Our Kids Magazine July 2020

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5 SIMPLE ALTERNATIVES TO BABY BOOKS FINDING A TUTOR FOR YOUR CHILD

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7 EXPLOSIVE INDEPENDENCE DAY TRADITIONS EDUCATION GUIDE

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CJulyO2020 NTENTS

volume 36 • number 7

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7 EXPLOSIVE INDEPENDENCE DAY TRADITIONS

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12 GENIUS TIPS FOR BACK TO SCHOOL

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FINDING A GOOD TUTOR FOR YOUR CHILD

REGARDLESS OF YOUR BUDGET

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10 QUICK TIPS FOR BACK-TOSCHOOL CLOTHES SHOPPING

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SAN ANTONIO CAMP UPDATES 5 SIMPLE ALTERNATIVES TO BABY BOOKS

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HOW BIRTH ORDER AFFECTS KIDS

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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.

July 2020 | OurKidsMagazine.com

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Feature

7 Explosive Independence Day Traditions

By By Kerrie McLoughlin

Every year when I was a kid, my parents made a huge deal about the 4th of July. The memories, photographs, sights and sounds (and smells!) of that special day have stuck with me throughout my life. Luckily, I married a man who might love this holiday even more than I do, so we throw a major celebration every year. While this year may be a little more low-key due to current world events (think virtual and porch parades instead), it can still be a day worthy of reminiscing.

Here are some ideas to get you started: 1. Freedom. When the kids get up, it’s time for some fun patriotic marching music. Then it’s time to celebrate how the USA won its freedom from England by doing a quick history lesson and sharing some highlights about the founding fathers (color some patriotic printables you can grab free online and print some word searches or crossword puzzles).

During breakfast, talk about what freedom means and why it is so important.

2. Food. For breakfast or brunch, why not start with blueberry pancakes topped with strawberries and whipped cream? Then it’s pretty much a given that the late lunch/early dinner combo is going to include a barbecue! Think hot dogs, hamburgers or veggie burgers, smoked meat. Dessert ideas include a cake decorated to look like an American flag, Oreos dipped in white almond bark and decorated with red frosting and blue candy stars, and Bomb Pops!

3. Fun with crafts, activities and games. Bust out those stars and stripes by gluing seven popsicle sticks together, then attach a larger popsicle stick to the left back side of that set.

Paint to make a flag decoration to be waved around or stuck in the ground. You can also fill a tub with red, white and blue water beads for some sensory fun for all ages. And it’s fairly easy to take a piece of wood, cut a hole in it, create a stand for 4 Our Kids Magazine | July 2020

the back, and paint it and you have a game of cornhole using beanbags.

4. Fireworks. Snappers, tiny popping confetti bottles and snakes are usually safe bets, and sparklers are great with a little more supervision. Make sure the kids are always kept safe and in shoes, and it’s not a bad idea to have a first aid kit handy just in case. For more fun, send the kids on a scavenger hunt to find these festive items and give them a prize when they bring them back to you. Watch a fireworks display on TV or enjoy a social-distancing fireworks display locally if your town is having one.

5. Fitness. Here comes the patriotic music again, and this time it includes a dance party with glo-sticks after the sun goes down. Sprinklers and slip n’ slides are staples of this holiday, or head to the local pool or backyard baby pool.

Don’t forget the sunscreen!

6. Fashion. You gotta grab some red, white and blue gear for this day and, unlike with clothes from certain other holidays, this patriotic clothing can be worn all year long.

(Although, yes, I am that mom who is guilty of wearing Christmas shirts in the summertime!) Consider giving tiedye a shot using red and blue dye on a plain white T-shirt or other pieces of clothing!

7. Family and friends. If you can’t physically be with everyone this year, definitely hop on Zoom, Skype or FaceTime to connect with loved ones and show them what you’ve been up to on this mid-summer holiday.

Kerrie McLoughlin is the seasoned mom of five. Check out their adventures at TheKerrieShow.com.

Connect With US @ facebook.com/OurKidsMagazineSA

12 Genius Tips for Back to School

By Christa Melnyk Hines

Every parent has that one trick up their sleeve that helps make life just a little simpler in the midst of a hectic school year. Read on for some of their best tips, clever tricks and genius hacks for back to school.

