their full potential.”

Cross-ice and the NH hockey scene Many New Hampshire youth associations support the cross-ice methodology and are launching teams to give kids the best head start possible on their hockey careers.

The Manchester Flames, with a 50-plus year history, is one of the state’s largest hockey organizations. Unwavering enthusiasm and dedication from Bedford’s Remy McTighe Fromm, a 33-year old father of four and regional sales manager for Boston Beer Company serving as this year’s head coach of The Flames cross-ice team, has helped increase area

demand. Next season, The Flames will offer three teams, instead of one.

“Cross-ice enables kids to more quickly, and correctly, advance skills through increased puck touches, shots and passing; greater front-line involvement by way of puck battles and directional changes; and most importantly, more ice time,” said Coach Remy, who also serves as The Flames’ director of recreation, which covers Learn to Skate/Play programs, as well as U8/U12 leagues. “Cross-ice hockey allows kids to be more involved in every aspect of every shift, throughout each game, because of the smaller rink size.”

Having started hockey at age six while growing up in Grosse Pointe, Mich., Coach Remy continues to play competitively. He feels blessed to have his son, Remy McTighe Fromm, Jr., a second-grader at Riddle Brook Elementary School, playing ice hockey, too.

“I didn’t know cross-ice was available until we joined The Flames family,” Coach Remy said. “With cross-ice, I saw Remy Jr., and every other child on the team, advance basic skills that players need—skating, stick handling, shooting and passing—while having a ton of fun. The Flames is a way for Remy Jr. and I to

april 2018 www.parentingnh.com 11

Courtesy usahockey.com

bond through a common love for hockey, like it was for my father and I, and I hope that Lida (6), William (3) and Marnie (3) want to play, someday.”

The benefits of cross-ice Coach Remy is spot-on in terms of the returns that cross-ice hockey provides. The cross-ice approach is a hat trick in and of itself, by proving that less space allows each child to have more opportunities to develop skills, players and families to be more involved, and costs to be streamlined as multiple teams can share ice time.

Andrea Tarr of New Boston, director of the premier women’s hockey club, the New England Wildcats, is also in favor of cross-ice.

Having played hockey as a child, through prep school and at Northeastern, Andrea has coached U8 through college players for eight years. Her son Jake, 14, plays for the NH Jr. Monarchs, and daughter Kate, 9, for the New England Wildcats. Both played cross-ice and have successfully transitioned to full.

Coach Andrea recalls that some were hesitant to adopt the cross-ice model when first introduced through the ADM, but has since seen positive acceptance. For Jake and Kate, as well as players she has on her teams, Coach Andrea believes cross-ice makes a significant difference in their skill development.

“I found that all of my kids who played cross-ice like to have the puck, never slap it away and show early confidence,” she said.

“Cross-ice also levels ‘the playing field,’ so a child’s size becomes less of a factor. It shrinks the ice surface, like we do in other youth sports, as a full sheet of ice for small legs seems giant. They spend more time going back and forth chasing the puck instead of really playing the game.”

Michelle Lucier, clinical liaison for a pharmaceutical company, and an Ottawa native, is also a proponent of the cross-ice methodology. She has been a hockey player since age five and excelled to the Junior Canadian women’s team, as well as achieved

12 www.parentingnh.com april 2018

Captain status during her University of New Hampshire hockey career, for which she was on full athletic scholarship.

Michelle’s daughter, Avery, 7, plays crossice this year for The Flames. Her twin boys, Tristan and Calen, 9, also played cross-ice, and have easily made the transition to the full ice Flames Squirt Minor 1 team.

“Cross-ice is the best for a child’s development because of the smaller ice surface that allows them to have more chances to touch the puck and actually be involved in the play,” said Michelle. “At a younger age, it’s a faster game than if the kids were on full ice. They’re working on all types of skills, rather than chasing the puck, or skating after the few kids who are really good. Crossice keeps kids engaged and builds their confidence.”

Hockey teaches invaluable lessons on and off the ice Cara Douville Kaupp MD, a local pediatrician and mother of four, watched her sons’

love for ice hockey develop from when they used to skate on a friend’s backyard rink.

Now, Trevor, 8, is playing with The Flames cross-ice team.

“We’ve been blown away by the progress Trevor has made this season: the size of the cross-ice rink is a much better fit for kids his age, as they spend more time learning to handle the puck and less time skating long distances,” said Cara. “I wish that Brendan, our 10-year-old, who plays U12 for The FLAMES, had the same cross-ice opportunity.

For both of them, hockey has been a terrific way to learn about hard work, persistence and being part of a team, which are all helpful skills to have in life.”

Michelle agrees about the impact youth hockey has on children and their families.

“Hockey helps kids learn about resilience, teamwork and respect, while making friendships that’ll last a lifetime.”

Coach Remy appreciates that families involved with The Flames feel strongly about developing character just as much as setting

FOR MORE INFORMATION USA Hockey: www.usahockey.com American Development Model : www.admkids.com Manchester Flames (Manchester Regional Youth Hockey): www.mryha.org

Photographs by Kendal J. Bush

the foundation for good hockey skills.

“Hockey can be a challenging sport for parents: it’s costly, the season is long and the schedule is tight — but they know that hockey is more than just great exercise; it’s preparing kids for the rest of their lives,” he said. “Hockey requires kids to think about offense and defense, teaches them how to win and lose gracefully, and helps them learn what it means to trust your teammates and coaches.”

Coach Remy, almost unable to hold back the emotion he feels about hockey, his teams, the parents, and The Flames organization itself, shared an example of how he believes cross-ice hockey relates to life.

“Cross-ice allows players, on average, two times the opportunity for puck touches. Imagine if, in

Remy McTighe Fromm (left), this year’s coach of the Manchester Flames talks with his players. Cara Kaupp (above) helps her son Trevor with his skates. Michelle Lucier (below) with daughter Avery, who was captain of the women’s hockey team at UNH, is a proponent of the cross-ice methodology.

life, we had a second chance to go back to a situation that we could, or should, have handled differently?

We’re talking about fostering better people, with greater insight, who will be poised for success now and in the future. It’s an honor to, perhaps, be a small part of that meaningful development for such a great group of kids.”

In the notable words of “The Great One,” Wayne Gretzky, who spent 20 years in the National Hockey League amazing sports fans across the globe, “You miss 100 percent of the shots you don’t take.”

Jessica Ann Morris is managing director of jam:pr, a strategic communications firm providing PR and writing services. Convinced she was a Jedi in a former life, Jessica is happily married to a Han-Solo look alike and lives in NH with their four Padawans and two Wookies.

april 2018 www.parentingnh.com 13

S P EC IAL ADVE RTIS I NG S EC TION

Featured Preschools and Early Education Centers BLUE HERON SCHOOL AT SQUAM LAKES NATURAL SCIENCE CENTER 23 Science Center Road Holderness 968-7194 www.nhnature.org BRIGHT HORIZONS AT BEDFORD 54 Constitution Drive Bedford 472-5451 BRIGHT HORIZONS AT TIMBERLAND 200 Domain Drive Stratham 773-1260 www.brighthorizons.com

CHILDREN’S WINTER GARDEN WITH WHITE WING SCHOOL 58 Lowell Street Nashua 882-1041 www.cwg-wws.org CORNERSTONE SCHOOL, THE 146 High Street Stratham 772-4349 www.cornerstoneschool.org CREATIVE KIDS PRESCHOOL @ BYPC 155 Route 101 Bedford 472-3894 www.bypc.org

FLEDGLINGS NATURE-BASED PRESCHOOL AT PRESCOTT FARM 928 White Oaks Road Laconia 366-5695 www.prescottfarm.org

LEAP PRESCHOOL 80 Clinton Street Concord 717-8932 www.tbcnh.org/leap/ LEARNING ADVENTURES ECC 51 Old Bedford Road Bedford 669-2811 www.learningadventuresnh.com

HOLLIS ACADEMY FOR CHILDREN 4A Market Place Hollis 465-7005 www.hollisacademy.net

LITTLE EINSTEINS PRESCHOOL LEARNING CENTER, LLC 199 Route 101 Amherst 673-3022 www.littleeinsteins.us

IMMANUEL CHRISTIAN PRESCHOOL 673 Weston Road Manchester 622-0309 www.immanuel-mnh.org

C ONT I N U E D ON PAG E 16

Seacoast Waldorf School’s early childhood

programs center on creative play as preparation for school. Our school day has a gentle rhythm — with time for drawing, painting, beeswax modeling, storytelling, and puppetry. We foster curiosity, enthusiasm,wonder, respect, and reverence for the natural world.

Year-round quality care for infants through preschool with a full-time Program Nurse!

seacoastwaldorfschool.org 207-686-3140 • Call for a tour

Now enrolling for summer and fall 2018!

Ask about our expanded infant/toddler programs!

Nancy Pynchon, Director npynchon@rivier.edu www.rivier.edu/ecc (603) 897-8240

6

St. Joseph Preschool

Sifting, sorting, and exploring at the sand table!

“SJRCS Preschool has upheld all of my high expectations...where children are seen as individuals and are truly loved.” —Charlene C. Michaud-Petty Preschool Parent / St. Joe’s Class of ‘99

Preschool & Kindergarten Open House Saturday May 19, 2018 9:00am - 11:00am

#welovestjoes

St. Joseph Regional Catholic School • 40 Main Street • Salem, NH One mile from Exit 2 off Interstate 93

603-893-6811 • www.stjosepheagles.org • info@sjrcs.com

14 www.parentingnh.com april 2018

An arts and sciences preschool “The exposure to the creative elements including both music and dance through kindergarten age is something so unique and so enjoyed by the students. No other preschool program in the area offers this type of opportunity.”

– Meg Duhaime, parent

Visit creativekidsnh.org or 603-472-3894 155 Route 101, Bedford, NH

Music, Dance, Theatre, Preschool

BYPC.org

april 2018 www.parentingnh.com 15

S P E C I AL A DV E RTI S I N G S E C T I O N

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Featured Preschools and Early Education Centers ( ) CONTINUED

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Developmental curriculum for the young child in a Christian Register environment since 1974.

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883-4356 • Call For Openings Now Accepting Early Admission to Kindergarten

MANCHESTER COMMUNITY COLLEGE CHILD DEVELOPMENT CENTER 1066 Front Street Manchester 206-8098 www.mccnh.edu/cdc MERRILL JOHNSON EARLY CHILDHOOD PROGRAM 198 Londonderry Tpke.

Hooksett 935-8260 www.facebook.com/MerrillJohnson-Early-ChildhoodProgram-114429545243407/ MERRIMACK Y 6 Henry Clay Drive Merrimack 881-7778 www.nmymca.org NASHUA CHILD LEARNING CENTER 5 Saint Laurent Street Nashua 883-4356 www.nclckids.org

NAMASTE MONTESSORI SCHOOL 533 Mast Road Goffstown 627-3503 www.namastemontessori.net PINE HILL AT HIGH MOWING SCHOOL 77 Pine Hill Drive Wilton 654-6003 wwwpinehill.org PORTSMOUTH CHRISTIAN ACADEMY 20 Seaborne Drive Dover 742-3617 www.pcaschool.org RED OAK MONTESSORI SCHOOL 241 Sanborn Street, Franklin 934-1002 www.redoakmontessori.org

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Childhood at Its Best

EDUCATION AT ITS FINEST

MONTESSORI EDUCATION AT ITS FINEST

hool has ostering te desire

am, NH, ation for rs and a es them

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22 www.parentingnh.com april 2018

contents 26 Tick, tick, tick 30 Why are teens

eating laundry pods?

