Our Kids Magazine Jan Feb 2020

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The Go-To Resource for San Antonio Families Since 1985

Jan / Feb 2021

Magazine CELEBRATING KID’S BIRTHDAY PARTY VIRTUALLY

Magazine

TICKLING SENSES:

Simple Sensory Play Activities

EDUCATION GUIDE

THE 5 LOVE LANGUAGES, Magazine WITH YOUR KID

KEEP THEM SMILING! Teach your kids about dental health.

February is National Children’s Dental Health Month. The Children’s Hospital of San Antonio Foundation has partnered with Kohl’s Department Stores to implement “Kohl’s Smiles for Kids.” Take this time to teach your children about the importance of self-care.

Help fight tooth decay and gum disease by: • Brushing and flossing daily • Drinking fluoride-enriched tap water • Scheduling regular dental checkups Visit chofsa.org/dental or call 210.704.2206 to schedule a pediatric dental appointment and for more information on how we do everything for our children.

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table of

CONTENTS

January / February 2021

6 14 16 18 20

volume 37 • number 1

CELEBRATING YOUR KID’S BIRTHDAY PARTY VIRTUALLY TICKLE THEIR SENSES:

SIMPLE SENSORY PLAY ACTIVITIES

PANDAS DISORDER ISN’T CUTE OR CUDDLY EVERY SUCCESSFUL FITNESS JOURNEY STARTS WITH THESE 3 STEPS Magazine

22

14 16

ADD IT UP:

25 WAYS TO MAKE MATH FUN

Magazine

22

HOW TO SPEAK THE 5 LOVE LANGUAGES, WITH YOUR KID Magazine

Magazine

Magazine

Magazine

Magazine

PUBLISHER Rudy Riojas 210-526-0312 DISTRIBUTION Taspas Delivery

P.O. Box 1809 Castroville, TX 78009 210-305-4181

On the Cover Magazine

ADVERTISING: Pat Ramotowski 210-209-8673 Magazine

Amy Sugarman 210-987-2202

Photo by: MVCASPEL

Magazine

OUR KIDS MAGAZINE LLC is a locally owned magazine published monthly. Advertisements in this magazine are paid for by the advertisers, which allows this magazine to be free to the consumer. Limit of one free copy per reader. Unless specifically noted, no advertisers, products or services are endorsed by the publisher. All persons are hereby informed that all dwellings advertising are available on an equal opportunity basis. OUR KIDS MAGAZINE LLC copyright 2015. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited.

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Our Kids Magazine | Janaury / February 2021

FRIEND US @ facebook.com/OurKidsMagazine210

Publisher’s NOTE

Light at the End of the Tunnel 2020 sure was a crazy year that won’t be forgotten by our friends, our families, and especially our kids. It’s been a hard time for everyone and I want to say in behalf of Our Kids Magazine staff, that our hearts and thoughts go out to all those affected by COVID and to those who lost loved ones to the 2020 pandemic.

Last year brought a lot of change to Our Kids, just as it did to the rest of San Antonio. Business shutdowns, School closures, Health service changes, Entertainment venue closures, and Event cancellations have been hard for Our Kids both financially and content wise. Events and programs that filled our family-friendly Calendar didn’t happen or were on again/off again in 2020. We have had to adjust to continue reaching families who need resources and local information.

Our Kids Magazine will be publishing on a bi-monthly schedule for 2021. Our frist bi-montly issue distributes the last week of December for January/February 2021.

We believe that in the coming year, things will start to go back to the old ‘normal’ allowing us to add the extensive Calendar back into Our Kids bi-monthly issues.

We are also moving ahead with Our Kids 24th Annual Camp Fair. Another event we are working on with local partners is Baby Expo that will be coming later in the year.

Watch for date, time and location as we complete details on both events.

We see the light at the end of the tunnel with vaccines rolling out and being delivered to cities throughout the country. As families start receiving the vaccine, and the city reopens, we expect families to become more confident.

They will be anxious to get out of the house and begin to enjoy all the local attractions, kid programs, and indoor and outdoor activities once again. We are not sure what 2021 has in store, but at Our Kids Magazine we are hopeful and are looking to a positive future.

Stay Safe and Mindful!

Rudy Riojas

Our Kids Publisher Janaury / February 2021 | OurKidsMagazine.com

5

EDUCATION GUIDE

Helping Children Set (& Achieve!) Goals

By Denise Yearian

When children set and achieve personal goals, it can affect the way they view themselves, their academics and their activities, both now and in the future. But for many, goal setting doesn’t just happen.

Often it’s an acquired skill that requires the guidance, support and encouragement of a parent or mentor.

Once learned, children can turn today’s dreams into tomorrow’s reality.

Taylor Hollingsworth is a prime example. Ever since her mother can remember, the preteen has enjoyed entertaining others and made it her goal early on to become a professional singer.

“By the time Taylor was in fifth grade she had gotten a lot of positive feedback with different performances so by year’s end she was ready to step it up a notch,” says the mother of her now 12-year old.

“We decided a good next step was to enroll her in a performing arts school so she could major in voice and minor in theater.”

Frank McIntosh, president of the local Junior Achievement, believes it’s never too early to start children on the goal-setting track. What’s most important, though, is that the goals be self-directed.

“If the child owns his goal, he’s more likely to embrace it and have the motivation and commitment to work toward attaining it,” says McIntosh. “It’s okay for parents to give input and guidance but it needs to be driven by the child.”

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Our Kids Magazine | Janaury / February 2021

This was the case with Dave Resler’s daughter.

From the time she was in fourth grade, Stephanie had run short distances in track. Upon entering high school, she joined cross country and so increased her distance from one-quarter to over three miles. But her biggest running goal came at the end of her freshman year.

“One day Stephanie came to me and said she wanted to join the 300-Mile Club at school that summer,” says the father of his now 16-year-old. “I knew it was a realistic goal, so together we sat down and did the math — how often she would have to run over the course of three months.”

“When children formulate a goal, it’s a good idea if they write it down,” says Linda Sullivan, local 4-H organizational leader. “This creates a clear picture in their minds of what they want to achieve, gives permanency to the goal and provides the drive and motivation to move forward.”

In doing so, they should outline steps that need to be taken along the way.

“Breaking down a large goal into specific steps helps kids experience smaller goals along the way,” says McIntosh. “For some, this may mean taking advantage of resources such as books, DVDs and the Internet to broaden their understanding. And never underestimate the power of third-party influence— someone who knows the ropes and can encourage LIKE US @ facebook.com/OurKidsMagazineSA

EDUCATION GUIDE your child or provide the expertise needed to fine-tune his skills.”

Hollingsworth did this.

“Once Taylor was at the school, she started taking private voice lessons and we educated ourselves from a community theater perspective,” she says. “We found out about opportunities at the local children’s theater so she auditioned for two plays there and was given a part each time. On both occasions we watched the related movies and learned the songs.”

“While outlining specific steps, have your child consider potential obstacles that may hinder goal attainment and create a plan to overcome them,” says Sullivan. “Also establish a time frame for achieving the goal. This provides a sense of urgency and lets your child know if he’s on track. It also gives him the opportunity to reassess his goal, if necessary.”

“One thing Stephanie and I discussed was how she was going to get her miles in when it was 95 degrees outside. I told her, ‘You need to know and plan for times when it will be difficult to run,’” says Resler. “We also talked about her progress along the way. When August rolled around, she was a little behind so she increased her weekly distances. And by summer’s end she had officially run 300 miles.”

Taylor has made progress with her singing goal too.

“She gleaned a lot of experience from her time at performing arts school, but the following year she returned to her former academic setting,” says Hollingsworth. “Soon after we reapplied, we learned they were doing a production of Oliver and Taylor started preparing right away. When audition time came, she got the leading role. Right now we’re looking at moving to the next level—getting an agent who can possibly take her outside the community to some larger cities.”