Plan your meals. Steer clear of the drive-thru on hectic evenings by taking 10 minutes each weekend to plan simple meals for the week. With a complete grocery list in hand, head to the store to purchase everything you’ll need.

To further simplify planning, Gina Nichols, a mom of four, recommends prepping food when you get home from the store, filing favorite recipes for easy reference and maintaining a well-stocked pantry. Theme nights like pasta on Mondays, tacos on Tuesday, etc., can also help. Ask your family for their suggestions too.

Establish a snack/brown bag lunch station. Designate a shelf in your kitchen or pantry for parent-approved snacks and lunch items. Tape a list inside the cupboard door with lunch ideas. On Sundays, pre-pack snacks that kids can easily grab like trail mix, pretzels, granola bars or cereal. Stock the refrigerator with fruits and veggies that have been prewashed/cut, as well as cheese and yogurt sticks. To save time in the mornings, help your children make their lunches and pack their snacks the night before.

Share the daily action plan. Laurie Loudenback hands her kids, ages 10 and 12, a clipboard each morning which includes the day’s schedule, chores, and screen time limits.

“This chart has been pretty life-changing,” says Loudenback, whose husband Scott designed it. “The first thing the kids say in the morning is ‘I need my chart.’”

Set up a master calendar. Post a white board with the week’s calendar to help everyone in the family know what to expect in the coming week. Use color-coded dry erase markers for each family member’s activities and cold or hot lunch preferences.

Spruce up backpacks. Extend the life of a much-loved backpack by giving it a back-to-school cleaning. Depending on the material, backpacks can generally be hand washed, spot cleaned or placed in a laundry bag or pillow case and run through the washing machine. Be sure to empty out all of the pockets and vacuum out crumbs before hand. If you hand wash it, soak it in warm water for 15 minutes with a teaspoon of laundry detergent. Rinse well and air dry.

Manage paperwork. Everyday after school, Sanchez says, “we have a mandatory ‘empty your book bag’ rule”. Her children file important documents like those that need to be signed by a parent into an office divider. Label a folder To Advertise Call 305-4181

with the name of your child and school year to easily collect artwork and other keepsakes throughout the year. Sanchez keeps her folders in a plastic file box.

Create a homework station. Designate a well-lit place in your home where homework can be completed without distractions. Create a homework caddy stocked with notebook paper, pens, pencils, crayons, colored pencils, rulers, and highlighters-anything your child might need to complete an assignment.

Make a homework plan. If your child struggles with organization, go through their backpack together. Make a stack for the night’s homework and help your child prioritize what needs to be completed first. Use a calendar to help them plan long-term assignments.

Use a timer. If your child gets overwhelmed by lengthy math worksheets or other difficult assignments, try using a timer like the Time Timer app and set a goal. For example, after he completes 10 problems, take a break for a quick snack. “Frequent breaks are important in helping students and their parents with homework,” says Amber Dawkins, a former teacher and a mom to a four-year-old son.

Attend back-to-school functions. Help your child get back into the school groove by attending school orientations, ice cream socials or sneak-a-peeks. “Even reconnecting with one or two friends or meeting a teacher in person before the first day of school can make a difference to a child,” Dawkins says.

Connect in a memorable way. Be ready to meet a few new parents at back-to-school functions who you’ll want to reconnect with later. Mom of two, Kristal Ronnebaum suggests handing out a family calling card. “It’s a method of sharing your contact information in a fun and creative way,” Ronnebaum says. You can also hand the card to babysitters, carpool drivers and new neighbors (attached to a small housewarming gift).

Encourage rest. A successful school year requires quality sleep. “Start edging those bedtimes back a week or two in advance of school starting,” Dawkins says.

Maintain a regular evening routine that helps your child unwind before bed, such as a warm bath or shower and reading time. Also, build unstructured time into your child’s weekly schedule for playing with friends and pursuing creative endeavors.

Freelance journalist Christa Melnyk Hines and her husband are the parents of two adolescent boys.

July 2020 | OurKidsMagazine.com

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EDUCATION GUIDE

Finding a Good Tutor for Your Child Regardless of Your Budget

By Kimberly Blaker

Does your child have a learning disability, poor or declining grades, poor time management skills, or difficulty understanding homework? If so, tutors are an effective way to get kids back on track and keep them there. But how do you find a good, reliable tutor you can trust? And what if hiring a tutor isn’t in your budget? Today, there are many options.