34 When your child

38 Helping your child

grieve the loss of a loved one 40 Don't skip breakfast!

can't breathe

april 2018 www.parentingnh.com 23

NEW HAMPSHIRE PRESIDENT/PUBLISHER:

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Where heart meets health.

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Melanie Hitchcock, x5157 editor@parentingnh.com GROUP ADVERTISING SALES DIRECTOR:

Kimberly Lencki, x5154 klencki@mcleancommunications.com CREATIVE SERVICES DIRECTOR:

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Barbara Gallaher, x5156 bgallaher@parentingnh.com Debbie Birch, x5133 dbirch@parentingnh.com OFFICE MANAGER:

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©2018 MCLEAN COMMUNICATIONS, LLC

Parenting New Hampshire Magazine® is published by McLean Communications, 150 Dow St., Manchester, NH 03101, (603) 624-1442. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without the written permission of the publisher is prohibited. The publisher assumes no responsibility for any mistakes in advertisements or editorial. Statements/opinions expressed herein do not necessarily reflect or represent those of this publication or its officers. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in this publication, McLean Communications, LLC.: Parenting New Hampshire Magazine disclaims all responsibility for omission and errors.

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editor’s note Spring into good health and a fun summer Welcome to the spring/summer 2018 edition of Healthy Families, our 22-page special section dedicated to providing you with information about keeping your family healthy.

In this edition, we discuss some of the reasons why teens engage in social media dares like the Tide Pod challenge, talk about how to prevent tick bites and what to do if you get bit, and explore the subject of childhood asthma and how to treat it. We also tell you where you can get a healthy and delicious breakfast on the go in the Granite State and you’ll meet author and school counselor Lisa Oliver, who has written a book on how to talk to children about death.

Parenting New Hampshire Magazine is the only and best source of information for parents and families throughout the state. More than 20,000 copies are distributed to hundreds of locations including supermarkets statewide. We also publish four annual publications: Family Resource Book, Family Summer Fun Guide, NH Next: Your Guide to Life After High School and Stepping Stones NH: A guidebook for people with disabilities, their families and the professionals who support them.

For web-exclusive content, check us out at www.parentingnh.com.

— Melanie Hitchcock, Editor

our sponsor Dartmouth-Hitchcock and Children’s Hospital at DartmouthHitchcock (CHaD) are proud to sponsor this Healthy Families issue.

After all, the health of children and families is what we’re all about.

DARTMOUTH-HITCHCOCK (D-H) is a nonprofit academic health system serving communities in northern New England. D-H provides access to more than 1,000 primary care doctors and specialists in almost every area of medicine at Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, the Norris Cotton Cancer Center, the Children’s Hospital at Dartmouth-Hitchcock, four affiliate hospitals, 24 ambulatory clinics, and through the Visiting Nurse and Hospice for VT and NH. The D-H system trains nearly 400 residents and fellows annually, and performs world-class research, in partnership with the Audrey and Theodor Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth and the White River Junction VA Medical Center.

ABOUT CHaD: As New Hampshire's only children's hospital, the Children's Hospital at Dartmouth-Hitchcock (CHaD) is committed to providing outstanding compassionate care for children and their families. Their physician expertise provides primary, specialty, and tertiary care to the children of New Hampshire, Vermont, and beyond, as northern New England's children's hospital. CHaD offers both inpatient and outpatient services at Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center in Lebanon, NH. Outpatient and same day surgery services are available through CHaD at DartmouthHitchcock Manchester, and outpatient pediatric specialties are available in Exeter and at Wentworth-Douglass Hospital, Dover. Pediatric primary care is available at Dartmouth-Hitchcock facilities in Bedford, Concord, Keene, Lebanon, Manchester, Nashua, New London, NH, and in Bennington, VT.

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april 2018 www.parentingnh.com 25

Tick, tick, tick Don’t waste time — tick prevention starts now so you can avoid illness

By Melanie Plenda

A

t the first sign of blooms, many of us are itching to get outside and into nature.

HOW TO REMOVE A TICK 1. Use fine-tipped tweezers to grasp the tick as close to the skin's surface as possible.

2. Pull upward with steady, even pressure. Don't twist or jerk the tick; this can cause the mouth parts to break off and remain in the skin. If this happens, remove the mouth parts with tweezers. If you are unable to remove the mouth easily with clean tweezers, leave it alone and let the skin heal.

3. After removing the tick, thoroughly clean the bite area and your hands with rubbing alcohol, an iodine scrub, or soap and water.

4. Dispose of a live tick by submersing it in alcohol, placing it in a sealed bag/container, wrapping it tightly in tape, or flushing it down the toilet. Never crush a tick with your fingers.

Courtesy of www.tickfreenh.org

26 www.parentingnh.com april 2018

But it’s not just winter-weary humans looking to make the most of spring days; another critter is also ready to get out and get feeding: ticks.

While we in New Hampshire are blessed with an embarrassment of riches when it comes to natural beauty and resources, we also are lousy with ticks – blacklegged deer ticks to be precise, just the kind that can carry a host of diseases. In New Hampshire that includes Lyme disease, anaplasmosis, babesiosis, Borrelia miyamotoi, and Powassan virus. Ticks in surrounding New England states have also been known to carry ehrlichiosis, tularemia and Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever.

While that fact alone might be enough to scare you back into hibernation, it shouldn’t, said Abigail A. Mathewson, Surveillance Epidemiology Program Manager with the state Department of Health and Human Services.

Not every tick is infected and not every bite leads to disease, Mathewson said. In fact, a little bit of preparation and a healthy dose of vigilance, she said, can keep the whole family healthy, happy and enjoying the outdoors, even during tick season.

First, some data. In New Hampshire in 2016, there were 1,480 reported cases of Lyme disease. (Lyme disease data for 2017 was not yet available, but Mathewson said it’s expected to be similar to previous years.) According to DHHS data, incidents of other tick-borne diseases have increased over the past several years. Incidents of anaplasmosis, a bacterial disease, for example, went from 91 in 2013 to 306 in 2017. Further, incidents of babesiosis, a parasitic disease that infects cells similarly to malaria, went from 23 to 71 over that same period. (There was only one reported incident of Powassan, a viral disease, and no data was available for Borrelia miyamotoi, a bacterial disease.)

Each of the tick-borne diseases can lead to serious illness and in some cases death if left untreated. In the early stages, when there are symptoms, they are usually flu-like and include chills, fever and fatigue. In the case of Lyme, a person bitten by an infected tick may develop what is called an erythema migrans rash, more commonly known as a “bullseye” rash that expands over time.

By far, the biggest concern in New Hampshire is Lyme disease.

According to DHHS data, depending on the county you’re in, anywhere from 41 percent to 85 percent of blacklegged ticks you encounter can carry Lyme disease, with the average falling somewhere around 60 percent.

What that means, Mathewson said, is “If you happen to get bitten by a tick, you should remove it properly as soon as possible.

Then wash the site of the bite and surrounding area.”

How the tick gets infected According to DHHS, blacklegged ticks have four life stages: eggs, larvae, nymphs and adults. The pathogens that cause the disease, however, use rodents, such as white-footed mice and chipmunks, as “reservoir hosts”, or hosts that are the source of the bacteria, parasite, or virus in the environment, Mathewson said. Some may use other animals as well, such as robins.

“In their immature stages,” Mathewson said, “black-legged ticks will feed upon these smaller animals and pick up pathogens while they are feeding. Black-legged ticks use the white-tailed deer as their ‘reproductive host’, or the host that they mate and feed on to ensure success of the next generation.”

People usually get bitten by blacklegged tick nymphs. They are very small, and can get overlooked. They are most active in the late spring to summer months (usually May through August), according to DHHS. However, Mathewson cautions, “The black-legged tick will become active and quest (search) for a host when the temperatures get above 40 F. This means that you can see ticks out looking for a host during the winter months on a mild day, if they are not covered by snow.”

Prevention A tick habitat is typically anywhere there is tall grass or brush, which means they can be found in the woods as well as in more urban and suburban areas. Clearing brush and dead leaves and keeping tall grass away from your home are good ways to prevent hosts from wanting to spend time there, Mathewson said.

As for getting ready to head out into the wild, to avoid getting bitten Mathewson recommends wearing an EPA registered repellent, such as DEET. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, products that contain DEET can be used by and are safe for children older than two months.

Parents should be careful not to get the repellent on any part

the child may put in his or her mouth.

For those younger than 2 months, Mathewson recommends using a mosquito net over a carrier or stroller to keep ticks out.

Another thing Mathewson recommends is treating clothing with permethrin. She said while the DEET repels most ticks, the permethrin will actually kill any ticks that make it onto your clothing.

Furthermore, she said wearing long sleeves tucked into your pants and long pants tucked into your socks will prevent a tick from finding a place to bite before you notice it. She also recommends wearing light-colored clothing and avoiding brushy areas/tick habitat.

But even with all of that, it is still important to do a tick check daily, more often if you are out in tick habitat. Mathewson said she started teaching her kids at a young age how to check in between toes, fingers and in hair to try to spot ticks. These days, while they are still young, it’s sort of a game where the whole family takes turns checking for ticks.

Mathewson stresses that because the nymphs are so small and because they like dark, protected places, it’s important to check everywhere and often.

Treatment Talbot said that most of the tick-borne diseases have similar signs and symptoms including fever, chills, muscle aches and then sometimes a rash.

Mathewson said that the time a tick needs to be attached to infect a person varies widely. If you find a tick and develop a bullseye rash or come down with flu-like symptoms, see a doctor right away.

Talbot said treatment for each tick-borne disease varies, but most are treated with an antibiotic or a combination of antibiotics and other drugs. Powassan does not have any known treatment, according to DHHS. Talbot said that these treatments are very effective, but people can get re-infected via a new tick bite and a small number of patients can have lingering post-treatment symptoms, such as fatigue and just not feeling like themselves.

Talbot also said that for anyone 8 and older who has had a tick attached for at least 36 hours, a doctor can give a prophylactic dose of doxycycline within 72 hours of removing the tick.

At the end of the day, though, Talbot said the best course of action when it comes to ticks in New Hampshire is prevention.

“There’s so much that can be done to prevent tick bites,” she said. “The methods to prevent tick bites are not necessarily easy or sexy, but they are effective.”

TEACH YOUNGER KIDS ABOUT TICKS Go to www.tickfreenh.org for a free copy of Tick Free NH’s tick workbook for kids. The NH Tick Detective Workbook for Kids is full of education and activities for first— through fourth-graders. Kids can learn how to identify and protect themselves from tick encounters.

FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT TICKS, PREVENTION, REPELLANTS AND TICK REMOVAL Tick Free NH: www.tickfreenh.org NH Dept. of Health and Human Services (Division of Public Health Services): www.dhhs.nh.gov/dphs Environmental Protection Agency (EPA): www.epa.gov UNH Cooperative Extension: www.extension.unh.edu/ resource

Melanie Plenda is a longtime contributor to PNH.

april 2018 www.parentingnh.com 27

ADvErTISEMENT

Doctor’s Orders: Treat Yourself

By The Women At Garrison Women’s Health

T

he busy mom juggles a variety Take your pregnancy of roles: mother, daughter, sister, day by day coworker, friend, and wife. She has a Pregnant women experience a variety number of obligations, including (but not of emotions and can endure many limited to) managing finances, excelling challenges—stress, exhaustion, and the in her career, running errands, taking virtually impossible task of finding a classes, and juggling the family’s robust comfortable sleeping position. Janet, an schedule. She gets home after a long OB/GYN, explains, growing a human beday and leaves her problems at the door. ing is hard work! If you were to pick up a There is no one else in the world who two-liter bottle of water, that heavy object can balance life’s many obstacles quite represents the amount of extra blood like her. To be a caring and compassionpregnant women carry around during ate mother and human being takes an pregnancy. Just blood alone! Imagine all inspiring level of strength. the other changes that are happening.

Garrison Women’s Health, an OB/ Janet recommends that new mothers GYN practice located in Dover, New do their best to enjoy pregnancy and Hampshire, helps women live their live in the moment. Whether you are best lives. Team members Kristin, Janet, expecting your first child or your fourth, From left to right: Dr. Janet Perkins; Sue Letourneau, rTrM, CDT; Dr. Kristin Yates; Tracey Simmers Tracey, and Sue are busy moms, too—and life will never be the same. The process can they’ve been through it before. It’s easy to get caught be painful, uncomfortable, and exhausting—but take time a general undertone suggesting that these women’s up in motherhood and forget to care for yourself. And to enjoy life as it is, so you can prepare for the wonderful lives are complex. Pushing back medical appointments for women experiencing this challenge, they have changes to come. Don’t be hard on yourself if you can’t is not uncommon—having to balance being a mother, some advice. do simple tasks as quickly when you are pregnant. daughter, and spouse is a lot. But, when her patients arrive and enter the appointment room, Kristin notices a Take time for yourself Care for your family, but not at your visible sense of relief.

As Tracey, Garrison’s practice administrator, explains, As uncomfortable as a gynecologist appointment can own expense a physician is there to offer guidance and provide Motherhood is a remarkable gift; the greatest job be, the visit gives women the opportunity and space to women with the means to navigate life’s everyday stress- address their health. Kristin stresses the importance of in the world. However, it’s often full of sleepless nights, ors. It is important to allocate time for yoga, massages, endless loads of laundry, and a calendar full of scheduled investing in your mind, body, and soul. therapy, proper nutrition—whatever it takes to improve a activities. Many moms selflessly balance their careers—sipatient’s quality of life. multaneously maintaining a household, caring for their Get that yearly mammogram As a mother herself, Tracey strongly encourages children, and dedicating time to their cherished relationSue has been a mammographer at Garrison for 32 getting in the habit of making time for you. Engage ships. An “I love you, Mom” at the end of the day makes years. She specializes in 3D Mammography—an innovain physical activities, treat yourself to a spa service, or waking up the next morning to do it all over again worth tive technology that provides radiologists with a more even splurge on a new outfit. Eat when you’re hungry it. It doesn’t change the fact that their needs are too often detailed view of the breast tissue. Mammograms can and rest when you’re tired. Neglecting your needs put on the back burner. Whether an annual gynecologist detect abnormalities before symptoms arise. will limit your ability to provide the best care for those appointment is pushed back another year, or a gym class Breast cancer could begin forming as early as the around you. is missed once again, moms tend to put themselves last. day after you get a mammogram, so skipping your At Garrison, we are women caring for women. We annual appointment is risky. Sue advises that mamDon’t skip your gynecologist want mothers to take strides in dedicating time for mograms should be conducted on a yearly basis once appointment themselves, living every day to the fullest, and most ima woman turns forty. Having a family history of breast Kristin, an OB/GYN at Garrison, sees patients at all portantly, taking charge of their health. When your mind, cancer can alter that schedule. Family history is not the stages of life, including adolescence, pregnancy, and body, and soul are taken care of, too… motherhood is only indicator of breast cancer—just being a woman menopause. When visiting with her patients, she notices that much sweeter. puts you at risk.

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28 www.parentingnh.com april 2018

Garrison Women’s Health is a community-based health center that serves women in Dover, New Hampshire, and the surrounding area. Founded in 1962, Garrison has been supporting women with excellence and compassion by providing obstetrics, gynecology, incontinence, and infertility services to the New Hampshire Seacoast region for more than 50 years.

Keeping Kids Healthy for Over 35 Years!

LEFT TO RIGHT: Mary B. Shupe, MPH, APRN, CPNP • Rochelle Heit, MD, FAAP Catherine Leighton, APRN, CPNP • Sharon VanTuil, MD, FAAP Helen Poremba, MD, FAAP • Martin Schwartzberg, MD, FAAP PHOTO BY: KENDALL J. BUSH PHOTOGRAPHY

Put Your Child’s Care in our Hands

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Our experienced We have been boardbeencertified pediatricians pediatric and dedicated provide qualityfor carechildren for newborns, children andOur experienced providing healthstaff care services for infants, over 35 years. adolescents in a sensitive and supportive manner. New patients are welcome and and same dedicated staff provide quality care for newborns, infants, children and day appointments are generally available.

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april 2018 www.parentingnh.com 29

Why are teens As kids are further isolated, internet challenges help them connect and feel like part of something larger

By Melanie Plenda

A

baby-faced boy with glasses stands in front of a camera smiling. Within seconds, he pops a brightly colored plastic pod in his mouth and bites down. As bluish goo oozes from his mouth and gives way to foam, his face contorts into a grimace. He looks like he’s going to be sick as he spits and coughs. The comment written across his video reads, “They doubted me.”

The Tide Pod challenge, which encourages kids and teens to film themselves eating laundry detergent pods and post the video online, is just one of many potentially dangerous “challenges” issued via the internet by kids and teens looking for likes and acceptance.

While some, like the mannequin challenge (kids record themselves standing still like mannequins while the song “Black Beatles” by Rae Sremmurd plays in the background) and the ice bucket challenge from a few years ago, are fairly innocuous and silly, many like the hot stove coil challenge (which encourages kids to put their bare arms on hot stove coils) and the Tide pod challenge, can have long-lasting consequences and may even be deadly.

Laundry pods contain highly concentrated levels of caustic cleaning chemicals including hydrogen peroxide, ethanol and a cocktail of toxic polymer detergents. Ingesting these chemicals can lead to seizure, pulmonary edema, respiratory arrest, coma, and even death, according to a warning issued by the American Association of Poison Control Centers.

30 www.parentingnh.com april 2018

“We cannot stress enough how dangerous this is to the health of individuals,” wrote the AAPPC in a statement on the Tide Pod challenge earlier this year.

The group was so concerned that it issued no less than three public warnings about the challenge between January and February.

According to their statement, since Tide introduced these pods in 2012, poison control centers across the country have received more than “50,000 calls relating to liquid laundry packet exposures.”

Up until this year, the AAPPC said, the pods had caused 10 deaths. Of those the majority were children younger than five and a couple were elderly people suffering from dementia.

According to a statement issued by the AAPPC in January, “in 2016 and 2017, poison control centers handled 39 and 53 cases of intentional exposures, respectively, among 13- to 19-year olds.

“In the first 15 days of 2018 alone, centers have already handled 39 such intentional cases among the same age demographic. Ingestion accounted for 91 percent of these reported exposures.”

By late February, that number had jumped to 86 cases among the same age group.

As of this writing, no deaths had been reported as a result of the challenge and YouTube had started taking the videos down. But that’s not to say they aren’t still out there.

But why?

A quick Google search by any of these tech-savvy kids would have produced enough warnings to keep most people from trying to eat a laundry pod no matter how much it looks like candy. And yet, many did it, filmed it, put it online and

passed those videos on until they went viral.

So then why are teens doing this?

“It is important to put these behaviors into a developmental context,” said Nicholas Mian, assistant professor of psychology at the University of New Hampshire and UNH-Manchester. “In middle school, kids naturally scramble to establish a social hierarchy – that’s why bullying behavior peaks during this time. In high school, the influence of peers becomes extremely important as kids work toward creating social networks, identities and romantic partners.

“Hence, these kids are constantly tuned-in with what others are doing and trying to keep up. In the last decade or so, this has shifted to being largely achieved through social media, and these challenges are perfect for that kind of dissemination.”

Lawrence A. Welkowitz, professor of psychology at Keene State College, said almost as important as asking why, it’s important to ask what is the reinforcement? What is the teen is getting out of eating a Tide Pod? Welkowitz said it’s much more than getting attention. It’s about the teen feeling like he or she “has the opportunity to be part of something much larger – a cultural trend; something that connects them to something larger.”

This idea may be at the heart of why these video challenges hold so much sway. This generation of kids is much more isolated than teens were even 10 or 15 years ago, says William R. Hughen, district director of school counseling for the Hudson School District.

“Teen pregnancy, alcohol and drug use is on a steep decline over the last 10 years,” he said, “but isolation, depression and suicide are on a sharp increase because kids are not going out as much. They are staying home and they are

eating laundry

pods?

trying to find ways to socialize and make their place in the world, but they are doing it in isolation, so it’s, ‘what can I do on camera that’s funny, that will make me popular that shows that I’m not some nerd, that I want to take a risk.”

Hughen said they likely aren’t thinking of the consequences, partly because they don’t see the result of these online challenges. They don’t see the person going to the hospital or getting violently ill in most cases.

But even if they did, it’s not a given that this would make a difference.

“It is likely that kids do understand that there is some risk, that is what makes the challenge exciting and appealing,” Mian said. “But their understanding of the risk is probably more limited to the immediate effect of the challenge rather than long-term consequences.

Their inability to understand the long-term consequences stems in part from the fact that the pre-frontal cortex, the part of the brain associated with planning and judgment, is not fully developed until adulthood.”

This is the part of the brain that helps us organize, plan and provides a simulation of the future, Welkowitz said.

“If someone says ‘I’d like you to try hot dog and onion ice cream‘,” he says, “your future simulator says, ‘gross, no thank you.’ That’s not developed in children. They are at higher risk.”

While kids and teens have always tried silly and sometimes dangerous stunts, we are at a place where they can see and get recognition by potentially tens and hundreds of thousands of their peers for pulling these stunts. More outrageous, more dangerous equals more clicks and likes. But parents can try to counteract the pull of these challenges.

What can I do?

First, talk to your kids, said Hughen. Ask them if they’ve heard of these challenges – do they know anyone who’s tried them and what do they think of them? Then, Hughen said, explain that your expectation is they will not do this behavior because it’s dangerous and could be fatal.

Hughen said with his teenage son, he’s created times to talk whenever he gets a chance.

For example, he does homework with his son and does not allow his son to use his cell phone in the car on their way to and from places so that they can to talk to each other.

Hughen even created a challenge that he and his son could do together. Every Saturday they would go to a new restaurant searching for the best pancakes in the area. They even took pictures of the pancakes and posted them to their social media accounts.

He said this got his son interested and excited about going out on a Saturday morning, and it also gave them a chance just to talk to each other.

Hughen said another great way parents can help their kids is to set time limits on their technology—including utilizing software that allows a parent to turn off the child’s access to the internet after a certain time. And possibly even more importantly, he said, is to get them into activities that get them out of the house and socializing.

Mian said parents should not be afraid to monitor what their kids are doing online and said that talking openly about things like online challenges and the pressures to participate is very important.

“Keep in mind that many of these challenges are simply funny and not dangerous, so parents can talk with their kids about how to tell the difference,” Mian said.