Experts agree the best thing parents can do to help their children set and achieve goals is to guide them in understanding what their strengths are, help them create a feasible plan and then become their cheerleader. But ultimately attaining the goal is up to them.

“One time I gave a commencement address and I challenged students to internalize ten small words that could dramatically affect their future,” says McIntosh. “‘If it is to be, it is up to me.’”

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

SCHOOLS - ACADEMIC - SECONDARY & ELEMENTARY Brooks Academies is a premiere tuition-free public charter school with four campuses located in San Antonio. Serving grades PreK-12 with specialized programs in STEM, Dual Language, Fine Arts, Sports Leadership and Management. We have both In-Person and Virtual learning settings. Applications are now available for the 2021-2022 School Yearapply via our website!

Brooks Collegiate Academy - 210-850-3002 Brooks Oaks Academy - 210-627-6013 Brooks Lone Star Academy - 210-998-4452 Brooks Academy of Science and Engineering - 210-633-9006

210-541-0051

Brooksacademy.org Janaury / February 2021 | OurKidsMagazine.com

7

EDUCATION GUIDE

How to Choose the Right School: Virtual, Public or Private

By Cheryl Maguire

“When will we be able to go to school in-person full-time?”

My 12-year-old daughter attends a public school that offers a hybrid option. She goes to school in-person two days and three days she learns virtually from home. She misses going to school full-time in-person and often asks me when that will be an option.

Depending on where you live, you may have different options for school instruction. Your school may have started the year remotely or hybrid and now your school is switching to all in-person. Deciding about the best educational plan for your kids may be challenging.

Types of Schools Public Public schools offer a free education to students living within the district. The funding for public schools is from local, state and federal tax dollars. These schools are supervised by local government authorities. There are different types and options of public schools such as school choice, vouchers, tax-credit scholarships, magnet and charter schools.

Depending on what your school is offering you may be able to attend school virtually (remote) at home, hybrid (combination of remote and in-person) or all in-person.

Private A student must pay a tuition and submit an application to attend a private school. A private school is funded by student 8

Our Kids Magazine | Janaury / February 2021

tuition payments, endowments, grants, and donations. Some private schools are affiliated with a religion.

Home School A homeschool is when a student is educated at their home by either a parent, tutor, or an online program. States regulate and have requirements for homeschools.

Factors to Consider When Making a Decision Cost If you are unable to afford the private school tuition, which the national average is $10,000 per year, then you would be limited to the free public-school options.

Depending on the state you live in you could use vouchers or the tax-credit scholarships to help fund the tuition.

Another consideration is the cost of transportation to the public school.

School Size The class size may be an important factor if your child is easily distracted or requires assistance to learn. Even though public schools can make accommodations for students with special needs, sometimes a smaller class is more helpful to the child. A private school usually offers small class sizes.

You may also want smaller class size so to decrease your child’s risk of exposure to virus.

Considering Different Options If you are attending public or private school you may have different options of in-person, hybrid, or full remote virtual LIKE US @ facebook.com/OurKidsMagazineSA

EDUCATION GUIDE learning. This is a difficult choice to make and will require factoring in many different considerations.

then figure out what would be the best learning environment for them.

Immune System If your child or someone in your family has a comprised immune system, then you many not want to risk sending your child to school at all. This would mean all virtual learning either through the public or private school. There are some online programs that are considered public homeschooling that may be a good choice since these schools were set up for virtual learning before the pandemic.

Time Requirement for Parents If both parents are working full time and the child needs assistance with remote learning, then this may be a difficult option for the family. It may make more sense for the child to attend in-person full-time or hybrid.

School Safety Before considering all in-person or hybrid you will want to know what safeguards your school has put in place to make sure that your child is not exposed to COVID. Some safety protocols you can ask about are wearing masks, distance between desks and the number of children per class. You may also want to ask how the school will handle an outbreak and what is their plan to notify families.

Learning Style Some kids have difficulty paying attention especially on a computer screen and may require specialized instruction.

Other kids may be independent leaners who thrive with remote learning. Discuss with your child what they like and don’t like about remote learning and in-person learning and

Age of Child Younger children are going to have more difficulty paying attention to virtual learning whereas older children tend to have a longer attention span. Older children also tend to be more independent and able to understand the technology related to remote learning. So an older child may be better suited for remote learning.

Making the Decision This decision is a difficult one and everyone will have a different needs and factors to consider. It is best if the decision is discussed as a family creating a list of pros and cons. After you make the decision most schools will allow you to change the option if you find it is not working for you.

Cheryl Maguire holds a Master of Counseling Psychology degree. She is married and is the mother of twins and a daughter. Her writing has been published in The New York Times, Parents Magazine, AARP, Healthline, Your Teen Magazine, and many other publications. She is a professional member of ASJA. You can find her at Twitter @CherylMaguire05

A world-class, tuition-free education is in your neighborhood. » Apply today for grades K–7 at enrollBASIS.com 11550 I-35 Frontage Road San Antonio, TX 78233 (210) 742 6310 Grades K–12

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Janaury / February 2021 | OurKidsMagazine.com

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EDUCATION GUIDE SCHOOLS Anne Frank Inspire Academy 11216 Bandera Road, San Antonio, TX 78250 Elementary School - (210) 638-5910 Middle & High School - (210) 638-5900 AnneFrankIA.com AFIA will offer multiple instructional formats for the 2021-2022 school year including full remote, Face2Face and combination options. Additional flexibility will allow families to alternate between models on a week-to-week basis as requested. Remote learning is recommended for every Friday and the entire month of December. New health and social distancing policies include temperature checks twice daily and mask policies by age group.

Campus cleaning and sanitization measures will be implemented daily.

BASIS Texas Charter Schools Four San Antonio locations.

(480) 289 2088 enrollBASIS.com BASIS Charter Schools are world-class, tuition-free public charter schools serving grades K–12. Currently, we have four campuses in San Antonio—three well-established, award-winning campuses and our newest addition, BASIS San Antonio Northeast, now enrolling for grades K–7. Each school offers our STEM-infused liberal arts curriculum, a well-balanced variety of advanced academic courses, and a wide range of extracurricular activities.

Students in the primary grades benefit from our dynamic co-teaching model. Find your BASIS Texas Charter School campus today!

Bexar County Academy Charter School 1485 Hillcrest Dr. San Antonio, TX 78228 210-432-8600 www.bexarcountyacademy.org Bexar County Academy is a TUITION FREE charter school, serving grades Pre-K3 to 8th grade. At Bexar County Academy Charter School our mission is to provide an Academia Environment that prepares students to function as Entrepreneurs, Workers, and Citizens in a Globalized World. Our blended-learning model provides our scholars with the opportunity to develop entrepreneurial and life skills not often offered in traditional public-school districts.

Our life skills-based curriculum provides the tools to develop character, creative, critical, and innovative thinking.

Apply Today! www.enroll.bexarcountyacademy.com Bright Ideas Enrichment Center 9433 Fredericksburg Rd. San Antonio, 78240 210-694-4622 brightideasdaycare.com We realize that each child is unique with a specific set of needs. It is our sincere desire to accept the challenge and work toward the goal of meeting each of those needs.

We offer Infant and Toddler care, Pre-K 3 and Pre-K 4 and Private Kindergarten, with breakfast, lunch and afternoon snack provided. We also offer Swimming lessons, Ballet, Gymnastics, Karate and Spanish for Tots.

Brooks Academies of Texas 4802 Vance Jackson Road 210-541-0051 brooksacademy.org Across our four campuses, we will do everything possible to make the learning environments friendly and safe for our children. We are providing two different learning models (if allowed) for the 2020-2021 school year. We have a 100% in-person model with reduced class sizes, social distancing, and other precautions. We will also have a 100% virtual model available for all grades Pre K-12.