How to find a tutor Your child’s teacher and the school administrator are an excellent place to start. They might be able to recommend a tutor in your community or online resources to help your child.

Also, chances are one of your child’s friends has a tutor. So, ask other parents for a recommendation.

Another option is to search online for tutors in your area. You’ll likely find a couple of local tutoring companies. These often offer on-site tutoring, but some might offer in-home tutoring as well.

There are also many websites developed for helping parents find tutors. Takelessons.com has a searchable database of tutors. Just enter your zip code and the school subject to find tutors in your area.

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Our Kids Magazine | July 2020

This site also shows tutors’ ratings and their fees per session.

Another source is Care.com, which connects people with various service professionals, including tutors. Experience in tutoring varies widely, however.

So, check their reviews and ask for references.

Online tutoring is another popular choice, though, it isn’t right for every child. Also, do your research because the reviews of many online tutoring companies are fair to mediocre, at best. The costs of online tutoring aren’t always consistent with quality.

Free tutoring If tutoring isn’t in your budget, there are several options. First, check with your child’s school.

Although the No Child Left Behind Act is now defunct, some schools still offer one-on-one tutoring programs for eligible students. Many schools also offer after-school group tutoring. Kids can stay after school to work on their homework with a teacher to assist. Some teachers also offer after-school tutoring for their students.

If tutoring isn’t available at your kid’s school, ask FRIEND US @ facebook.com/OurKidsMagazine210

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• Engaged Learning • Outdoor Learning • Family Engagement July 2020 | OurKidsMagazine.com

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6/22/20 8:49 AM

PUBLIC CHARTER SCHOO GRADES PREK3 - 8TH

EDUCATION GUIDE O L O O COUNTY CHARTER trusted BEXAR family members, neighbors, L andACADEMY friends if they ensure your child canSCHOOL learn from the tutor and will walk

can help. You might discoverBuilding someone Entrepreneurial you know is awayLife with Skills self-confidence. Also, the tutor’s personality and enthused to help your struggling child. should be a good fit for your child. It’s essential the Another option is to contact your local high school tutor and your child connect with each other. and community college. Students majoring in particular Is the tutor flexible? Each child has their own best subjects or teaching are required to do a certain number learning style. It might be visual, aural, physical, verbal, of hours of tutoring. For that reason, students often H O O L logical, or any combination of these. Also, some kids are offer it for free. solitary learners, whereas others are social learners and TH H There’s also the popular Khan Academy website, C O PUBLIC O CHARTER SCHOOLL enjoy learning in groups. Look for a setting and tutor which offers free online video tutorials for students at that fits your kid’s style.

8 H GRADES PREK3 - 8TH all levels.T Visit https://www.khanacademy.org/ Does the tutor have excellent references? Online e? e want the tutoring services often have reviews from previous que?

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Look for those with overall high ratings and What to look for in a tutor ,elop we want At Bexar County Academy Charter School, we want the the v positive comments.

But beware of reviews There are several factors to consider when looking model pro best for your child. Our blended-learning vide model providesdirectly on f ered in for a tutor.

These include: the company’s website, since these can often be develop ourtutoring scholars with the opportunity to develop off ered entrepreneurial life skills in not often offered in or find very Is the tutor qualified?

Your best bet is to look for manipulated.and If you find your tutor offline ts. traditional public school districts. someone with a teaching degree since tutoring requires few reviews, ask for several references. Still, the referBuilding Entrepreneurial and Life Skills skills that not everyone possesses. For younger stuences a tutor provides might not be an entirely accurate dents, if the tutor has a teaching degree, specialization depiction of their character and experience either. So, in a particular subject isn’t necessary. From high school use due diligence for your child’s safety and to ensure oday! and beyond, look for a tutor with expertise in the your child receives quality service. subject your child needs help with. l today!

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EDUCATION GUIDE

10 Quick Tips for Back-toSchool Clothes Shopping

By Denise Yearian

Youth apparel is a billion dollar industry that peaks each fall with back-to-school clothes shopping. To get the biggest bang for your buck, consider these 10 tips: 1. Get a game plan. The most common mistake shoppers make is buying too much on impulse when faced with a large selection, or buying too much of the wrong thing.

Before leaving home, know what your child needs and what you want to purchase. Otherwise you’ll be overwhelmed when you get to the stores.