“One thing to note is whether a child is being pressured by others to participate or if they are initiating it. If a parent is concerned about their own child’s participation, they can ask questions like ‘what will others think about you if they see this?’ or ‘what would happen if you didn’t do this?’ to learn about their child’s motivation and get them to think about their own motivation and the consequences of participating.”

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april 2018 www.parentingnh.com 31

ADvERtISEMENt

Are You At Risk for Adult Allergies?

By Amitha Harish, MD, and Amit Kumar, MD

M

aybe you sailed through childhood allergy-free. Or maybe you had some allergies as a kid, but you seemed to have outgrown them. In either case, and contrary to what many people believe, allergies can still crop up in your 20s, 30s, and beyond.

The immune system’s job is to fend off harmful invaders in the body, such as viruses and bacteria. With allergies, this process goes awry. Oversensitive immune systems react to substances that are normally harmless. This reaction is what causes your symptoms, which can include: • Runny or stuffy nose • Sneezing • Itchy nose, ears, or mouth • Red, watery, itchy eyes • Puffy eyelids • Coughing, wheezing, or chest tightness • Shortness of breath in people with asthma Be Aware of Your Risk Factors Allergy-prone kids may grow up into allergy-prone adults. But the nature of the problem often changes over time. For example, young children with food allergies or eczema may develop allergic rhinitis later in life. Some also go on to have asthma triggered by their allergies. Your allergy risk is also affected by potential triggers around you.

For example, getting a dog or cat might set off a pet allergy or moving into a new home might bring you into contact with allergycausing mold.

Don’t Let Allergies Fool You Many of the symptoms of allergic rhinitis are easy to mistake for a cold. Itchiness is one clue that an allergy might be the true cause.

Also, if your symptoms stick around for more than two weeks, that’s another sign you may have an allergy.

Concerned about Allergy Symptoms for you or your child?

Southern New Hampshire Asthma & Allergy is dedicated to taking care of children and adults with allergies, asthma and immunodeficiency.

We help patients of all ages enjoy active, healthy lives while managing allergies, asthma and related conditions. At our practice, you’ll find a friendly, warm office and a team of highly skilled physicians who are eager to help you understand your condition and develop a customized care plan.

We specialize in: • Asthma • Allergic Rhinitis • Food Allergens • Environmental Allergens • Insect Stings • Immunodeficiency • Atopic Dermatitis/Eczema • Drug Allergy • Urticaria/Hives

ARE FRUITS & VEGGIES MAKING YOUR MOUTH ITCHY? You may have oral allergy syndrome (OAS). OAS is an allergic reaction to fruits and vegetables that have similar proteins to certain pollens such as spring tree pollen (Birch), summer grass pollen (Timothy & Orchard) and fall weed pollen (Mugwort & Ragweed). SIGNS of OAS: Itching or swelling of the mouth, lip, tongue or throat.

Foods That Might Cause Oral Allergy Syndrome: • Spring trees: Apple, Apricot, Carrot, Celery, Cherry, Kiwi, Peach, Pear, Plum, Almond and Hazelnut • Summer grasses: Cantaloupe, Honeydew, Orange, Tomato, Watermelon • Fall weeds: Banana, Cantaloupe, Carrot, Celery, Cucumber, Honeydew, Peach, Watermelon, Zucchini Tips & Treatment: • Avoid raw foods that cross-react with your pollen allergens.

• Take oral antihistamine medications to relieve mild symptoms.

• Bake or cook foods to reduce the protein and eliminate the cross reaction.

• Eat canned fruits or vegetables during your pollen season.

• Peel the food, as the protein is often concentrated in the skin.

Call an allergist when OAS symptoms get worse or occur when eating nuts!

We pinpoint the right course of action and therapeutic approach, relying on the latest testing and screening methods to evaluate your condition. We work directly with your primary care provider (PCP), and when needed we collaborate with other specialists.

With Southern New Hampshire Health and Massachusetts General Hospital as our partners, you’ll receive the best care close to home.

Learn more or book an appointment online at snhasthmaallergy.org.

Amit Kumar, MD, is board certified in Allergy & Immunology and Internal Medicine.

He received his medical degree at SUNY Upstate Medical University and completed his residency at the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey – Robert Wood Johnson and fellowship at the Medical College of Wisconsin.

19 Tyler Street, Suite 104, Nashua, NH (603) 577-3065 | snhasthmaallergy.org

32 www.parentingnh.com april 2018

Amitha Harish, MD, is board certified in Internal Medicine and Allergy & Immunology. She received her medical degree at Albany Medical College and completed her residency at the University of Rochester Medical Center – Strong Memorial Hospital and fellowship at Mayo Clinic.

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When your child can’t breathe What parents need to know about preventing, managing and treating asthma By Mary Ellen Hettinger

M

y five-year-old, newly diagnosed with asthma, had an attack on a frigid, icy winter night.

His dad was out of town, his older sister was sleeping, and he was wheezing and coughing late at night.

He looked miserable. The medicine didn’t seem to be helping.

I propped him up in our bed and sat on the floor, por-

ing over a paperback from the doctor. Should we go to the emergency room? The book said cold and wind could aggravate asthma. Plus I’d have to wake his sister, get her bundled up, then brave slick hills. The ER nurse I spoke with couldn’t give me advice one way or the other. I felt so powerless.

What is asthma?

Asthma is a chronic lung disease that can be controlled with appropriate medical care.

Symptoms may include difficulty breathing or feeling short of breath, frequent coughing (typically first thing in the morning or at night), wheezing (a

ASTHMA IN THE GRANITE STATE More than 10% of Granite Staters have asthma 1 in 11 children have asthma (one of the highest rates in the U.S.) 1 in 2 children report missing at least 1 day of school each year due to asthma 34% of children report having “poorly controlled” or “not well controlled” asthma

34 www.parentingnh.com april 2018

Source: NH Asthma Control Program, State Asthma Plan 2015-2019

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whistling sound when breathing), tightness in the chest, shallow breathing or the inability to take a deep breath, even deep fatigue and frequent sighing.

Symptoms are caused by inflammation (swelling), when the airways tighten and become narrower in reaction to an inhaled substance, an allergen, or virus. Cells lining the airways may produce more mucus, making airways narrower.

Untreated, asthma can flare into a full-blown attack, which can be fatal. With symptoms that can escalate quickly, asthma is called the “silent killer.”

New Hampshire has one of the highest rates of asthma in the country. Why? According to Anna Carrigan, MSW, a health promotion advisor for the NH Asthma Control Program, one reason is our rich history. Being one of the original colonies means older housing stock, which means more dust and exposure to conditions which can exacerbate asthma, such as basements prone to dampness and mold.

Also, New England is what’s known as the “tailpipe of America,” meaning that winds from the west blow air pollution to the northeast, which can make air quality, and therefore asthma, worse, Carrigan said.

“Access to care, both physical and financial, can also contribute to higher asthma rates,” Carrigan said. “Asthma is a very expensive condition to treat, and access to consistent treatment and medications is important.”

Asthma can be controlled “It’s important parents know that the goal of treatment is to prevent symptoms, so controller medications are key for kids with persistent symptoms,” said Susanne Tanski, MD, a pediatrician at Children’s Hospital at Dartmouth-Hitchcock and associate professor of pediatrics at the Geisel School of Medicine.

“The hope is that they won’t need their ‘rescue’ medicine, because they are well controlled with the ‘controller’ medicines. If a child is doing well and not having cough/ wheeze, then it’s working!”

In the vast majority of cases, according to Tanski, asthma can be well-managed by a pediatrician or primary care provider.

“There certainly are kids who have a hard time getting control of their symptoms, and those kids would benefit from seeing a pulmonologist (lung specialist) or allergist (especially since some kids with asthma also have allergies),” she said.

There two most important things parents must know about a child with asthma, Albee Budnitz, MD, a pulmonologist and internal medicine specialist at Downtown Medical Associates/Foundation Medical Partners in Nashua, said: 1. Your child’s asthma triggers, and 2. Your child’s symptoms/signs that their asthma is getting out of control.

“Asthma remains essentially a syndrome, so each individual has to learn their specific disease’s symptoms and signs, so they can intervene with self-management and keep it under control.”

Asthma triggers Allergens – environmental, seasonal, animals and foods – can trigger an episode of asthma in vulnerable children. Potential triggers include: • Hay fever in the spring, ragweed and leaf mold in the fall, and cold air in the winter • Environmental (outdoors and indoors): wood and tobacco smoke; dust and dust mites, other pests such as cockroaches; chemicals such as cleaning products, paint, fragrances, aerosols, kerosene; mold which grows in damp basements; furry or feathered pets, hay or straw • Exercise. It’s important that kids stay active, but exercise (especially in the cold and wind, or conversely, on hot humid days) can trigger asthma.

• Sulfites in foods and beverages • Cold and flu According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, there is a clear link between secondhand smoke and asthma.

Children whose parents smoke also get sick more often, including bronchitis and pneumonia. Asthma can be trig-

FOR MORE INFORMATION Breathe NH: www.breathenh.org/asthma/what-is-asthma NH Asthma Collaborative: www.asthmanownh.org New Hampshire Asthma Control Program: www.dhhs.nh.gov Asthma Care for Kids: This “Asthma 101” program is offered by Breathe New Hampshire to child care providers, teachers, parents, and coaches to help them better understand asthma. Contact Breathe NH at 669-2411 to schedule a workshop in your community, child care center, or school.

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gered by secondhand smoke, and kids with asthma who are exposed to secondhand smoke have worse and more frequent asthma attacks.

On the front lines School nurses, child care providers, and coaches are on the front lines when children with asthma are away from home.

Kathy Barth, BSN, RN is the nurse for Crossroads Academy in Lyme, and is president-elect of the New Hampshire School Nurses’ Association. As part of the basic health questionnaire parents fill out when enrolling their child in school, or when an asthma diagnosis is made by a physician, the professional school nurse gets involved, Barth said.

The discussion includes a copy of the Asthma Action Plan from the physician, with instructions including prescriptions, and permission for inhaler use at school.

“In most cases, kids come down to the office and say they’re wheezing and need their inhaler. Depending on their age and maturity, older students can carry their own.” They need to know how and when to use it, understand that they shouldn’t share their medication, and, if they use it and don’t feel better, they should go to the school nurse.

For emergencies, Barth noted, the nurse’s office does have albuterol as a “rescue med,” in case a student’s medication has expired, or the parent hasn’t brought it in.

Treatment Asthma must be taken seriously. Medications should be up to date and available, with clear instructions as to how and when to use them (asthma action plan). There are different types of inhalers and “spacers” (which help deliver the prescription directly into the lungs versus the mouth), nebulizer machines, preventive meds that may need to be taken daily, and rescue meds for an active attack, so there is a lot to learn.

“Pharmacists are very knowledgeable

about your child’s medications and how to use them, especially when your child is newly diagnosed. They are an often overlooked resource,” Carrigan suggested.

School-age children should participate in their care. According to the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, children age 10, or younger if they are mature enough, should take an active role and work with their doctor to manage their asthma.

Have them play detective, paying attention to and noting what they feel like when their asthma is flaring up (cough first? chest tightness? can’t take a deep breath?), and associating what they were doing, where they were, what they ate, etc. As children learn to recognize the feeling, they can alert you or the school nurse when they need to use their medicine.

Knowing the signs and what to do next makes an episode less scary for children— and grownups.

