Parenting NH March 2017

COMPLIMENTARY

MARCH 2017

NEW HAMPSHIRE

ParentingNH.com ❂ DON’T MISS OUR FREE SUMMER CAMP EXPOS: MARCH 11 & 18

Your Health, Our Trusted Experts...

...in Newborn Intensive Care.

Elliot Health System’s commitment to caring for you and your family is close to home.

As the only Level III Newborn Intensive Care Unit (NICU) in the greater Manchester area, the Elliot NICU has the high-tech resources and a team of neonatologists, nurse practitioners, nurses, and respiratory care therapists specializing in premature infant care. Babies in our NICU receive close observation, attention, and intervention for their very unique needs. Contact us to learn more about why expecting parents deliver their baby at Elliot Hospital and how the NICU plays a role in this critical decision.

Visit www.elliothospital.org or call Physician Finder at 603-663-4567.

Elliot Health System is a non-profit organization serving your healthcare needs since 1890.

Summer at • Summer Camps • Creative Kids Preschool • Summer Dance Progams • Private Musice Lessons

Visit BYPC.org for our complete summer schedule!

BYPC presents

March 17 & 18

Celebrating 20 Years as Southern NH’s premiere school for the performing arts!

155 NH 101 Bedford, NH

603-472-3894 www.bypc.org march 2017 www.parentingnh.com

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• contents

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Enjoy a taste of Ireland

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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

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EDITOR:

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

PRODUCTION MANAGER:

Jodie Hall, x5122 jhall@nhbr.com SENIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNER:

Nancy Tichanuk, x5116 ntichanuk@mcleancommunications.com MARKETING REPRESENTATIVES:

Barbara Gallaher, x5156 bgallaher@parentingnh.com

Know your survival skills

From the Editor’s Desk

PRESIDENT/PUBLISHER:

Sharron McCarthy, x5117 smccarthy@mcleancommunications.com

Kimberly Lencki, x5154 klencki@mcleancommunications.com

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departments

NEW HAMPSHIRE

Debbie Birch, x5133 dbirch@parentingnh.com OFFICE MANAGER:

Mista McDonnell, x5114 mmcdonnell@nhbr.com

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EVENT & MARKETING MANAGER:

Erica Baglieri, x5125 ebaglieri@mcleancommunications.com

The Summer Camp Guide

BUSINESS & SALES COORDINATOR:

Heather Rood, x5110 hrood@mcleancommunications.com DIGITAL MEDIA SPECIALIST:

Morgen Connor, x5149 mconnor@mcleancommunications.com

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©2017 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.

ON THE COVER:

The winner of our 2017 cover coloring contest. Turn to page 36 to see who won!

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from the editor’s desk LIFE LESSONS LEARNED IN A SUPER BOWL WIN It’s been about a week since the New England Patriots Super Bowl stunner. The City of Boston has hosted the parade, the players have gone home to their families, and no doubt, Coach Bill Belichick has already started working on next season.

But the hype on the sports pages and on social media hasn’t abated much.

You’d think after you win your fifth trophy, this would all be passé, and we would have moved on to the next thing – like Red Sox spring training, for example.

However, because the team had to come back from being down 28-3 in the third quarter, that has kept people talking.

Sports Illustrated reported that when the Patriots were down 25 points in the third quarter, they only had a 0.3 percent chance of winning, according to one win probability model. In fact, in NFL history, the overall record for teams losing by 25 points is 6 wins-2 ties-2,647 losses.

It’s still hard for me to wrap my head around the fact that they had a less than 1 percent chance of winning, yet they played as if they were in a tie game. To do this, you need more than talent and strong skills; it’s more than X’s and O’s and managing the clock.

A lot of lessons can be learned from watching that game, and they are ones you can pass on to your kids (even if they aren’t athletes).

Perseverance – Life is tough, and it definitely isn’t fair, but you don’t quit. You keep going even when you think you aren’t going to meet your goal.

Mistakes are lessons – The Patriots made plenty of mistakes in the firsthalf of the game. But they didn’t get angry or dejected. They learned from them, made adjustments, focused and played smarter.

Hard work, practice and discipline – You can be good at what you do, but if you don’t put in the time to hone your craft, you can’t be great.

Preparation – No player walked onto the field without knowing the game plan. If you fail to plan, you plan to fail.

Teamwork – Very few people become successful without having had some help along the way from family, friends, mentors and co-workers. It’s OK to ask for help.

Confidence – If you’ve planned, practiced and worked hard, you not only build confidence in your skills, but you build your overall confidence.

The last lesson that can be learned from the game is the one that has stayed with me, and that is being positive. I am a realist who trends pessimistic and always imagines the worse than worst-case scenario. It is good for me to be reminded that it is OK to have hope, even when it seems all is lost, and that you shouldn’t rule out the impossible.

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march 2017 www.parentingnh.com 5

the short list ...TIPS, TRENDS & NEWS

New sensorysensitive program for children with autism

COMPILED BY MELANIE HITCHCOCK

This month on www.parentingnh.com:

Maple madness

We turn the clocks forward an hour when Daylight Savings Time begins March 12, with St. Patrick’s Day and the official first day of spring following close behind – a few sure signs that we will soon be looking at winter in the rearview mirror.

March is one of the “sweetest” months because it is the height of maple season in the Granite State. You can find recipes, a list of maple sugar shacks to visit, and more, at www.parentingnh.com/maple.

Also, it’s never too early to start looking for a summer camp for your child. Every year Parenting New

Hampshire hosts Summer Camp and Program Expos in Manchester and Nashua. It is a great opportunity for you to meet one-on-one with directors and experts representing camps from New Hampshire and beyond. If you can’t join us on Saturday, March 11 or 18, or are anxious to get a head start, look for our Virtual Camp Fair at www.parentingnh.com/SummerCamps.

CMC and MCHC team up to provide dental care to kids in need Hundreds of Manchester-area children will now have dental care thanks to a new collaboration between Catholic Medical Center and Manchester Community Health Center. A dentist and hygienist from CMC’s Poisson Dental Facility will offer dental services for children through age five at MCHC’s location on Hollis Street in Manchester.

The initiative addresses a “gap group” of children who are in the critical preschool years but do not have a dental provider or adequate insurance. An early relationship with a dental care provider can prevent early childhood tooth decay, which can lead to infections, oral pain, and even difficulty eating and sleeping.

Several times per month Dr. Mary Pierce and a dental hygienist will visit MCHC to offer dental services to children who have been referred to the program by their primary care providers. For more information, go to www. mchc-nh.org.

Chuck E. Cheese’s recently partnered with CARD (Center for Autism and Related Disorders) to offer Sensory Sensitive Sundays at select locations. The day offers an opportunity for children to enjoy games, pizza and prizes in a calm and safe environment that includes: • Less crowds and noise • Dimmed lighting • No shows, music, or radio playing • No Chuck E. mascot or other costumed characters walking around • Food and games are offered but parents are permitted to bring snacks for their children if needed due to dietary restrictions, gluten allergies, etc.

• Trained and caring staff Sensory Sensitive Sundays are the first Sunday of each month from 9 to 11 a.m. at the Manchester and Newington locations.

Poisson Dental Facility’s practice manager Gail Dupuis, left, and clinical coordinator Mary Pierce, DMD are members of a team that will bring on-site dental services to children at Manchester Community Health Center.

(Photo by Rick Swanson)

Concord’s Purple Finches Youth Chorus members to sing at national conference

Eleven Concord Community Music School students will perform in Philadelphia this month. (courtesy photo)

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This month, 11 members of the Concord Community Music School’s Purple Finches Youth Chorus will travel to Philadelphia to sing on the national stage. The students have earned places in the Organization of American Kodaly Educators (OAKE) National Conference Choirs following a competitive audition process.

Students will perform in the finale concert at the 2017 OAKE National Conference, a four-day event that brings together teachers, conductors, and clinicians from across the country.

Music school students who will participate in the National Choirs include Amelia Smith, Bow; William Veenstra, Canterbury; Jordan Cromwell, Tessa Foley, and Emily Gomez, all of Concord; Sophia Isaak and Katie Mitchell of Durham, Madeline Decker, Epsom; Emma Richardson, Hopkinton; Tess Parrott, Rochester; and Rose Kosciuszek, Weare.

Personalized OBGYN care Introducing a new destination for family-centered, holistic OBGYN and fertility care. At CMC’s Women’s Wellness & Fertility Center of New England, you are the most important member of your care team!

Our highly skilled and compassionate staff identify and treat the underlying causes of your symptoms and develop individualized, natural treatments.

Whether it’s promoting your health in a small, family-centered practice or managing your fertility without artificial chemicals, devices, or contraception, we’ll treat you with your long-term overall wellness in mind. Here, you will find a different approach to women’s care.

cmc-womenswellness.org 603.314.7595 88 McGregor Street, Manchester NH

march 2017 www.parentingnh.com 7

Tales of real-life superheroes

I want that

Goodnight Stories for Rebel Girls shares the lives of 100 amazing women throughout history. Creators Elena Favilli and Francesca Cavallo had a goal – to use the stories, and the women at the center of them, to inspire and encourage future generations to dream big, take risks, and become their own hero. A portrait created by a female artist complements each woman’s story, and there’s space for readers to create their own entry.

Hardcover. 224 pages

COMPILED BY MELANIE HITCHCOCK

Available at www. thegrommet.com; $35

A nightlight that helps with lights out The Kid’Sleep My Aquarium is the first animated nightlight of its kind.

With four lullabies to choose from, the fish “swim” to the rhythm of the lullaby. When the music ends, the fish go to sleep and only the starfish nightlight remains lit for 30 minutes before switching off automatically. If the child makes a noise, the sound detector is activated and the fish swim silently. The sleeping starfish nightlight remains lit for another 30 minutes before switching off. For birth to 3 years.

Available at www.amazon.com; $29.99

Get to know the Squarenimals A father started making printed pages of daddy-doodled, “Squarenimals.” One friend on each page, accessorized with some scribbles of color and a handwritten note, to pack in his daughter’s lunch. Soon after he started to drop in the Squarenimals, they stopped coming home. When he asked his daughter where the notes were, she told him her friends wanted them, too. And that’s where the story begins.

Pictured is a “softie” available for $20.

The full line of clothing, accessories and toys can be found at www.squarenimals.com.

From bin to book You save all those special papers for a reason, stashing them in a drawer or a bin.

But then what do you do with them? With 4everBound, you can have the pages professionally bound into a beautiful, customized, yearbook-style book. Imagine all those drawings, stories, artwork, essays, certificates, school photos, cards and letters saved in a book for everyone to enjoy. Bonus: If you sign up for 4everbound’s newsletter before they launch, you will receive a special offer.

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Available at www.4everbound.com starting in April.

Cozy and fast-drying With a sumptuous look and feel, plus exceptional drying performance, the Luxury Hooded Towel offers the next generation of towel technology. Your baby will enjoy the softness, while the fibers rapidly draw moisture for quicker and easier drying. High-performance drying combined with elegant luxury and a contemporary look. Choose from pink, blue, and gray.

Available at www.ecloth.com; $39.99

Monadnock Gymnastics Center JOIN US for Summer Gymnastics & Ninja Camps

Not just an education. A moral foundation.

Discover an education that challenges your child in all the ways that count.

Traditional academics paired with innovative classroom technology allow students to explore, experiment, problem-solve, and invent in their everyday learning.

Character development fosters meaningful relationships, leadership and communication skills, and personal responsibility.