Applications are now available for the 2021-2022 school year. Visit our website for more details. For immediate registration please contact your preferred campus.

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Our Kids Magazine | Janaury / February 2021

Cardinal Montessori Academy 6506 W Hausman Rd San Antonio, TX 78249 (210) 558-3627 www.cardinalma.com We offer an authentic Montessori experience with an emphasis on S.T.E.A.M. in beautiful, clean, and prepared classrooms. Our curriculum follows the child, focusing on their individual needs and interests. Our school day is structured with a fair amount of fun, excitement, and free play mixed in! We are accepting enrollment for our summer program (July- August) and 2020-2021 academic year (August 25, 2020-May 30, 2021) Christ Our Savior Lutheran Church & Early Childhood Center 5323 Blanco Rd. San Antonio TX 78216 210-732-7223 – Church 210-733-9444 Daycare www.christoursavior-sa.org Sharing and teaching the love of Christ as we reach out to all people. “Viviendo,compartiendo –y- ensenando el amor de cristo mientras alcanzamos a toda persona. Our acre supplements the home by providing a place in which the child may develop in an arranged environment with trained staff. Opened all year round.

Colonial Hills United Methodist School 5247 Vance Jackson San Antonio, TX 78230 210-349-1982 www.chums-sa.com CHUMS is NOW REGISTERING for the 2021-2022 school year. Tours available by appointment only. 18 months through Kindergarten. Please call the school office to schedule - 210-349-1092.

Cornerstone Christian Schools 17702 NW Military Hwy San Antonio, TX 78257 210-979-9203 • sa-ccs.org At Cornerstone Christian Schools, we face adversity and make history every day. At the onset of this pandemic, we led the way in adopting digital learning instruction within a week and the first to hold a physical graduation on campus. And now once again, CCS is leading the way by welcoming students on our beautiful campus for in person teaching this Fall. Learn how by visiting sa-ccs.org or call 210-979-9203 today.

Country Home Learning Center 210-687-1002 www.countryhome learningcenter.com Quality childcare 6 weeks – 13 years. Students enjoy our water park, indoor playground, putt-putt golf course, and gymnasium. After school care with pick-up from area schools available. Check out our website for location near you.

Jubilee Academies 4434 Roland Road San Antonio, Texas 78222 210-333-6227 Jubileeacademies.org A Better Approach to Public Education! Serving Pre-K(4) Graduation; offering College Credit, Career Readiness and Character Development. There are six Jubilee locations in San Antonio – call for the one nearest you.

Keystone School 210-735-4022 119 East Craig San Antonio, TX 78212 www.keystoneschool.org Keystone school has been a haven for bright, motivated children since 1948. Master teachers lead small classes with an accelerated, college-preparatory curriculum.

Academics, extracurriculars, arts, outdoor education and technology combine in a challenging, nurturing environment to develop academic excellence, ethical growth, community involvement, and responsible leadership. Grades PK3-12.

KIPP Texas Public Schools San Antonio kipptexas.org 210-880-8080 KIPP Texas Public schools focuses on protecting the health and safety of our students, staff, and families to the fullest extent possible. Provides our students with an academically excellent, joyful, and equitable learning experience with a consistent focus on college readiness regardless of whether we are inside or outside of our school buildings. Show care for our entire Team & Family so we can thrive in the new normal.

Mount Sacred Heart School 619 Mt. Sacred Heart Rd San Antonio, TX 78216 210-342-6711 www.mountsacredheart.org Mount Sacred Heart’s school year begins on August 17th and with great joy we begin our inaugural year of the Mother Cabrini Formation Center. The MCFC will increase the involvement of religious Sisters at Mount. Please give us a call and schedule a tour to see why Mount’s rich tradition and innovative learning environment is the school for your family. Visit our website or call us at (210) 342 - 6711.

Play Today Drop-In Daycare 17319 IH 35 N. Suite 302 Schertz, TX 78154 210-651-3610 Playtodaydropin.com Play Today is a unique child care facility that offers flexible drop-in care for children 12 months to 12 years.

We believe that children are unique individuals who need to be respected and cared for in a safe, nurturing environment. Your child will enjoy a fun learning facility with songs, finger play, games, arts and crafts, and sensory play. After school pickup available. Mother’s Day Out available for 2-5 years with age appropriate curriculum.

Positive Solutions High School 1325 N. Flores, Suite 100 San Antonio, TX 78212 210-299-1025 www.facebook.com/ positivesolutionshighschool Brief Description: Positive Solutions High School, chartered by the State of Texas in 1998, is an open enrollment charter school offering an accelerated high school diploma program for grades 9-12 as well as a GED program (4 hour sessions available in AM or PM). Positive Solutions High School students will succeed academically and in society.

Pre-K Academy at West Avenue North East Independent School District 3915 West Avenue San Antonio, TX 78213 210-407-8600 www.neisd.net/prekacademy A recently renovated campus dedicated solely to prekindergarten students. Each classroom has a certified teacher and an instructional assistant. Students learn important skills through exploratory play and ageappropriate steps for resolving conflicts. We have a fulltime physical education teacher, music teacher, librarian, STEAM teacher, counselor, family specialist, registered nurse, and instructional coaches for our teachers. We offer a two-way dual language program, transportation service, and after-school care. School begins August 17.

Pre-K 4 SA North 210-206-2800 East 210-206-2850 South 210-206-2700 West 210-206-2900 https://prek4sa.com/ Pre-K 4 SA is San Antonio’s premier pre-kindergarten program that is changing the educational and workforce trajectory of our city in one generation. Pre-K 4 SA offers full and extended-day prekindergarten for 4-year-olds in San Antonio. With four Education Centers with stringent safety protocols, as well as a distance learning model, LIKE US @ facebook.com/OurKidsMagazineSA

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EDUCATION GUIDE Pre-K 4 SA supports a foundation in concepts like math, science, language, and art through a play-based learning environment. Contactless Application Process. Apply now!

 San Antonio ISD 141 Lavaca Street San Antonio, TX 78210 210-554-2660 www.saisd.net SAISD will start school on Aug. 17, and for the first three weeks, all instruction will be 100% remote. After Labor Day, parents can continue with the teacherled, online learning or transition their children to on-campus learning – both will provide your child a high-quality option. Students learning remotely will be provided devices if they don’t have one at home. We prioritize safety, strong academics and social-emotional learning for our students.

Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran School & Child Care 6914 Wurzbach Rd. MEDICAL CENTER San Antonio TX 78240 210-614-3741 www.shlutheran.org Shepherd of the Hills is a Christcentered, family focused, community dedicated to serving children ages Infants through Grade 8. We provide a faith-based, fully accredited educational program in addition to a state-licensed Early Childhood Center. In accordance with state education and healthcare guidelines, we plan to begin the 20202021 school year in August, with children in classes on campus! We are currently enrolling for the fall! Call today!

Southwest Preparatory Schools 4 Campuses listed below 210-829-8017 www.swprep.org Southwest Preparatory School is an open enrollment - tuition free charter school serving grades PreK-12 with four campuses in San Antonio and Seguin.

All four campuses have current plans to include both remote and in-person learning options for students for the 2020-21 school year. Enrollment is now open at www.swprep.org. St. Matthew Catholic School 10703 Wurzbach Rd. San Antonio, TX 78230 (210) 478-5044 www.smcssa.org St. Matthew Catholic School is

dedicated to the mission of educating a strong, faith-centered community through a commitment to the spiritual, moral, intellectual, social and physical development of each child. Register now for Pre-K – 8th grade.