“When it comes to co-managing asthma, a lot depends on the kids themselves,” according to Dr. Tanski. “Since prevention and adherence to medication is so critical to prevent symptoms, I rely on parents to make certain that the preventive medicines are being taken, at least through elementary/ middle school. The kids are the best reporters on their symptoms, though.”

What’s the plan?

Families should work with their doctor to create an Asthma Action Plan, which should be shared with the school nurse or child care provider. Using the analogy of a stoplight, it has questions to ask and steps to take at each level, with red being critical—the get to a doctor or emergency room now action step. You’ll find a sample plan at www. breathenh.org.

Well-managed, asthma shouldn’t get in the way of a child doing whatever they want to do.

Mary Ellen Hettinger, APR, is an awardwinning reporter, editor and writer, and accredited public relations professional.

april 2018 www.parentingnh.com 35

ADveRTISeMeNT

Breast Cancer Screening Recommendations: An Update

By Emily Proulx, MSN, APRN

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reast cancer is a diagnosis every woman fears, and is the leading cause of cancer in women worldwide. Most of us know someone who has had this disease or has been affected by it. The statistics are downright scary.

According to the National Cancer Institute, it is estimated that about 1 in 8 American women will be diagnosed with invasive breast cancer during their lifetime. Most women look to their health care providers for recommendations on screening. What many women discover is that the recommendations are not as straightforward as they had believed them to be.

For women who are at average risk of developing breast cancer, the screening recommendations vary depending on who you ask. Recommendations vary because different professional organizations have different opinions. Traditionally, mammograms have started at age 40 and are done annually as long as the woman is in good health and expected to live longer than 10 years. Due to improved research and screening techniques, these recommendations have started to vary from starting at 40 years of age to as late as 50 years of age and having it done annually or every other year.

The biggest concern with screening too early and too often is over-diagnosis and over-treatment. This can be a hard concept to grasp since any diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer sounds like a good thing, right? Yes, but, research has found that as many as 50 percent of small breast cancers found with mammography are likely to never progress to invasive breast cancer, and would never have caused problems. Unfortunately, there isn’t a way to know which of these small cancers will progress and which ones will not, so treatment is typically recommended via lumpectomy, mastectomy, radiation and/or chemotherapy.

The good news is that researchers are working to identify which small cancers are more likely to progress and which are not.

So, how do you determine the best screening option for you? Have a conversation with your health care provider. Let him or her know your preferences and values. Together, you can work to make decisions and select screening options and care plans based on clinical evidence.

Emily Proulx, MSN, APRN is a Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner at Dartmouth Hitchcock in Nashua in the Ob/Gyn department. Dartmouth Hitchcock offers full obstetric and gynecological care to women of all ages.

For more information, please visit www.dartmouth-hitchcock.org/obgyn.html.

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april 2018 www.parentingnh.com 37

Helping your child loss of a loved A NH school counselor‘s book helps to make about death easier for kids and their parents

By Darrell Halen

Elementary school counselor Lisa Oliver with her book, “Becoming an Angel.”

Courtesy photo

38 www.parentingnh.com april 2018

A

s an elementary school counselor, Lisa Laroche Oliver sometimes deals with young students who are suffering from the loss of a loved one.

There were storybooks that Oliver could read with them, but she wasn’t able to find books with follow-up activities that could aid her in connecting with the child to help them process their grief.

So she wrote her own book.

Oliver, a counselor at Pelham Elementary School, is the author of an illustrated, soft-cover book, “Becoming an Angel: What Happens When Someone You Love Dies (with activity pages).”

“I have lots of nice little storybooks. In five minutes we’re done with the storybook and the child is not done with their grief,” she said of the children she’s interacted with.

“Children don’t process grief in a single lesson or a single day,” said Oliver, who has spent more than two decades counseling students. “It’s really a process of getting used to a new way of life that does not currently involve a loved one.”

“Becoming an Angel” tells the fictional story of Marcie Weatherbee, a young girl saddened by the recent death of her grandmother. She would no longer get to bake cookies, play checkers and water flowers with her grandma.

Mrs. Darby, Marcie’s neighbor whose husband died a year ago, sits down with her and explains that similar to caterpillars transforming into butterflies, people transform into angels after they pass away.

Discovering that her grandmother isn’t gone forever – that one day Marcie would transform into an angel and see her again – brightened the girl’s spirits.

“Each day that passed the sad feelings lasted for a little less time and the happy feelings lasted a little bit longer,” the book reads.

The 16-page illustrated story is accompanied by 18 activity pages in which a child can express thoughts and emotions through writing and drawing.

The child can dedicate the book to a deceased loved one, and they are encouraged to express how they felt when they learned their loved one passed away, write about something they enjoyed doing with that person and draw a picture of the people they can share their feelings with.

“Marcie baked cookies with her mother to help her feel happy again,” one activity reads. “What is something you like to do that can help you feel happy again? Use this space to draw yourself doing that thing.”

Oliver has worked as an elementary school counselor for more than 25 years. She holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of New Hampshire and a master’s degree in counseling from Plymouth State University.

Before coming to Pelham, where she’s worked for 19 years, she spent eight years in Pittsfield and Nashua.

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Although she describes herself as being very spiritual and was raised Catholic, Oliver didn’t include the word God in her story. She wants it to have universal appeal.

“I think it would be helpful for (kids) to know that when a beloved person or pet passes away, they don’t cease to be, that it is a transformation of spirit,” she said.

“I feel that when we say someone died, I feel like it’s a misnomer…. a more accurate representation is to say that person transformed into an angel.”

The book is intended to be a keepsake because it will include the child’s drawings and writings. Oliver encourages her young readers to buy or create a photo box to store special memories of the person they lost.

After the death of loved one, according to Oliver, many children will become depressed and withdrawn; they may be unable to concentrate or take pleasure in activities they previously enjoyed such as dancing or sports. They may also think they will never be happy again.

“Ideally, after they’ve read the book and done the activities with someone, they will feel comforted knowing that their loved one is still with them,” Oliver said. “It’s just that they’re an angel now. They can’t see them with their eyes. Their presence is still with them every day. And one day, when it’s their turn to turn into an angel, years from now, they will see them again.”

The book, Oliver said, is appropriate for anyone in elementary school and ideally they will use it with a parent, caregiver or clergy member. Oliver plans to reach out to hospices and funeral homes to make the book available to children.

Oliver gave copies to two girls at her school who’ve lost their mothers. Mother’s Day, she said, was hard for them.

“As the year progresses, they’re going to have their first Mother’s Day, their first Father’s Day, the first birthday without the loved one,” she added. “Every first brings a new life experience.”

Kathleen Vincent, a Pelham mother of three, loves the caterpillar analogy that Oliver uses in her book. When Vincent’s mother was dying from pancreatic cancer, she told Vincent’s children to think of her when they see a butterfly.

Oliver, who knows Vincent’s children through school, reached out to Vincent’s family around the time of her death. Family members read the book, including Vincent’s youngest daughter, now 11.

People struggle with dealing with death and talking to their children about it, Vincent said, but Oliver’s book is “a beautiful way of dealing with it.”

She has purchased several copies for friends and relatives, and after her great aunt passed away, she sent a copy to her cousin to share with her children.

“I hope it will help other people,” Vincent said. “I appreciate having a resource you can read with your children, and have a conversation (with them) in a nice, easy way.”

The book, illustrated by Daniel Majan, is self-published through Balboa Press, a division of Hay House, in Bloomington, Ind. Oliver is donating a portion of the net proceeds from her book sales to animal rescue organizations.

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april 2018 www.parentingnh.com 39

Don’t skip breakfast!

Power up for your day with these healthy creations made by local eateries

By Michelle Lahey

T

he urge to grab the nearest Pop-Tart or bagel during the morning sprint is strong - if we eat breakfast at all.

But the most important meal of the day can’t always be missed, or comprised only of carbohydrates and sugar. Thankfully, many cafes and restaurants across the Granite State are offering up healthy – and convenient – ways to get your morning meal.

QUINOA & EGG BOWL

Earth's Harvest Kitchen & Juicery

POWER PARFAIT

KALE YEAH

GREEN BIKE BOWL

Purple Finch Café

Laney and Lu Café

Green Bike Smoothie Bar

124 South River Road, Bedford 232-1953 www.purplefinchcafe.com

26 Water St., Exeter 580-4952 www.laneyandlu.com

775 Canal St., Manchester 493-4244 or 748-0665 www.greenbikesmoothies.com

WHY IT’S WORTH TRYING: The Power Parfait at Purple Finch sounds and looks like a breakfast treat, but it’s lacking all the added sugar and calories. This dish boasts a generous portion of low-fat vanilla yogurt, which is layered with local, organic granola, fresh strawberries, blueberries and bananas. If that won’t fill you up, it’s served with a toasted English muffin that’s smothered with peanut butter for extra satiety and protein.

WHY IT’S WORTH TRYING: This sandwich – served on locally made sourdough bread (or gluten-free bread, for an extra 50 cents) – consists of an organic egg fried in coconut oil, kale and jicama slaw, local goat cheese, tomato, avocado, and house-fermented hot sauce. You can feel extra good with each bite knowing that Laney and Lu Café never uses GMOs or chemicals, artificial flavors, preservatives or sweeteners.

WHY IT’S WORTH TRYING: Acai bowls are basically thick smoothies topped with nutrient-packed delights, including everything from bananas to chocolate chips (yes, please). Green Bike’s signature Acai smoothie bowl, however, is topped with raspberries, coconut, blueberries, kiwi, antioxidant-rich chia seeds, walnuts, pineapple and granola. If this particular combination doesn’t strike your fancy, Green Bike has a variety of Acai bowls to suit just about any morning craving.

835B Central Ave., Dover 516-7600 www.earths-harvest.com WHY IT’S WORTH TRYING: While egg sandwiches are convenient, they aren’t the only way to get your on-thego yolks. This gluten-free dish is chock-full of nutrients, thanks to a protein-packed quinoa sauté, farm greens, meaty mushrooms, roasted vegetables, sunny side up eggs, feta cheese, and tomato salsa. Believe it or not, you won’t miss the bread.

40 www.parentingnh.com april 2018

Paul’s Reptile Circus We will Connect Reptiles with Kids...

Week long full-day summer and school vacation programs •Engineering •Game Design

POWER CAKES

SOUTHWEST BURRITO

Tucker's

The Local Grocer

Locations in Hooksett, New London, Concord, and Dover www.tuckersnh.com

3358 White Mountain Highway, North Conway 356-6068 www.nhlocalgrocer.com

WHY THEY’RE WORTH TRYING: Who said pancakes can’t be healthy?

When you want a comfort food fix – without all the not-so-healthy ingredients – try the Power Cakes at Tucker’s. These homemade pancakes are organic and gluten-free, made with eggs, Omega-3-packed flaxseed, ground chia seeds, and real New Hampshire maple syrup from Fuller’s Sugarhouse in Lancaster. These pack such a healthy punch that no one will bat an eye if you spread a little extra butter on top of them.

CRAZY GOOD GRANOLA

The Maia Papaya

2161 Main St., Route 302, Bethlehem 869-9900 www.themaiapapaya.com WHY IT’S WORTH TRYING: Cereal is a common breakfast treat that’s also unfortunately commonly filled with not-the-best ingredients. That’s where The Maia Papaya’s Crazy Good Granola comes in. This vegan granola is housemade and loaded with almonds, walnuts, sunflower seeds, chia seeds, whole oats, shredded coconut, dried cranberries, raisins, cinnamon, and lightly sweetened with maple syrup.