•Games & Outside Time!•Obstacle Courses!

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find our schedule online or call for more information

We love teaching gymnastics!

From Babies to Junior Olympic Athletes

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20 Cushing Ave. • Nashua, NH 03064 • 603-882-7442 PreKindergarten to Grade 6 • StChrisSchoolNH.org

From June 26th - August 18th (CLOSED July 3rd - 7th) TONS of Gymnastics & Ninja training!

9 Vose Farm Road, Peterborough, NH

784-5161 • www.MonadnockGymnastics.com

march 2017 www.parentingnh.com 9

A taste of

Ireland

t’s clear why the Irish are known to be “lucky” — they eat (and drink) pretty darn well. From tender corned beef to whiskey to buttery mashed potatoes, the Irish are a fortunate bunch. But there’s no reason why they should be the only ones having a feast this St. Patrick’s Day. Here are eight great places across New Hampshire offering (mostly) authentic Irish treats.

BANGERS AND MASH

BOXTY

IRISH BREAKFAST

IRISH COFFEE

Coat of Arms Pub

Kathleen’s Cottage

Peddler’s Daughter

Copper Door

WHY THEY’RE WORTH TRYING: Bangers and Mash is a rite of passage for Irish folk, but Coat of Arms Pub puts their own spin on this traditional dish. Their version features house-made pork sausage set on top of mashed potatoes, smothered in gravy, and topped with Colman’s English hot mustard. Need we say more? This stick-to-your-ribs favorite is only made better when washed down with a pint of Guinness.

WHY IT’S WORTH TRYING: Boxty is a traditional Irish potato pancake that’s part pancake, part hash brown. At Kathleen’s Cottage, you have your choice of how you want to fill the starchy and delicious morsel, with options being sautéed mushrooms with whisky gravy, sautéed chicken with an Irish whiskey cream, or sautéed steak, mushrooms, and onions with whiskey gravy.

174 Fleet St., Portsmouth 431-0407 www.coatofarmspub.com

90 Lake Street, Bristol 744-6336 www.kathleenscottagenh.com

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48 Main St., Nashua 821-7535 www.thepeddlersdaughter.com

WHY IT’S WORTH TRYING: Served during Sunday brunch (11 a.m. to 3 p.m.), the Peddler’s Daughter’s Irish Breakfast will leave you full until dinner (possibly until breakfast on Monday). This traditional breakfast plate includes two eggs any style, Irish Rashers and Bangers, black and white pudding, grilled tomato, and brown bread. Wash it all down with an Irish Mule (Jameson Irish Whiskey, Peddler’s ginger beer, and lime), and you’ve got yourself quite the Sunday Funday.

15 Leavy Drive, Bedford 488-2677 www.copperdoorrestaurant.com WHY IT’S WORTH TRYING: Why not end your meal with a cup of coffee that’s filled with booze?

Copper Door’s version of Irish coffee consists of freshly brewed java spiked with Tullamore Dew Irish Whiskey and topped with whipped cream and a drizzle of [authentically green] Crème de Menthe. This is a liquid dessert that’s worth every calorie.

This month everyone is Irish, so why not eat like an Irishman? Aight!

By Michelle Lahey

DUBLIN CODDLE

IRISH SODA BREAD

GRILLED REUBEN

SHEPHERD’S PIE

Holy Grail Food & Spirits

Dutch Epicure Bakery

Lou’s Restaurant & Bakery

May Kelly’s Cottage

64 Main St., Epping 679-9559 www.holygrailrestaurantandpub. com WHY IT’S WORTH TRYING: Dublin Coddle was originally created as a way to use up leftovers in a hearty stew, but the Holy Grail takes this authentic dish up a few, modern notches. “Sausage, bacon, potatoes, onions, all simmered to perfection, and served as a heaping portion,” says Derek Reith, manager. “Cooking our coddle low and slow allows our seasonings to work through the whole dish and make for one special treat.” Dublin Coddle is also one of the harder-to-find Irish dishes around the state, so grab a spoon and get ready to dig in. (Side note: Holy Grail’s Boiled Dinner is also a great Irish indulgence, if you’re feeling extra hungry).

141 101A, Amherst 879-9400 www.dutchepicurebakery.com WHY IT’S WORTH TRYING: Although Irish Soda Bread was traditionally a product of a poor country made with only the most basic of ingredients, Dutch Epicure Bakery proves that any class of carbohydrate eaters can now enjoy this treat. Dutch Epicure’s version is made with a blend of flour, buttermilk, butter, raisins, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and caraway seed. The end result is a sweet bread resembling a large scone – just like our Celtic ancestors intended.

3002 White Mountain Highway, Conway 356-7005 www.maykellys.com

30 S. Main St., Hanover 643-3321 www.lousrestaurant.net

WHY IT’S WORTH TRYING: Almost anyone can make a Reuben sandwich, but no one can make it like Lou’s. “What makes our Reuben stand out amongst others is that everything is made in-house,” says Zachary Plante, chef at Lou’s Restaurant. “Our corned beef briskets are cooked almost daily and sliced by hand into large, flavorful, tender portions. It is then grilled to order on classic marbled rye bread with sauerkraut made and aged in-house and Russian dressing from-scratch.” Now it’s clear why this sandwich is marked as a “favorite” on their menu.

WHY IT’S WORTH TRYING: Picture this: ground lamb, carrots, corn, and onions topped with mashed potato and cheddar cheese, and finished with Merlot gravy.

Salivating yet? Comfort food at its finest, this hearty dish will instantly transport you to one of the coziest pubs in Ireland.

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

march 2017 www.parentingnh.com 11

Before you head out to hike or to camp, make sure you are prepared — it could save your life

By Melanie Plenda

T

he woods of New Hampshire are some of the most beautiful natural places on the planet.

And even for city-dwelling Granite Staters, the wilds of New Hampshire are within a very short walk or drive. But don’t let that ease of access to natural beauty fool you — New Hampshire’s woods can be unpredictable.

Some preparation before a jaunt into the wilderness, whether for a quick walk or an overnight stay, can save time, trouble, and maybe a life.

One of the most important things to do before taking off into the woods is to do some research on the area you are

going to and know your equipment.

Scott Jackson, owner and founder of the New Hampshire Outdoor Learning Center in Loudon, said it’s a great idea to print out a map — even a topographical Google Earth map — of the area where you will be hiking or camping to get a sense of the terrain and path. You can bring a smartphone with personal navigation devices, but never rely solely on this or any kind of technology that relies on signal or battery power.

If you do bring a phone, Jake King, partner and lead instructor with Thrive Outdoors, a Windsor-based organization that offers wilderness skills training among other services, recommends also bringing along a small portable battery pack.

Along with a map, you want to make sure you bring a compass with you and most importantly know how to use it (see info box on page 14).

“The first thing you bring with you is knowledge,” Jackson said. “If you have all the tools and you don’t know how to use them, they won’t do you any good.”

Next, in addition to a map and compass, you want to make sure you pack some additional essentials. Jackson recommends bringing a folding blanket.

They take up very little space, but can be crucial if you become lost at night in the cold. Not only can they be used for warmth, King said, but they can also be used as part of a shelter. Bringing a tarp is also a good idea.

You also want to make sure you pack two types of fire starter in case one gets wet. NHoutdoors.com, a website about all things outdoors in NH, recommends using a flint because it can still be used in wind or rain. You also want to bring a small first aid kit, a signaling mirror, a cutting implement, a whistle or other noise-making device and water.

Into the woods Signs of hypothermia Hypothermia occurs when the body is exposed to cold temperatures and the body loses heat faster than the body can generate heat to stay warm.

SYMPTOMS INCLUDE:

• Cold pale or blue gray skin • Shivering • Lack of interest or concern • Mild unsteadiness in balance or walking • Poor judgment • Slurred speech • Numb hands and fingers LATER ON, SYMPTOMS MAY INCLUDE:

• Muscle stiffness • Slow pulse • Breathing becomes shallow and slower • Trunk of body is cold • Weakness and sleepiness • Confusion • Loss of consciousness • Shivering Source: www.nhoutdoors.com

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In addition to bringing bottled water, Jackson said he also likes to bring a means of purifying water. Jackson said there are commercially available tablets that can purify water, straws that allow people to filter water as they drink it from a stream, and small hand-held water pump filters, all of which are lightweight and can fit into a pack.

Water can also be purified by using five drops of 2 percent tincture of iodine in clean water or 10 drops in cloudy water, or by boiling it for one minute, according to NHoutdoors.com.

It’s also a good idea to bring a spare set of clothes in case what you are wearing gets wet, because one of the biggest dangers in the woods is letting yourself get too wet or too cold (see sidebar on hypothermia).

While it’s not a bad idea to bring a bit of extra food, whether that’s a candy bar or a protein bar, Jackson said if you

do, it’s mostly feeding your psyche.

“In a survival situation, water is always more important than food. People can go a long time without food,” Jackson said. “However, psychologically food plays a big part. …So throw a Snickers bar in, throw a PowerBar in, just something that takes your mind off the fact that you’re hungry.”

Once you’ve got your essentials packed, make sure to alert someone where you are going, what you will be doing, when you expect to get back, and a time that person should call for help if you haven’t checked in.

If you find yourself lost in the woods, Jackson said the first thing to do may seem counterintuitive: stay calm; you will more than likely be rescued.

“One of the most difficult parts of

being lost is admitting that you’re lost,” Jackson said. “We always ask in our map and compass class, is getting lost a medical emergency? The answer is no. It’s not a medical emergency you just simply don’t know where you are.

However, how you react to being lost mentally could cause you to do the wrong things and it could become a medical emergency.”

He said he’s always surprised to hear from people who have gotten lost that the first thing they did was start walking faster and faster to try to get out of the woods.

“You couldn’t be more opposite of what you should be doing, particularly if it’s getting dark,” Jackson said. “But people panic. They don’t want to be lost, and they are sure if they just keep walking they will come on to something.

And most folks in fact do walk in a circle.”

Once you’ve taken a deep breath and admitted that you’re lost, Jackson said you should stay put.

“It really revolves around people that are looking for you,” he said. “It doesn’t take long for folks to realize, particularly if you’ve left information, ‘Hey, I’ll be back about 6 o’clock’ …. Around 6:30, 7 o’clock, they’re going to realize something is wrong. And if they are trying to find you and you are moving, you could effectively negate the search in a certain area.”

Once you’ve settled in a spot, start making yourself a shelter. Whether it’s a lean-to using a tarp and a tree or hunkering down beneath your solar blanket, you want to be able to stay relatively warm and definitely dry. King further cautions to lay down a layer of twigs, leaves or other debris on the floor of your shelter because the ground can draw considerable heat from the body if

march 2017 www.parentingnh.com 13

How to use a compass Hold the compass level in the palm of your hand near your chest, with the direction arrow facing away from body.

Turn the housing so the N is lined up with the red end of the magnetic needle.

Turn the housing so the E is lined up with the direction of travel arrow. Now you’re ready to use the compass.

Source: www.nhoutdoors.com (Photo courtesy of wikiHow)

OPEN HOUSE!

Melanie Plenda is a full-time freelance journalist and mother living in Keene.

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you sit directly on it.

Next, use your fire starter to get a fire going. This will help you stay warm and can help you purify water from nearby sources.

The fire will also help keep animals away and can serve as a signal for those looking for you.

After you have your fire going, start looking for available water.