2. Take inventory. Make a shopping list of the basic items needed based on the closet inventory. Though this list should be your guide, leave some room for flexibility.

Your child may see an extra-special sweater that matches two or more basics in her wardrobe.

3. Establish a budget. While not every family can

spend the estimated $635 on back-to-school clothes, it is important that you decide before you go shopping what you can afford to spend. Equally important is to know your price point – are you going to spend $40 or $80 for that pair of jeans?

4. Consider gender differences. Statistics show that parents tend to spend more on girls’ clothing than on boys.

This is due, in part, to girls’ higher interest in apparel. Girls’ clothing also tends to be slightly higher-priced than boys’ because of special details, such as lace, buttons, and fancy collars.

5. Anticipate budget hikes. Keep in mind that as a child’s age increases, so does the price. As children move into adolescence, expect a gradual 25 percent hike in clothing prices. The combination of increased peer awareness and pure size—more fabric, construction, and fashion

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EDUCATION GUIDE features—adds to the bottom line. Older children also tend to have a wider variety of social activities that require a more diverse wardrobe.

6. Spread it out & change it up. Since preteens and teens are in the throes of growth spurts, it may be best to spread purchases over a longer period of time.

And don’t forget about alterations. Those too-little pants or jeans can be easily made into shorts or capris.

7. Look for value. While a budget is partly about establishing spending limits, it is also about getting the most value for your money. Since elementary-age kids, 6 to 11, tend to be rough and tumble, value often comes from buying quality, durable clothing with easy-to-care-for features. When assessing additions to your child’s wardrobe, consider durability, versatility, quality and comfort: • Durability. Look for good enough quality to withstand repeated launderings while remaining colorfast and not shrinking. Check for reinforced stitching and well-sewn buttons and buttonholes. When purchasing knits, go with fabric that is more dense than loose, with limited stretching. Keep in mind growth features such as elastic waistbands, adjustable straps, and longer shirt tails.

be times when your child wants something more than your budget allows, or an item you simply find inappropriate. If you have a game plan before leaving home, you and your child will know what the expectations are, and you may be able to avoid an argument. When conflicts do arise, seize the opportunity to discuss the reason for spending limits with your child. This is usually tied to parents’ personal convictions about what is and isn’t extravagant. It is an important way to impart values and introduce ideas that will make the child a competent money manager as he or she grows up.

• Versatility. Staples, such as jumpers for girls and khakis for boys, are great dress-it-up or dress-it down pieces, as are various colored T-shirts. Mixing and matching with the basics—jeans, tops, and other pants or skirts—make a wardrobe work harder.

9. Consider a compromise. If the situation warrants, negotiate. This keeps fun and camaraderie in the picture as parents and kids plan for back-to-school. One idea is to set aside at least 10 percent of the overall budget for the unexpected. That way, when you encounter an item that isn’t essential, but extra special, your child has some freedom of choice.

• Quality. Getting the most value for your money means budgeting for quality. Backpacks and jackets, for example, are likely candidates for heavy wear and tear. For items like these, it’s a good idea to buy brands you trust, Some items, such as backpacks, even come with warranties.

10. Let them buy it. Another option is to let children use their own money to buy that “must-have” item. Kids these days are spending more and more of their own money on back-to-school clothes. If they find something they want and it isn’t in your budget, let them purchase it themselves.

• Comfort. Children need to be comfortable when they are in a learning environment. When trying on clothes on in the dressing room, have your child sit, kneel, twist around, and bend over. Are the clothes tight anywhere?

Do they ride up or fall down? Are they itchy? If so, it may distract your child while he or she is trying to learn.

Overall, preparing a back-to-school wardrobe can be a fun and rewarding experience. The key is to plan ahead, establish a budget, and keep an open line of communication with your child. Then you can shop for style with savings in mind.

Denise Yearian is the former editor of two parenting magazines and the mother

8. Turn opposition into teachable moments. There may 10

Our Kids Magazine | July 2020

of three children and four grandchildren.

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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

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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.

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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 Poder Academy 128 S. Audubon Dr. San Antonio, TX 78212 210.888.6513 www.kippsa.org/poder

KIPP Poder provides a positive learning environment, college-preparatory academics, and character education for students in 5th – 8th grade. KIPP Poder earned an A-Rating plus 5 distinctions from the TEA. We believe that 100% of our students will go to and through college. On a daily basis, students receive time for targeted, small group intervention and/or enrichment. Students have access to Music, Art, Mexican American Studies, Journalism, Soccer,

Basketball, Volleyball and much more. Call us for a tour.

