AlaskaParent.com
Winter 2023/24 • FREE
WINTER FUN:
things to do INSIDE & OUT
Spark
TOYS THAT IMAGINATION
! y b a B OhPREPPING FOR PREGNANCY & PARENTHOOD
in this issue
Winter 2023/24
22
14
33
departments
8 what’s online screens & your 10 digital child's health from eye strain to blue light concerns
leadership 11 instilling qualities in kids
+ activities to build those skills
12 kids and fentanyl
what to know & what to do
14
talking to kids about disabilities tips to get the conversation started
15 heart heros
four alaska youth share stories to inspire healthy habits
20 winter craft ideas 22 let’s eat diy snowflakes
healthy holiday snacks
the birth & baby guide
26
getting ready for pregnancy
fun family-friendly ideas
42 out & about calendar 45 advertiser index
+ your OB/GYN timeline
28 naming baby
tips for managing feedback
29 newborn care 101
+ safe sleep & postpartum resources
33 breastfeeding basics
10 tips you need to know + breastfeeding resources
16 think outside the toy box 36 baby's first library toys that spark imagination
new year’s eve 41 celebrate with the kids
VISIT US ONLINE!
Scan this code with your smart phone to view this content and more at our website!
favorite classic storybooks
38 hot stuff
great products for mom & baby
4 alaska parent winter 2023/24
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Winter 2023/24 Volume 10 / Number 4 Publisher/Editor Josie Hartwell Graphic Designers Marie Skubon Fulvia Lowe Administrative & Marketing Assistant Jessica Markland Digital Media/Web Designer Tona Smardo Contributing Writers Kimberly Blaker Shannon Dean Tiffany Doerr Guerzon Christa Melnyk Hines Sarah Lyons Haley Nelson President Kevin Hartwell
Alaska Parent is published quarterly by Alaska Life Publishing LLC, PO Box 221344, Anchorage, AK 99522. Phone: 907-8689050. Visit us online at www.alaskaparent. com. Alaska Parent magazine is available free of charge at locations throughout Alaska. Subscriptions: $9 for 1 year (4 issues); $15 for 2 years (8 issues). To order, call 907868-9050, email info@alaskaparent.com or subscribe online at www.alaskaparent. com. Copyright © 2023 by Alaska Life Publishing LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction of any part of this publication without permission is strictly prohibited. Articles and advertisements in Alaska Parent do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the magazine or Alaska Life Publishing LLC. We do not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. The acceptance of advertising by Alaska Parent does not constitute an endorsement of the products, services, or information. We do not knowingly present any product or service which is fraudulent or misleading in nature.
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what’s online
THE GIFT OF GIVING BACK While you're knocking things off your holiday to-do list, don't forget to check out opportunities that give your family a chance to focus on others − particularly those in need. Here are some great ideas: AlaskaParent.com/_pages/seasonal/giving_back
WIN TICKETS TO CIRQUE DREAMS HOLIDAZE Enter for your chance to win a family 4-pack of tickets to Cirque Dreams Holidaze, a gravity-defying holiday spectacular! Presented by the Anchorage Concert Association. For details, visit us on Facebook.com/AlaskaParent
SNOWFLAKE TORTILLAS These sweet and sparkly tortilla snowflakes are an edible version of the popular Mexican folk art, papel picado. Fun to make (and eat!), they’ll brighten any winter holiday table! Get the recipe: AlaskaParent.com/_pages/food/recipes/papel_picado
BIRTH & BABIES GUIDE Expecting a baby? Have an infant, toddler or preschooler? Then be sure to check out our online Birth & Babies Guide! It features the best local services, businesses and products for expectant parents and those with little ones. AlaskaParent.com/_pages/guides/birth_babies
WINTER BIRTHDAY PARTIES Kids with winter birthdays may feel like they have fewer options for fun than their friends who were born in milder weather. But don't worry! Here's a roundup of wonderful winter birthday bash ideas! AlaskaParent.com/_pages/celebrations/winter_birthdays
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health & wellness
Health news for the whole family
DIGITAL
SCREENS
and Your Child's Eyes and Sleep
By Kimberly Blaker
As parents can attest, the amount of time kids spend plugged in can be a real problem. There are plenty of good reasons for parents' concern. But it isn't just that it's sedentary, isolating, and decreases their attention spans; digital screens can affect kids’ eyes and sleep.
Digital eye strain Computer vision syndrome causes vision problems and eye discomfort. As the American Optometric Association (AOA) explains, it results from extended viewing of computer screens, e-readers, tablets, and cell phones. The more time spent on digital devices, the worse the discomfort becomes. According to The Vision Council, computer vision syndrome symptoms include eyestrain, dry eyes, headache, blurred vision, and neck and shoulder pain. Fortunately, there are several solutions to prevent or cure computer vision syndrome. First, set limits on daily leisure media use for yourself and your child. Because of the numerous adverse effects of media consumption, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) provides these recommendations for children's media use. • • • •
For children under 18 months, limit screen media exclusively to video-chatting. From 18 to 24 months, look for high-quality programming. Although the APA doesn't specify an amount of time for this age group, less than one hour a day can be presumed based on the next age group. For ages 2 to 5 years, allow no more than one hour a day of media. Kids ages 6 and older should have consistent limits for their total media time and specific restrictions on various media types. In recognizing each family and child is different, the APA hasn't set a standard amount of time for this age group. But outside of family media activities and homework, kids should spend only a small percentage of their day plugged in.
Another way to protect against computer vision syndrome is to wear computer eyeglasses (prescription glasses that are designed to wear when doing computer work). If you or your child experience digital eye strain symptoms, make an appointment with an optometrist for a vision check. Be sure to discuss screen use to determine if computer glasses might be the right choice.
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Also, when using a computer, position the screen at an arm's distance away. Increase the font size to reduce strain as well. You can also reduce overhead lighting to eliminate glare
Blue light concerns Exposure to blue light may be another digital screen concern. Blue light comes from many sources, primarily from sunlight as well as LED and fluorescent lighting. But smartphones, flat-screen TVs, computers, and electronic notebooks also emit significant amounts of blue light. The problem is that our eyes can't block blue light, so it penetrates the eye lens and cornea, then it reaches the retina. The American Academy of Ophthalmology says that there's no evidence that the blue light specifically given off by screens will cause eye damage. Therefore, the AAO does not support the use of "blue light blocking" lenses. It is true that overexposure to blue light and UV light rays from the sun can raise the risk of eye disease, but the small amount of blue light coming from computer screens has never been shown to cause any harm to our eyes. But beyond the eyes, researchers found that blue light affects our circadian rhythm and throws off the body's biological clock. Too much blue light exposure late at night from a phone, tablet or computer can make it harder to get to sleep. Even dim light affects our circadian rhythm and interferes with melatonin secretion. The lack of sleep that results from it then increases the risk of depression. Minimizing screen time is one of the most obvious ways to reduce exposure. Also, shut down devices with digital screens 2 to 3 hours before bed, if possible. If not, at least dim the screen light in the evenings. If your child requires a nightlight, use a dim red light instead. This has the least impact on the circadian rhythm and eyes.
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9 Ways
health & wellness to Instill
Leadership Qualities in Kids
As children get older, it’s important that they have the confidence to make their own decisions. Strong leadership skills help By Sarah Lyons kids develop better and more creative coping abilities when it comes to problem solving and project management. For some children, leadership comes naturally. For others, it must be developed and encouraged over time. Either way, parents can help develop their children’s leadership qualities so that when they are ready to attend college and enter the workforce, leading others and knowing when to follow someone else’s lead are already second nature.
Set an example: Parents can help their kids develop good leadership by showing them what a good leader looks like on a daily basis. When you lead others, including your own children, try to be optimistic, a good listener, treat people fairly, and do the right thing. Your kids will learn these skills simply by modeling your good example.
Set them up for success: Build confidence by encouraging kids to participate in activities where they have natural strengths and talent. Assist kids with projects just enough to help them succeed, but allow them to do the majority of the decision-making and work. Rewarding experiences like these help kids become more willing to venture out of their comfort zones and even help others.
Build communication skills: What’s the most important part of communication? Listening! Encourage children to practice listening, speaking in front of others, and expressing frustrations in a healthy way. Have children order their own food at restaurants, encourage them to approach coaches or teachers when there is a problem, and teach them to ask questions after listening to a friend.
Be a team player: School projects, team sports, clubs, or being a part of a band, orchestra or choir helps kids understand how to work towards a goal as a group. These experiences help your child understand how to be a good leader and when to listen to others and why both are equally important.
Encourage lifelong skills: Integrity, empathy, work ethic, respect, negotiation and compromise are great skills for any leader, as well as any student, employee or friend. You can encourage these skills by setting a good example and talking through situations where they were, or were not, utilized well. Ask your child how she would have handled this differently and why. Praise them when they have done a good job using these skills and encourage them when needed. AlaskaParent.com
Show them the value of diversity: There is great value in diversity. Everyone has different backgrounds, experiences and gifts. Encourage your kids to learn about other cultures and experiences and that differences are what make us a stronger team. They can learn to stand up to those who are singled out or viewed as different from others. This is what makes a great leader.
Ask for help: Kids who know when to problem solve and when to ask for guidance are better teammates and stronger leaders. It’s also important to offer help to others in the group who may be struggling. Lead by example and be encouraging and helpful when needed.
Develop good work habits: Kids who have responsibilities at a young age are better prepared to assist or lead others. Assign chores to children as part of a working family unit. Encourage older kids to build leadership skills and work ethic by volunteering or doing part-time jobs such as yardwork, pet care or babysitting.
Time management:
Extracurricular
Activities that Build
Leadership Skills Team sports:
Being part of a team helps kids learn to work as a group and understand the art of leading and following others.
Student government: Being part of student council or government helps kids learn to lead and build speaking and negotiating skills.
Starting a club:
If your child is interested in something specific, chances are others their age are as well. Starting his own club is a great way to learn how to lead others and share common interests.
Volunteer work:
Giving the gift of time and service helps kids learn to put others first, work on projects for the greater good and develop a good work ethic.
Academic teams or clubs: Academic teams or clubs such as robotics, mathletes, speech and debate, National Honors Society and science club are great ways to build skills and confidence in areas that interest kids, but also provide leadership skills they can use in college and the workforce.
When your child has a large project to complete, encourage him to map out a plan for getting it done on time. Create steps and set goals to accomplish to meet the deadline. Good project management skills will serve kids well as leaders and employees in the future.