Both Jackson and King said while it’s a good idea to be aware of your surroundings and on the lookout for animals like bears, moose or coyotes, it is not likely that you’ll have to tangle with any of them. Mostly, they said, those animals tend to stay away from humans, so if they smell you or your campfire they will likely head in the opposite direction.

But if you do stumble across a bear, make yourself as big as possible by waving your arms up in the air, make noise, don’t make eye contact and back away slowly.

With all of that done, the only thing you can do is wait.

“You can actually be lost in the woods of New Hampshire for a pretty long time without anything bad happening to you,” Jackson said. “It’s going to be a long night and I won’t lie to you, it’s generally not going to be a lot of fun to spend the night in the woods. …But being lost is a mental game. It’s how folks have sort of set themselves up to handle emergencies.”

Welcome!

The articles and photos in this year’s summer camp issue were provided by the New Hampshire Camp Directors Association at the direction of Garrett Colgan-Snyder, Director of Camp Hawkeye. NHCDA is a nonprofit that works with camps and state departments to help member camps ensure safety and best practices throughout. The organization provides resources for families, camps, businesses that work with camps and state departments as well. Go to www.nhcamps. org to search a list of licensed member camps based on the type of camp you want, length of session, or financial considerations. The website also has content for parents to help them decide on a camp and a map of camps to find out where they are in the state.

— Melanie Hitchcock Editor

paren SPECIAL SECTION

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4 Lake Street -Nashua, NH

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.

ForFor more information, atwww.bgcn.com www.bgcn.comoror call more information,visit visitour ourwebsite website at call Christine Miller, Membership Secretary, at (603) 883-0523.

Christine Miller, Membership Secretary, at (603) 883-0523.

Visit table at Parenting the Summer Expo on Expo, MarchMarch 19, 2016 to Visit ourour table at the NHCamp Summer Camp 18, 2017. meet our staff, raffles,giveaways giveaways&&more! more!

Meet our staff,receive receiveinformation, information, raffles,

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How summer camp ties into

21st Century skills

D

o our schools educate the whole child? And even if your school is doing a great job, what about summer break? Are your kids gaining or losing ground? Are their days and weeks off well-spent?

It’s no secret that most families in America are dependent on two incomes. So what are your kids doing while you’re out earning a living? Are they spending their time well, or are they obsessed with technology like TV, texting or online gaming? Couldn’t their time be better spent? We in the camp community think so.

We agree with the information below from a recent study — and we also live it each and every summer.

The Partnership for 21st Century Skills (www.p21.org) stems from a group of innovative companies including Apple, Microsoft, Walt Disney Corporation and McGrawHill, that commissioned a study to identify and quantify the attributes of their most successful employees.

The impetus behind this study was a growing concern that recent college graduates were entering the workforce ill-equipped to handle the demands of their jobs, and as a

A study shows that the camp experience can help a child be successful in life and work • By By Jerrell Cox, director of Camp Hale result the success rate of new hires was diminishing.

The commission arrived at the conclusion that while there is a lot of emphasis on developing technological literacy and content-based knowledge in the educational system, it has come at the expense of developing life and career skills.

The trend in schools has been to cut back on music, recess, and gym in favor of more academic or technological pursuits. While this may create a more technologically literate and knowledgeable graduate, the commission believes our educational system is not producing graduates who are prepared for success out in the real world.

The commission defined this neglected skill set as “Life and Career Skills.”

The core principles of Life and Career Skills as defined by the commission are: • Communication and collaboration • Leadership and responsibility

• Flexibility and adaptability • Social and cross-cultural skills • Initiative and self-direction These terms are technical definitions for the development of social skills and personal confidence. This is something the camp community has known and fostered for more than 150 years. At summer camp, we believe our programs develop these skills and are an excellent augmentation of a child’s school experience.

Most camps have little or no technology present, especially from the camper’s perspective. This gives your child – our camper – time to "reset" without being tethered to a cell phone or computer. Camp is low tech – a time to communicate face-to-face.

Camp is the perfect opportunity for children to develop new skills through organized activities and free play. They get to know their peers and are empowered to try new things. Whether overcoming a fear of the zip-line, hitting the game-winning single, or performing a solo at the camp talent show, camp offers different ways to grow in a safe and positive environment.

Each summer, superb camp staff comprising educators and camping professionals weave these concepts into camp life and put them into practice during daily activities.

The camp community is excited about the 21st Century Skill Initiative and believe it will serve to increase the value of the camp-life experience for your child, making them ready for their future.

Jerrell Cox is the director of Camp Hale in Sandwich.

march 2017 www.parentingnh.com 17

CAMP WIYAKA

Located on beautiful Sandy Pond in Richmond, NH

Creating Great Memories at a Great Value Since 1921

Holy Cross Holy Cross Early Childhood Early ChildhoodCenter Center WhereEducation Education Where Of the Heart Of the Heart Is as important as Is as important as

Residential Summer Camp for Boys and Girls ages 7-15

Theme D ays Making Friends

R

www.campwiyaka.org 978-249-3305

Life Long M

emories

Education of the Mind

Week long full-day and half-day programs •Engineering •Game Design

•Animation •Programming

603.897.9969 www.LOFTECHNOLOGY.com suzanne@loftechnology.com

Camp CenterStage is a 12-day

Education of the Mind

overnight camp for girls & boys ages 8 – 17 exploring Music, Theater, Dance & Leadership Skills through the Arts.

Flexible March 12 OpenSchedules House 12 - 2:00

Preschool - Pre-K – Kindergarten Flexible Schedules

Full and Half Day sessions (6:30 – 5:30) Preschool - Pre-K – Kindergarten Year Round Program Full and Half Day sessions Individualized Curriculum

(7:00 – 5:30) Year Round Program 420 Island Pond Rd. Manchester Individualized Curriculum 603-668-0510

A NH LICENSED PLUS PROGRAM www.holycrossearlychildhoodcenter.com

420 Island Pond Rd. Manchester 603-668-0510 www.holycrossearlychildhoodcenter.com

A lifetime of fun... in one camp experience.

August 16 - 27, 2017 Camp Agawam

s Sunny Day

Crescent Lake in Raymond, Maine FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO RESERVE ONLINE

www.CampCenterStage.org or call 603.294.4926

Space is limited! Reserve your bunk today!

CMARS

Adaptive Kayaking, Cycling and Hiking Children of all abilities can enjoy the thrill and adventure of kayaking, cycling and hiking with Crotched Mountain Rehabilitation Center’s Accessible Recreation and Sports (CMARS).

Our certified and licensed recreation therapists and trained volunteers develop individualized lessons with adaptations and equipment to meet each child’s skill level and goals. Lessons are held in the Monadnock Region.

Join Us and Register Today!

cmf.org/cmars 603.547.3311, x1664 cmars@crotchedmountain.org

18 www.parentingnh.com march 2017

march 2017 www.parentingnh.com 19

Summer Camp Adventures Camp Connect

Camp Sno-Mo

Manchester, NH

Gilmanton Ironworks, NH

BEST SUMMER EVER @ THE GRANITE YMCA

Creating outdoor adventures at our beautiful residential facility for campers with disabilities and special needs ages 11 to 21.

603.364.5818 ▪ easterseals.com/nh ▪ rkelly@eastersealsnh.org

A fun, academic, social, and emotional development program for students in grades K—12 with social communication disorders.

603.621.3407 ▪ easterseals.com/nh ▪ broy@eastersealsnh.org

Traditional and specialty camps at the Y are about discovery. Kids have the opportunity to explore nature, find new talents, try new activities, gain independence, and make lasting friendships and memories. And, of course, it’s fun too.

Financial assistance is available.

CONVENIENT 5 & 3 DAY OPTIONS Camps vary by location. Call for availability.

Manchester | 603.623.3558 Goffstown | Camp HalfMoon | 603.497.4663 Londonderry | Camp Pa-Gon-Ki | 603.437.9622 Rochester | Camp Coney Pine | 603.332.7334 Seacoast | Camp Gundalow | 603.431.2334

·Traditional Day Camps ·Gymnastics/Cheer ·Creative Arts ·Adventure ·Sports ·Discovery ·Fortbuilding ·and more!

THE GRANITE YMCA | www.graniteymca.org

www.GraffitiPaintbar.com • EMAIL: info@GraffitiPaintbar.com • 603-589-9948

Let Their Imaginations Soar This Summer!

Summer Quest Day Camp offers convenient, 2-week sessions that are jam-packed with fun, adventure, new friendships and unique experiences.

• Convenient 2-week programs • Junior Camp: Kindergarten + Grade 1 • Senior Camp: Grade 2-5 603.888.1982 WorldAcademyNH.com/SummerCamp 138 Spit Brook Road, Nashua, NH 03062

20 www.parentingnh.com march 2017

Swim

/

Sports

/

Crafts

/

Games

/

And More Fun!

Looking for a summer camp?

Go to a camp fair T.I.P.S.S. on how to choose the right program for your child

By Garrett Colgan-Snyder, owner and director, Camp Hawkeye

T

he benefits of camp fairs are numerous. Camp representatives come to a place close to your home, the event helps focus what can be a complex open-ended set of decisions, and you are afforded the opportunity to compare a number of programs in one place at one time.

However, the most important opportunity that a fair offers is the chance to get to know the camp personnel. Many times the person representing the camp at the fair is the director, assistant director or a high-level administrator. Meeting the person who directs the staff that will be caring for your child and setting expectations for the camp is key.

Choosing a camp is a lot like choosing a babysitter. You get recommendations from friends, then meet the person who will be caring for your child to evaluate their skills. In the same way, it is vital to get a sense of what a camp is like through the personality and values of the people leading the program. Only then can you determine whether or not it's a good fit.

Don’t miss Parenting NH’s Summer Camp and Program Expos on Saturday, March 11, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., at the Derryfield Country Club in Manchester and on Saturday, March 18, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., at the Courtyard Marriott in Nashua.

ADMISSION IS FREE!

alk with your spouse or partner and your child about what you are looking for in a camp. Overnight or day camp? Are you looking for a specific skills focus or a program with greater freedom to explore new activities? Do you need a longer program to be the focus of your child’s summer or a shorter stay that fits in between other summer plans? nvestigate the programs that will be at the camp fair before you go. Become familiar with what makes each one unique. Depending on the type of camp you are searching for, you’ll soon realize each camp has its own defining characteristics. Many overnight camps, for example, offer similar activities, but their philosophies and values set them apart. Find a camp that is in line with what you value as a parent. You can find links to many camp websites at www.parentingnh.com/Summer-Camps.

lan to spend time at the camp fair talking with representatives from each camp you are interested in. This is an aspect of your process that you do not want to rush. Don’t walk around simply taking handouts. Ask questions based on your research.

Let each representative talk about their camp and listen carefully to what they emphasize. Does the face-to-face experience match up with what was projected online? See how your child reacts to this person; are they at ease? tay open-minded. As you walk through the fair consider other programs that may not have been on your list. You and your child will have grown during this process – you now know more about what’s out there, and may be ready for a more challenging “away” experience. it down one more time after the fair and talk with your child and spouse or partner again. Choose a camp together and allow your child to have age-appropriate input on what camps they will attend. This will ensure a higher level of buy-in through ownership of the decision-making process, which will lead to greater success in the selected program.

There are very few wrong choices but there is definitely the best answer for your family and your child. Good luck in your search and remember to have fun with it. If you do, your child will, too.

Garrett Colgan-Snyder is the owner and director of Camp Hawkeye in Moultonborough.

march 2017 www.parentingnh.com 21

we

A HANDS ON EXPERIENCE

bsi Che c te k o f or u t e ve o u r nt de t ai

ls!