St. Peter Prince of Apostles School 112 Marcia Place San Antonio, TX 78209 210-824-3171 stpeterprince.org St. Peter Prince of Apostles School in Alamo Heights has on-campus and virtual class options for the 20202021 school year. Ideal class sizes for distancing and outstanding parent reviews during distance learning. Call today for more information!

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Call or Text 210-722-4947 inspiringexcellencetutoring.com Sunshine Cottage provides students the inspiringexcellencetutoring.com inspiringexcellencetutoring.com opportunity to excel and experience new inspiringexcellencetutoring.com learning adventures each day. Pre-school through fifth grade.Â

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en ce ers in nt el, Janaury / February 2021 | OurKidsMagazine.com

11

EDUCATION GUIDE

• Infant Care • Pre-School Programs • Music & Gymnastics • Private Kindergarten • Karate • Spanish • Ballet • Swimming Located near USAA and the Medical Center.

9433 Fredericksburg Monday - Friday 210-694-4622 6:15 a.m. - 6:30 p.m. www.brightideasdaycare.com

Have you heard about Think Learn Play’s sensory boxes?

MATH READING ART The activities in the box: -are hours of fun, hands on learning for ages 3-8 -are based on grade level -develop fine motor skills -encourage problem solving

254-420-6504 www.thinklearnplay.com Charra Burns, owner

CHOICE SCHOOLS & MAGNET PROGRAMS

LOOKING FOR A SCHOOL THAT FITS YOUR CHILD’S UNIQUE INTERESTS?

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Explore a variety of best-fit Choice Schools and Magnet Programs offered through virtual or in-person learning opportunities.

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12

NOV. 9 – JAN. 29

TRANSPORTATION

provided from numerous pick-up and drop-off hubs around the district

choice@saisd.net

AFTER-SCHOOL CARE available at most Choice School campuses

(210) 554-2660

Our Kids Magazine | Janaury / February 2021

(210) 309-3259

TTU K-12 PO Box 42191 2515 15th Street Lubbock, TX 79409 800-692-6877 k12.ttu.edu TTU K-12 is a Texas Education Agency and National Collegiate Athletic Association-approved kindergarten through 12th grade school. The fully online diploma track and individual course options meet the same standards as traditional schools. TTU K-12 also offers credit by exams and bulk testing, helping students achieve their goals – anytime, anywhere!

The Circle School 217 Pershing Ave. (near the Witte Museum) San Antonio, TX 78209 (210) 822-0461 http://www.thecircleschool.org This PK3-8th grade family cooperative combines academic excellence with a nature-based education model. The distinctive curriculum bridges the arts and sciences and includes gardening, sustainability, oral storytelling, and respectful conflict resolution encouraging empathy and compassion.

On-campus instruction provided with small classes, maximized outdoor time, and evidence-based safety policies.

Distance learning options available and classes are prepared to pivot to different models. Virtual Info Session for interested families Feb. 2nd, 2021 details and registration on website.

The International Baccalaureate Schools of the San Antonio ISD Nine, centrally located IB and IB Candidate schools IB@saisd.net, www.saisd.net/ib San Antonio ISD’s International Baccalaureate (IB) Schools are tuitionfree, in-district charter schools offering innovative, rigorous education with a global perspective. IB Programmes are known around the world for their focus on the personal development of all students.

Limited seats are still available. Apply now at www.saisdchoice.com. Elementary Schools (PreK-5th): Briscoe, Huppertz* and Woodlawn Hills*; Academies (PK/K8th): Woodlawn and Fenwick*; Middle Schools: Harris and Longfellow; High Schools: Burbank and Jefferson. (*IB Candidate school).

The Montessori School of San Antonio 210-492-3553 17722 Rogers Ranch Pkwy San Antonio Texas 78258 www.montessoriSA.org At the Montessori School of San Antonio, we guide children to be passionate learners, independent thinkers and engaged citizens. We partner with parents, guiding students to achieve their full potential in academic, social, physical, intellectual, aesthetic and moral development from early childhood through adolescence.

The Winston School San Antonio 8565 Ewing Halsell Drive San Antonio, Texas 78229 (210) 615-6544 www.winston-sa.org Winston is a college preparatory school for students with learning differences, including but not limited to ADHD, dyslexia, and dysgraphia. Teachers focus on providing a personalized education to every student. Winston is continuing with plans to open the school for in-person classes this fall, and will be adhering to all safety and health guidelines.

SPECIAL NEEDS AdBAnce Behavioral Health ABA Therapy 844-568-2001 www.AdBAnce.com ABA Therapy can help students with Special Needs to maintain and generalize skills already learned. ABA can also be used as a teaching tool and a preventative tool to address challenging behaviors Sunshine Cottage 603 E. Hildebrand San Antonio, TX 78212 (210) 824-0579 www.sunshinecottage.org Sunshine Cottage offers a listening and spoken language environment for all children with hearing impairment as well as for typically hearing children. Sunshine Cottage provides students the opportunity to excel and experience new learning adventures each day. Pre-school through fifth grade.

The Clowvazar Academy (210) 690-4800 12746 Cimarron Path #120 San Antonio TX 78249 www.clowvazar.com The Clowvazar Academy is a private year-round school for kids with learning differences. Students are placed in each subject according to ability, not by age.

We accept students with a wide range of struggles in three broad programs: General Ed., Special Ed. and Gifted-andTalented students. We work with kids with anxiety, ADD, ADHD, mild Autism, Autism and other learning challenges.

With a wide range of electives, including Culinary Arts, Fine Arts, and Job Readiness Internships, our students are given amazing opportunities to excel in different ways.

TUTORING Brainiacs Academic Enrichment and Support 210-570-5611 www.mybrainiacs.com Brainiacs provides one-on-one mentoring services. Our mentors tutor in targeted subjects, but also establish a supportive connection with a student. GRIT & GROWTH-MINDSET are organically woven into conversations around life strategy and long-term academic success. Brainiac also offers small group programs in Reading & Literacy, Study & Organizational Skills & ACT/SAT Test Prep.

Inspiring Excellence 210-722-4947 InspiringExcellenceTutoring. com With affordability in mind, I teach stepby-step methods, helping my students

LIKE US @ facebook.com/OurKidsMagazineSA

EDUCATION GUIDE learn effective strategies to improve their confidence and become independent learners. Parent(s) are invited to be a part of every session which further enhances the learning process!

Clowvazar After School Tutoring 210-690-4800 12746 Cimarron Path #120 San Antonio TX 78249 www.clowvazar.com We provide One-on-One tutoring for kids with high functioning autism, dyslexia, dyscalculia et cetera. Tutoring & Coaching sessions available for both Students and Parents. We provide comprehensive assessment and affordable packages.

LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES Abby’s Attic Sewing & Crafting Studio North Central at 281/ Thousand Oaks 210-375-5241 Far West Side at Culebra 210-541-5088 www.abbysatticsewingschool.com Abby’s Attic provides in-person and online sewing classes for ages 8-16. Learn beginner and intermediate sewing skills, with your machine or by hand. Introduce your child to a dying art while they work on fine and gross motor skills, pattern reading, problem solving, mathematics skills and more! Moms, we have a great variety of classes for YOU to learn to sew, too!”

Artworks Art Studio 1840 Nacogdoches Rd, San Antonio TX 78209 210-826-2787 www.artworksartstudio.com New Wording: NEW Arts Enrichment & Academic Assistance for Home Learners - we offer Small Class Sizes with StudentCentered Curriculum and Unique Learning Experiences!

Boy Scouts of America, Alamo Area Council 2226 NW Military Hwy, San Antonio, Texas 78213 210-341-8611 www.AlamoAreaBSA.org The BSA continues to prepare young people for life by providing the nation’s foremost youth program of character development and values-based leadership training, utilizing outdoor activity, citizenship, and fitness. The Alamo Area Council manages over 1,500 acres of outdoor adventure for boys and girls from 5-20 years of age at three premier camps – Bear Creek Scout Reservation, Mays Family Scout Ranch, and McGimsey Scout Park. Also Check out our Virtual Merit Badges and other Scouting at Home programming.