Music and arts:
As children develop leadership skills, it’s important − for you and them – to understand that they will not always be in charge. Good leaders build up and encourage others. Being respectful in a group and willing to listen and compromise are also ways to lead others. Whether your children are natural leaders or great teammates, these qualities will serve them well in the future.
Scouts:
Choir, orchestra, band and theater also offer the benefits of working as a group toward a common goal.
Groups like Girl Scouts and Boy Scouts provide opportunities to work as a team and individually while helping others, often in a diverse environment. They participate in volunteer work, team building, mentoring, skillbuilding and more.
winter 2023/24 alaska parent 11
health & wellness
Health news for the whole family
Kids and fentanyl
Alaska is seeing a rise of overdoses involving fentanyl, a deadly synthetic opioid (50 times stronger than heroin) that is being added to or sold as counterfeit pills and other drugs. The spike in fentanyl usage in Alaska is among kids ages 14-18, according to the Centers for Disease Control. In early 2023, the Anchorage School District reported at least 10 students had overdosed at local high schools, including five in one day. Some students were hospitalized, but none of them died. Fentanyl was confirmed in several of the cases. All Anchorage School District campuses — from elementary through high school — now have multiple drug overdose kits to help curb the opioid problem infesting the state of Alaska, according to officials.
Fentanyl is a powerful synthetic opioid that is up to 50 times stronger than heroin and 100 times stronger than morphine. Here is a lethal dose. (US Drug Enforcement Administration)
Parents: It’s important to educate teens and preteens about fentanyl. Make sure they know that any pill could be counterfeit and contain deadly amounts of fentanyl, unless it’s a prescription that they get directly from their pharmacist. The Alaska Department of Health echoes this warning by saying we should “assume all pills offered to you are fake and contain fentanyl.” There’s no way to identify it in a substance just by looking at it, or by tasting or smelling it. It’s even being added to marijuana, mushrooms, and other drugs. If someone is trying to sell it to you, assume it’s laced with fentanyl.
• • • •
Consider keeping a naloxone overdose first aid kit on hand. Naloxone (also known as Narcan) can reverse the effects of an opioid overdose and save lives. In most cases the effect is immediate (within 30 to 40 seconds), blocking the effects of the overdose and allowing the person to breathe again. This gives time to seek emergency medical assistance. Naloxone will have no effect if accidentally administered or self-administered. Naloxone is easy to use and small to carry. There are two forms of naloxone that anyone can use without medical training or authorization: prefilled nasal spray and injectable. Be informed of where opioid overdose response kits are available in your community. Does your child's school have them? Make sure your family knows the signs of an overdose and how to administer naloxone.
Resources:
The medication naloxone may reverse an opioid/heroin overdose. Get it from your doctor or pharmacy. Or, get it free of charge from any organization offering Project HOPE kits. For a statewide list, visit health.alaska.gov/osmap/documents/ProjectHOPEcontacts.pdf Get free online training here: iknowmine.org/narcan-training-module/story.html Order free Opioid Overdose Response Kits: iknowmine.org/product/naloxone-kit Learn more about opioids in Alaska at health.alaska.gov/dph/Director/Pages/opioids/home.aspx
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Talking to Ki ds About Disabi li ties By Sarah Lyons
“Why do you talk like that?” I heard the question come from behind me as I helped another child in the Sunday school class. “It’s just the way I am,” I heard my sister-in-law wisely answer the curious boy. My sister-in-law, Kara, was born with cerebral palsy. She was helping me in the classroom that day when one of the kids noticed her speech was different. Kara has been taught to answer, “It’s just the way I am,” after years of questions about her differences. Chances are, at some point, your child will meet someone at school or in the community who has a disability. It is normal for children to have questions about people who are different, which means parents should be prepared to answer their questions in an intelligent and appropriate way. Here are some tips to get the conversation started: Everyone is different but the same. All of us have unique gifts, personalities and challenges. All people, including people with disabilities, want to have friends, be shown respect and have the desire to be accepted. Encourage your child to embrace the differences of others and find common ground as well. If your child is interested in a popular television show, book, toy or game, chances are a person with special needs is, too. Ask them what they love to do. Types of special needs. Some special needs are obvious and some are not. Some people may need a walker or wheelchair to help them move around. Others may have a cognitive (thinking) disability that is not as visible. Explain in simple terms that people struggle with different things and may need a little extra help from a physical tool (like a wheelchair) or help from others. People can have impairments with sight, hearing, walking, speech, cognition or a variety of other things. Just because someone is in a wheelchair, it does not mean they have a cognitive disability. Also, explain to them that disabilities are not contagious and they are not going to “catch” the disability. These things may sound obvious to adults, but children process things differently and many kids have these questions. Name calling is never okay. Emphasize that people with disabilities have feelings, too. Name-calling is hurtful, disrespectful, and is a form of bullying. People with disabilities need others to stand up for them when they cannot stand up for themselves. Encourage your child to tell an adult if kids are teasing another child with a disability.
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Your child can be an example to others by being kind and respectful. Parents can set an example by using positive language and behavior toward others as well. A note about ‘rude’ comments. Kids are curious and love to ask questions. Many times they will speak exactly what is on their mind, without thinking about whether the comments will be hurtful. This can be very embarrassing to parents. So, what do you do if your child blurts out a rude and embarrassing comment? Start by answering calmly and matter of factly. If, for example, your child says, “Why is that boy in a wheelchair?” Simply answer, “He needs it to move around. Why don’t you say hello to him?” If the child is reluctant, say hello to him yourself along with something like, “John likes trains. Do you like trains, too?” If the person accompanying the child responds, follow their lead. It is always better to treat others as you would like to be treated than to hurry away in an embarrassing situation. Later, when you are at home, ask your child if they have any other questions about others with disabilities and reinforce the value of treating everyone equally. My sister-in-law, now 38, has been asked many questions about her disability over the years − some rude and some just curious. She has learned to handle them well because she knows that just like anyone else, she has challenges to overcome and successes to celebrate. Kara loves watching movies, dancing to music, and taking care of animals. She loves eating candy, pizza, and tacos. She is fun to be around, and loves to get out and explore new places. People with disabilities are just people; sometimes this simple fact is all kids need to know. AlaskaParent.com
HEART HEROS:
Four Alaska youth share stories to inspire healthy habits Most young people think heart disease only happens in old people. But these four young Alaskan survivors are now fighting that misconception as the American Heart Association's (AHA) newest Youth Heart Ambassadors. During the 2023-2024 school year, they will work along with the AHA’s in-school programs, Kids Heart Challenge and American Heart Challenge, to actively and passionately encourage other children to establish healthy habits for better mental and physical well-being. CARTER LESTINA, EAGLE RIVER At 12 years old, Carter was diagnosed with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, a condition that causes a thickening of the lower main pumping chamber of the heart. He underwent open heart surgery to get an implantable defibrillator to ensure a steady heart rhythm. Slowly Carter recovered and was able to resume his active lifestyle playing soccer and downhill skiing. He is now in his senior year at Chugiak High School and is giving back to his peers. He shares his story to bring hope to other kids in a similar situation and he encourages everyone to get outside, move and live heart healthy.
NOAH LINNEMAN, ANCHORAGE Noah was born with a congenital heart defect called dextro-transposition of the great arteries, a serious condition needing immediate intervention. He underwent open heart surgery at just three days old. The surgery was successful and today, at 8 years old, Noah enjoys riding bikes, playing at the park, and taking care of his two dogs, two cats, two frogs and lots of fish. A third grader at Anchor Lutheran School, he is excited for the opportunity to share his story and support the AHA to help other kids have happy and healthy hearts.
KENNEDY MILLER-ROBINSON, WASILLA Born with a rare congenital heart defect called hypoplastic left heart syndrome, Kennedy’s left side of her heart was underdeveloped. As a result, she has undergone five open heart surgeries, the fifth a heart transplant. Over her 12 short years, she has endured countless tests, other surgeries, three cardiac arrests, several strokes and yet she perseveres. As a sixth grader in the MatSu Borough School District, she wants to share her journey to encourage others to stay positive and let them know they can do it.
BAILEY SCOTT, ANCHORAGE Born with pulmonary valve stenosis, Bailey’s mother noticed she appeared “blue” at birth and asked her medical team to check out the newborn. Testing found the heart condition and, at just 20 hours old, Bailey underwent a heart procedure to restore blood flow. The intervention was successful, and she is now a senior at South Anchorage High School. She is serving as a Youth Heart Ambassador to help other kids who may go through a similar experience.
The Youth Heart Ambassadors serve a one-year commitment as a volunteer of the American Heart Association, assisting the organization in being a relentless force for healthier lives. The position gives youth a voice to encourage, advocate and underscore the need to raise critical funding as they share the impact cardiovascular disease has had on their life. Schools interested in participating in either Kids Heart Challenge or American Heart Challenge receive expanded curriculum resources for both classrooms and in-home learning environments and can register now for next school year. To learn more, visit heart.org/getstarted and heart.org/youthambassadors. AlaskaParent.com
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TOYS THAT Spark
IMAGINATION Air Dough is a super lightweight, unscented, non-toxic modeling compound that stimulates creativity and play-based learning. Includes 60 bags of dough in 14 different colors including glow in the dark, 3 sculpting tools, 10 googly eyes and a big bucket. The mess-free dough won’t stick to fabric. Ages 3 and up. $28. Visit scentcoinc.com.
The Hue Animation Studio contains everything a kid needs to create their own stop-motion animation videos. Great for use at home or for school projects. Make a LEGO brick film, animate claymation or capture a flower blooming using time-lapsed photography. Ages 7-13. $70. Visit huehd.com.
The Imagine and Draw Activity Book is packed with more than 75 open-ended drawing activities designed to get kids' imaginations flowing. It includes 3 doublesided, brush tip markers with 6 total colors to use while solving puzzles, inventing creatures, designing desserts and more. Ages 6 and up. $14. Visit highlights.com.
Tired of buying toys with all the bells and whistles just to find that they are quickly discarded or forgotten? It’s time to think outside the toy box. Consider choosing openended toys that will not only keep kids engaged for hours but also spark their imaginations. The best imagination-boosters are openended toys that involve kids in the process of play rather than directing them to a specific goal or outcome, according to experts. Here is a round-up of fun toys with endless imaginative play possibilities.