Summer is back backat atGymnastics GymnasticsVillage Villagewith with Summer Camp Camp is half Designedfor halfand andfull fullday day options options (9am-3pm)!

(9am-3pm)! Designed for boys from to kids 14, kids participate boys andand girlsgirls from 6 to614, will will participate iningymnastics activities,Ninja Ninja gymnastics rotations, rotations, fitness fitness activities, Challenge games,crafts, party party Challenge obstacle obstacle courses, courses, games, apparatus zip-lineand andmore. more. apparatus like like our our inflatables, inflatables, zip-line Registration campsand andrecreational recreational Registration for for summer summer camps classes classesbegins begins April April 1st.

1st. Call Call 603.889.8092 603.889.8092 or orvisit visitgymnasticsvillage.com. gymnasticsvillage.com.

M OU N TAIN B IK E C AMPS DAY & OVERNIGHT OPTIONS BEGINNER LESSONS & RENTAL PACKAGES

HI GHLAND

CAMP S

NOT JUST NH’S #1 FAMILY FAVORITE PLAY PLACE...

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NUThin’ but GOOD TIMES! is an indoor play space for kids of all ages. We specialize in FUN... so come PLAY, RUN, JUMP, SKIP & LAUGH !

2017

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603.286.7677

NORTHFIELD, NH

We are celebrating 30 years of EDUCATION! Hollis Academy for Children is a high quality academically

oriented learning center. We focus on education and implementing hands-on activities and planned learning lessons within weekly themes.

PARENT’S NIGHT OUT

PROGRAMS OFFERED: Monday–Friday, 6:30am–6:00pm

Open Registration for 2017-2018

PRE-SCHOOL & PRE-KINDERGARTEN (Age 30 months–3 yrs.)

Full Day, Half Day or Quarter Day

HOLIDAYS, VACATIONS & SNOW DAYS When your child’s school is closed, we have availability

PRIVATE KINDERGARTEN Full Day or Half Day

SUMMER TIME FUN! 8 Weeks (July & Aug.) Only pay for the day you attend

PUBLIC SCHOOL (Ages 6–12 yrs.)

Before School, After School or Both

603-465-7005 • www.hollisacademy.net

Standing up for the rights of the Earth and ALL human beings.

• Earth Living Skills • Wilderness Climbing • Whitewater Paddling • Mountain Biking • Rites of Passage

Summer programs for children and teens ages 9 - 19

Marlow, NH | kroka.org | 603-835-9087

22 www.parentingnh.com march 2017

BOOKING PARTIES & GATHERINGS FOR ANY OCCASION!

March 18th April 15th May 20th June 17th 6-10 pm

Book more than one date and SAVE!

Handicap accessible & safe for ALL ages & development levels 746 D.W. Highway, Merrimack, NH w w w.nuthinbutgoodtime s.com

Experience camp together as a family Instead of dropping off your child, stay and have some fun

C

hildren from all over New England and beyond attend overnight summer camp in New Hampshire to take advantage of our state’s beautiful outdoor setting.

Each summer when families are dropping off campers for the first time, the adults often say, “This place is amazing!

Can I stay here this week, too?” It is easy to understand that feeling as they meet the friendly and energetic camp staff, and see the fun and exciting programs their kids will enjoy.

For many adults, giving their children an overnight summer camp experience is an opportunity they didn’t experience themselves; others fondly remember

their time at summer camp and wish for a chance to relive those memories.

Camps in New Hampshire are helping meet those needs by offering family camp programs that allow kids and adults to spend time together enjoying camp activities in the outdoors. Family camp is fun for campers of all ages — from toddlers to grandparents. It has just what a busy family needs to enjoy some quality time together in a safe, quiet, and beautiful natural setting.

Mass Audubon’s Wildwood camp in Rindge, Windsor Hills Camp in Windsor, and Lion’s Camp Pride in New Durham all provide summer family camp programs. There are a variety of activities to choose from each day to interest campers of all ages. Kids-only activities allow them to make friends and connect with each other, just as they would on their own at overnight camp. Similarly, adult-only activities let adults share a new outdoor experience alongside other adults, with the guidance of trained staff educators. With activities like swimming, sailing, archery, high ropes challenge course elements, wildlife hikes, and field games, there are activities to grab everyone’s interest.

Family camp can be a great way for families to “try out” camp together before a child attends camp on their own. Children get a feel for the camp schedule, programs and property. Meanwhile, adults can see camp staff in action

as they keep everyone safe and provide high-quality outdoor education programs. Of course, everyone gets together to sing songs, enjoy meals, and gather around the campfire in the evenings for skits, songs, and s’mores.

As each family’s schedule becomes increasingly busy and stressful, quality time spent together is one of the most important ways to strengthen familial bonds. Family camp allows families to have shared experiences that don’t involve looking at a computer or television screen. Instead, each member of the family can explore activities that meet their own interests, or adventure together and share a bonding experience that lasts a lifetime.

This article was contributed by the staff at Mass Audubon’s Wildwood camp in Rindge. Wildwood is Mass Audubon’s only overnight camp and focuses on strengthening campers’ connections to nature and the outdoors. To learn more, go to www.massaudubon.org/wildwood.

march 2017 www.parentingnh.com 23

Discover how every day is filled with wonder, laughter and most of all - FUN! . - 5:30p.m.

0a.m 7:0 n e Op

year ‘r ound

CAMP PONEMAH

Snacks Provided Sibling Discounts Low Student to Teacher Ratios Degreed & Experienced Teachers Individualized & Thematic Curriculum Full & Half Day options for children 1–4 years

at Hampshire Hills Athletic Club

LEARNING ADVENTURES ECC • 51 OLD BEDFORD ROAD • BEDFORD NH 03110

W

ce

603-669-2811 • LearningAdventuresNH.com • info@LearningAdventuresNH.com

ind Their Happ F s d i K yP e r la he

Montessori School A peaceful Montessori school for children 3-9 years old.

Accepting applications for the 2017-2018 school year.

535 Mast Rd • Goffstown, NH • 603.627.3503 • www.namastechildrenshouse.com

SUMMER CAMPS 5-8th Graders - $150/CAMP The Workforce Development Center at MCC offers half and full-day Summer Camps for children entering 5th-8th grades. Variety of camps including: • Technology Camps: animation, video game design and app design featuring Minecraft® • STEM Camps: robotics, engineering and manufacturing

www.mccnh.edu/summer-camps | (603) 206-8160

Lasting Friendships. Exceptional Staff.

Full Day/5-12 Yrs Half Day/3-5 Yrs Bus Transportation Swim & Tennis Lessons Weekly Themes & Field Trips Early Drop Off/Late Pick Up

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

24 www.parentingnh.com march 2017

CAMP PONEMAH at Hampshire Hills Athletic Club

50 Emerson Rd, Milford, NH 03055

603.673.7123

ldesmarais@hampshirehills.com

hampshirehills.com

summer

How to find the right for your child

day camp

W

hen it comes to choosing the right summer day camp for your child, the variety of options can be overwhelming.

From private for-profit camps to nonprofit organizations such as YMCA and Boys & Girls Clubs, there are numerous camps to choose from. But parents should not overlook the benefits of sending their child to a summer camp offered by their town’s parks and recreation department.

The mission of the local parks and recreation department is to focus on providing high-quality and affordable summer camp programs to its residents. It provides a place for a child to experience all of the benefits of camp without having to travel far from home. It is offered in a familiar environment – parks and recreation department summer camps are usually held in one of the town’s recreation facilities or at a local elementary school.

For first-time campers, traditional day camps provide campers the opportunity to try out a variety of activities that they may never have tried before without having to commit

to a specialty camp. This gives your child the chance to find out what they truly enjoy before seeking out specialized activities.

One of the secondary benefits of choosing a local parks and recreation summer day camp is that the majority of the campers are from the community. For first-time campers, they can make new, lasting friendships with other children their own age they will be going to school with in the fall.

For returning campers, the camp allows kids to spend the summer with their friends from school. Often parents will call their parks and recreation department asking if their child’s friends have already registered and ask what sessions they have signed up for so that they can be grouped together at camp.

The counselors are generally from the local community and were often once campers themselves at the day camp where they are working as staff members. The camp directors are frequently teachers or sports coaches who are already an integral part of the community. The staff knows the ins and outs of the camp and the community-at-large and can relate their experiences to each of the campers to

Research and think local • By Matthew Casparius, CPRE

ensure that camp is a fun and positive experience for all.

Before selecting a day camp, parents should take the time to explore all options to find the best fit for their child.

They should research how staff members are trained, what activities are offered, and find out what else makes the camp unique.

Every day camp operates a little differently and not all camps are alike. One camp might cost more, but it might provide hot lunch or swimming lessons, making it a better value when compared to a less expensive camp that either charges an additional fee for those services or doesn’t offer them at all.

Make sure that when you looking at day camps you are comparing apples to apples. Most camps in New Hampshire are required to be licensed to ensure minimum safety standards, but some camps will also go through the additional rigorous process of becoming accredited by the American Camp Association to ensure that they are running the highest quality program possible.

Matthew Casparius is the parks and recreation director in Merrimack.

march 2017 www.parentingnh.com 25

All Sport Adventure Summer Day Camp

lego engineering

robotic programming stop motion animation videos 15 locations throughout New Hampshire

Special Themes each week of Summer 2017 (ages 7 & up)

Sport Specialty Camps and Clinics offered throughout the summer as well All Sport Adventure Camps run during days off from school, and school vacations too!

Extended Day options available

90 Northwest Blvd.

Nashua 402-2258

SUMMER PROGRAMS

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INSPIRE YOUR CHILD AT THE #1 TECH CAMP

iD Tech summer programs aren't just about building skills for a bright future.

They’re about the “ah ha!” moments when a new concept clicks. The BIG impact of the right instructor. Your child can code apps, design video games, mod Minecraft, explore cyber security, discover VR, engineer robots, and more!

For ages 6–18. Held at 150+ locations: Southern | Dartmouth College NYU | Princeton | Yale | MIT

SAVE $50 ON CAMP 26 www.parentingnh.com march 2017

iDTech.com/NH Use promo code: NH17

Dr. Mark Harrison We specialize in providing excellent dental care that is especially suited to the needs of children, and adolescents.

40 Portsmouth Avenue Exeter, NH 03833

SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT TODAY!

(603) 778-0400 drmarkharrison.com BEDFORD MARTIAL ARTS ACADEMY 292 Route 101, Bedford, NH 03110 603-626-9696 Email: info@bedfordmartialartsacademy.com

~VACATION CAMPS~ By the Day or by the Week!

KIDS HAVE A BLAST !!

Playground • Pool Indoor / Outdoor Games & Activities Karate Classes • Academic Tutoring & MORE! Fully Licensed by the State of NH

REGISTER TODAY www.bedfordmartialartsacademy.com

march 2017 www.parentingnh.com 27

Ages 3 to 12 years old

6:30a.m. Day Care Opens • 5:30p.m. Day Care Closes Summer Camp 3 and 4 Year-old Preschool Classes Kindergarten Classes

Full Time Child Care

Afterschool Care from Northwest & Gossler Park Before School Care & Transportation to Northwest & Gossler Park 133 Wayne St. • Manchester, NH • (603) 668-2356 • stemarie.childcare@gmail.com

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

Visit our table at the Parenting NH Summer Camp Expo, March 18, 2017.

Meet our staff, receive information, raffles, giveaways & more!