Code Ninjas Shavano Park 12651 Vance Jackson Road, Suite 101 210-570-2467 www.codeninjas.com/txshavano-park Your kids will have a blast Learning to Code! At Code Ninjas San Antonio (Shavano Park), kids learn to code by building their very own video games. Our flexible coding programs for kids make it easy on parents with convenient drop-in hours on weeknights and weekends.

Dorothy Keck Dancers 210-829-8454 1532 Austin Hwy www.dorothykeckdancers.com We are a dance instruction studio offering classes in ballet, tap, jazz, hip-hop, tumbling/acrobatics, and dance team.

Enjoy our 55 years of teaching experience, flexible hours, and fair prices that are sure to keep us a San Antonio favorite.

First Tee Greater San Antonio 915 East Mulberry, San Antonio, TX 210.736.9592 www.firstteesanantonio.org First Tee Greater San Antonio will be hosting fall programming both online and in-person. On-site programming adheres to local, state and federal safety and health protocols to ensure a safe environment for participants and families.

Jump Rope Express 269-0725 coachbobby7755@gmail.com www.coachbobbysports.com Let Jump Rope Express get your child in top form. We offer one-hour jump rope classes that keep kids active with unique jump rope games, activities, challenges and drills developed by Coach Bobby. The kids will have a fun-filled time and get a lot of exercise! Contact Coach Bobby at 210-269-0725 / coachbobby7755@ gmail.com for availability ad pricing. www.coachbobbysports.com Mad Science of Austin & San Antonio P.O. Box 92701 Austin, Tx 78709 210-651-1143 http://sanantonio.madscience. org Mad Science programs are designed with exciting, fun and hands-on science activities. Your child will become a junior scientist, having the opportunity to experience a variety of hands-on adventures. Children will design, create, build and assemble a variety of interesting projects.

Many different themes are available including robots, rockets, spies, yuckology, invention and more! Ages 5-12. Programs starting in January and through the Summer $18-325.

Locations Include Virtual with Supplies delivered to your door!

Witte Museum 3801 Broadway San Antonio, TX 78209 210-210-357-1910 www.wittemuseum.org The Witte Museum is developing programs for schools and families for the fall. We are open and encourage families to visit us when they are ready for an outing!

We have a wide variety of educational videos available on our website. “Witte Where You Are” brings a little bit on the museum to you! Watch our website for new program announcements.

Excellence in learning, living, and serving

S . Matthew CATHOLIC SCHOOL Register Now • Pre K4 - 8th Grade Near USAA & the Medical Center

210-478-5044 www.smcssa.org The Clowvazar Academy ALTERNATIVE EDUCATION • K-12 • YEAR-ROUND

General Ed., Special Ed., Gifted-And-Talented

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for children with anxiety, learning challenges such as dyslexia, ADD, ADHD, or autism, or those simply needing a small class environment. We place students in learning groups based on ability not age.

Apply Online Today!

www.clowvazar.com | 210-690-4800 12746 Cimarron Path #120, San Antonio TX 78249

The International Baccalaureate Schools of SAISD Offering an innovative, rigorous education with a global perspective

Apply Today at: www.saisdchoice.com Apply window todayopen at Application www.saisdchoice.com November 9, 2020 to January 29, 2021 Nine in-district charter schools from Pre-K to graduation

For more information about IB schools visit: www.saisd.net/IB

(210) 554-2480

Janaury / February 2021 | OurKidsMagazine.com

13

Party

Celebrating Your Kid’s Birthday Party Virtually

By Cheryl Maguire

“Will I be able to have my birthday party?”

My daughter’s 12th birthday is in April and she has been planning her birthday party for the past month. With the recent lockdowns and social distancing recommendations related to the Coronavirus, she will probably have to come up with an alternative plan for her party.

Before the Coronavirus recked havoc on children’s party plans, there were also kids who are not able to socialize at parties due to comprised immune systems. Here are some suggestions for ways to celebrate without spreading germs.

Create a Virtual Party One way to interact with friends from a distance is to have a virtual party using apps like Google Meet, Zoom, or Skype.

My daughter has been using Google Meet to practice her musical theater play with the kids in her class. This technology allows people to see and speak to everyone, so it is the next best thing to being in a room together.

If someone isn’t able to connect due to a lack of technology access, then go old school and put them on your speaker phone so they can hear and participate in the conversations.

Virtual Party Theme Ideas You are probably wondering how do you simulate a kid’s birthday party when they can’t physically interact?

It is important to remember that the main goal of a party is for your child to have fun with their friends. This is still possible but may require some out-of-the-box thinking.

One way to do this is to have a theme that all the partygoers will be excited about. Most games like pin the tail 14 Our Kids Magazine | Janaury / February 2021

on the donkey are not an option but there are several ideas for themes that will include everyone and create a festive mood.

Movie Theater Themed Party If the birthday kid is a movie lover, you could create a movie themed party. On the invite ask the partygoers to dress up in their favorite movie character outfit or t-shirt. You could create a movie trivia game or a “would you rather game” using movie themed questions. After playing the games the group can then watch a movie selected ahead of time. Before the party, you will need to figure which movies everyone owns or can stream together. You can watch shows together at the same time with the app Teleparty.

Cook-Off Themed Party For the future chef tweens and teens, you could have a cook-off party. Everyone must find five items in their house and create a dessert or any meal the birthday person selects.

Then their parents judge the creation on creativity and taste.

You could also play trivia cooking games or swap your favorite recipes.

Lego Themed Party For the birthday Lego lovers, you could create a Lego themed party. Everyone will to arrive with a bucket of Legos.

You could play games like who could build the tallest tower in five minutes and then their parents would measure each one to determine the winner.

Some other suggestions are that everyone makes whatever they want and then the parents determine who has the most creative structure. Or everyone makes an animal and you LIKE US @ facebook.com/OurKidsMagazineSA

must guess what type of animal the Legos are supposed to be.

After you are done building go on virtual Legoland rides by searching the ride on YouTube. Before the party create a list of rides that you want to visit to keep things moving along.

Drawing or Paint Themed Party Before the party ask the parents what type of art supplies they own. Most kids have a set of markers, crayons and paints.

One suggestion is to all draw or paint the same picture. Mo Willems, author of children’s books like Don’t Let the Pigeon Stay Up Late! and Knuffle Bunny has a drawing channel on YouTube where you can learn how to draw characters from his books like Piggie and Elephant. You could have everyone watch the video at the same time and then share your drawing.

You could also create cards for people in nursing homes, hospitals or the military to let them know that you are thinking of them.

Virtual Disney If your kid is a Disney fan have them dress up as their favorite Disney character

and ask their friends to do the same. You can play Disney related games and then go on virtual Disney rides by searching the ride on YouTube. Before the party create a list of rides that you want to visit to keep things moving along.

Fun and Festive Try to decorate the room that your child will be streaming the party from with the theme in mind to set the mood for all the partygoers. Plan the games and festivities before the party starts so that it will keep the fun levels high throughout.

By the time the party is over, your child will hopefully have so much fun that they will forget about the fact they didn’t see their friends in person. And the best part for you is that you won’t have to clean up a mess created by a room full of kids.

Cheryl Maguire holds a Master of Counseling Psychology degree. She is married and is the mother of twins and a daughter. Her writing has been published in The New York Times, Parents Magazine, AARP, Healthline, Your Teen Magazine, and many other publications. She is a professional member of ASJA. You can find her at Twitter @ CherylMaguire05

Family Fun Activities, Mini Golf, Special Character Appearances, Bouncy Houses, Toddler Play Area, Seasonal Arts and Crafts.