With the Spirograph Doodle Pad, kids can create endless designs on the LCD screen using wheels. Draw easily on the go or at home, then save and display the colorful artwork or reset the screen with the push of a button to keep on creating new designs. No paper, no markers, no mess! Includes LCD Doodle Pad with built-in storage area, stylus, 4 stencil wheels, design ideas, and instruction guide. Ages 5 and up. $25. Visit playmonster.com.
From the roundhouse to the mountaintop and back ... there's so much to explore with this 100-piece Mountain Train Set! There's a train station, a magnetic crane, plus loads of accessories to bring it to life, including town buildings, emergency vehicles, people, trees, bushes, and more. Chug chug chug across the bridge, through the mountain, and over the waterfall. It’s an endless adventure young engineers can't wait to build! Ages 3 and up. $99. For local retailers, visit fatbraintoys.com.
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The String a Bling Jewelry Set is a super fun arts and crafts activity that'll unleash your kids’ creative side. The set comes with hefty 500+ pieces, including a wide range of colorful beads, threads, clips and cords. With tons of colors and customizable options, kids can create anything from a friendship bracelet to a personalized necklace to a cute keychain and beyond – the possibilities are endless! Ages 6 and up. $10. Available at Target. The Kinetic Sand Construction Site Folding Sandbox is the perfect sensory toy for hours of imaginative construction play – dig, build and crush! This set comes with 2 lbs of play sand and a toy truck to create a realistic construction site experience. The kinetic sand is easy to mold and shape, providing endless hours of creative play. Kids will love the tactile experience of playing with this sand and building their own construction projects. Ages 3 and up. $30. Visit kineticsand.com.
Dress-up games let your child act out different roles, explore ideas about the real world and develop their imagination. Your child might choose to be a dazzling ice princess, or a fireman who saves the day, or a doctor giving their teddy a checkup. The dress up costumes at Little Adventures will help ignite their imaginations. Ages 3-13. $17 and up. Available locally at Classic Toys or visit littleadventures.com.
Lite Brite – make art with light! After 50 years, this timeless classic is more fun than ever! Craft beautiful art using one of the templates or use your imagination to create your own designs. Includes two storage cases, 8 templates and over 300 pegs. Let the fun last for hours as you light up your life with Lite-Brite! Ages 4-15. $28. Available at Walmart.
Make-A-Fort building kits allow solo or sibling play to create incredible structures with or without a parent’s help. Build a fort, house, maze, pirate ship, or just let your child’s imagination run wild. The kits include panels, braces and foam connectors, and these durable parts can be reused over and over again. Ages 4 and up. $130 and up. Visit makeafort.fun.
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Little ones can create their own songs using this durable and affordable Musical Mat. The piano mat produces 25 sounds, including 8 kinds of animal sounds, 9 melodies, and 9 music scales. It helps kids identify colors and animals, learn about music creation, and develop hand-foot coordination. Oh, and it’s a lot of fun, too! Ages 1-5. $29. Visit joyjoz.com.
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From paint to paper, this Young Artist Learn to Paint Set includes everything your aspiring artist needs to create awesome masterpieces. The paint brushes have a triangular handle that is easy to hold, and the paint pallet is easy to handle and perfect for creating new colors. Comes with a carrying case. Ages 5 and up. Available locally at Over the Rainbow, Classic Toys, and Michaels or visit fabercastell.com.
Rev up your child's imagination with a wooden car or truck – or even a whale on wheels. From classic designs to modern twists, find the perfect ride for your little one from Alaska Wooden Toys. Handcrafted in Alaska, these high-quality wooden toys are made from hardwoods and locals woods, and are safe and fun to play with. Each one is the perfect size for small hands to maneuver. Ages 3 and up. $17.50 and up. Visit akwoodtoys.com.
Give your kids the power to build what they can imagine! With PlayTape, kids can create their own world of roads, highways or racetracks with their existing toy cars and trucks. Just unroll PlayTape, stick to any flat surface, and let your kid’s imagination drive! Safe for floors, walls and furniture, peeling up easily with no residue. Ages 3 and up. Starting at $9. Visit inroadtoys.com.
Imagine, color and learn on the go with the Imagination Go Pack. Included in this travel bag are a pack of chalkboard crayons, 20 chalkboard cards, and wet wipes for erasing, all conveniently stored in their own pouches and elastic straps. Practice writing, color in wild scenes, play creative games, then pack it all up and head out the door! Ages 3 and up. $20. Visit fatbraintoys.com.
Connect, twist and slide these fun Lock Blox pieces together to keep fidgety fingers occupied and learning. Includes eight different pegand-groove configurations that glide smoothly, turn easily, and hold so that you can build robots, castles, letter forms and numbers – the possibilities are endless! Promotes engineering skills, focus and concentration, and imaginative play. Ages 4 and up. Visit roylco.com.
Inspire imaginative play with the help of this too-cute Red Room Country Home dollhouse. The house opens up to 4 large rooms plus a patio that's easy to furnish (thanks to over 50 pieces, including an upright piano), and includes a movable staircase and an expandable floor. Who lives here? 2 Calico Critters rabbits – with lots more families and furniture sets available. Ages 3-8. $150 (with smaller homes starting at $40). Visit calicocritters.com.
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Designed to encourage hours of limitless creativity, fun and learning through play, the Connetix Pastel Creative Pack features a variety of magnetic tiles in 8 pastel colors. Made using non-toxic ABS plastic that is BPA-, lead- and phthalatefree, Connetix's unique beveled design allows the tiles to be strong while creating beautiful clear refractions. Ages 3 and up. $149. Visit connetixtiles.com.
The doctor is in! Give your future doctor a quality head start with the Pretendables Doctor Set. A thermometer, a finger oximeter, an otoscope, a reflex hammer, a stethoscope with real heartbeat sounds, a box of bandages, a syringe, health charts, a light-up X-ray panel, and more, all stored in a snap-shut case. This playset has everything kids need to go from diagnosis to treatment to 100-percent cured in no time at all. And you don't even need insurance! Ages 3-7. $40. For local retailers, visit fatbraintoys.com.
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DIY SNOWFLAKES
Make it a snow day – indoors! If you’re looking for fun things to do with the kids this winter (that don’t include screen time!), try bringing a bit of the white stuff indoors. Decorate your house with these beautiful clothespin and cotton swab snowflakes that you can make with the kids! Best of all, supplies are easy to gather, even when you’re snowed in.
Clothespin Snowflakes What you need: • • • • • •
Wooden clothespins (ideally 8 per snowflake) White acrylic paint Glue (use strong glue − a hot glue gun will work great for this) Paint brushes String or ribbon to hang (optional) Optional decorations: Glitter (silver, white or blue work great with the snowflake theme), rhinestone stickers, gems, sequins, pom poms, etc.
What you do: 1. 2.
3.
Break apart the clothespins and set aside the spring (adults only should do this part). Ask the kids to arrange the clothespins to make a snowflake shape as shown here in the pictures. (You’ll need 8 clothespins to make 1 snowflake.) Once they are happy with their snowflake formations, glue all of the clothespins together and allow the glue to dry. Once the glue is dry and your snowflake shapes are ready, it’s time to paint everything white. Sprinkle with glitter, if desired, for added sparkle. Or get even more creative and paint them different colors, and add embellishments such as pom poms, rhinestone stickers, gems, sequins and more! Finally, add a piece of string or ribbon through one of the holes in each snowflake (or glue to the back) for hanging.
Decorated snowflake photo by thebestideasforkids.com
Cotton Swab Snowflakes What you need: • Cotton swabs • White glue • Wax paper
• Scissors • Glitter (optional) • String for hanging (optional)
What you do: 1. 2. 3.
4. 5.
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Use wax paper on your work surface to protect it. Place a dollop of glue as a central starting point. The tips of the cotton swaps will fan out from this central point. Cut off one side of a cotton swab. Repeat until you have enough swabs to create the base of your snowflake. When you like the arrangement, add a bit of glue to the top of the joint to make sure you have a good seal. Add more cotton swabs to form patterns on the branches of your snowflake, if desired. Older kids may wish to snip their cotton swabs into shorter lengths for variations in the pattern. Use dollops of glue at the joints to hold them together. Sprinkle glitter over the snowflake, if desired, and the glitter will stick to any spots where the glue hasn’t dried. Or add tiny dots of glue to the cottony parts before adding glitter for more control over the sparkly pattern. Allow the snowflake to dry thoroughly on the wax paper. Then, gently peel the wax paper away from the snowflake and the dried glue.
AlaskaParent.com
AlaskaParent.com
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let’s eat
HEALTHY
Christmas
TREATS
There’s nothing quite like Christmas cooking and baking when you have children in your home. Sure, those cookies and gingerbread houses are fun to make (and eat!), but they’re often loaded with sugar and low in nutrients. If you’re looking for some healthier options to help balance their diets, here are 5 delicious and easy-to-make Christmas treats to inspire you. Get the kids involved making these fun edible crafts – perfect for creating wonderful memories!
BANANA SNOWMEN
MAKES 6 SNOWMEN
INGREDIENTS • • •
6 wooden skewers 2 bananas 6 green grapes
• • •
3 strawberries Currents chopped (or mini chocolate chips) Small slices of peeled carrot (about 1/2 of a medium carrot)
DIRECTIONS Slice the banana into 1/2-inch pieces. Place three of the slices on the skewer. Cut the stem off the strawberry, cut in half and add it to the skewer as the “hat.” Skewer half a green grape on top of the strawberry. Gently press the currents (or mini chocolate chips) into the banana slices to create eyes and buttons. Cut a small triangle out of the carrot slice and poke into the snowman’s head as the nose. Recipe by onehandedcook.com
HOLIDAY TOAST INGREDIENTS • •
•
Whole-grain bread, toasted Holiday-themed cookie cutters (such as a snowflake, gingerbread man, Christmas tree, candy cane, ornament, etc.) Assorted spreads (peanut butter, cream
•
cheese, mashed avocado or guacamole) Assorted decorations (diced veggies, fruit, mini chocolate chips, etc.)
DIRECTIONS Ginger Bread Man: Spread it with peanut butter, then add diced strawberries for the mouth, and mini chocolate chips for eyes and buttons. Candy Cane: Spread it with cream cheese or Laughing Cow spreadable cheese, then top it with diced strawberries for stripes. Christmas Tree: Cover it with mashed avocado, then decorate with diced veggies (such as peppers, cucumbers, broccoli), and top it with a cheese star.
Ornament: Smear it with cream cheese, then decorate with assorted veggies, and add a chunk of cucumber for the top of ornament. Snowflake: Top with cream cheese, then coconut and decorate with mini chocolate chips.