Camp Marist For the

Best Summer of your Life!

An Outstanding Overnight Summer Camp Experience with a Great Catholic Tradition A Fun Place... A Safe Place... A Friendly Place Your Child Will Make “Friendships That Last A Lifetime”

Our 68th Summer!

Boys & Girls – Ages 6 to 16 Great 2/3-week Sessions

More than 35 Activities to choose from… · Horseback Riding · Water Skiing · Arts · Tennis · Team Sports · Wind Surfing · Sailing· Swimming · Go Carts · Ropes Course · Hiking · Camping · Karate · Golf · Ceramics · Special Trips …much, much, more!

For more information, contact us at: (603) 539-4552 office@campmarist.org Or check us out online at CampMarist.org 28 www.parentingnh.com march 2017

Camp Marist

Ossipee Lake · New Hampshire

Summer school or summer camp?

E

very parent wants their child to succeed. Every child has unique talents, skills and challenges. As parents, how do you decide what is the best for your child?

When the “summer camp or summer school” question arises, it can be hard to choose. Academic success is a necessary foundation for future opportunities. However, the diverse, hands-on experiences at summer camp build resiliency and give children the opportunity to thrive.

Education is important. But self-confidence is also important. Without self-confidence, we don’t try and therefore lose the opportunity to learn from failure or celebrate success.

Risk-taking is a life skill, and for a child that is concerned about being wrong in the classroom, summer camp may be exactly the place where these skills can be honed. The self-confidence gained at camp transfers back into the classroom environment.

Diane Foster, parent and professional educator, sums up her choice between summer school and summer camp for her daughter who has a reading learning disability.

School builds academic skills, but camp builds confidence • By Diane Foster and Carrie Kashawlic

“I have welcomed the advice and feedback from my daughter’s talented teachers; I listened when they advised that she spend the summer in summer school. The first year, I pushed her through summer classes and it produced some progress.

The second year I decided that she needed an experience where she could build her confidence. Her lack of confidence and general sense of defeat about her skills impacted her ability to learn. After summer camp, at the fall parent conference, we were told that her skills had improved significantly. The confidence that she gained and continues to gain in an environment where her learning disability is a non-issue has given her many more advantages in school.

Her challenges and successes at camp are not related to her phonemic skills or in her comparison of herself academically to others. She makes connections at school to the challenges she has faced at camp such as passing into a higher swimming level, working through conflicts that arise among her cabinmates, and learning her lines for the camp play, to boost herself up when she is feeling stymied by tough school assignments.

Now, we listen to the recommendations for summer school. We say, yes we have plans in place. Then we pack her up and send her to camp. Every fall we have been informed of her further gains. We know how she is making those gains and more.”

Every child is different, but developmentally all children need to have a place to play, have fun, connect with a variety of adults and other children, at a location where they feel they can be their best selves. For many kids, that is at camp – a place to cut loose, take risks, try new things, fail, succeed, try again, and know there is no “grade” to be achieved. The experience itself is the reward.

At the end of the summer, a happy kid will return home. After weeks of physical exertion (swimming, hiking, shooting arrows), emotional growth (connecting with friends and counselors), and the peace and tranquility of the outdoors, your child’s spirit is refreshed and ready for another academic year.

Diane Foster is the lower school head at Belmont Day School in Belmont, Mass. Carrie Kashawlic is the camp director at Fleur de Lis Camp in Fitzwilliam, N.H.

march 2017 www.parentingnh.com 29

CAMP BIRCH HILL With a focus on each individual camper Birch Hill offers over 50 activities to choose from to create a personalized schedule. Let’s have a fun summer!

AN AUTHENTIC SLEEPAWAY CAMP EXPERIENCE IN THE LAKES REGION OF NH

BOYS & GIRLS AGES 6 –16 • 2, 4 & 6 WEEK SESSIONS

CONTACT US 603-859-4525

summer@campbirchhill.com

WWW.CAMPBIRCHHILL.COM 30 www.parentingnh.com march 2017

6 reasons why you can put your

trust in your child’s camp

counselors

By Emily Golinsky, executive director of Camp Starfish

T

oday’s camp staff might accentuate their uniform with unusual hairstyles or prefer to spend their free time on Snapchat rather than talking face-to-face over a cup of coffee. But you can feel confident that the young adults who will take care of your child at camp this summer can handle the responsibility with which you are entrusting them.

How can you be sure? Well, for starters, they have:

1.

2.

3.

4.

Intensive Training. Camps are required to provide comprehensive training – typically one to three days for day camps and seven to 14 days (and nights) for overnight camps. Staff are trained on everything from developmental stages to behavior management, from how to help campers who are homesick to what to do if there’s a thunderstorm. Many camps also use “pre-training training” – learning opportunities for staff in the spring, so they arrive at staff training with a solid base of knowledge.

Set Policies and Procedures. Policies are in place on everything from how to take attendance at activities (and how often) to what topics it’s OK to talk about with campers (versus what they should learn from trusted adults at home). The professional directors setting these policies and procedures have years – in some cases, decades – of youth development, risk management, and supervisory experience. You can be sure that they are instructing counselors clearly on how to combine the good judgment expected of them with the bottom-line rules and regulations by which all staff must abide.

Extensive Background Checks. New Hampshire has some of the most regionally comprehensive rules on background checks for camp staff.

At a minimum, staff hired to work with your child at licensed New Hampshire camps have undergone criminal record checks in each state they have previously lived, as well as checks of the National Sex Offender Registry.

The application and interview process for staff requires that potential staff provide a history of all previous employment and volunteer positions and also give references for the camp director to check.

Directors Who You Trust. You chose the camp your child is going to attend for many reasons – and high on the list was likely that you trusted the camp’s leadership. Perhaps you met the directors, or maybe you spoke with families who have been sending their children for years. Ultimately, you believe that the directors have the best interests of your child as their first priority. That director is the person responsible for approving the counselors who will work directly with your child. The reputation of their camp relies on directors’ decisions surrounding the staff team they put in place, so you can

5.

6.

feel confident that they are seeking out employees whose work ethic mirrors their own.

Consistent Supervision. It’s unusual – and at most camps, not allowed – for counselors to be on their own with your child out of eyesight of other staff. Supervisory staff with additional years of experience and advanced training are always checking in, visiting activity areas to see how things are going, providing opportunities for staff development and feedback, and in general keeping an eye on things.

Commitment to Kids. And last, but certainly not least, they are committed to the safety and success of your kids. Being a camp counselor is not an easy job. Working at camp is fun for sure, but all of that is far less of a daily focus for staff than taking good care of your child. Compared to the retail and fast-food jobs their friends have back home, camp counselors put in more time, work harder, and have higher expectations placed on them.

On staff, free time is fleeting, pay is low, and their access to technology and social media is significantly limited. In short, this is not the kind of job young adults take unless they have a passion for working with children, an interest in changing lives, and a real desire to make a difference. That means counselors will pour their heart and soul into making sure your child’s experience at camp is the best summer of their lives.

Emily Golinsky is the executive director of Camp Starfish located in Rindge.

march 2017 www.parentingnh.com 31

Developing thinking, considerate, open minded Developing and responsible life long learners. thinking, considerate, open minded and responsible life long learners.

Offering a tight knit community experience:

Offering a tight knit community experience:

• Outstanding academic scores MHT Elementary in New Castle MHT Elementary in New Castle • K-6 with multi-age classes • Excellent teacher-student ratios Developing considerate, •open-minded Tight knit supportive community Developing thinking, thinking, considerate, open minded • Active PTO with many and responsible life long learners. and responsible lifelong learners. community events

• Outstanding academic scores • K-6 with multi-age classes • Excellent teacher-student ratios • Tight knit supportive community • Active PTO with many community events

Your Student will grow through enrichment:

Your Student will grow Offering a tight knit through experience: enrichment: community

• Technology - ipads/laptops for each student • World Languages French and Spanish • Band - beginner and advanced • Clubs - DI, 3D printing, and homework club • Sports teams - soccer and track

• Technology - ipads/laptops • Outstanding academic scores for each student • K-6 with multi-age classes • World Languages • Excellent teacher-student French and Spanish ratios • Tight knit -supportive community • Band beginner and advanced • Active PTO- DI, with3Dmany • Clubs printing, and homework community events club • Sports teams - soccer and track

Your Student will grow Now Accepting Applications for 2017. through enrichment: Accepting Applications for NowNow Accepting Applications fora 2017 •2017.

CALL FOR AorTOUR 603-436-5416 For tour call 603-436-5416 email • dlatchaw@sau50.org.

• Technology - ipads/laptops For a student tour call 603-436-5416 or email dlatchaw@sau50.org. for each www.sau50.org/mht • 142 Cranfield St. New Castle, NH • World Languages French and Spanish www.sau50.org/mht • 142 Cranfield St. New Castle, NH • Band - beginner and advanced • Clubs - DI, 3D printing, and homework club • Sports teams - soccer and track

www.sau50.org/mht • 142 Cranfield St., New Castle, NH

Now Accepting Applications for 2017.

For a tour call 603-436-5416 or email dlatchaw@sau50.org. www.sau50.org/mht • 142 Cranfield St. New Castle, NH

Schedule your child’s Camp Physical Early!

Before you pack the bags and send them off to Summer Camp, prepare your kids for a safe and healthy experience with a thorough camp physical. Whether an exam is required, or simply recommended by your children’s home away from home, the Doctors at Londonderry Pediatrics provide the answer by providing your child’s camp physical.

Remember to Schedule Early!

Your Kids are first with us!

Londonderry Pediatrics specializes in pediatric care, from birth through college, providing evidence-based medical care in a compassionate, caring manner. We are self-owned and operated.

Our extended hours and devoted staff provide your children the continuity of care they deserve. If you have a newborn or are new to the area or looking for expert pediatric care for your child, we are here for you, your neighborhood doctors!

We are SERIOUS about YOUTH DEVELOPMENT.

Now accepting new patients ages newborn–18 years YMCA OVERNIGHT CAMPS of Greater Boston on Lake Winnipesauke North Woods for Boys Pleasant Valley for Girls BostonYcamps.org 603-569-2725

32 www.parentingnh.com march 2017

Carolyn Viveiros, APRN

25 Buttrick Road, Bldg. E., Londonderry, NH 03053 (603) 437-1003 • www.londonderrypediatrics.com

Going to summer camp is great –

camping in NH is an amazing

experience

By Bob Wipfler, co-director of Kingswood Camp for Boys

A

couple hiking the Appalachian Trail from Springer Mountain, Ga., northbound to Mount Katahdin in Maine reaches their first full 360-degree open vista above tree line at the summit of Mount Moosilauke in New Hampshire. Their guidebook describes the view from Moose as perhaps the finest in the state.

Those of us who are White Mountain aficionados could easily cite many additional breathtaking panoramas we prefer more and that are not even on the Appalachian circuit through our scenic state.

The trekkers atop Moosilauke, however, do enjoy a handsome field of vision and doubtlessly would be thrilled to discover more about the land beneath their feet.

New Hampshire is the birthplace of

American camping. The first standalone summer camp was Camp Chocorua, founded in 1881 on Burnt Island (now Church Island) on Squam Lake in New Hampshire. It was organized for the expressed purpose of developing character and, to use a word in vogue today, grit.

The youngsters thrived in a world far from home, developed strong bonds of friendship and trust, and came back far stronger physical and emotional beings.

Many other camps, such as The Groton School Camp (1882,) Asquam (1885) and Pasquaney (1895) – all in New Hampshire – soon followed, and the camping industry, as we know it today, was born.