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,

1-on-1 In-Home ABA Therapy ABA Therapy for children and young adults in the Autism Spectrum Disorder and with other special needs.

We strive to improve the quality of life of our clients and their families.

(844) 568-2001 www.AdBAnce.com

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Our Kids Magazine | July 2020

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 age-appropriate steps for resolving conflicts.

We have a full-time 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, Pre-K 4 SA supports a foundation in concepts like math, science, language, and art through

EST. 1963

• 18 Months - Kindergarten • Afterschool Care 1st through 5th grades • Summer Camp 5 through 10 year olds • Located on six wooded acres with pool

(210) 696-0213 www.suburbanschool.com

5409 Encino Park Rd. San Antonio, Tx 78240

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 FRIEND US @ facebook.com/OurKidsMagazine210

EDUCATION GUIDE 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

As San Antonio’s founding school district, our neighborhood schools have served as the heart of San Antonio for more than 100 years. Today, SAISD is Bexar County’s third-largest school district. With forwardthinking academic programs at neighborhood schools and a growing list of specialized schools, SAISD students can customize their own educational experience and find what truly drives them.

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 Christ-centered, 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 statelicensed Early Childhood Center.

In accordance with state education and healthcare guidelines, we plan to begin the 2020-2021 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

We are a college preparatory and career readiness public charter school serving students in grades PK–12.

We provide a safe environment, small classes with individual attention, and an academically enriched curriculum. Northeast Campus & New Directions 1258 Austin Hwy. Pre-K – 12th grade; Southeast Campus 735 SWW White Rd. Pre-K – 12th grade; Northwest Campus 6535 Culebra Rd. Pre-K – 12th grade; Seguin Elementary 2400 E. Walnut St. Pre-K – 8th grade.

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.

Suburban School 210-696-0213 5409 Encino Park Road general@suburbanschool.com www.suburbanschool.com

Suburban School, a place where children can learn in a unique, natural setting and are encouraged to become independent, caring individuals. Suburban School exceeds State Minimum Standards and follows national accreditation (NECPA and NAEYC) guidelines.

Suburban School embodies a relaxed, comfortable learning atmosphere with an emphasis on our outdoor environment to enhance gross motor development.

We believe that a happy and successful childhood with clear expectations leads to a positive self-image.

Our program is designed to be age level appropriate, blending traditional and progressive styles of learning.

We use hands-on experiences and learning centers to encourage creativity and a better understanding of concepts. Time is spent learning in a group setting as well as one-to-one with a teacher.

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 Circle School 217 Pershing Ave. San Antonio, TX 78209 (210)822-0461 http://thecircleschool.org

This unconventional private school is a PreK-8th grade family cooperative founded in 1965 and combines academic excellence with a distinctive curriculum oriented around several elements: 1) daily oral storytelling; 2) nature-based education teaching gardening and sustainability; 3) art and creative learning; 4) respectful conflict resolution encouraging compassion and empathy. We are internationally designated as an Ashoka Changemaker School in recognition of our cultivation of students with the skills and confidence to change the world.

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

BASIS Charter School parents can choose on-campus or distance learning in 2020-21.

New campus opening August 2020 at I-35 and O’Connor Road.

Apply today for fall 2020!

Grades K–5 20SAN144

To Advertise Call 305-4181

July 2020 | OurKidsMagazine.com

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EDUCATION GUIDE 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.

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 tuition-free, 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/K-8th): 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 Description: 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

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-and-Talented 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.

ACADEMIC SUPPORT

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 ALTERNATIVE EDUCATION • K-12 • YEAR-ROUND

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

Differentiated Education

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

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 & GROWTHMINDSET 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 step-by-step methods, helping my students 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!

Since 1987 • Infants • Preschool • Kinder *Summer Program* 4911 Golden Quail Near USAA and Medical Center

210.558.8339 www.montessorichildrenshousesa.com

Phonics - Reading - Writing Composition Math - Handwriting - STAAR Prep.