Recipe by hauteandhealthy.com
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AlaskaParent.com
let’s eat
REINDEER CHEESE SNACKS INGREDIENTS • •
Block of white cheese (about 8 ounces) Small grape tomatoes or piece of red bell pepper
• •
Pretzels Black peppercorns, black olives or capers
DIRECTIONS Cut the cheese into wedges. Attach half a small grape tomato for the nose. Attach black peppercorns, a tiny piece of black olive or capers for the eyes. Push two pretzels into the sides to create the antlers. Refrigerate until ready to serve. Serve with crackers.
SANTA PANCAKES INGREDIENTS • • •
Pancakes Fresh blueberries Fresh strawberries or raspberries
• •
Banana Whip cream
DIRECTIONS Prepare your favorite pancake recipe. Use banana slices and blueberries for the eyes, and raspberries or strawberries for the nose and the red hat. Complete the look with banana slices for the beard and whip cream for the furry parts of his hat.
APPETIZER TREE Let’s decorate the tree – and make a cute appetizer tray! Create this colorful tree-shaped snack using grapes, cherry tomatoes, sliced cucumbers, cheese cubes and crackers. Add a cheese star at the top and decorate with some sprigs of rosemary (or other herb) for an added festive touch.
AlaskaParent.com
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24 alaska parent winter 2023/24
AlaskaParent.com
the
birth & baby guide
GETTING READY FOR PREGNANCY....................................26 NAMING BABY (& MANAGING FEEDBACK)....................28 NEWBORN CARE + POSTPARTUM RESOURCES.......29 BREASTFEEDING BASICS: TIPS & RESOURCES...........33 BOOKS FOR BABY'S FIRST LIBRARY....................................36 HOT STUFF: PRODUCTS FOR BABY & MOM..................38 AlaskaParent.com
winter 2023/24 alaska parent 25
Getting Ready for
Pregnancy By Sarah Lyons
Are you and your partner hoping to add a baby to your family in the next year? Making the decision to add a baby to your family is an exciting step, and you’ll need to journey through the ups and downs of pregnancy. Though you can never be 100 percent ready for the big changes that come along with carrying a baby for the next nine months, you can do some important things to get your body ready before you even are expecting.
Visit your doctor
Get other appointments scheduled
When you feel the symptoms of baby fever, it’s wise to head to your doctor and discuss any questions and concerns you may have before you become pregnant. Make sure to bring a list of current medications and discuss any preexisting medical conditions. Many medications that are safe for you to take on a regular basis are not safe for your unborn child. Your doctor may also recommend that you start taking prenatal vitamins and supplements and pursue genetic testing. If you are currently using birth control, your doctor can explain when and how to stop taking it, so you can start trying when the time is right.
Before you start trying to get pregnant, schedule other doctor appointments that may include testing or X-rays that are harmful for the baby. Dentists often do yearly X-rays. If you know you will be trying to grow your family soon, have your dentist perform the annual X-ray while there is no risk of harming the pregnancy.
Stop risky behaviors Drinking alcohol, smoking, taking certain medications and handling chemicals can cause harm to your unborn child. If you have a positive pregnancy test, these behaviors must be stopped immediately, but if you are just starting to try to become pregnant, it’s wise to avoid these substances so you can ensure the safety of your baby. “Six months before we started trying, I started eating healthier, my husband and I both stopped drinking alcohol, and I went off all prescriptions and pharmaceuticals,” says Emily Corder, mom of two. Secondhand smoke can be harmful to you and your baby as well, so consider asking your significant other or any other housemates to stop smoking. Similarly, avoid using chemicals such as pesticides and harsh cleaning products during pregnancy. Consult your doctor for a list of what to avoid.
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Maintain a healthy diet A healthy diet can help you maintain a healthy weight, give you more energy, get adequate rest and improve overall health. Before you start planning to get pregnant, it won’t hurt to choose healthy meal options and increase foods with folic acid. Ashely Baugh, mom of three, shares what changes she made before attempting to get pregnant: “I started eating healthier by choosing organic and unprocessed foods, removed a lot of chemicals from our home, including laundry detergents, candles, cleaning products, body washes, shampoos and deodorants. I read various books and started tracking my cycle and ovulation. I also had to change some of my medications.” Pregnancy is a time of excitement and proof of how amazing our bodies are. These tips to help you get ready for pregnancy can help ensure you have a healthy and happy pregnancy and baby.
AlaskaParent.com
Your OB/GYN Timeline You’ve received a positive pregnancy test, and it’s time to prepare for the new baby’s arrival. Expecting a baby is an incredibly exciting time. Over the next nine months you will arrange the nursery, buy a car seat, pick out baby clothes and purchase baby gear and gadgets. But the most important way you will prepare for your baby is through excellent prenatal care. You may be wondering what to expect at your doctor’s appointments and what the timeline looks like. While every pregnancy is different and there are always exceptions, here is a quick breakdown of what Mayo Clinic says you can expect for the obstetric timeline of an average pregnancy.
your first appointment
(6-10 weeks)
After you receive a positive pregnancy test, contact your doctor to schedule your first visit. They will typically see you between six and 10 weeks gestation. You can expect to go over your health history, risk factors and discuss any diet and lifestyle changes needed during pregnancy. Your doctor will also ask for a list of your current medications and may make adjustments. Be sure to include information on your mental and emotional history. They will also check your weight, blood pressure and take a urine sample. The doctor will calculate your due date and go over the schedule of future prenatal appointments. They may do an early ultrasound to check on the baby’s development, do a pelvic exam with or without a pap smear and order blood work to screen for medical conditions and check hemoglobin. This is a great time to address your questions and concerns regarding pregnancy, delivery and your health as well as the baby’s.
After your initial visit, the appointments should become shorter in length, and you can expect to visit your doctor about every four weeks unless your pregnancy is determined to be at higher risk. At your second appointment the doctor should be able to hear the baby’s heartbeat via doppler (usually around 8-10 weeks). Each visit your doctor will check your weight, blood pressure and take a urine sample. You will have an opportunity to ask questions and voice any concerns.
second trimester appointment
(14-26 weeks)
first trimester appointment
(10-14 weeks)
During the second trimester, women often experience less nausea, more energy and begin to feel more comfortable with their changing bodies. You will continue to visit the doctor every four weeks during this time and can expect a similar experience as previous visits. Your doctor will continue to check your vitals each visit, monitor fetal growth and movement and track fetal growth. During the second trimester you will have the opportunity for additional testing including blood work, fetal testing and the option to test for genetic abnormalities. You may also have an anatomy scan done via ultrasound to check on the development of your baby’s vital organs, and you will be given the opportunity to find out the sex of your new baby. Your doctor will also begin to discuss delivery expectations and create a birth plan. This is also a great time to take birthing classes, tour the birthing center and take care of the pre-registration paperwork.
During the last trimester you can expect to visit the doctor more often. The typical schedule is every two to four weeks for 24 to 36 weeks gestation and every week from 36 weeks gestation until delivery. In addition to tracking your weight, blood pressure, and fetal development and growth, your doctor will also ask you if you are experiencing any labor symptoms and will let you know what to look for as delivery approaches. You will likely be checked for B Strep, gestational diabetes and the baby’s position will be monitored before delivery. You can expect to have pelvic exams to check for signs of labor in the later part of your third trimester. This is a great time to pack your hospital bag and get last minute preparations in order before the baby’s arrival.
third trimester appointment
(26-40 weeks)
Every pregnancy is different, and many factors will determine the timeline your doctor will set for prenatal visits. Check with your doctor and follow their guidelines for the best care for you and your baby. AlaskaParent.com
Tips
for finding the right OB/GYN ◊ Check your insurance – as you begin your search, find providers that are in your insurance network. ◊ Ask friends and relatives for recommendations. This can be a great place to start when you are looking for a new doctor. ◊ Are you more comfortable with a male doctor, a female doctor or either? ◊ Location is important when choosing a doctor. ◊ Research the hospital or birthing center where you would like to deliver your baby and confirm that the doctor you are choosing delivers there. ◊ Decide whether you will have a doctor, a midwife or both. ◊ If you have specific preferences with your birth plan, confirm that the doctor will accommodate your wishes. ◊ Are you high risk? If yes, find out if there is a doctor that specializes in high-risk pregnancy. ◊ Set up a consultation appointment and ask questions. Do you feel you are compatible with the doctor? ◊ Is it a large practice? How likely is it that your doctor will deliver the baby? This is always a good question to ask so you know what to expect when labor begins.
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Naming Baby TIPS TO MANAGE OPINIONATED FEEDBACK By Christa Melnyk Hines
W
ith the debate that erupts around naming babies, expectant parents may wonder: How much should popular trends and others’ opinions influence our decision? And how should we manage negative feedback for the name we choose? Laura Wattenberg, author of The Baby Name Wizard, says parents should consider their objectives when choosing a name. You might select a name to honor a friend or family member or simply because it sings to your heart, regardless of current trends. “On the other hand, if you see a name as a child’s calling card that will represent her to the broader world, you have to be willing to step outside of your personal taste and try to see it from other perspectives,” Laura suggests. How will the name you bestow impact your child down the road? “It wouldn’t be fair to your child to choose a name that all of his future friends and family absolutely loathe,” she says. Although you rely on your friends and family for their honesty, advice and perspective, you get to make the final decision – and you may not be able to please everyone. Keep your cool. If you hear negative feedback, stay calm and avoid getting defensive.
Give it time. Stacy Weiland also met resistance from her mother when she decided on her son’s name, which is Andrew.
“Explain the history, the meaning to you, the love you have for a certain name,” says Sharon O’Neill, a marriage and family psychotherapist and author of A Short Guide to a Happy Marriage. “Then nicely explain that you understand that others may not see it as you do, but that you would ask that everyone be supportive. Anything less would never be good for any child to eventually feel.”
“My mother wanted me to name him after my grandmother and grandfather. But I didn’t like them very much, so I didn’t want to name my child after them. My mother wouldn’t refer to my son by his name for about a month,” Stacy says.