More than a century later, New Hampshire camps continue to give young people from all places and walks of life experiences that help them to develop grit. Camp is a place to gain experience with new peer groups, develop flexibility and stamina, gain exposure to new potential interests, and learn basic skills not likely to be offered elsewhere.

Campers learn to persevere, and ulti-

mately thrive, when put in the situation of being away from home. This gives them the confidence to expand their comfort zones in the future. They forge friendships in a community where at first they know no one. Sleeping in a strange bed, eating new food, trying a new activity where the camper has to put themself out there as a novice – all help to strengthen emotional fortitude.

Our hiking friends can see plenty of lakes and ponds dotting the landscape below. Every summer at camp, people report seeing loons, moose, beaver, bear, and eagles along the shores of our lake.

One day, I watched a loon as it quietly drifted its way toward our shoreline. I saw the mergansers, too, minding their own business on and near a giant flat rock. Something the loon did suddenly spooked the ducks and they took off

under water like torpedoes going 100 miles per hour. Amazing in most places, but relatively commonplace in New Hampshire to those who are paying attention. New Hampshire is one of the best, and most authentic, places to connect children to the outdoors.

Our Appalachian Trail summit team most assuredly are observing cool breezes, not too many bugs, and certainly no poisonous snakes as they take a long, leisurely break to soak up one of the most handsome panoramas anywhere.

While they cannot see it, campers are growing their grit on just about every lake, mountainside, and field in their view.

Here is hoping they appreciate why New Hampshire is such a resplendent place to so many of us.

Kingswood Camp for Boys is located in Piermont. For more information, go to www. kingswoodcamp.com.

march 2017 www.parentingnh.com 33

APPLE TREE FARM

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July 10 - 14 • July 24 - 28 Aug. 14 - 18 Week includes daily riding lessons and many fun activities & games focusing on horsemanship, health care, and barn safety.

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Summer Summer Art Art Camps!

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34 www.parentingnh.com march 2017

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NOW accepting Offering year-round NOW accepting programming including registration for Fall 2015! registration for Fall 2015! themed summer programs Preschool - Elementary such as Culinary, Theatre Preschool - Elementary Qualified, experienced and Oceanography camp.

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SUMMER CAMP Our camp offers a summer day program for boys and girls, ages 6-12. We integrate sports, recreational, and adventuring activities — all blended into one unforgettable 10-week experience! We’re located just off of Route 3 in Nashua’s Gateway Hills Technology Park. Camp runs from June 26 to September 1, 2017. Join us this summer!

603-821-9103 • www.gatewayhillssummercamp.com march 2017 www.parentingnh.com 35

C

ongratulations to the winners of Parenting New Hampshire’s third annual cover coloring contest, who are featured here. It was very difficult to choose just four to showcase because we received so many stellar entries.

Thank you to all who entered. — Melanie Hitchcock, Editor

Coloring contest winners Winner, age 7 and younger Savannah Zollett, 5

Savannah, daughter of Erika and Eric Zollett, is a kindergartener in Portsmouth. She loves swimming, gymnastics, hiking, climbing trees, doing arts and crafts, and spending time with her family. Savannah has one younger sister, but she desperately wants a pet bunny, too.

Mom said Savannah was very excited to enter this coloring contest because it combines two of her favorite things – art and summer. She can't wait for warmer weather to dig in the garden, play on the swings, go to the pool and beach, play sports, eat ice cream outside, and roll down grassy, green hills.

36 www.parentingnh.com march 2017

Overall winner:

Samantha Bracksey, 12

Samantha Bracksey lives with her mom and stepdad, Jennifer and Michael Anderson, and is a seventh-grader at Auburn Village School. She has twin sisters, Cassie and Pattie, who turned 4 on Valentine’s Day, and says she wishes she had a dog.

In Samantha’s own words: “I love to read, act, play awesome songs on the piano, and I totally love to write short stories. I like to sew and even designed my own dress last year and some costumes. I am involved in Girl Scouts, drama club, chorus, piano lessons and a creative program called Destination Imagination.

This year I am sewing the costumes for my team and performing a skit about colors and emotions. It's kinda complicated!

I'm really excited to go to summer camp this year. I am selling enough Girl Scout Cookies to pay for one or two weeks of a GS camp in Vermont! Even though I love winter with all the snow, this summer is going to be totally awesome!”

Winner, age 11-13 category

Winner, age 8-10 category Anne Marie Breslin, 9 Anne Marie Breslin, daughter of Patricia and David Breslin, is a fourth-grader at Barrington Elementary School. She enjoys reading, writing, painting, dancing, and swimming.

She learned to play percussion instruments this year in fourth-grade band and mom says, “she rocks!” Anne Marie has a brother, Gary, 20, and two sisters, Vanessa, 27, and Catherine, 26. She also has pet guinea pigs, Lilly and Oreo, and a long-time companion, Bear, her favorite stuffed bear.

Mom says Anne Marie is very talented. She is kind, caring and loves to do the best she can no matter what obstacles she comes across.

Madison Harressey, 11 Madison, daughter of Alicia and Shawn Harressey, is a fifthgrader at Mills Falls Charter School in Manchester. She enjoys drawing both on paper and on her computer, painting, working with clay, anything where she can be creative. Reading, making singing videos, playing with her dog, and researching animals are a few other things she enjoys. Madison wants to be a veterinarian when she grows up, and has rescued baby birds, a turtle, and a chipmunk. She participated in the Girls on The Run program at her school last year, and completed her first 5K. Madison loves to be outside, hiking, skiing, swimming, playing, riding her bike, or just enjoying nature.

Madison has a brother, Travis, 8, a dog named Dexter, and a bunny named Easter.

march 2017 www.parentingnh.com 37

cook•with•your• kids MAKE A PIE (OR 2) TO CELEBRATE PI DAY

By Susan Nye

W

hether you are a family of math whizzes or not, it’s fun to celebrate (or Pi) Day. This quirky holiday celebrates the ratio of the circumference of a circle to its diameter. It is always equal to 3.14159, so March 14 is a perfect day to celebrate pi.

What can you and the kids do to celebrate Day?

π

Find some colorful yarn or string and measure and compare the circumferences and diameters of a bunch of round objects. Try various cans, bicycle tires, pots and pans.

Get creative and write some poems celebrating pi. Think of it as pi-ku.

Or design a π t-shirt.

Go for a pi run, walk or bike ride. You can premeasure a route or use your fitness monitor to estimate 3.14 miles. Too far? Try 3.14 kilometers, or just under 2 miles.

And of course … make a pie, maybe two.

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

SPAGHETTI PIE

Serves 6 to 8

• Butter • 8 oz. thick cut bacon, chopped • 1 large onion, chopped • Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper to taste • 3-4 cloves garlic, minced • 12 oz. spaghetti • 1 lb. baby spinach • 1 1/2 c. ricotta cheese • 8 oz. shredded mozzarella cheese • 2 oz. freshly grated pecorino cheese • 2 oz. freshly grated parmesan cheese • 4 large eggs, lightly beaten • 1 c. whole milk • Pinch of freshly grated nutmeg Preheat oven to 450 degrees. Butter a 9- or 10-inch deepdish pie plate or quiche pan.

Heat large skillet over medium. Add bacon and cook until crisp and brown. Remove bacon and reserve. Add onion, season with salt and pepper, and sauté until translucent. Add garlic and sauté for 2-3 minutes more. Set aside.

Meanwhile, cook spaghetti according to the package directions, less two minutes. Drain and transfer to large bowl. Add onion and toss to combine. Add bacon, spinach and ricotta and toss again.

Put mozzarella, pecorino and Parmigiano-Reggiano in a bowl and toss to combine.

Put half of the spaghetti mixture in the pie plate and sprinkle with half the cheeses. Top with the remaining spaghetti. Use a spatula to pat the pasta down.

Put eggs and milk in a bowl, season with nutmeg, salt and pepper and whisk to combine. Gently pour liquid ingredients over spaghetti and sprinkle with remaining cheeses.

Place pie on cookie sheet or sheet pan and slide it into the oven. Bake at 450 degrees for 10 minutes. Reduce oven temperature to 350 degrees; continue baking until pie is firm and top is golden, 30 to 40 minutes. Let stand 10 minutes, cut into wedges and serve.

38 www.parentingnh.com march 2017

NEW HAMPSHIRE MUD PIE Serves 12-16

• 9 oz. chocolate wafers or Oreo cookies (about 2 c. crumbs) • 1 T. sugar • 1 tsp. cinnamon • 1 tsp. espresso or instant coffee powder • 1/2 tsp. salt

• 6 T. (3/4 stick) butter, melted • 2 quarts ice cream or gelato, your favorite flavor(s) • Your favorite add-ins: chocolate chips, nuts, coconut, crushed candies and cookies • Chocolate sauce

Make the cookie crust:

Make the ice cream filling:

To serve:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line bottom of a 10-inch springform pan with parchment paper.

Put ice cream in the refrigerator for 30-45 minutes to soften.

Transfer Mud Pie to the refrigerator 20-30 minutes before serving.

Put cookies in food processor and pulse until finely ground. Add sugar, cinnamon, espresso powder and salt and pulse to combine.

Scoop 1 quart of ice cream into the springform pan and spread it evenly over the cookie crust. Sprinkle liberally with chocolate chips, nuts, coconut and/or crushed candies and cookies and gently press into the ice cream.

Drizzle individual plates with chocolate sauce. (Let the kids pretend they are a pastry chef in an elegant restaurant!)

Put cookie crumbs in a bowl, drizzle with melted butter and toss to combine. Put buttery crumbs in the springform pan and firmly press the crumbs evenly onto the bottom and about 1-2 inches up the sides of the pan.

Repeat with the second quart of ice cream and more toppings. Cover and freeze for several hours or overnight.

Gently release the collar on the springform pan. Slice pie and place each slice on a plate atop the chocolate sauce.

If you are a chocolate fan, drizzle each slice with more sauce.

Bake crust at 350 degrees until set, about 7 minutes. Cool completely.

march 2017 www.parentingnh.com 39

dad on board ACT I CAMP ACT II CAMP

July 10 - July 22 SHOWCASE PERFORMANCE on Saturday, July 22

July 24 - Aug 5 SHOWCASE PERFORMANCE on Saturday, Aug 5

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

My daughter, the sandwich shunner THE EARL WOULD BE SO DISAPPOINTED

For more information and registration for Summer Theatre Camp, please visit our website or contact our Education Administrator Andrea Underhill at (603) 816-2695 or andreau@peacockplayers.org.

A YEAR WITH FROG &

(March 10th - 19th)

GREASE

P L AY E R S

TOAD

(May 12th - 21st)

Tickets - (603) 886-7000 or online

Hits for the

whole family!

S

BY BILL BURKE

ome kids don’t like Brussels sprouts. Others don’t like spinach. My kid hates sandwiches.

There are a few things about her that I can’t explain – her reluctance to watch “Gunsmoke” with me every night, how she doesn’t want to go to the Iron Maiden show in Mansfield with me this summer, and how she hates sandwiches.

She doesn’t hate one particular sandwich – she hates all sandwiches. I don’t know how you can indiscriminately dismiss an entire category of food out of hand like that. It baffles me, and she finds it amusing that I can’t wrap my head around it. It’s akin to saying you don’t like weather. Not hot weather or cold weather – just weather.