Have it your way in a bowl with milk (soy and almond milk are options), buy it by the pound, or enjoy it layered with vanilla yogurt and sliced bananas in what Maia Papaya expertly calls a Breakfast Sundae.

WHY IT’S WORTH TRYING: Burritos can be healthy when they’re not packed with eight kinds of cheese and two tubs of sour cream. The Local Grocer proves this point with their Southwest Burrito, packed with two eggs, Maine-based Pineland Farms Monterey jack cheese, and their black bean vegetable salsa with housemade turkey sausage. The burrito is available in a whole wheat or gluten-free wrap, or as an omelette or wrap-less bowl for those trying to cut their carbs.

ORGANIC STEEL CUT OATMEAL

Pressed Café

108 Spit Brook Road, Nashua 718-1250 www.pressedcafe.com

Featuring your choice of 9 Reptiles such as water dragon, cornsnake, box turtle, desert kingsnake.

Schools • Birthdays • Other Events

•Animation •Programming

Credit Cards Accepted • Insured

617-407-7533 reptilescircus@gmail.com

603.897.9969 www.LOFTechnology.com suzanne@loftechnology.com

www.reptilecircus.net

Adventure Awaits!

Summer Vacation Survival Camps

Discover... Your Way in the Wild Weekly Camps June 25 - August 24 Ages 8-12 Concord • Manchester Nashua • Derry • Rochester

Survival Skills • Adventures •Zombies Nature • Independence • Rock Climbing Canoeing • Hiking • Leadership & More

Register at www.thriveoutdoorsnh.com Info@thriveoutdoorsnh.com

ACT I CAMP ACT II CAMP July 9 - July 21 SHOWCASE PERFORMANCE on Saturday, July 21

July 23 - Aug 4 SHOWCASE PERFORMANCE on Saturday, Aug 4

Mondays - Fridays (9am - 5pm) Before & After Camp Care available!

WHY IT’S WORTH TRYING: Quaker Instant Oatmeal packets are convenient, but they are also loaded with sugar. Pressed Café’s version is not. This particular dish is made with steel cut oats, considered a “power food” because they’re bursting with protein, fiber, vitamins and minerals. Pressed Café tops theirs with fresh strawberries and bananas, and just enough brown sugar for flavor.

Michelle Lahey is a food writer who was born and raised in New Hampshire. She also blogs about food at www.ahoppymedium.blogspot. com.

For more information and registration, please visit our website or contact our Summer Theatre Camp Staff at (603) 816-2695 or education@peacockplayers.org.

Tickets - (603) 886-7000 or online

BEAUTY and the BEAST JR. (March 9th - 18th)

HAIRSPRAY

(May 11th - 20th)

april 2018 www.parentingnh.com 41

Dartmouth-Hitchcock is home to New Hampshire’s only children’s hospital, as designated by the Children’s Hospital Association. We are proud to help New Hampshire’s youngest patients get back to their life moments.

To us, that’s More Powerful than Medicine.

Concord | Dover | Exeter | Keene | Lebanon Manchester - Bedford | Nashua | Bennington, VT

42 www.parentingnh.com april 2018

Stay local,

have a blast Fill up your April Vacation calendar with these fun, family-friendly activities

By Jacqueline Tourville

I

Find handson fun at the Seacoast Science Center.

Courtesy photo

f you're staying closer to home this year during your child’s spring break, here are a few ways to help you fill your kids’ week off from school with adventure and fun.

If you are ready for cuteness overload, head to Strawbery Banke in Portsmouth. All week long you can check out Baby Animals: Heritage Breeds at the Banke, a special opportunity for kids and families to get up close with newborn bunnies, lambs, pigs and chicks, and learn more about the care and keeping of farm animals. Look for the big tent on the museum’s Puddle Dock lawn from Saturday, April 21, to Sunday, April 29, every day from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, go to www.strawberybanke.org.

Join the Family-Friendly Run for Marine Mammals at Odiorne State Park.

Enjoy heritage breeds at the Strawbery Banke's weeklong event.

Courtesy photo

Lace up your sneakers and hit the trails at Odiorne State Park for the Seacoast Science Center’s annual Family-Friendly Run for Marine Mammals, on Saturday, April 21. Families with children ages 6 and older are welcome to run together; younger runners can also sign up for the kids’ fun run. After the race everyone is invited to enjoy music, face painting, and eco-friendly activities, including a beach cleanup. All proceeds go to support the Center's Marine Mammal Rescue program and ocean education. Go to www. seacoastsciencecenter.org to register.

While you are already there, don’t pass up a visit to the Seacoast Science Center. With an aquarium area, large touch tank, and other hands-on exhibits about ocean life, the center is great for an afternoon of educational fun.

For a spring break activity on the “wild side,” head to the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department’s always

april 2018 www.parentingnh.com 43

Explore the great outdoors during a twonight getaway at Cottage Place at Squam Lake.

exciting Discover WILD New Hampshire Day on Saturday, April 21, at the department’s headquarters in Concord. Explore New Hampshire’s wildlife resources and outdoor traditions with crafts, games, and hands-on learning activities, including archery, casting, and fly-tying. Plus, see live animal exhibits, big fish, trained falcons, and more.

Admission is free. Consider this a summer preview of all the fun in the great outdoors that’s coming your way. For more information, go to www.wildnh.com.

Did you know that naturalists’ nickname for spring is “fish season”? Welcome this special time of year on Thursday, April 26, with Amoskeag Fishways Learning Center’s annual Fish Festival from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Families are invited to line up and cheer as fish, raised in New Hampshire fish hatcheries, are stocked in the Amoskeag’s fish ladder in Manchester. Watch the fish swim by the center’s viewing window and take part in fish-related crafts, games and other educational fish fun. Admission is $3 per person or $6 per family. For more information, go to www.amoskeagfishways.org.

Try your hand at fly-tying.

44 www.parentingnh.com april 2018

If your kids could use a little more culture in their lives, head to the Currier Museum of Art in Manchester.

The Currier invites families for a special spring break “Night at the Museum” on Thursday, April 26, from 5 to 8 p.m.

The event is free for all and includes art activities, a movie, games, raffles and of course, checking out the museum’s many artistic treasures. Families can grab a quick dinner or snack at the museum’s Winter Garden Café. Go to www.currier.org for details.

For free family movies, drop by the Manchester Public Library (www.manchester. lib.nh.us) on Monday, April 23, at 2:30 p.m., or the Nashua Public Library (www.nashualibrary.org) on Saturday, April 28, at 2 p.m. Contact libraries closer to the event dates to find out what movies they are showing.

To help creative kids stay busy during spring break, head to Barnes & Noble in Manchester for a special makerspace activity on Monday, April 23, from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m.

The theme is Little Bits, and the sky is the limit for how kids can interpret it. Manchester Public Library is co-sponsoring the free event. For more information, call 624-6550, ext. 3324.

Looking for a quick spring break family getaway? Check out the Family Camp

Enjoy a makerspace activity at Barnes and Noble in Manchester.

Adventure Package at the Cottage Place at Squam Lake in Holderness. As part of a special two-night stay, families arrive to four envelopes outlining self-guided activities that need to be completed by the end of their stay.

Tasks are designed for kids age 5 and older and are meant to optimize family connectedness — no smartphones required. Go to www.cottageplaceonsquam.com for more information.

Jacqueline Tourville is PNH’s travel and tourism guru.

mp a C y a D e r u t Na d if f e r e n t ! is Every day

NH AUDUBON

Trails & Treks Explore Natural Habitats Live Animals • Fun & Learning

Ages 4-12. School vacation weeks and summer camp. Financial aid available.

Dates, details & registration online at nhaudubon.org.

Massabesic Center, Auburn

603.668.2045

McLane Center, Concord

603.224.9909

KIDS adventure

DAY CAMP FOR

KIDS & TEENS

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april 2018 www.parentingnh.com 45

cook•with•your• kids APRIL SHOWERS? LEMONS BRING ON THE SUNSHINE

By Susan Nye

I

t’s mud season in New Hampshire and that April shower thing, it’s real.

We can’t do anything about the weather but a little lemon lightens and brightens any meal. One of my year-round favorites, it’s my go-to flavor during this time of year, which can often be gloomy and gray as we make the transition to spring. Like a ray of sunshine, a little lemon flavor lifts the spirits.

Susan Nye writes for magazines throughout New England. She shares many of her favorite recipes and stories about food, family and friendship on her award winning blog, Around the Table, at www.susannye.wordpress.com.

LEMON PASTA

Serves 4 as a main course, or 8 as a side dish

TILAPIA WITH LEMON

• • • • • • • • • • •

Serves 4

• • • • • • • • • •

1-1 1/2 lbs. fresh tilapia fillets Sea salt and freshly ground pepper 2-3 T. all-purpose flour 1/2 tsp. paprika Olive oil 2 T. butter, cut in small pieces 1/4 c. dry white wine Juice of 1 lemon Fresh chopped parsley Lemon wedges Season tilapia with salt and pepper.

Combine flour and paprika, lightly dust fish with flour and shake off any excess.

Lightly coat a large sauté pan with olive oil and heat over medium-high. Carefully place the fish in the pan and cook a few minutes per side, in batches if necessary.

Transfer fish to a platter.

Reduce heat to medium and melt butter in the skillet. As soon as the butter starts to bubble, whisk in white wine and lemon juice. Cook for about 1 minute, whisking constantly.

Pour sauce over tilapia, sprinkle with parsley and serve immediately with lemon wedges.

46 www.parentingnh.com april 2018

8-12 oz. spaghetti or angel hair pasta Olive oil 2 T. minced red onion Pinch or to taste red pepper flakes Sea salt and freshly ground pepper 2-3 cloves garlic, minced 1/4 c. dry white wine or chicken broth Juice and zest of 1 lemon 2-3 T. cold butter, cut in small pieces Fresh chopped parsley Grated Parmigiano-Reggiano or Pecorino Romano cheese or a mix of the two Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to package directions, less 1 minute.

While pasta cooks – lightly coat a large skillet with olive oil and heat over medium. Add onion and pepper flakes and sauté for 1-2 minutes. Add garlic and sauté another minute or two.

Stir in wine, lemon juice and zest and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 1-2 minutes. Add butter and whisk to combine.

Reserving a little of the pasta water, drain spaghetti, add it to lemon sauce and toss to combine. Stir in a little pasta water, cover and simmer for 1-2 minutes.

Serve pasta in shallow bowls with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and cheese.

LEMON CUPCAKES

LEMON CREAM CHEESE FROSTING

Makes 10-12 cupcakes

ROASTED ASPARAGUS WITH LEMON Serves 4

• • • • • •

About 1 lb. asparagus, tough ends removed Olive oil Sea salt and freshly ground pepper Juice of 1/2 lemon 2-3 T. chopped walnuts, toasted Sea salt and freshly ground pepper Preheat oven to 375 degrees.

Place asparagus on a large rimmed baking sheet; drizzle with olive oil, season with salt and pepper and toss to coat.

Roast in oven for 8 minutes or until asparagus is tender-crisp. Drizzle with lemon juice, sprinkle with walnuts and toss to combine.

Serve hot or at room temperature.