Great for Birthday Parties.

Alamo Mini Golf 509 Sassman Rd 78124

210-730-0893 PARTIES & FIELD TRIPS Hands-On Science Fun In Person or Virtual!

210-651-1143 SANANTONIO.MADSCIENCE.ORG

PLACES Abby’s Attic Sewing & Crafting Studio 210-541-5088 North Central at 281/Thousand Oaks Far West Side at Culebra www.AbbysAtticSewingSchool.com

Imagine Arts Academy of Austin & San Antonio P.O. Box 92701 Austin, Tx 78709 210-651-1143 http://sanantonio.imagineartsacademy.com

Unique SEWING parties for ages 4 and up! Hand-sewing projects for ages 4-7, sewing machine projects for ages 8 and up. Parties for adults too! All materials included and no sewing experience needed. We teach you what you need to know! Call us @ 210-5415088.”

Imagine Arts Academy programs are designed with exciting, fun art activities. Your child will become an artist, having the opportunity to experience a variety of handson adventures. Children will design, create, build and assemble a variety of interesting projects based on many different themes, including Wild World, World of Design, and Artist’s Passport! Programs starting in January and through the Summer $18-325.

Locations Include Virtual with Supplies delivered to your door!

Alamo Mini Golf 210-730-0893 509 Sassman Rd, 78124

Jump Rope Express 210-269-0725 www.Coach7755@aol.com

Introducing a brand-new entertainment business just off 1103 near Cibolo. Alamo Mini Golf and more. Come play outdoors under the cover rain or shine. Old school video games, inflatables, 18-hole mini golf, and enclosed fully stocked toddler play area all included in admission price of $9.95 adult, $8.95 child. Fun for all ages. Full concession stand with barbecue area. BYOB until we receive our alcohol license. Find us on Facebook Alamo Mini Golf. This is a Veteran owned business where the owners got married in England while serving in the US Air Force. Golf course is ADA compliant.

Incredible Pizza Company 2015 SW Loop 410 San Antonio, TX 78227 210-797-7639 www.incrediblepizza.com

Birthday party packages starting at just $14.99 a person. Come see our new location complete with Glow Karts, XD Theater, Laser Tag, Bumper Cars, Lost in Space, All You Can Eat Buffet (with over 150 items!) and so much more. Call 210-797-7639 for more details.

ENTERTAINMENT Game Truck Party 210-501-4177 Gametruckparty.com

If you want a Video Game Party, GameTruck’s unique mobile video gaming theaters can make your ultimate party wishes come true. With our expert GameCoaches and state-ofthe-art equipment, your party will be as stress-free as it is spectacular!

Let Jump Rope Express provide you with a dynamic environment for your child’s birthday.

For 90 Minutes the kids will participate in jump rope games, activities, challenges and drills. The kids will have a fun-filled time! Contact Coach Bobby at 210-269-0725 / coachbobby7755@gmail.com for availability and pricing.

Mad Science of San Antonio 512- 892-1143 210-651-1143 www.austin.madscience.org

We have Birthday Parties down to a science! Mad Science birthday parties entertain children with exciting, high-energy, interactive shows that come to you. Your child will enjoy activities such as: Discover objects that float through columns of air! Relish the mystery of fireworks! Watch in amazement as energy lights up a ball of plasma! See in wonder as water takes on an eerie green glow! And much, much more! Parents will love the fact that Mad Science birthday parties are mess-free and hassle-free. Best of all, we provide a satisfaction guarantee!

My Gym Cibolo Mobile 210-897-1142 cibolo@mygym.com www.mygym.com/cibolo

Make it a My Gym party and your child’s birthday will be the best birthday ever! With My Gym Cibolo, your child is the star of a perfectly planned celebration created especially for them. Let us take care of the details so you can focus on the moments that matter.

Janaury / February 2021 | OurKidsMagazine.com

15

Baby & Toddlers

Tickle Their Senses: Simple Sensory Play Activities

By Jan Pierce

Children instinctively gravitate toward sensory play. Have you ever seen a child walk around a mud puddle? No. Kids automatically feel the need to explore that puddle, that sand, that layer of ice on top of the puddle. And there is a good reason for that desire to engage in sensory play; it’s one of the best ways kids learn.

Children enjoy using all five senses as they play. They focus their sight on everything around them. They listen to the sounds, enjoy touching objects and smelling them and when appropriate, tasting them. In addition to the five senses, children also learn body awareness and a sense of balance as they engage in hand-on activities.

As kids do simple sensory play activities, they gain cognitive skills, learn new language, learn social skills, problem solving skills and both fine and gross motor skills.

Something as simple as playing in sand can help kids think about what sand is made of and where it came from, learn words such as smooth and rough, figure out ways to form the sand into shapes and problem solve that adding a bit of water aids in making that sand castle. Forming the sand into shapes builds motor skills and waiting for a turn with a certain tool aids in social awareness.

Sensory play is fun. It has a calming effect on children, especially those who are nervous or anxious. Simple sensory activities can engage children for much longer periods of time than an adult-led activity because they are both fun and satisfying. Be aware that while it looks like kids are “just playing,” in reality they’re building new neural pathways in the brain which sets the stage for deeper learning later on.

16 Our Kids Magazine | Janaury / February 2021

Here are some simple sensory activities, many of them using items you already have around the house.

■ Play dough, slime, cloud dough and kinetic sand are all

products that invite lots of squishing, shaping and creating.

Cloud dough is made simply with two parts cornstarch to one part hair conditioner. Or, you can use eight parts flour to one part baby oil. Kids love to play with these dough products and will find new ways to play with them each and every time. Lots of kinetic satisfaction here.

■

Musical activities: Kids love to move to the sounds of music. They like to play games such as musical chairs or freeze tag. They also love to create sounds to go along with music. Homemade or purchased rhythm instruments such as shakers, drums, maracas, and tambourines will keep kids busy for long periods of time. Simple scarves allow children to respond to music in dramatic ways and making up dance moves is another way to hear and respond to the rhythms of music.

■

Listening Games: Take your kids on a sound walk or simply stop all activity indoors and listen for a period of time. Then ask your children to report on what they heard. Another way to play this game is to have a checklist and “search” for various sounds such as sirens, birdsong, shuffling of feet, etc. You can also play auditory processing games in which you give simple verbal directions and have the children follow them in order. Have children identify LIKE US @ facebook.com/OurKidsMagazineSA

various animal sounds or random sounds such as the noise a zipper makes or tearing a piece of paper.

■

Edible Sensory Play: Tasting fun can sometimes be the goal such as tasting a variety of melons and identifying them. Or, the fun can be in using items that if tasted are safe for children. Some edible ideas for sensory fun are playing with rainbow Jell-o, making cereal necklaces, finger painting with cool-whip, yogurt or instant pudding, or playing in cooked pasta.

■

Painting, drawing and coloring with various art supplies are always great ways for children to express themselves and explore new learning. Keep a variety of pencils, markers, paints and coloring tools on hand. Bring out new ones periodically to keep the activities fresh and interesting. Invite your child to share their thoughts about their drawings or paintings or ask them to tell you a story about them.

■

Sensory tubs can be filled with a wide variety of substances including sand, rice, cornmeal, oatmeal, dry beans, cooked spaghetti, seeds, water, tapioca or ice cubes. Kids love to sift, scoop, pour, sort, hunt for and organize objects found in the tubs. You might try small sea creatures in sand, pieces of sponge in water, or small animal and people figures in rice. Yes, these activities are sometimes messy, but they offer tons of sensory play experience.