Consider concessions. Sue LeBreton says she made the mistake of sharing the girl’s name that she and her husband were considering with her mother-in-law. “I loved the name Charlotte,” she said. But her motherin-law clearly did not. The couple chose a different girl’s name on their list, naming their daughter Abigail instead. “What amuses me is that today Charlotte is one of my daughter’s favorite names for dolls!” Sue says. Discuss conflicting cultural beliefs. Clashing cultural traditions can also fuel conflict when it comes to naming a baby. Madonna Chien says that her husband wanted to name their son after his father. “My mother disapproved because, per Chinese tradition, it’s considered insulting to name your child after a family member. However, we explained to my mother that my Chinese father-in-law understood the intent and was OK with it,” she says. Suggest nicknames. Try appeasing a disappointed family member by offering an olive branch in the form of a nickname. “Grandparents or an aunt or other family members may have a nickname that they use in their special relationship with your child,” Sharon says.
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She gave her mother time to come around to her son’s name and advises other parents to do the same. “This is your child. You are going through a lot of big changes and sleepless nights. No one has a right to demand a particular name and give you more stress,” she says. Politely ignore. What do you do about strangers who disparage your child’s name? Lisa Cash Hanson was surprised when her daughter’s name, Matilda, didn’t ring well with others. Friends, family and even strangers made faces and said, “That’s too old-fashioned,” or “She is going to get picked on in school,” and worse, “That name is ugly.” “We’re seeing an epidemic of bad baby-name manners,” Laura says. “As names become more diverse and creative, there’s simply less agreement on what makes a good name. If someone is flat-out rude, chilly politeness and a change of subject is the best move.” Hello ... My name is____. Many parents say the best strategy they’ve found to manage feedback is to say nothing at all or plead indecision and announce the baby’s name after the birth. At that point, the focus will be on your adorable baby, and her name may seem less up for debate.
AlaskaParent.com
Newborn Care
101 By Christa Melnyk Hines
Transitioning to life with a newborn can be as gratifying as it is overwhelming. Read on for time-tested tricks and expert tips that will help your baby – and you! – thrive during the first few weeks postpartum. Expect a learning curve
Hungry?
No, it's not just you. New parenthood is rife with uncertainty.
Just as babies don't care about clocks when it comes to sleep, they also eat on demand, anywhere between eight and 12 times in a 24-hour period.
"As the mother of a newborn, I know from recent experience that every little thing can be challenging – from burping to changing diapers to breastfeeding and even trimming tiny nails, no matter if it's your first or third child," says family medicine physician Jenna Eschol, MD.
Gather information wisely In the midst of a perplexing dilemma, what parent hasn't turned to Google or an online parent support group for quick answers? But, proceed with caution. "If it doesn't seem like that online advice really fits your baby, maybe it really doesn't. Talk to your pediatrician or at least a trusted relative who has seen the baby and knows the situation a little better than generic online advice," says pediatrician Dr. Elizabeth Simpson.
Make it a date Don't skip your newborn's well-baby checkups. Your baby's physician will assess their overall health and ensure they are gaining weight. A newborn should have regained their birth weight by around 10 to 14 days of age. Your baby's appointment is also a good time for you to ask questions and raise any concerns.
Tiny renegades Newborns don't understand schedules. Plan to sleep when your baby sleeps. "Babies are little rebels. They don't follow rules," says Dr. Simpson. "Babies are the schedulers and the parents are the people that get scheduled." AlaskaParent.com
"Babies eat a lot during their first weeks thanks, in part, to their tiny tummy size, and the rapid physical and mental growth they experience in the first couple months of life," Dr. Eschol says. If you're breastfeeding, how do you know if your baby is eating enough? "If your baby seems happy and your pediatrician has assured you that weight gain is commensurate with the age, and enough dirty diapers are being produced (eight to 12 a day), then your baby is probably getting plenty to eat," Dr. Eschol says. If you participate in a breastfeeding support group at an area hospital, lactation consultants usually conduct weigh-ins too. (For more breastfeeding tips and resources, see pages 33-35.)
Dry skin Because a baby's skin is sensitive and thin, they are more susceptible to dry, chapped skin. Avoid long baths. Bathe your infant in lukewarm water only two or three times a week using fragrance-free hypoallergenic soaps. "And no bubble baths!" Dr. Eschol says. (Get more expert advice on baby care products at alaskaparent.com/_pages/ ask_the_expert/baby.html#skincare.)
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habitatanchorage.org/restore
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Continued from page 29
Power bonding For a newborn, nothing is as comforting as mom or dad's arms. "Babies have been held for the last nine months so they don't understand having to lay in their own crib. They like to be held whenever they are awake," Dr. Simpson says. In addition to skin-to-skin contact, talk and sing to your baby, and show her storybooks with high contrast colors like red, black and white.
Sleep safe While you should cradle your baby as much as possible, don't fall asleep while holding him. "The number one thing that causes sudden infant death (SIDS) is unsafe sleep practices," Dr. Simpson warns. Place your infant on his back in his bassinet near your bed at night. Do not use fluffy blankets, pillows, stuffed animals or crib bumpers. (For more safe sleep tips, see page 30.)
Baby tears Babies often cry when they're hungry, tired or if they have a dirty diaper. Other times they seem to cry for no apparent reason. “Colic crying” is an intense form of infant fussiness defined as crying at least three hours a day, three or more days a week. Colic seldom lasts longer than three months. "Colic isn't caused by pain," Dr. Eschol says. Many pediatricians encourage soothing colicky babies using the “5 S’s” described by Harvey Karp, MD: • Swaddling in a wrap that constrains the arms and legs • Side or stomach holding (but not for sleeping) • Shushing sounds of the voice, fan or sound machine • Swinging gently while carrying • Sucking on a pacifier, finger or hand
Sometimes tears can signal a health issue. Call your doctor if your baby seems sick, has difficulty breathing or isn't feeding. If you find yourself becoming increasingly frustrated with your crying baby and no one is around to help, take a time out. "Lay the baby safely on their back in their crib and hop in the shower for a sec to get out of earshot or use headphones to get out of earshot for a short period of time and give yourself a little break," Dr. Simpson says.
Find support Without taking time for self-care, attending to your baby's needs can become exceptionally challenging and overwhelming. "A good support system is essential for all moms and can include friends, families, counselors or support groups," says Kelli Knapp, a board-certified women's health nurse practitioner. Sleep deprivation can exacerbate depression and anxiety. Sleep while your partner, a relative or a friend watches the baby. Or hire a nanny or postpartum doula. Taking breaks away from your baby, like a shower or a walk outside are also beneficial. "Even finding 10 to 15 minutes for yourself each day can improve your outlook," she says. Know that postpartum mood disorders are common and curable. Contact your healthcare provider if you are struggling. (See sidebar for additional resources.) "A mom who admits she needs help is an amazingly strong woman and mom," Kelli says. "Women who experience disorders during pregnancy or after a baby often feel like they are failing as a mom. A mom who reaches out for help is giving her child a huge gift, and they are already making a big step to the road to recovery."
POSTPARTUM DEPRESSION:
Resources and Support Most new moms (about 70-80 percent) experience postpartum “baby blues” after childbirth. Some of the symptoms include mood swings, sadness, irritability and feeling overwhelmed. Baby blues typically last a few days to a week or two after childbirth. Some new moms (about 10-20 percent) experience a more severe, long-lasting form of depression known as postpartum depression (PPD). Symptoms of PPD include severe mood swings, excessive crying, insomnia, a lack of joy, loss of appetite, feelings of worthlessness, and scary thoughts about yourself or your baby. PPD usually starts within one to two weeks after giving birth or anytime up to one year. Without treatment, PPD can last for months or even years. If you believe you or someone you love is suffering from baby blues or postpartum depression, don’t be afraid or ashamed to reach out for help. Below is a list of local, statewide and national resources. National Maternal Mental Health Hotline: Free, confidential, 24/7 mental health support for moms and their families before, during, and after pregnancy. English- and Spanish-speaking counselors are available. 1-833-TLCMAMA (1-833-852-6262) Postpartum Support International (PSI), Alaska: A national organization with state chapters, the Alaska PSI page lists state coordinators in addition to local support groups, emergency resources and local health providers. psichapters.com/ak PSI HelpLine: Free live chat sessions for moms and dads; online support groups available. Open support group at Providence Medical Center, Mondays 11 am-noon. 1-800-944-4773 Alaska Careline: Feeling sad, depressed or just need someone to talk to? The Careline offers free, immediate and confidential help. Available 24/7, 365 days a year. 1-877266-HELP (4357) Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Dialing or texting 988 is a direct connection to compassionate care and support for anyone experiencing mental health crisis and/or thoughts of suicide. If you’re ever worried about hurting yourself or your baby, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.
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AlaskaParent.com
Breastfeeding Basics: 10 Tips You
d e e n to Know
By Shannon Dean
Preparing Well 1 Start Before Your Due Date: Educate yourself and consider attending classes offered by your hospital or birthing center months before delivery. La Leche League leader Wanda Daniels says attending an LLL meeting while pregnant answered many important questions and made her comfortable calling her own leader for support.
Discomfort is Normal, 2 Some But Help is Available: While your breasts may initially feel tender, they shouldn’t be consistently painful. Initial nipple discomfort is usually normal, but severe, ongoing soreness may indicate a problem. Certified lactation consultant and pediatric nurse Lucille Harrington says most problems can be fixed quickly, so moms needn't endure pain. Many hospitals and birthing centers offer telephone counseling or an in-person consultation with a lactation consultant. This service is usually free.
Like many new skills facing first-time mothers, breastfeeding is a learned ability that gets much easier with practice. Here are a few time-tested tips to make the transition easier.
4 Avoid Assumptions: Many new mothers think that babies who want to nurse frequently aren’t getting enough milk, but this is rarely true. As long as your baby is producing at least 6-8 wet diapers and 2-3 daily bowel movements for the first few weeks after your milk comes in, he’s likely getting the nutrients he needs. Babies nurse for comfort as well as hunger. Frequent watery, mustard-colored bowel movements are normal and are not considered diarrhea. Consult an expert for reassurance if something doesn’t feel right.
5 Listen to Your Body’s Cues of Hunger, Thirst and Fatigue:
Although your body has to work hard to produce milk, eating when hungry and drinking when thirsty will likely provide your body with enough fuel. Rest while your baby rests whenever possible. Continued on page 34
3 Find Ways to Lighten Your Load:
Newborns typically nurse 8 to 12 times per day. Plus, experts recommend feeding your baby on cue at any sign of hunger. A nursing sling can be a great way to keep your baby close and allow you freedom, privacy, and mobility. Learning to nurse lying down can also help with nighttime feedings so you and baby can quickly return to sleep.