• • • • • • • • • • •

3/4 c. (1 1/2 sticks) butter, at room temperature 1/2 c. sugar 1/2 c. brown sugar 1 egg 3/4 c. sour cream 1 3/4 c. flour 2 1/2 tsp. baking powder 1/2 tsp. cinnamon 1/2 tsp. ginger 1/2 tsp. salt Grated zest of 1 lemon Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line muffin tins with paper liners.

With electric mixer, cream together butter and sugar. Add egg and beat on high speed until smooth. Add sour cream and beat on medium speed to combine.

• • • • •

8 oz. cream cheese, at room temperature 1/4 c. (1/2 stick) butter, at room temperature 2 tsp. pure vanilla extract Grated zest 1 lemon About 4 c. confectioners' sugar Put cream cheese and butter in a large bowl and beat with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth. Add vanilla extract and lemon zest and beat until well combined.

With mixer on low, slowly add confectioners' sugar and beat until well combined. Increase mixer speed and continue beating for 2-3 minutes, until frosting is light and fluffy.

.

Put flour, baking powder, cinnamon, ginger and salt in a bowl and whisk to combine. Add lemon zest and whisk again.

With mixer on low, slowly add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and beat until combined.

Fill paper liners about 2/3rds full with batter. Bake at 350 degrees for 18-20 minutes or until cake tester inserted into the center of a cupcake comes out clean. Cool completely before frosting.

april 2018 www.parentingnh.com 47

l l i B dad on board My wife and daughter left me – for a few days Sign upay! tod NORTHFIELD, NH

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APPRECIATION DAY

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ManchesterMonarchs.com (603) 626-7825 48 www.parentingnh.com april 2018

I

GOODBYE RESPONSIBILITIES, HELLO CAREFREE BACHELOR LIFESTYLE

BY BILL BURKE

’ve never had any interest in seeing what life would be like if I wasn’t a father, but I recently had a chance to find out.

My wife and daughter lucked into an opportunity to travel to Toronto with some friends during a school vacation. They’d visit the Hockey Hall of Fame, catch a Bruins game in Buffalo and probably meet Geddy Lee of Rush – because even though I went to college 35 minutes from the Canadian border, I’ve never been there and that’s what I assume happens when you visit Canada.

I’d stay in New Hampshire to watch the dog, attempt to hit a couple of deadlines at work and avoid a 12-hour car ride. I’d also conduct a grand experiment and alter reality, however temporarily, and live in the darkest timeline – the one where I’m not a dad or a husband or, let’s face it, responsible in any way. For a few days I was no longer Dad on Board. I was just Bill on Board – a guy and his dog. Here’s how that went: 8 a.m.: It’s an exhilarating thought – the house is empty and I realize I can do anything I want. Anything.

8:09 a.m.: I can’t find anything to do.

9 a.m.: I take the dog out for the 127th time in the hour or so since they left.

I quickly learn this will become the focal point of my entire Bill on Board existence.

Taking the dog out is usually my daughter’s job. The longer she is gone on her Canadian adventure, the more I appreciate how much she does around the house without a grumble or complaint.

10:30 a.m.: I text my wife – “I’m bored. Can you guys come home now?”

11 a.m.: I begin to fully embrace the Bill on Board personae and do things I would never dream of doing when my wife and daughter are home. All restrictions are off the table and I prepare to unleash pandemonium. So I buy a loaf of potato bread. I like potato bread.

I spend the rest of the afternoon debating whether I should name my new Warcraft video game character “Shemp” or “Thurthtin.”

6 p.m.: I text my wife – “I ate the shepherd’s pie for lunch so there’s nothing left. Can you guys come home now?”

I do live near Epping, which means there are a number of take-out options, and thus I will likely survive the three short days my wife and daughter are away. I decide to subsist entirely on clams and iced tea.

In the end, I learn three important things: 1. I will never take my family for granted.

2. I can get a World of Warcraft character to level 10 in an hour or so.

3. I’m glad I have the life I do, because evidently I’m too tired to rebel.

What I thought would be a short-term blast of freedom and carefree irresponsibility ended up being a few days of killing time until my wife and daughter returned home and everything returned to normal. Normal is not so bad, it turns out.

Bill Burke is a writer who lives in southern New Hampshire with (thankfully) his wife and daughter, who didn’t get to meet Geddy Lee when they went to Canada. He is also the managing editor of custom publications at McLean Communications.

So Much Fun… You’ll Forget to CheCk Your Phone!

learning curve Know before you go WHAT TO EXPECT AT A DISPOSITION-OF REFERRAL OR EVALUATION MEETING

BY ELIZABETH FEINGOLD

H

earing that your child is not progressing can cause a lot of anxiety, but thinking about having to go to the meeting during which every concern will be brought up and analyzed can be even more stressful.

The more you know about disposition-of-referral and evaluation plan meetings the better you can approach these meetings as an educated team member making informed decisions for your child.

Because of parent conferences and other communications, you know your child has been struggling. But what you don’t know is who referred your child for an evaluation. You’ll want to know who filled out the referral form, and why, before you attend the disposition-of-referral meeting.

Those involved with your child’s school experience will sign in to the meeting as team members along with you. The team will include, at minimum, the classroom teacher, special education teacher, school nurse, school psychologist, you and the Local Education Agency (LEA), who is usually the special education coordinator.

The team reviews the referral and a discussion is had about how to best proceed.

The team may determine a comprehensive evaluation should be conducted. If this is agreed upon, the team proceeds by filling out an evaluation plan for your child.

The team will go through questions specifically aimed at determining if your child has an educationally handicapping condition that requires special education services.

Each standardized test is designed to address specific areas. Determining what the team is considering regarding your child’s needs will shape the path of the comprehensive evaluation.

If your child has never been evaluated before and a learning disability is suspected, a cognitive assessment will be chosen. Academic achievement tests will be decided upon. And at least one classroom observation will be completed, usually by the special educator assigned to the team. While that person will want to observe your child in the area in which he or she is having the most difficulty, your child should be observed in their stronger areas as well.

If your child is having trouble with gross or fine motor skills, those assessments will be done. If language issues are in question, a speech language pathologist will conduct those assessments.

The school nurse will conduct a health screening. If there are any behavioral concerns, you may be asked to fill out checklists or to come in for an interview with the school psychologist.

All team members will be asked to sign an agreement, and you will be asked to give consent to proceed with the comprehensive evaluation. For an initial evaluation, the team has 60 days to conduct the tests and write reports. You will be asked to come in for an evaluation summary meeting to talk about the results. Five days prior, you will receive copies of the tests to review.

Every step of the way, your rights will be explained to you, and you will be asked to give consent. Knowing the process will make it more approachable for you and for your child.

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Elizabeth Feingold retired from Kearsarge Regional School District, where she worked for over 30 years as a special education teacher and coordinator at the elementary, middle and high school levels. She is now a consultant and advocate. Email her at seacsvcs@gmail.com.

april 2018 www.parentingnh.com 49

house calls A Unique Summer Camp for Boys Ages 10-14 Located in Vermont’s Green Mountains IT’S NOT TOO EARLY TO THINK SUMMER! ▲ tipi living ▲ nature crafts ▲ canoeing archery ▲ wilderness skills ▲ swimming ▲ backpacking ▲ hiking ▲ atlatls & ‘hawks bison jerky ▲ cooperative work & play and lots more!

Call for a full brochure (802) 446-6100

www.nighteaglewilderness.com

Come join Alice for a delectable Sunday Tea. Dance Class, Crafting with The Mad Hatter, and Luncheon Tea all included in ticket.

Bring a special adult guest with you for Tea! Sunday, April 22, 1-2:30 pm • ages 3-7 tututix.com/danceworks

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• Short Session Class Sampler June 12 & 14 & June 19 & 21, 4-6 pm ages mini 5-7 and Junior 8-12 • Fantasy Camp July 17,18, 19 from 9-11:30 am performances daily at 11:1 5 am more info coming soon! Ages 3-7 • Page to Stage Theater Workshops July 18 & 25 - 4-6 pm Performances at 5:30 pm ages 5-9 and 10-18 • Summer Intensive August 6-10 9-1 pm {Intermediate/Advanced classes} ages mini 5-7, junior 8-12, teen 13-20

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21 Cottage Street, Milford, NH 603-249-5256 www.danceworksmovementdesign.com Danceworksmovementdesign@gmail.com

Adventure, Fun and Excitement Await Your Child at Camp Doucet!

Our traditional day camp in South Nashua is the perfect environment for sun this summer!

Open to youth, ages 6 to 13, our camp offers: ✓ Special Theme Weeks ✓ Athletic Activities ✓ Team Building Experiences ✓ Arts and Crafts ✓ Swimming Activities ✓ Outdoor Adventure ✓ Weekly field trips to State Parks, beaches & more!

Early and late pick up options available for campers.

Please contact us about scholarships and financial assistance.

For more information, visit our website at www.bgcn.com or call Christine Lessard, Membership Secretary, at (603) 883-0523.

50 www.parentingnh.com april 2018

Vaccinate your child against HPV HUMAN PAPILLOMAVIRUS CAN CAUSE CANCER AND OTHER DISEASES IN WOMEN AND MEN

H

BY ARDIS OLSON, MD

PV—or Human Papillomavirus—is a group of viruses that spreads through skin-to-skin contact and is very common. In fact, almost everyone will have HPV at some point in their lives.

Fortunately, for most people, HPV goes away on its own, but that’s not always the case. When HPV doesn’t get cleared by the immune system, it can cause cancer and other diseases.

Many people know that HPV can cause cervical cancer in women, but it can also cause other types of cancer, including cancers in men. The most common HPVrelated cancer in New Hampshire is head and neck cancer, and almost eight out of 10 of these cases occur in men.

But there is a safe and effective vaccine that can help prevent cancers caused by HPV. The HPV vaccine that’s widely available in New Hampshire protects against nine types of HPV, including seven types that cause cancer.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, about 30,700 cases of cancer are caused by HPV each year in the United States, and more than 90 percent (over 28,000 cases) could be prevented by the vaccine.

The vaccine is safe; its safety has been tracked for over 10 years, and it has an excellent safety record. The most common side effects are dizziness and soreness in the arm where the shot was given, which are similar to side effects experienced with other vaccines.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the American Academy of Pediatricians, the American Cancer Society, and many other organizations strongly recommend that all children get vaccinated against HPV at age 11 or 12. All 11 and 12 year-olds should get two shots of the HPV vaccine six to 12 months apart and should get both shots before they turn 13.

It’s important children get the vaccine at that age because the immune response to the vaccine is stronger when the child is younger and the vaccine can only protect against HPV if it’s given before being exposed to HPV. If your child is 13-14 years old and hasn’t received their first shot yet, be sure to call your child’s health care provider to start the HPV vaccine series. Once your child turns 15, if they haven’t received any HPV shots yet, they will need to get three shots to get a strong enough immune response to protect against HPV. Older teens and young adults who haven’t received any or all of their shots should also talk with their health care providers about getting the vaccine. Men usually get the vaccine through age 21, and women through age 26.

Thanks to New Hampshire’s Vaccine for Children program, children through age 18 are able to get the HPV vaccine at no cost. You can go to your regular health care provider, who orders the vaccine from the program. To learn more about Vaccine for Children, go to www.dhhs.nh.gov.