As weird as it is, my 14-year-old steadfastly refuses to eat sandwiches. Or, what she considers sandwiches – because it’s undeniable that her argument is flawed.

She likes grilled cheese, for example, and I point out to her that grilled cheese is, in fact, a sandwich. I tell her that the grilled cheese is the perfect example of all things a sandwich can aspire to. It is the gold standard, absolute symbol of all things sandwich-y.

“No it’s not. It’s its own thing.”

I can’t really argue with someone who stubbornly refuses to adhere to the universally accepted truism that grilled cheese is a sandwich. As is a hamburger – a fact she also denies. We have agreed to completely avoid the hot dog debate for fear of causing lasting damage to the father/daughter fabric.

A little background: She was born with food allergies – eggs, nuts, certain fish – but these have nothing to do with her anti-sandwich stance. I understand completely that she needs to abstain from peanut butter and jelly or egg sandwiches, which would very likely land her in the ER. But to blame the sins of a few sandwiches on an entire genre of foodstuffs is just wrong.

As I tried to retrace my steps as a parent to see where I may have gone wrong in steering her lunchtime choices, I came to an unimpeachable conclusion: It’s my wife’s fault. She has some odd food proclivities herself – we all do, with mine being “volume.” In the 24 years I’ve known her, she has conjured up delights such as Spam sandwiches, fried baloney sandwiches, deviled ham sandwiches and Vienna sausage sandwiches for herself. (Note to wife: As flawless and perfect as I may say I find you, these things are gross.)

If children learn what they live, then I guess my daughter, who had to watch these objectionable creations pass through our kitchen, has learned that sandwiches are to be shunned.

Even if I’m right, it’s still strange. While I’m not exactly shaken to the core, I am comforted by the fact that this irrational dislike for such a wide range of foods doesn’t carry over into other categories.

“I like all pizza,” she said, waving her hand at me dismissively. “I have very low standards.”

Bill Burke is a writer who lives in southern New Hampshire with his wife, daughter and several large tubs of uneaten Fluff. He is also the managing editor of custom publications for McLean Communications..

Z107fm.com 40 www.parentingnh.com march 2017

learning curve

Country Village

MONTESSORI SCHOOL

SUMMER CAMP AVAILABLE

Preschool through Elementary

A student’s best friend

“Creating a lifelong love of learning”

SOMETIMES A DOG CAN BE THE BEST THERAPY FOR A CHILD

BY ELIZABETH FEINGOLD

NOW ENROLLING FOR 2017-2018 SCHOOL YEAR! 2 Overlook Drive, Amherst NH • 672-3882 www.countryvillagemontessori.com

A

number of years ago, I brought our black lab, Patrick, to school with me one day to try to ease the anxiety of one of our most complex students who was struggling in all areas of school.

David was a charismatic young man who easily drew adults into his world, and he developed wonderful relationships with a wide range of them at the high school, from the “lunch ladies” to administrators, paraprofessionals, specialists and teachers.

David was not as successful forging relationships with peers, and he struggled in the academic and social-emotional realms. He was easily frustrated and quick to anger. I hoped Patrick could provide some emotional support to David.

Instantly, Patrick and David fell in love with each other. Patrick – while the love of our lives – was not the easiest guy to meet. He was big, in personality and size, and he was not the most gracious with first introductions. Patrick tended to leap on new people. He terrified delivery guys, and even one of his veterinarians. But Patrick’s exuberant energy was a perfect fit for David, and they became fast friends.

That first visit turned into weekly ones with the full support of the principal. David took Patrick for walks, and helped Patrick with his social skills when meeting new people.

Patrick helped David, too. He eased his anxiety around meeting peers, kept him calm during times of stress, and made his school day fun and more relaxed. David’s teachers and specialists were able to access him for teaching and could now help him make social-emotional progress.

Other students responded well to Patrick, and when he was in the building many of our most fragile students would come by my office for talks with me, and pats and hugs with Patrick.

A few years later – along with administrative changes – came changes in district procedures about allowing animals in the schools. While I respected these changes and stopped bringing Patrick to school, I had a hard time understanding how the “facility needs” outweighed the needs of our school community.

I read many articles about the positive effects of therapy dogs on nursing home residents, hospital patients, returning combat veterans and nonverbal children. I learned that Southern New Hampshire Montessori Academy added a therapy dog, Guardian, to its school programming in 2012. And I was thrilled when the University of New Hampshire added a therapy dog, Hamilton, to their health services in 2014.

Before David graduated, I brought Patrick around one last time for the two of them to have a visit.

A month prior, 15-year-old Patrick had been diagnosed with cancer, and we were told there was nothing that could be done for him. He didn’t look great the day I brought him to the school. He was no longer the strong, energetic guy that David had known.

But when David met Patrick outside the building that day, he grinned from ear to ear before running over to give his friend a huge hug. Then they sat quietly together, enjoying the sun and each other’s company for one last time.

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. She can be reached through www.seacservices.com or email seacsvcs@gmail.com.

Summer Camp Registration Now Open at www.nmymca.org!

YMCA OF GREATER NASHUA #BestSummerEver

SSummer Programs FLEXIBLE SCHEDULING

Ages 3-9 Years Half & Full Day Options

Themed Camps Literacy Academy Art, Music, Drama Sports & Fitness Special Guests Science Water Fun in Play the Sun

Learning Tree Academy

4 Cobbetts Pond Rd | Windham NH | 603 965 3484 www.WindhamLearningTreeAcademy.com

Pick up your free copy of Parenting New Hampshire magazine at more than 600 locations throughout the state! You can also visit us at parentingnh.com. Our website is mobile and tablet compatible, so you can read us anytime, anywhere!

march 2017 www.parentingnh.com 41

house calls Get to know the color PURPLE THIS EDUCATIONAL PROGRAM TELLS PARENTS WHAT THEY NEED TO KNOW ABOUT INCREASED INFANT CRYING

BY WENDY R. GLADSTONE

A

ll babies cry and that crying can lead to parental distress, sleep deprivation, calls to medical providers, visits to emergency rooms and in extreme and unfortunate cases, injuries to babies. Knowing what causes crying, what kind and amount is normal, what to do and what not to do, helps parents, soothes babies and prevents injuries.

Parents of more than 95 percent of babies born in New Hampshire give birth at a hospital committed to sharing a tested parent education program to accomplish all of that. The program is called the Period of PURPLE Crying®. The program, developed by the National Center on Shaken Baby Syndrome, is supported by more than 50 years of research, and has two main aims: to support parents and caregivers in their understanding of early increased infant crying and to understand the dangers of responding in frustration by shaking or harming an infant.

The “PURPLE” in the title is not about a color a baby can turn when they cry really hard; it’s an acronym explaining the developmentally normal increase in crying that infants experience in their first weeks of life.

This crying is characterized by: Peaking at two months, sometimes continuing up to five months Unexpected: there seems to be no reason for it Resists soothing: no matter what you do, the baby still cries Pain-like face: as if something is wrong, even though the baby is healthy Long-lasting: up to five hours a day Evening: the most common time it happens The Period of PURPLE Crying educates parents about this normal pattern of crying that happens despite good parenting and a baby who is well. The word “period” in the program’s title is to reassure parents that their baby’s crying and the frustration it can cause when it’s unsoothable are normal – and will end. The program seeks to help parents and caregivers learn how to deal with the crying and sends the message that they should never shake their infant. Violent shaking can cause serious injury, even death, and crying is the most common trigger.

When a baby is born at a site that implements the Period of PURPLE Crying, a nurse or midwife tells parents about the program and gives them materials including a short film and booklet. Parents are encouraged to watch the film, bring it home, and share it with others so that people caring for their babies understand infant crying and learn coping mechanisms that do not end in harm. The messages from the program are reinforced at medical appointments, visits with community agencies and emergency room visits.

Knowing Safe Sleep methods is important for parents learning about the Period of PURPLE Crying.

While it’s tempting to bring crying babies to bed, sleeping this way puts babies at risk for suffocation and sudden death. Parents should always have a safe sleep environment ready for their baby, especially when the caretaker needs a break.

Learn more about infant crying at www.purplecrying.info and more about safe sleep at www.aap.org. To learn more about the state’s effort to reach every parent who gives birth with this program, go to www.nhchildrenstrust.org/purple.

Wendy R. Gladstone, MD is a physician for the Child Advocacy and Protection Program at Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center. For more information, go to www.chadkids.org.

42 www.parentingnh.com march 2017

raising teens and tweens

Keeping Kids Healthy for Over 35 Years!

Be sure to check in more than you check out DON’T MISS OUT ON THE CHANCE TO CONNECT WITH YOUR TWEENS AND TEENS

BY TRACEY TUCKER

B

eing a parent is full of ups and downs. Between work, family and friends, parenting can sometimes make all of those aspects very difficult.

In fact, parenting can overtake all of the roles in our life, making it challenging to find time to work, get together with friends, have time with our spouse, let alone try to meet our own needs.

Life has become busier and more frenetic given the rate of technological advances.

Parents that work are constantly tethered to their phone, iPad or other smart devices.

I talk with parents that describe their nightly routine dancing between their computer and the stove, trying to make dinner while answering their unfinished business from the day.

By the time dinner is complete, homework is done and nightly routines are finished, parents feel depleted and often overwhelmed by what still needs to be done. It is because of all of these pressures that parents feel the need to “check out” through TV, smartphones or other devices that allow them to decompress.

Although this behavior is not in itself damaging, what can be destructive is how this can affect their relationships with their spouses and their children. It becomes too easy for parents to disengage each night, and if not kept in check, parents can miss out on so many small moments required to maintain healthy relationships with their entire household.

Recent research on marital relationships suggest that the reasons traditionally known for the demise of a marriage, such as money, sex and communication, are slowly being topped by married couples becoming less present with each other. Spousal relationships are always in need of reconnection, as life’s schedule can be difficult and all consuming. Not having these moments can lead to a further divide and a lack of empathy for each other.

This same lack of presence is also impacting parents’ relationships with their children. Living with adolescents can be frustrating, as many tweens and teens are developmentally “moving away” from their parents. Communication with kids during this time can be sparse at best. But inevitably there are times our tweens and teens do come up for air and need to be present and need to connect.

How can we do better? Make it a goal to disconnect from electronics at points throughout the week. Check in with your spouse and your children to see how their day was, even if your children seemingly never answer that question. Eat dinner together. Talk about highs and lows of the day. Talk about challenges that you faced over the course of your day. Talk about funny moments you experienced. Laugh. Turn the TV off or put down your electronics when your kids sit next to you and start a conversation. Wake up when they come in after your bedtime to talk them through what is bothering them.

We model so many important things for our kids—our marriages, our work/life balance, the way we handle stress, the way we use our free time and the way we love.

We also model imperfection, so don’t be afraid to apologize to your kids (or spouse) for “checking out.” Recognizing your own challenges with the ones you love allows everyone to figure out how to be better.

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

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

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march 2017 www.parentingnh.com 43

out about

march p m a C r e m m u

New Parenting

S

e’s Hampshir

p os x E m a r g & P ro ER: ANCHEST M

ER rch 11 • T a S E M H • C y N a A d r M Satu —1PM 10AM

N

: NASHUAh 18 •

A ASHU

V I RT UA L

HAIRSPRAY 3 FRIDAY

MANCHESTER – Palace Theatre, 80 Hanover St. Welcome to the 1960s in Baltimore with quirky, plussized teenager Tracy Turnblad.

Her one dream is to dance on the famous Corny Collins show.