By now you probably have thought of several sensory activities you can do with your kids without even leaving home. For more ideas and information on sensory play go to: www.creativeconnectionsforkids.com www.handsonaswegrow.com www.learning4kids.net Jan Pierce, M.Ed., is a retired teacher and reading specialist living in Vancouver. She specializes in parenting, education and family life pieces. She is the author of two books for homeschool families: “Homegrown Readers: Simple Ways to Help Your Child Learn to Read” and “Homegrown Family Fun: Unplugged.”

Baby Expo Coming This Summer Janaury / February 2021 | OurKidsMagazine.com

17

Special Needs

PANDAS Disorder Isn’t Cute or Cuddly

By Cheryl Maguire

When you read the word PANDAS, you probably envisioned a cute, cuddly animal native to China.

Unfortunately, there is nothing cute or cuddly about the acronym PANDAS which stands for Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorders Associated with Streptococcal Infections. The disorder was first identified in an article by Dr. Susan E. Swedo and her team at NIMH in 1998.

According to NIH a child with PANDAS experiences emotional symptoms such as irritability, separation anxiety, ADHD symptoms, sleep disturbances, bed wetting, fine motor changes, joint pain, concentration difficulties, loss of academic abilities, and developmental regression. In relation to the emotional symptoms Swedo has been quoted as saying, “Some families have told us that their children seem possessed.”

PANDAS is considered an autoimmune or autoinflammatory disease in response to the strep infection.

Streptococcus, the bacteria that causes strep throat, is also linked to other autoimmune diseases such as rheumatic fever and scarlet fever. In the case of PANDAS the person’s immune system attacks brain cells, causing OCD, tics and other emotional symptoms. It is unknown why only some children develop this disorder. It is a rare condition with only 2,000 children diagnosed although it’s possible some children have it and are not properly identified.

The treatment for PANDAS depends on the severity of the disease. In mild cases, antibiotics are prescribed to treat the strep infection. In most cases, this will get rid of the OCD or other symptoms. In more serve cases children are given a combination of antibiotics along with immunomodulatory therapy like an intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) or an oral steroid.

There has been debate among doctors and researchers whether PANDAS is even a real disorder. Alison Motluk wrote an article “A Feverish Debate” which details the controversy surrounding the diagnosis of PANDAS. Motluck wrote, “Skeptics argued that these findings could be 18

Our Kids Magazine | Janaury / February 2021

coincidental: the children just happened to have strep when the behavioral symptoms appeared.” She also notes that a research study was conducted in 2002 found, “there was no evidence that strep uniquely intensified the symptoms in PANDAS kids.” James Leckman, a psychiatrist at Yale University questioned the validity of this study in regards to the subjects and control group.

I interviewed Ella (names changed for privacy), a 12-yearold girl who was diagnosed with PANDAS at age 8. Her mother, Christine, also answered questions regarding their experience.

Before you were diagnosed, did you know about PANDAS? Christine and Ella: No How old were you when you first experienced symptoms?

Ella: I don’t really remember, I think I was in Kindergarten.

Christine: She was around 5 years old when she first started getting strep throat. She would get strep throat and then go on antibiotics. Then the strep throat would come back again once she was done with the antibiotics. Sometimes we didn’t even know she had strep since she didn’t have a sore throat. Her only symptoms were a headache and stomach.

What were your PANDAS symptoms?

Ella: I don’t remember much about it.

Christine: Ella had a lot of OCD symptoms. She had to wash her hands all the time. She washed her hands so much they would bleed.

Ella: And I used hand sanitizer a lot Christine: At bedtime everything had to be in order. The closet door had to be the same as when she left it before. The comforter on the bed had to be the same position. All her toys LIKE US @ facebook.com/OurKidsMagazineSA

and books had to be in order. At night she would also have temper tantrums that didn’t seem to be set off by anything.

It was an extreme rage. One time she even tried to push me down the stairs.

How long did it take to receive a PANDAS diagnoses?

Christine: It took at least 2 years until I first heard of the diagnosis of PANDAS. The nurse at the pediatrician’s office was the first person to mention it as a possibility. My pediatrician at the time did not think PANADAs was a real disorder though. He said, “people will try to make money off of anything.” He acted like I was crazy when I suggested it. We even started counseling for Ella since the pediatrician didn’t think her behaviors were related to the strep throat.

When she was 8 years old, we ended up going to an ENT who didn’t know much about PANDAS but also didn’t think act like I was crazy for suggesting it as my pediatrician did. The ENT recommended that she get her tonsils out and then she only got strep once after the tonsils were removed.

Around this time we also switched to a new pediatrician who diagnosed her with PANADAS and was supportive of her treatment. When she got strep after having her tonsils out the pediatrician put her on antibiotics for a month.

What was the treatment?

Christine: When Ella took the antibiotics her PANDAS symptoms went away. The problem was before she got her

tonsils out she kept getting strep throat and a lot of times we didn’t even know she had strep throat so the PANDAS symptoms would continue until she had the antibiotics.

Do you still experience symptoms?

Christine and Ella: No What advice would do you offer for other families?

Christine: This experience was life-changing for us as a family. It was upsetting when we didn’t know she had PANDAS and then when we thought she might have it our pediatrician at the time didn’t believe in the disorder. It was difficult to have to watch your child deal with mental health issues.

I would say to other families to trust your gut when you think there is something wrong. I also brought someone with me to our first pediatrician (who didn’t believe in the disorder of PANDAS) for support. I found an advocacy group which was really helpful in answering my questions called New England PANS/PANADAS Association.

Cheryl Maguire holds a Master of Counseling Psychology degree. She is married and is the mother of twins and a daughter. Her writing has been published in The New York Times, Parents Magazine, AARP, Healthline, Grown and Flown, Your Teen Magazine, and many other publications. She is a professional member of ASJA. You can find her at Twitter @CherylMaguire05

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Janaury / February 2021 | OurKidsMagazine.com

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Health

Every Successful Fitness Journey Starts With These 3 Steps

By Pam Moore

If you’re like most people, January finds you energized and ready to do anything necessary to start a new fitness routine in the new year. And if you’re like most people, by February, your motivation vanishes along with the cookies you swore you wouldn’t eat. Studies show only four percent of people who join a gym in January step foot in that gym in February.

If you are one of the many who wanted this year to be different, there’s no way around it. You’re going to have to work for it. But there are three things you can do before you even lace up your sneakers to lay a foundation for success.

1| Find Your Why You’d be surprised how easy it is to figure out how you’re going to commit to your fitness journey when you know why you embarked on the mission in the first place.

Ask yourself why you want to get in shape. Then ask again.

And again… Maybe even once again. You’ll know when you’re done. Once you get over the awkwardness of having a conversation with yourself, you might be surprised how powerful your “why” is. The conversation might go something like this: Why do you want to get fit?

Because my doctor said I’m pre-diabetic and I want to live a long, healthy life Why do you want to live a long, healthy life?

Because I want to see my kids grow up.

Why do you want to see your kids grow up?

Because I love them and I want to share in their joys, sorrows, and adventures.

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Our Kids Magazine | Janaury / February 2021

It may not be easy to keep peeling back the layers on your “why.” But the cliché is true— nothing worthwhile is easy. Once you’re crystal clear about the source of your desire, it becomes a million times easier to say no to the snooze button or girls night, and say yes to your workout— and yourself— instead.

2| Have a Measurable Goal I love fitness. As an Ironman triathlete, an avid runner, a running coach, a spin instructor and an all-around fitness geek, it’s fair to say I am obsessed with fitness. But I can’t support a goal of simply “getting fit.” The same goes for “getting in shape” or “toning up.”

Fitness goals must be objective and measurable. In other words, you should be able to attach numbers and dates to them.

If you have a weight loss goal, make sure it includes a number of pounds and a date. “Lose weight” becomes a long-term goal of “Lose twenty pounds by December 31st.”