For more information about the HPV vaccine, go to www.cdc.gov/hpv or talk with your child’s health care provider Ardis Olson is a Professor of Pediatrics and Professor of Community and Family Medicine at The Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth.

raising teens and tweens Far from the playground EDUCATE YOUR KIDS AND YOURSELF ABOUT CYBERBULLYING

BY TRACEY TUCKER

S

tories of kids beating other kids up, stealing lunch money and making fun of each other on the playground have been around forever. Many of us can remember being bullied or made fun of by classmates.

Prior to the internet and cell phone, we could go home, disconnect, and have some downtime. We could choose to answer the phone; we could make sure that we had no contact with the negative situations or individuals from our day. It made it easier to weather the storms and rise above the bullying behavior.

But that has all changed. The internet and smartphones have given rise to the 24/7 generation. Kids are constantly posting about their activities, friends, or numerous selfies throughout any given day. This constant barrage of photos, texts and messages has made it almost impossible to disconnect from their world or peers.

Making it even more of a challenge, much of the content that is posted by kids these days is being brutally reviewed by their peers and many kids measure their self-worth through the number of likes they get on a post. In addition, kids often look at their peers’ tweets, Instagram stories or posts, wishing they could be with them or feeling left out. Kids (and adults) use the digital world to say things they wouldn’t say to someone in person.

Because of this, bullying has taken on a whole new life, often leaving kids devastated, isolated rejected or thinking about or engaging in self-harming behavior. Unfortunately, some youth have been so impacted, they have chosen to either attempt to take their life or have succeeded in doing so.

Beyond the general notion of bullying online, behaviors such as sexting, posting provocative pictures or sending “Snaps” that kids think are easily removed increases the realm of cyberbullying and can be the root cause of horrible social incidents.

Kids naively post pictures thinking they are private, and learn within hours that they have gone viral — leading to embarrassment and shame.

How can we help our children navigate the online world and cyberbullying? It starts at home and it starts with communication.

1. When introducing your child to their first smartphone or internet forum, talk to them about cyberbullying. Communicate with them about what happens when kids are mean to others.

2. Based on age, monitor your child’s online usage. As they get older and trust has been built through maturity and communication, you can monitor less.

3. Give them information on how kids use online sites and apps to bully others.

4. Introduce them to the common terms such as sexting and cyberbullying.

5. Be specific about posting pictures. Let your kids know what is acceptable and what is not. Let them know what the consequences are for posting such pictures.

6. Let them know they can talk to you at any time to report concerns or to talk through their feelings about something happening to them.

7. Educate yourself about cyberbullying.

8. Support your child when they talk about being bullied. It is real and can be very painful. It is no longer the bullying from years ago.

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Tracey Tucker is Executive Director of New Heights: Adventures for Teens and a licensed mental health counselor at Tradeport Counseling Associates in Portsmouth.

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april

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DETENTION – A FILM BY FARMINGTON HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS 5 THURSDAY

ROCHESTER – Rochester

Opera House, 31 Wakefield St. As six students sit through Saturday detention, a person breaks into the school. The students quickly realize they are not who they claim to be while hiding for their lives. As the stories unravel, the students notice they are all somehow connected to each other and the masked assailant. The movie explores multiple issues including bullying, dating, drugs, and violence. Students are not charging admission to the event but are asking patrons to bring non-perishable food items to be donated to the End 68 Hours of Hunger program. 7 p.m. 335-1992; www.rochesteroperahouse.com

STORYTELLING FESTIVAL 7 SATURDAY

MANCHESTER -- New

Hampshire Institute of Art, 148 Concord St. The second annual Storytelling Festival is a great way for you to share your work or hear the great work of others. Writers, storytellers, illustrators, graphic novelists and creatives working in a wide variety of other media, professional or amateur, are invited to participate in this Moth Radio Hour-style event.

The stories can be true or embellished. Each presenter will be limited to five minutes.

Free. 2 to 4 p.m. www.nhia.edu

FAMILY CONCERT FEATURING THE NASHUA CHAMBER ORCHESTRA 8 SUNDAY

NASHUA – Nashua Public

Library, 2 Court St. The

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PLAY BALL! THE FISHER CATS SEASON STARTS THIS MONTH 13 FRIDAY MANCHESTER – Northeast Delta Dental Stadium, Line Drive. The New Hampshire Fisher Cats, a double-A affiliate of the Toronto Blue Jays kicks off its 15th season this month. The Fisher Cats have sent more than 100 players to the major leagues, including Blue Jays stars Kevin Pillar, Aaron Sanchez and Marcus Stroman. New Hampshire has hosted three Eastern League All-Star Games and took home the league championship in 2004 and 2011. The Fisher Cats will be led by manager John Schneider, 38, the youngest skipper in team history and the first former Fisher Cats player to become manager. The Fisher Cats home opener is on Friday, April 13, against the Hartford Yard Goats. The first 2,500 fans will receive a free magnet schedule from EnergyNorth Propane, and fans can enjoy a Beatles-themed Atlas Fireworks show following the game. Check out the entire season’s schedule on the website. Giveaways, fireworks and fun for families all season. 641-2005; www.nhfishercats.com

Nashua Chamber Orchestra is performing its annual family concert. The program will feature top student soloists and introduce children to the instruments of the orchestra.

All ages are welcome at this family-friendly event. The library concert will be in the Chandler Memorial Wing. The performance is free and open to the public. 3 p.m. www.nashualibrary.org

ALICE IN WONDERLAND JR. 10-11 TUESDAYWEDNESDAY MANCHESTER – Palace

Theatre, 80 Hanover St. Travel down the rabbit hole and join Alice, one of literature’s most beloved heroines, in her madcap adventures. Featuring updated songs from Disney’s animated motion picture, Disney’s Alice in Wonderland

Jr. is a fast-paced take on the classic tale. The ever-curious Alice’s journey begins innocently enough as she chases the White Rabbit. Her adventures become increasingly strange as she races the Dodo Bird, gets tied up with Tweedle Dee and Tweedle Dum, raps with a bubble-blowing Caterpillar and beats the Queen of Hearts at her own game.

Tickets: adults, $14; children, $11. Show time 7 p.m. Shows also on April 18 and 19. 6685588; www.palacetheatre.org

GOODNIGHT GOODNIGHT CONSTRUCTION SITE

entertainment and a brief program. Tickets at the door: $15; $30 for a family of three to five people. Or register in advance for discounted tickets. www.dreamcatchersnh.org

CONCORD – Capitol Center

POOLS OF MUD AND MAGIC

9 MONDAY

for the Arts, 44 South Main St. Bedtime is approaching, and this team of construction vehicles needs to get their rest. But Crane Truck is getting cranky, Cement Mixer takes too long with bath time, and Dump Truck just isn’t sleepy. This musical is based upon the bestselling book. Produced by The Bay Area Children’s Theatre. For pre-kindergarten through third grade. Tickets: $7. Show times: 10 a.m. and noon. 225-1111; www.ccanh.com

DREAMCATCHERS SUPERHEROES KARAOKE FUNRAISER 13 FRIDAY

MANCHESTER – SNHU

Student Center, 2500 North River Road. Join DreamCatchers for an evening of song and laughter as we gather middle school age and older friends with different abilities to share their karaoke talents as a community.

Students and family should plan to arrive by about 4:30 p.m. and members are welcome to come dressed as their favorite superhero.

Sponsors, supporters, and friends are invited to join us starting at 5:30 p.m. for

is a family-friendly opportunity to learn more about domestic livestock typical on coastal northern New England farms from the 17th century to present day. Visitors can also participate in family activities in some of the historic houses and the TYCO Visitors Center for handson weaving programs. Tickets: Adults, $10; children 5-17, $5; free to children under 5 and active duty military and their families. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. www. strawberybanke.org

17 THURSDAY

off-beat dark comedy explores the comfort, power, and transformation of stories over time. Even classical Greek theatre would have evolved from the popular culture of the time.

With people sitting around a fire retelling the most entertaining stories of the day, these ancient characters and tales evolved to the level of mythological splendor.

If civilization were to come to a screeching halt in the very, very near future, what pop culture and stories might hold us together and become the next generation of great myths? Cowabunga!

Tickets: $16; 17 and younger, $8. 2 p.m. www.unharts.com

NEWBURY – The Fells, 456

Route 103A. Come and explore magical spring surprises full of new life! Peeping frogs, squirming salamanders and emerging turtles will be the stars of Out and About at The Fell’s April activities. Join the Lake Sunapee Protective Association’s education staff in this program for preschool-age children and their caregivers.

Free. 10 to 11 a.m. www. thefells.org

MR. BURNS, A POST-ELECTRIC PLAY 22 SUNDAY

DURHAM – UNH Hennessy

Theatre, 30 Academic Way. It’s the end of the world as we know it, and thanks to the Simpsons, we feel fine (sort of). This

BABY ANIMALS: HERITAGE BREEDS AT THE BANKE 21-29 SATURDAYSUNDAY PORTSMOUTH –

Strawbery Banke, 14 Hancock St. Strawbery Banke welcomes spring with the third annual Baby Animals: Heritage Breeds at the Banke, showcasing a variety of more than a dozen heirloom breeds of barnyard baby animals (and their moms) that would have been familiar to earlier generations. The event, which takes place under a tent on museum grounds,

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five•for families

COMPILED BY JACQUELINE TOURVILLE

Sweet Spring: It’s still maple sugar season in early April and the Rocks Estate in Bethlehem is celebrating with the New Hampshire Maple Experience, an annual maple extravaganza that includes tractor and horsedrawn wagon rides, maple tree tapping, syrup-making demos, a visit to the on-site NH Maple Museum, and plenty of samples of the sweet stuff. You have two opportunities to visit this month: Sunday, April 1 and Saturday, April 7.

Go to www.therocks.org for a complete schedule of events.

Drop-in educational fun: Stop by Amoskeag Fishways in Manchester on Saturday, April 7, from 11 a.m. to noon, to take part in a nature program about peregrine falcons, majestic birds of prey that can be spotted throughout in the Merrimack Valley and beyond. Take part in fun activities as you and your kids learn about peregrine habitats and where you can spot them. No registration required.

Suggested $5 donation. For more information, call 626-FISH.

NHVegFest: It’s a veggie celebration at the 6th annual NHVegFest, a free all-day event taking place Saturday, April 14, at Manchester Community College from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Nibble on free vegetarian food samples, enjoy live music, attend a drum circle, and get some great ideas for how to include more vegetables in your family’s diet. www.nhvegfest.com

Oh, April. How we love you so! With spring springing up everywhere, there’s plenty for your family to do this month — even if those infamous April showers do show up.

Earth Day Outdoor Fun: On Saturday, April 14, the Massabesic Audubon Center in Auburn celebrates Earth day, all day. From 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., the Center offers games, mural painting, nature walks, crafts, music, food, and live animal displays including turtles, frogs, and birds of prey. This year’s theme is “Bee Empowered” with special activities dedicated to pollinator awareness. Admission: $7, or $20 for a family. www.nhaudubon.org

Nature Art Workshop: Middle and high school students are invited to attend Illustrating Nature, a special arts workshop led by art education students from the New Hampshire Institute of Art. Participants will receive instruction in two-dimensional media inspired by the nature around them on Saturday, April 21, at the Massabesic Audubon Center in Auburn. Work will be displayed in an exhibit at the Center in May. Cost is $15 per student. Advance registration is required. Call 668-2045 for more information.

Jaqueline Tourville is a longtime contributor to Parenting NH.

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