Against all odds, her wish comes true and she becomes an overnight star. Using her newfound fame, Tracy advocates for racial integration on the dance show and won’t stop until she wins. Winner of eight Tony Awards, including for best musical. Tickets: $25$45. Tonight’s performance is at 7:30 p.m.; go to website for additional show times through March 25.

668-5588; www.palace theatre.org

• Marc Saturday 1PM 10AM—

VIRTUAL:now!

PARENTING NEW HAMPSHIRE’S SUMMER CAMP & PROGRAM EXPOS This free, interactive event allows parents and their children the opportunity to speak one-on-one with representatives about summer camps and programs in New Hampshire and beyond. This is a unique opportunity to talk directly with counselors and professionals who can answer questions to help you decide where to send your child this summer and about what you need to know to plan for your child's experience in both day and overnight programs. For a list of participating camps and programs, go to www.parentingnh.com.

online Available

MARCH MANDOLIN FESTIVAL CONCERTS 3 FRIDAY — 4 SATURDAY

NEWMARKET – Stone Church, 5 Granite St. The annual March Mandolin Festival is celebrating its 15th year. This year’s festival presents two concerts with a lineup of virtuoso mandolinists whose musicianship showcases the range and expressive qualities of the mandolin.

These performances feature Italian classical mandolinist Carlo Aonzo, multigenre mandolin master Tim Connell, New England's own Steve Roy, and Concord Community Music School Folk Department chair and multi-instrumentalist David Surette, with special guest, folk singer and guitarist Susie Burke. A second concert will be performed Saturday, March 4, at Concord Community Music School in Concord. Admission: $12 in

44 www.parentingnh.com march 2017

Derryfield Country Club, 625 Mammoth Road, Manchester Saturday, March 11, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Courtyard Marriott, 2200 Southwood Drive, Nashua Saturday, March 18, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Newmarket; $20 (discount for students and seniors) in Concord. Show times are 7 p.m. on Friday; 7:30 p.m. on Saturday. 228-1196; www. ccmusicschool.org

BACKYARD WINTER BIRDS 4 SATURDAY

MANCHESTER – Amoskeag Fishways, 4 Fletcher St. From the cardinal to the chickadee, many species of birds stay in New Hampshire during the cold winter. Discover who you might see in your backyard and make a bird feeder to take home.

Advance registration with payment required.

Cost: $3 per person or $6 per family. 10 a.m. to noon. 626-FISH; www.amoskeag fishways.org

DANIEL TIGER’S FIVE IRISH NEIGHBORHOOD TENORS 9 THURSDAY

9 THURSDAY

CONCORD – Capitol Center for the Arts, 44 South Main St. The legacy of the beloved Mister Rogers Neighborhood lives on with the award-winning television series, Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood, from The Fred Rogers Company and PBS KIDS. Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood tells its engaging stories about the life of a preschooler using musical strategies based on Fred Rogers’ groundbreaking television work. Through imagination, creativity and music, Daniel and his friends learn the key social skills necessary for school and for life. Tickets: $35-$65. 6 p.m. 225-1111; www.ccanh.com

MANCHESTER — Dana Center for the Humanities, Saint Anselm College. Nothing says St. Patrick’s Day like a worldclass Irish tenor, unless it’s five world-class Irish tenors.

Following in the footsteps of the legendary Irish singer John McCormack, the Five Irish Tenors bring together Ireland’s finest voices in a tuneful evening of extraordinary vocal music that ranges from Verdi to Mozart and from Yeats to the last glorious strains of Danny Boy, The Rose of Tralee, and Will You Go Lassie Go. A longtime favorite in Ireland, the Five Irish Tenors will have you wearing the green and singing the beloved songs with the best of them in this musical feast of an evening. Tickets: $14.75- $33.75. 7:30 p.m. 6417700; www.tickets.anselm.edu

MOTLEY CRUE AND KISS TRIBUTE SHOW

QUEEN CITY KAMIKAZE CONVENTION

11 SATURDAY

CHAD BATTLE OF THE BADGES HOCKEY CHAMPIONSHIP

18 SATURDAY

ROCHESTER – Rochester Opera House, 31 Wakefield St. Take a trip back to the 1980s for a true Motley Crue experience. Hotter Than Hell is the ultimate Kiss tribute.

Kiss fans will hear all of the favorite songs from the 1970s and 80s era of Kiss along with the full Kiss show experience.

H.T.H performs and dresses in the 1970s-era costumes and provides the crowd with the blood and smoking guitars fans would expect. H.T.H provides the experience of attending a Kiss concert. Tickets: $20.

8 p.m. 335-1992; www. rochesteroperahouse.com

MANCHESTER – Manchester Memorial High School, 1 Crusader Way. Queen City Kamikaze is hosting its eighth annual convention. QCK attracts thousands of fans of Japanese animation (anime), comics (manga), video gaming, comic books and science fiction.

Many convention attendees wear costumes of their favorite characters. Events include panels and workshops, anime screenings, a costume and skit competition, costume contest, video game tournaments and tabletop gaming, card game tournaments and an exhibit hall of anime-themed merchandise and handmade creations.

Admission: $10. 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. www.queencitykamikaze. com

19 SUNDAY

SAINT PATRICK’S COMEDY GALA 18 SATURDAY

PORTSMOUTH – The Music Hall, 28 Chestnut St. Seacoast Asset Management presents the Saint Patrick’s Comedy Gala. An evening featuring Jim McCue, Joey Carroll, Jimmy PJ Walsh, Paddy O’Furniture, bagpipers and Irish step dancers. A percentage of proceeds go to VetsCount. org and The Daniel Healy Foundation. $33-$38. 8 p.m.

436-2400; www.themusichall. org

MANCHESTER – SNHU Arena, 555 Elm St. Police officers and firefighters will face off in the 10th annual CHaD Battle of the Badges Hockey Championship. This Good v.

Good rivalry pits community heroes against each other in a fun, highly competitive affair to raise money for the Children’s Hospital at DartmouthHitchcock. Tickets: $10; age 5 and under get in free. 3 p.m. www.chadhockey.org

53RD ANNUAL ICE REVUE 25 SATURDAY

MANCHESTER – JFK Coliseum, 303 Beech St. Giltz. Glam.

Hollywood. See it all when you join the Southern NH Skating Club for its 53rd annual Ice Revue, "The Envelope, Please!"

Experience Hollywood's biggest celebration, the Academy Awards. Skaters of all ages and abilities will bring awardwinning films from the 1930s through today to the ice. "The Wizard of Oz," "Mary Poppins," "The Sound of Music," "Star Wars," "ET," and many of your other favorites will be featured.

Come see the handmade costumes, props, lighting, and multimedia production. Tickets: $5 for students/seniors, $8 for adults. Two shows: 1 and 7 p.m. www.snhsc.com

Save the date for the annual Best of NH Party!

June 15 at Northeast Delta Dental Stadium.

Details at bestofnh.com.

TO BENEFIT

PARTY PRESENTED BY

PARTY SPONSORS

GRAND PRIZE PROVIDED BY

CR Helicopters Inc

Vote now!

The ballot — for food and drink PLUS shops, services and entertainment — is open through March 20.

Vote for your favorites now!

Voting takes place online only.

Visit bestofnh.com to cast your vote.

march 2017 www.parentingnh.com 45

Summer Camp & Program Expos Parenting New Hampshire’s

Manchester

Saturday, March 11, 2017

10am-1pm

STER MANCHEST

The Derryfield Country Club

PLUS: enter to win

4 tickets to Water Country!

One winner drawn per expo

N A S H UA After the expos, go online to parentingnh.com for a list of summer programs and to view photos, videos and more!

FREE ADMISSION!

Nashua

Saturday, March 18, 2017

VIR IRTU TUAL EXPO

10am-1pm

The Courtyard Nashua

MEET WITH REPRESENTATIVES FROM REGIONAL SUMMER CAMP PROGRAMS INCLUDING: Academy of Notre Dame Bishop Guertin High School Boys and Girls Club of Greater Nashua Brazilian Art Soccer & Futsal NH Camp Birch Hill Camp Hawkeye Camp Marist Camp Merrowvista Camp Ponemah at Hampshire Hills Currier Museum of Art ELC Outdoors Fleur de Lis Camp Foster’s Golf Camp 46 www.parentingnh.com march 2017 Graffiti Paintbar

Granite YMCA Highland Mountain Bike Park Huntington Learning Center Kroka Expeditions LETGO Your Mind LOFTechnology Merrimack Parks and Recreation Nashua Catholic Regional Junior High School Nashua Community Music School New England Sports Camps New Hampshire Audubon The Palace Theatre Primrose School at Bedford Hills School of Creative & Performing Arts

Tokyo Joe’s Studios UMaine 4-H Camps at Tanglewood and Blueberry Cove Windsor Mountain Summer Camp Workforce Development Center, Manchester Community College World Academy YMCA of Greater Nashua

For more information and a current list of exhibitors: www.ParentingNH.com

five•for families

COMPILED BY JACQUELINE TOURVILLE

A Dragon's Tail: Filled with medieval spectacle and stunning costumes, the NH Theatre Factory kicks off March with a fiery roar with its presentation of A Dragon’s Tail, a fairytale about a young girl who befriends a misunderstood dragon. Led by a cast of talented youth performers from across the state, the production features contemporary music and a powerful message about not judging a book by its cover. Performances are Friday, March 3, and Saturday, March 4, at the Derry Opera House. www.nhtheatrefactory.org

Fairy Tea Party: As spring arrives, the fairies awake from their winter slumber, and what better way to celebrate than with a fairy tea party? On Sunday, March 26, at 2 p.m., the Kimball Jenkins Estate invites kids and caregivers to enjoy tea and refreshments, story time, crafts, and more fairy-infused fun. Pre-registration is required, and don’t forget your wings! www.kimballjenkins.com

Moonlit Walk: All ages are welcome to take a walk beneath the moon and stars at Prescott Farm in Laconia on Saturday, March 11, beginning at 6 p.m. Environmental educators will lead the way to identify constellations in the night sky, provide information about the habits of nocturnal animals, and offer tips for honing your own night-vision abilities.

Wear boots and dress appropriately for the weather; snowshoes available, if needed. www.prescottfarm.org

Looking for fun things to do as a family this month?

As winter wanes and spring finally ar-rives, kid-friendly events and activities are sprouting up everywhere in New Hampshire. Make March marvelous with these top picks.

Maple Express: Celebrate March’s Maple Month by experiencing the time-honored tradition of maple syrup and sugar-making at Charmingfare Farm in Candia. On weekends throughout the month, the farm’s Maple Express takes you on a horse-drawn wagon ride to an authentic sugar shack where families will tap a tree, collect sap, and get a close-up view of the evaporation and sugar-making process. There is plenty of taste-testing and maple syrup for sale to take home. Cap off your day by visiting with the animals in the Oakhurst Discovery Barn. Free admission for children younger than 23-months old. www.visitthefarm.com

Battle of the Badges: This year marks the 10-year anniversary of CHaD’s Battle of the Badges hockey championship, a charity hockey face-off between police officers and firefighters that benefits kids who receive care at Children's Hospital at Dartmouth-Hitchcock (CHaD). It’s a hockey game where you can root for both sides! Presented by AutoFair, this year’s Battles of the Badges is slated for Sunday, March 19, at SNHU Arena in downtown Manchester.

Proceeds benefit CHaD. www.chadhockey.org

Jacqueline Tourville is a freelance writer and PNH’s travel and tourism expert..

march 2017 www.parentingnh.com 47