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Continued from page 33
6 Accept Help: Although many new moms are uncomfortable asking for or receiving help, Lucille urges parents to overcome these reservations. Don't be shy about addressing specific needs with requests like, "It would be wonderful if you could fold laundry." Involving partners and family members in your baby's care makes them feel included. When loved ones rock, bathe and sing to your baby, this teaches him that love and comfort do not always come from food.
Out Reassurance 7 Seek from Supportive Experts: If you ever have doubts, seek advice from those knowledgeable about (and supportive of) breastfeeding. Advisors who assure you they “couldn’t breastfeed either” or that formula-fed babies are “easier” are not helpful when it’s likely you’re doing just fine.
’t Compare Your 8 Don Experiences to Others: Keep in mind that babies, like adults, are all different. If a friend's baby is emptying the breast very quickly and sleeping through the night, this doesn't mean there is anything wrong with you or your baby if your experience is different.
That You Can Continue 9 Know Nursing When You Return to Work: Many moms avoid breastfeeding because they assume that they must stop once maternity leave ends. However, with planning and a hospital-grade breast pump, there is no need to stop. It helps to delay the introduction of artificial nipples until after your milk supply and nursing relationship are well-established. Lucille says moms can introduce a bottle with breast milk to established nursers between one and three months of age, which is when babies are more adaptive to a bottle. By using a breast pump and nursing outside of business hours, you can still maintain a healthy nursing relationship.
10 Relax and Enjoy Your Baby: Lucille is fond of telling moms, “The days are long, but the years are short.” It may be hard to believe that the infant whose favorite place is your breast will soon be a squirming toddler with less interest in cuddling. Babies become children and adults before you know it. Enjoy this unhurried one-on-one time while it lasts.
(((( Breastfeeding Resources )))) Alaska Breastfeeding Coalition:
Best Beginnings Birth Services:
Find support services for breastfeeding, local coalitions and a child care provider that supports your decision to breastfeed your children. alaskabreastfeeding.org
Birth and postpartum doula provides breastfeeding assistance and postpartum support. bestbeginningsbirthservices.com
La Leche Alaska:
Provides breastfeeding and peer counseling support groups. rcpcfairbanks.org
Find breastfeeding support groups around the state, and get information and help with breastfeeding questions and concerns. llli.org/lll-alaska
DHHS Office on Women's Health:
Find facts about breastfeeding, get practical tips on how to make breastfeeding work for you, and learn about support resources available to you. womenshealth.gov/breastfeeding
Alaska WIC:
Provides nutrition and breastfeeding education, counseling, support, nutritious foods and referrals to needed services. dhss.alaska.gov/dpa/Pages/nutri/wic
34 alaska parent winter 2023/24
Resource Center for Parents and Children:
Alaska Native Birthworkers:
Provides breastfeeding and postpartum support for Native birthing families. nativebirthworkers.org
Providence Lactation Support:
Find a lactation consultant close to you. providence.org/treatments/lactation-support
The Children's Clinic:
Several board-certified lactation consultants are available to work with breastfeeding families. tccpeds.com
AlaskaParent.com
Why should I breastfeed? Breastmilk is the best food for your baby because it: º Has all the nutrients your baby needs for proper growth and development º May reduce the risk of ear infections and colds º May reduce the risk of obesity, diabetes, and other diseases º Is easier for your baby to digest º Is always the right temperature, never too hot and never too cold
It's healthier for you, too! Breastfeeding may: º Help you recover more quickly from childbirth º Reduce your risk for certain breast and ovarian cancer and type 2 diabetes º Help you lose weight after childbirth
Source: US Dept of Agriculture WIC Breastfeeding Support
AlaskaParent.com
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Books for
baby’s
First Library
It’s never too early to start building up a child’s library. Books also make the best baby shower or birthday gifts when you’re unsure of what to give. Here are a few of our favorite classic storybooks – each one offering a read-aloud experience filled with tenderness and togetherness.
DEAR ZOO: A LIFT-THE-FLAP BOOK By Rod Campbell
This classic book about a youngster looking for a perfect pet is sure to delight a new generation of readers. Toddlers and parents alike will love lifting the flaps to discover the animals the zoo has sent – a monkey, a lion, and even an elephant! But will they ever find the perfect pet? With bright, bold artwork, a catchy refrain, and a whole host of favorite animals, Dear Zoo is a must for every child’s bookshelf.
THE VERY HUNGRY CATERPILLAR By Eric Carle
THE all-time classic picture book, from generation to generation, sold somewhere in the world every 30 seconds! Featuring interactive diecut pages, this sturdy and beautiful board book is the perfect size for little hands and great for teaching counting and days of the week.
WHERE THE WILD THINGS ARE By Maurice Sendak
Let the wild rumpus with Max and all the wild things continue as this classic comes to life like never before with new reproductions of Maurice Sendak's artwork. Astonishing state-of-the-art technology faithfully captures the color and detail of the original illustrations.
THE GIVING TREE By Shel Silverstein
This beautifully written and illustrated picture book has been cherished for over 50 years. Perfect for both young readers and lifelong fans, this moving parable offers a touching interpretation of the gift of giving and a serene acceptance of another's capacity to love in return.
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GUESS HOW MUCH I LOVE YOU By Sam McBratney
How much does Little Nutbrown Hare love his daddy? And how much does Big Nutbrown Hare love him back? This simple yet powerful tale resonates with generations, reminding us all of the boundless love we have for our little ones. Sharing this book with your child or grandchild will become a special tradition that warms your heart with each reading. AlaskaParent.com
ON THE NIGHT YOU WERE BORN By Nancy Tillman
“Heaven blew every trumpet and played every horn on the wonderful, marvelous night you were born. On the night you were born, the whole world came alive with thanksgiving. The moon stayed up till morning. The geese flew home to celebrate. Polar bears danced.” Here is a book that celebrates the one and only you!
CORDUROY
Looking for a great local service or program for your
1 family?
By Don Freeman
A stuffed bear waiting hopefully in a toy department finds a home with a little girl who wants Corduroy so much that, when her mother refuses to buy him, she come back the next day with her own money. This classic picture book now comes in a sturdy board book and features endearing, brightly colored pictures together with the text affectionately recounting Corduroy’s adventures.
THE GOING TO BED BOOK By Sandra Boynton
WHERE IS BABY’S BELLY BUTTON? By Karen Katz
Colorful drawings of adorable babies play peek-a-boo in this fun interactive board book. Look under the easy-to-lift flaps to find out what's underneath! Perfect for parents and children to share, the book’s playful text and vibrant, patterned illustrations are sure to keep babies mesmerized as they search for baby's hands, eyes, feet, and much more.
Getting ready for sleep is tons of fun in this iconic board book. This classic bedtime story is just right for winding down the day as a joyful, silly group of animals scrub, scrub, scrub in the tub, brush and brush and brush their teeth, and finally rock and rock and rock to sleep.
Whether you’re looking for a pediatrician, a birthday party destination, or a summer camp, we’ve got you covered! Visit our Resource Guides at
ALASKAPARENT.COM/GUIDES
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hot stuff
Mommy’s Bliss Newborn Essentials Set features four of the most popular wellness products that moms always need to have on hand to be prepared for anything! Set includes gripe water and gas relief drops to help calm tummy troubles, vitamin D drops to promote healthy growth and saline drops/spray to help with sniffles. At Walmart, Target or visit mommysbliss.com.
For Baby & Me Check out these smart, stylish and safe products for the new mom and baby
Keep your eyes on the road and one on baby with this portable Baby Monitoring System you can use in the car or anywhere. In the car, mount the monitor on your dashboard and strap the camera around your seat. Includes split screen use for two tiny travelers, too. You can also record or automatically take pictures of special moments. Visit mytinytraveler.com
Momcozy M5 Wearable Breast Pump is lightweight, small and discreet and perfect for working moms who want to be able to pump, hands-free, without interruptions while at work. The “Baby Mouth” design ensures horizontal angle pumping, simulating a baby’s sucking and helping to loosen the ducts and help moms pump more efficiently. Comes with a portable storage box, making it suitable for daily commuting. Visit momcozy.com.
Soft, supportive, and oh-so-comfortable, the award-winning Moby Classic Wrap has been trusted by over a million parents. Made from 100-percent, hypo-allergenic cotton, it is just the right mix of stretch and support. Bundled close, your little one will be ergonomically supported in a natural hold that mimics how they would be held in your arms. Perfect for skin-to-skin bonding, comforting and calming, or getting your hands back. Visit mobywrap.com.
Technology is built in to the Contours Vibes 2-Stage Soothing Mattress offering gentle movements for your little sleeper. Three vibrations include “heartbeat,” “whisper” and “gentle.” One side of the mattress is firmer for infants, the other is softer for toddlers. Soothe your babe to sleep at the touch of a remote. Available at Walmart or visit contoursbaby.com.
The Safety 1st Grow and Go Extend ’N Ride was built to grow through 3 stages: rear-facing, forward-facing and belt-positioning booster. The footrest can be used in 3 positions, and the EZ-out harness system makes it easy to get kids in and out in one simple step. Visit safety1st.com. A playful baby bear doesn’t have time for dry skin. Cubs need a balm that will soothe and protect their little bums. Hand-crafted in Alaska, Baby Bear Butt Balm is an all-natural salve made with calendula-infused olive oil to help chase away even the most stubborn of chapped rumps. For a list of local retailers, visit denalidreams.com/in-stores.
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Don’t make a big stink about dirty diapers – get the UV Diaper Pail instead! Odor control meets germ control in this sleek nursery musthave, which uses the power of hospital-grade UV light to eliminate odor-causing bacteria and germs. Visit munchkin.com.
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that babies sleep in a crib with no loose blankets. As a safe alternative to loose bedding, they recommend using a wearable blanket. The Kyte Baby Sleep Bag is a wearable blanket made of bamboo fabric, making it breathable and buttery soft. It features a J-shaped double zipper for easy diaper changes. Visit kytebaby.com.
Make bathtime a breeze with The First Years Sure Comfort Folding Bather. This simple to use bather unfolds quickly and fits right inside most sinks or in the adult tub. Available at Target or visit tomy.com. AlaskaParent.com
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hot stuff Breastfeeding isn’t always a walk in the park, especially with clogged ducts, painful engorgement and mastitis in the mix. Designed exclusively for pumping and nursing moms, the Milkmakers Warm Touch Lactation Massager lends a helping hand when the flowing gets tough! Soothing heat and gentle vibrations help release backups and alleviate discomfort for better letdowns and faster flow. Visit munchkin.com.