Once you have a long-term goal, add a few short-term goals to keep you motivated and to provide benchmarks of your progress.

Short-term goals might be: Lose two pounds by February first.

Lose ten pounds by June first.

Say your goal is to complete an event, such as your first triathlon. “I will finish a triathlon” is a measurable, objective goal, for sure. But making it as specific as possible optimizes your chance for success. Choose a specific race, put it in on your calendar, and “finish a triathlon” becomes a long-term goal of “complete the local sprint triathlon, LIKE US @ facebook.com/OurKidsMagazineSA

which requires a 300-yard pool swim, a 10-mile bike ride, and a 5k run, on August 14th.”

Short-term goals might be: Swim 50 yards without stopping by February first. Bike eight miles and run one mile immediately after without stopping by June first.

Thinking of your fitness goal in measurable terms lets you determine where you need to be each month, each week, and each day to achieve it.

3| Schedule Your Workouts “A failure to plan is a plan to fail.” Benjamin Franklin knew this was true way before we dreamed of holding tiny computers with calendars, alarm clocks, and timers in the palms of our hands. As all successful people know, what gets on the calendar gets accomplished.

Treat your workout time as you would any other appointment. Create an event on your Outlook or Google calendar, pencil it into your planner, or create an alert on your phone 20 minutes in advance. Do whatever works for you to carve out the time.

If you’re having trouble keeping your workout appointments, try a different approach. In her book, Better Than Before: Mastering the Habits of Our Everyday Lives, author and happiness expert Gretchen Rubin classifies most people as what she calls “obligers.” Obligers find

it much easier to follow through on a commitment to a friend, than to themselves. While most of us would easily hit snooze and skip the 7 am spin class, we’d never stand up the friend we promised to meet at the gym.

There’s no shame relying on external accountability to help establish a new habit. You could start by: Finding a friend, neighbor, or co-worker to work out with. Attending classes at a group fitness studio with a strict cancellation policy. It’s hard to skip a workout you’ve already paid for. Joining a group fitness studio, running club, cycling club, masters swim team or hiking group for the community aspect. You won’t want to deal with the FOMO when you skip a workout. Becoming a member of an online accountability group. Or, gather your likeminded friends and create one yourself.

Before you give up on fitness—or better yet, before you buy that fancy workout tracker and the pricey yoga pants—ask yourself the hard questions. Being honest with yourself about your fitness goals will pay dividends over the long haul as far as keeping you on your fitness path.

Because once you know your Why, your What, and your When, the question of How becomes a whole lot easier to answer.

Pam Moore is an author, occupational therapist, and certified personal trainer who helps women push through fear to become their best selves. To get her free guide to crushing Impostor Syndrome visit pam-moore.com.

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Janaury / February 2021 | OurKidsMagazine.com

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Valentines

How to Speak the 5 Love Languages, With Your Kid

By Pam Moore

Haven’t we all left a copy of The Five Love Languages on our partner’s side of the bed at some point? (Or maybe that’s just me.) According to the book’s author, Gary Chapman, the five love languages are: ■ -Physical affection ■ -Acts of service

■ -Words of praise ■ -Quality time

■ -Receiving gifts

While you might hope to come home to flowers after an argument, your partner might prefer you volunteer to do the dishes to show you care. According to Chapman, the key to a healthy relationship is for each person to express love in their partner’s preferred love language, instead of their own.

Chapman says this concept applies to children, too.

According to child therapist Megan Cronin Larson, a child’s primary love language typically emerges around age three or four. While you can respond to cues from your child to figure out what his or her love language is, in The 5 Love Languages of Children, Chapman encourages parents to use all five love languages with their children, in order to lay a healthy foundation for future relationships.

Physical Affection Research shows that touch is vital to healthy neurodevelopment in infants. But the need for touch— whether a hug or a fist bump—doesn’t end with infancy.

Physical affection lets kids know you care, and that you will listen when they’re ready to talk. But what if your child’s love language is touch and you’re not a big hugger?

Licensed psychotherapist and play therapist Brenna Hicks recommends parents “keep the physical touch small but consistent. [It] can be as simple as placing your hand on a child’s shoulder as you pass by, rubbing their head a few times on the couch, or giving them a quick kiss on the forehead. It isn’t necessarily long bear hugs.”

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Our Kids Magazine | Janaury / February 2021

You could…

■ -Let him sit in your lap while you read to him (or have him read to you).

■ -Give a back rub ■ -Put the couch cushions on the floor and have a WWFstyle wrestling match ■ -Wash her hair ■ -Hold hands ■ -Invite her to snuggle while watching a movie

Acts of Service As parents, our lives are a never-ending blur of acts of service. How can we possibly do more? And why should we?

There is a difference between responding to rapid-fire requests for snacks and help with school projects versus setting your phone aside, making eye contact, and offering to help, or taking time to do something extra-special for your kid.

You could…

■ -Offer to fix a broken toy ■ -Bring your child breakfast in bed (note: plan to change the sheets after breakfast) ■ -Cook his favorite meal ■ -Cut their sandwiches into fun shapes (Kitchen scissors or a cookie-cutter make it easier.)

■ -Give a manicure

Words of Affirmation Research shows we aren’t actually helping when we tell our kids they’re great at everything. That doesn’t mean we shouldn’t use praise to connect with them in a meaningful way; rather, we should be deliberate about what we say.

Parents should strive to acknowledge the effort, not the outcome. For example, instead of saying “Nice job!” when your kid comes down the slide, you could say, “I noticed how hard you worked to get up the ladder.”

You could…

■ -Acknowledge how hard she’s working on something specific LIKE US @ facebook.com/OurKidsMagazineSA

(e.g. “You’re putting so much effort into practicing your cartwheels/ math problems/ being kind to your little sister.”)

■ -Say “I love you.”

■ -Tell her three things you admire about her ■ -Ask if he knows how lucky you feel that you get to be his parent ■ -“Catch her” being good. (e.g. “I really appreciate you doing your chores without being asked.” or “You were an awesome listener at the park.”)

Quality Time Experts agree play is the optimum way to engage in quality time with young children. Says Hicks, kids “use play as their language and toys as their words. By playing with them, you learn more about them and meet their need for someone to share in their experience.” By adolescence, kids are no longer interested in playing. They are often busy with school, friends, and activities. Says Jen Harrison, mom of busy twin teens, she tries focus completely on them in the rare moments they are together—and that this often happens in the car, which she describes as “our best quality time.”

You could…

■ -Play hide and seek

■ -Engage in pretend play ■ -Go to the library

■ -Enjoy the outdoors together; walk, hike, or go for a bike ride.

-Bake together. Younger children can be responsible for helping you pour ingredients into the mixing bowl with hand over hand supervision. They can also “help” by stirring a small amount of water and flour in a bowl.

-Have a dance party. For older kids, draw the shades first.

Receiving Gifts As with the other love languages, the importance of the gift is not the gift itself, but the intention behind it. As Hicks explains, “You can feel very confident that a gift need not cost money or be extravagant for your child to appreciate the extension of love.”

You could…

■ -Surprise her with a homemade card

■ -Inscribe your old copy of a book you enjoyed at his age

and give it to him.

■ -Find an accessory or a piece of clothing you no longer

wear and give it to your kids as a dress-up item.

■ -Draw him a picture

■ -Build something for her if you’re handy (or brave).

No matter what love language you “speak” with your kid, Cronin Larson reminds us that our full presence is the greatest gift we can give our kids. So… put your phone down and connect with your kid- on Valentine’s Day and every day.

Pam Moore is an author, occupational therapist, and certified personal trainer who helps women push through fear to become their best selves. To get her free guide to crushing Impostor Syndrome visit pam-moore.com Janaury / February 2021 | OurKidsMagazine.com

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