Dress up those little feet with these Alaskan Baby Booties in a purple wildflower design. Handmade in Juneau, the booties will add a colorful, Alaskan touch to any baby outfit and make a sweet baby shower gift. Adorable as photography props too. Currently available in 6-9 month sizes. Visit sandraartistryalaska.com.
Nuby's 3 Stage Teether Set grows with little ones as they go through the different stages of teething. Use step 1 for cutting front teeth, step 2 for front and middle teeth, and step 3 for those hard-to-reach back teeth. All stages of the teether set soothe, stimulate, and clean gums while being gentle on new teeth. Cool the teethers in the refrigerator to help soothe and ease little one's discomfort. BPA free. Visit nuby.com.
The UPPAbaby RIDGE All-Terrain Stroller is designed to keep you active as a family − whether you’re a runner, walker or simply enjoy exploring the outdoors. Smart, adjustable features keep pusher and passenger comfortable from road to trail to off the beaten path. Includes a large storage area that can be zipped closed, and an adjustable canopy with a zip-out UPF 50+ sunshade to protect your little one from the sun. Available locally at Tiny Ptarmigan or visit uppababy.com.
Bye-bye, bunched padding. The Signature Sublime Contour Nursing & Maternity Bra provides effortless contouring and comfort from pregnancy to postpartum. The molded cups define, separate and shape without shifting. The stretchy but supportive wireless construction allows for all-day comfort. Also includes easy nursing clips for convenient feeding and skin-to-skin and a plunge neckline and “ballet” style back for a sleek silhouette. Visit kindredbravely.com.
The Owlet Dream Duo 2 is an advanced baby monitoring system to add peace and ease in the parents' mind as they go to sleep. The Dream Duo combines the Dream Sock and Cam 2 and is the only baby monitor to track heart rate and average oxygen – all while streaming HD video right to your phone. Parents can also track their baby's sleep and wake windows, and receive alerts when baby may need attention. Visit owletcare.com.
The Cocoon Z High Chair & Lounger easily adjusts to be a hammock, high chair and chair for all stages. The cocoon-shaped seat includes a five-point harness for three different reclining positions, plus the chair grows with your baby to different heights. Move the chair smoothly around thanks to gliders on the bottom. Available at Target or visit loveoribel.com. The Baby Brezza Diaper Bag Backpack is the ultimate way to keep all those diaper bag essentials organized (with 17 pockets!), plus it comes with a detachable changing station so you always have a clean, comfortable, and hygienic place to change your baby’s diaper. Visit babybrezza.com.
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Celebrate
New Year’s Eve with the Kids
Whether you couldn’t find a sitter for New Year’s Eve or you just don’t feel like fighting traffic, you can still have a fun, kidfriendly celebration. The key is to keep the kids occupied as the clock counts down. Here are a few family-friendly ideas to help you ring in the New Year.
By Tiffany Doerr Guerzon
Count down the Hours.
There are so many fun ways to help kids mark time until the new year arrives. Pick the time you want to start (and end!), and count down the hours by opening a bag, package, or even popping a balloon. Mark each bag with the time and include a fun activity for each hour. This need not be expensive. You can stuff the bags with: party hats, party poppers, candy, deck of cards, pens/paper to write New Year's resolutions, craft projects, glow sticks, bubbles, etc.
Milk & Cookie Cocktails.
Every party needs snacks! Serve up milk and cookies in style by coating the rims of small glasses or even wine glasses with colorful sprinkles. Spread a thin layer of honey or corn syrup on a plate, and then pour out sprinkles onto a separate plate. Dip the rims of glasses in honey or corn syrup then dredge in the sprinkles. Leave the glass upside down in the sprinkles for a few minutes so that the sprinkles don’t slide down the glass. Cool the glasses in the fridge, fill with cold milk and serve with cookies.
Sparkling Science.
Party Crackers.
Bake a Clock.
Photo Booth.
Younger kids love to watch bubbles grow when vinegar is added to baking soda. You can glam up this simple science experiment by mixing glitter or confetti to the baking soda. To do this, mix together baking soda and glitter or confetti in a shallow bowl. Be sure to use plastic confetti, not paper. When kids add drops of vinegar with droppers to the soda mixture, it will produce sparkling bubbles. If you don’t have droppers, kids can pour small amounts of vinegar over the baking soda with cups.
If your kids love baking, a fun and delicious activity is to make a countdown clock. You can do this by baking cookies or cupcakes and arranging the treats in a circle on a round serving platter or pizza pan. Decorate each with the numbers of the clock and use licorice sticks such as Twizzlers as clock hands to mark the time. (Get instructions on how to bake this cupcake clock at lindsayannbakes.com.)
Balloons, Balloons, Balloons. DIY Noisemakers.
Create DIY noisemakers for midnight from objects around the house. Decorate empty, lidded canisters such as butter containers, coffee cans, or Pringles cans, and add dried beans or rice to make shakers. (Get tutorial for this paper plate noisemaker at craftsbyamanda.com/paperplate-noise-maker.)
New Year’s Eve Picture Books.
It’s not a party without balloons, right? Confetti-filled balloons will brighten up your space, then you can pop them at midnight for a confetti shower! And, if you really want to wow the kids, stage your own balloon drop. You can make one by taping a plastic party tablecloth filled with balloons to your ceiling, or buy a kit from Amazon to help you get the job done.
The night can get long, and a quiet break for storytime is good for everyone. Try one of these holiday-themed books to balance out the activities: The Night Before New Year’s by Natasha Wing; Squirrel’s New Year’s Resolution by Pat Miller; Shante Keys and the New Year’s Peas by Gail Piernas-Davenport. AlaskaParent.com
Similar to Christmas crackers, these brightly wrapped cylinders are pulled apart, breaking the cracker open with a popping sound. Be sure to check the prizes inside before purchasing to make sure you are getting kid-friendly items. Or make your own. (For a tutorial, visit happinessishomemade.net/diy-newyears-eve-party-crackers).
Even if it’s just you and the little ones, why not have a photo booth? No need for an elaborate set-up, tacking up a sheet or plastic tablecloth to the wall to use as a background works well. Gather fun props from around the house such as hats and sunglasses, or buy a New Year’s Eve photo booth props kit. (For ideas, visit bigdotofhappiness. com/collections/ hello-new-year).
Family Time Capsule.
Putting a time capsule together can be a nice way to reflect on the past year. It can be as simple or elaborate as you wish! Grab a shoebox or big envelope, and gather your time capsule items. You can include your child’s handprint, a family picture, or an interview. Questioning your kids about their current likes and dislikes, life goals, and more is fun in the moment and to look back on next year. Simply google “interview questions for kids” for ideas on what questions to ask. Once finished, tuck away your time capsule and open next year.
Whatever you choose to do with your family on the eve of the New Year, you can make sure it’s memorable with these sure-fire party pleasers. winter 2023/24 alaska parent 41
Out & About
Nov. 18-19
Christmas Arts & Crafts Emporium A showcase for Alaska artists and crafters to display and sell their products during the holiday season. 10 am-6 pm Saturday; 11 am-5 pm Sunday, Dena’ina Center. Free admission. For info, visit anchoragemarkets.com.
Nov. 23-Dec. 31
Bright Up the Night Light Display Kick-off this holiday season with Alaska's largest drive-through light display, featuring more than 70 dazzling light displays and spanning the entire length of the Alaska State Fairgrounds. Drive through in the warmth and comfort of your vehicle while enjoying the holiday music broadcast synced directly to your radio. 5-9 pm, Thurs.- Sun. weekly, Nov. 23-Dec. 10; 5-9 pm, nightly, Dec. 14-31. For tickets and info, visit alaskastatefair. org/site/bright-up-the-night.
Nov. 24-Jan. 7
Zoo Lights The zoo is decorated with lighted animal displays – colorful, whimsical and even animated. Walk under canopies of light and check out the animals. Bring your camera, family and friends to enjoy the magic. 5-8 pm, Fri.-Sun. weekly, Nov. 24-Jan. 7; 5-8 pm, nightly, Dec. 22-Jan. 7. Alaska Zoo. For info, visit alaskazoo.org.
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Winter 2023/24 Calendar
Nov. 24-26
The Nutcracker Ballet Feel the warmth and wonder of the holidays when the curtain rises again at The Nutcracker. With its exquisite choreography and magical sets, this classic story will capture your heart. Various times, Atwood Concert Hall. Visit anchorageconcerts.org.
Nov. 24-Dec. 17
A Christmas Carol An adaptation of the story of Ebenezer Scrooge’s journey from an embittered, ungenerous creature into a giving, caring human being at the hands of three spirits, who, one Christmas Eve, show him what life means. This richly textured play brings the full spirit of the book to life on the stage. Anchorage Community Theatre. Ticket prices start at $15. For info and tickets, visit akjt.org.
Nov. 24-Dec. 17
A Christmas Story, The Musical This musical, which received rave reviews on its Broadway run, is based on the beloved holiday movie classic. Join Ralphie, The Old Man, and the whole gang as they bring frozen flag poles, triple-dog-dares, and pure holiday magic to life on stage like never before. Show times are 7 pm, Fridays; 2 pm and 7 pm, Saturdays; 2 pm, Sundays. $18$20. Valley Performing Arts, Wasilla. For tickets, visit vpaalaska.org. Nov. 24-Dec. 23 AK Christmas Factory Explore Santa’s village on a one-hour guided tour with an elf! Deliver letters to Santa, take photos in Santa’s sleigh, enjoy cookies and cocoa, meet Santa, get on the nice list, and take home a Christmas toy. Tickets are $30-$35, depending on tour; 2 and under are free. Palmer State Fairgrounds. For info, visit akchristmas.com.
Nov. 25
Handmade Holiday Market Hosted by the Fairbanks Arts Association, come enjoy shopping, live music, story time, and other activities for children and families. 10 am-5 pm, Alaska Centennial Center for the Arts, Pioneer Park. For info, call 251-8386.
Nov. 25
Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony Enjoy hot chocolate, holiday music performances, Santa and the lighting of the Holiday Tree. 5-7 pm, Town Square Park, Anchorage. For info, visit anchoragedowntown.org.
Dec. 1
Talkeetna Winterfest Talkeetna kicks off the holidays with the Tree-Decorating and Lighting Ceremony in the Village Park, a visit by Santa and a Parade of Lights. Visit talkeetnachamber.org.
Dec. 1-2
Merry Merchant Munch An old-fashioned holiday fair complete with free sleigh rides, roving carolers, Santa and his reindeer, and a gingerbread house competition. Businesses open their doors offering their best holiday munchies to sample. Tree Lighting on Dec. 1 from 5:30-8:30 pm. Downtown Eagle River. For info, call 694-4702 or visit cer.org/merry-merchant-munchwinter-wonderland.
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Dec. 1-3
Dec. 3
Dec. 1-9
Dec. 7-10
Twice Upon a Christmas This two-act holiday treasure opens with "Christmas with Laura Ingalls." Will Laura spend Christmas alone in her one-room schoolhouse or will young Mr. Wilder journey through a blizzard to come to her rescue? Act two features "A Wonderful Workshop: A Yuletide Musical Guide" that explores the stories behind our most beloved Christmas carols. 7 pm, Sydney Laurence Theatre, Anchorage. $16-$21. For tickets, visit tbatheatre.org. Anchorage International Film Festival Showcasing some of the best independent film and video from around the world, including family programs, local filmmaking competitions and youth films. Screenings held at various venues in downtown Anchorage. For info, visit anchoragefilmfestival.org.
Dec. 2-3
The Nutcracker Ballet Come celebrate this treasured holiday tradition and family favorite. Voted the best performance many times over by Fairbanks Daily News-Miner's Reader's Choice Awards. Presented by the North Star Ballet. 2 pm and 8 pm, Sat.; 2 pm, Sun. Hering Auditorium, Fairbanks. Ticket prices start at $15. For info, call 451-8800 or visit nsbfairbanks.org.
Jams for Fams Pajama Jam Come dressed in your PJs and enjoy an all-ages family dance party. DJs will mix everything from current hits to party classics to keep the dance floor popping. Door prizes and swag bags. Recommended for kids 10 and under (must be accompanied by an adult). 11 am-1 pm. $15 individual; $12.50/each for a family 4-pack; non-walking babies get in free. Bear Tooth Theatrepub & Grill. For info, visit djspencerlee.com/jams-for-fams. The Holiday Show Harken back to the days of the holiday variety show! Join Alaska Theatre of Youth for a festive evening of singing, dancing and special guests with original script by Janet Stoneburner and featuring your favorite holiday tunes and warm holiday feelings. UAA Harper Studio. 7 pm, Thurs-Sat.; 3 pm, Sat.-Sun. For info, visit alaskatheatreofyouth.org.
Dec. 7, 8, 12
Luminary Trail and Holiday Crafts Come into the Farmhouse Visitor Center to make holiday crafts while enjoying sweets and hot beverages. Enjoy the Luminary Trail, a lovely winter-time stroll with the whole family on the 1/2 mile candle-lit trail around the historic barn complex. Creamer’s Field, Fairbanks. Free. For info, call 978-8457 or visit friendsofcreamersfield.org.
Dec. 8-9
The Nutcracker by Anchorage Ballet Anchorage’s very own production of The Nutcracker, performed to Tchaikovsky's timeless score, is a holiday performance to delight the whole family. Don’t miss out on this beloved classic, complete with mischievous mice, swirling snow, and dancing flowers. 7 pm, Fri.; 11 am and 5 pm, Sat. Discovery Theatre, Anchorage. Tickets starting at $41. Visit centertix.com/ events/the-nutcracker-byanchorage-ballet.
Dec. 8-10
Colony Christmas This three-day celebration features many festive activities, including horse-drawn sleigh or wagon rides, craft fairs, parade of lights, fireworks, and more. Various times and locations, downtown Palmer. For more info and a schedule, call 745-2880 or visit palmerchamber.org.
Dec. 9-10
The Design Alaska Holiday Concert Enjoy a family concert with traditional Christmas and holiday season carols and music. There's even an opportunity for the audience to sing along! The 2-hour concert includes an intermission for food and drink. Featuring Fairbanks Symphony Orchestra, Fairbanks Symphony Chorus and the Northland Youth Choir. C.W. Davis Concert Hall, Fairbanks. For ticket info, call 474-5733 or visit fairbankssymphony.org.
Dec. 16-17
Winter Solstice Festival This community festival features free family-friendly outdoor events to make light of the darkest days of winter. Events include a winter lights walk, holiday bazaar, scavenger hunt, reindeer photos and a fireworks show. For the event schedule, visit wintersolsticefestivalfairbanks.com.
Dec. 17 Dec. 2, 9, 16, 23
Spot the Grinch, Get a Prize Visit the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center on a Saturday in December (through December 23) to see if you can spot the Grinch on property! The Grinch will be lurking around the sanctuary in a bid to steal Christmas. If you spot the Grinch you will be able to grab a prize from the Grinch’s bag! 10 am-3 pm. For info, visit alaskawildlife.org. AlaskaParent.com
Solstice Tree Tour Ski, snowshoe, walk or pull kids on sleds along a route of decorated holiday trees. Free hot chocolate and traditional s’mores will be served along the 2.5-kilometer Mize Loop, plus warming barrels will help keep tree viewers comfortable. The loop concludes with attendees voting on the top tree. Free. 4-8 pm, Kincaid Park. For info, visit anchoragenordicski.com/events/ solstice-tree-tour. winter 2023/24 alaska parent 43
Dec. 21
Winter Solstice Festival Celebrate the shortest day of the year by enjoying all that winter offers. This free event offers activities for everyone, including ice skating to holiday music, horse-drawn wagon rides, dog sled rides, pictures with Santa’s reindeer, and more. 5-8 pm, Cuddy Family Midtown Park. For info, call 343-4492.
Dec. 22
Holiday Tour of Lighted Trees Come ski, walk or bike as you tour the lighted trees on the Pioneer loop at Government Peak Recreation Area. The Loop is just over one mile and is suitable for all levels of skiers, walkers and bikers. There will be warm drinks, cheer and more. Free. 4-7 pm. For info, visit matsuski.org/holiday-tree-tour.
Dec. 23-24
15th Annual Christmas Village Be a part of the biggest shopping event of the year featuring a large variety of Alaska-made and imported arts and crafts, gifts and foods. Christmas Village is the perfect time to sell all of those wanted last-minute gifts. Be ready to sell…and buy! 10 am-6 pm, Sat.; 11 am-5 pm, Sun. Dena’ina Civic and Convention Center. For info, visit anchoragemarkets.com.
Dec. 31
Anchorage’s New Year’s Eve Celebration This free event will include the annual fireworks display and an outdoor party featuring live music in the Chinook Parking Lot on E St & 3rd, Anchorage. Fireworks start at 8 pm. For info, visit anchoragedowntown.org. New Year's Eve Fireworks Join the City of Wasilla as they ring in the New Year at Wonderland Park in Iditapark. Bring the entire family, a folding chair, dress warm, and enjoy a brilliant fireworks display by Aurora Pyrotechnics around 8 pm. Glow in the dark wristbands and necklaces will be given out to the kids. For info, call 357-9100.
Dec. 31
Torchlight Parade Local skiers and snowboarders descend the mountain with torches in hand, creating a parade of lights from top to bottom. The Torchlight Parade takes over the mountain, and fireworks cap the festivities. Stake out a spot near the resort’s day lodge for the best view of both the procession and the fireworks. 9-10:30 pm, Alyeska Resort, Girdwood. For more info, visit alyeskaresort.com.
'Never Alone' by Dean DeMarais
Feb. 17-March 31
World Ice Art Championships Come and watch the big blocks of ice come alive! Four people over six days use 10 ice blocks to create mindblowing masterpieces. Tanana Valley State Fair, Fairbanks. For hours and ticket info, visit icealaska.com. (While at the event, check out the family fun Ice Art Park, featuring slides, mazes, houses and playgrounds all made from crystal clear ice. Open through March.)
Feb. 17 & Feb. 25
Jan. 20-23
Peninsula Winter Games The winter games provide youth with an opportunity to enjoy sports, games and activities during the winter season. Monopoly tournaments, hockey tourneys, the Native Youth Olympics, fireworks, and ice sculptures are some of the activities offered. Soldotna Regional Sports Complex. Free. For a schedule, call 2629814 or visit soldotnachamber.com.
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Cordova Iceworm Festival Each year, Cordova rolls out the red carpet and welcomes guests from all over the world for this festival, featuring a parade, a variety show with local performers, the Miss Iceworm Coronation, and a fireworks show. For info, visit icewormfestival.com.
Dec. 31
Dec. 28-31
Cirque Dreams Holidaze Audiences of all ages will marvel at this gravity-defying holiday spectacular: See toy soldiers marching on thin wires, gingerbread men flipping through the air, and reindeer soaring high above a landscape of holiday wonderment. Various times, Atwood Concert Hall. For info and tickets, visit anchorageconcerts.org.
Jan. 27-Feb. 3
Iron Dog The 40th running of the Iron Dog, the world’s longest snowmobile race, begins on Feb. 17. Watch the Pro Class racers, followed by the Expedition Class riders, roar to a start on Big Lake. On Sun., Feb. 25, watch the Pro Class racers speed to the finish on Big Lake. The Sunday event includes kids races and other festivities. For info and a schedule, visit irondograce.org.
Feb. 22-March 3
Fur Rondy From outhouse races to the running of the reindeer, enjoy lots of wacky events and activities for all ages. For info, visit furrondy.net. For a complete listing of events in your area, visit our Calendar at AlaskaParent.com/calendar
AlaskaParent.com
advertiser index Alaska 529................................................................................IFC
Children's Clinic, The...............................................................BC
Alaska Birthing...........................................................................31
Exerplay......................................................................................24
Alaska Children's Trust..............................................................6
Faith Lutheran Preschool........................................................39
Alaska Club, The.........................................................................9
Habitat for Humanity Restore.................................................31
Alaska Dept. of Family and Community Services...............13
HeartReach Center....................................................................31
Alaska Dept. of Health.............................................................35
Katmai Eye and Vision Center...................................................6
Alaska Immunization Program..................................................7
Kicksled Alaska.........................................................................21
Alaska Sleep Clinic....................................................................19
North Star Behavioral Health.................................................19
Anchorage Concert Association..............................................3
Rural Cap.......................................................................................5
Anchorage Museum..................................................................13
Sunshine Community Health Center...................................24
Aurora Children's Dentistry...................................................IBC
Thread ...........................................................................................9
Best Beginnings Birth Services...............................................31
United Way of Anchorage........................................................21
Camp Fire Alaska......................................................................35
Wild Starr Creations..................................................................21
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