ADD - ADHD - Dyslexia - ESL - Autism Exp. 1:1 - Pre-K to 8th Grade

“Inspiring students to excel and do their best!�

Call or Text 210-722-4947 inspiringexcellencetutoring.com

• Infant Care • Pre-School Programs • Music & Gymnastics • Private Kindergarten • Karate • Spanish • Ballet • Swimming Enjoy Southwest School of Art classes for your young artist, now online!

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Our Kids Magazine | July 2020

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 FRIEND US @ facebook.com/OurKidsMagazine210

This Summer Have a Staycation & Rediscover San Antonio

Call Us 210.224.8687

Welcome Center, 111 Alamo Plaza, 78205

$2 OFF $4 OFF $10 OFF PER CHILD

PER ADULT

PER FAMILY

Online Discount Code OK20

www.CitySightseeingSanAntonio.com

SAN ANTONIO CAMP UPDATES Camp Invention Connect At Home Program www.invent.org/connect

At home program facilitated by local San Antonio educators with a choice of weeks in July. Imaginations soar with our new at-home program, Camp Invention Connect™! Participants in grades K-6 receive four exciting activity kits packed full of materials to get them outside and active as they explore flight, tackle environmental challenges and create sports innovations! Visit invent.org/ connect or call 800-968-4332 to register.

Camp Metro for Girls Sally Cheever Girl Scout Center 5622 W. Cesar E. Chavez Blvd San Antonio, TX 78237 210-349-2404 www.girlscouts-swtx.org/camp

The premier summer camp for girls to develop her G.I.R.L. (Go-getter, Innovator, Risk-taker, Leader) potential. Girls will explore other countries, travel through space and learn survival skills. Only $175 per week. Meals and before & aftercare are offered. You don’t need to be a Girl Scout to join the fun!

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).

Country Home Learning Center 8 locations in San Antonio 210-687-1002 www.countryhomelearningcenter.com

Dorothy Keck Dancers 1532 Austin Hwy. SATX 78218 210-829-8489 www.dorothykeckdancers.com

Rise Up Basketball Camp Crossroads Community Church 5834 Ray Ellison Blvd., SA TX 78242

Join us for a fun-filled summer dance camp! Learn different dance styles and create themed crafts in each two or three day camp. Camps range from 4-10 years old.

Jump Rope Express 210-269-0725 coachbobby7755@gmail.com www.coachbobbysports.com

Throughout its 19 year existence, JR Express has trained thousands of kids all across the U.S. The “fun factor” is the foundation of all the games, activities, drills and challenges that are taught. It is what makes the classes so appealing to kids and keeps them looking forward to every class.

The program emphasizes progressive mastery of specific jump rope skills that will get your kids in top form. It increases speed, agility, strength, endurance, stamina, balance, timing and hand-eye-foot coordination. It is also a great tool to help boost your child’s confidence while encouraging self-expression, self-discipline, diligence, and fulfillment. In addition, working together as a group helps foster teamwork, sportsmanship, and the spirit of camaraderie.

Jumping Dragons Performance Team 210-269-0725 Coachbobby7755@gmail.com www.coachbobbysports.com

Calling all Jump Rope Enthusiasts! We are very pleased to announce that the Elite Jumping Dragons Performance Team is looking for members. The team consists of jumpers in elementary and middle school.

Mad Science of San Antonio Multiple Locations 210-651-1143 sanantonio.madscience.org

Join us for an INCREDIBLE Summer Camp Experience! *Kinder – 13 years *Child Approved Special Events *Funfilled days with activities every child enjoys *Kids’ Choice Special Interest Clubs .

Mad Science camps are designed with exciting, fun and hands-on science activities. Children will design, create, build and assemble a variety of interesting projects. 9 different camp themes are available including robots, rockets, spy academy, camp eureka, grossology and more!

Mad Science has camp locations all over town. Register now: Pay Later!

Crystal Sea Drama Company Summer Fun Camp – all classes online!

8414 Speedway Dr. San Antonio, TX 78230 210-849-0934 www.crystalseadrama.org

Summer Camps and Workshops Northwest Vista College 3535 N. Ellison Drive Pecan Hall Room 101 SA, TX 78251 210-486-4428 www.alamo.edu/nvc/youth/parents

Join us for a fun-filled online summer camp as we explore various areas in theater in July and August. One week improv class July 9 and Aug 13. Performance camp for radio theater July 13-17 and Aug 3-7. One week Elementary fine arts class July 27 – 31. Drama as Ministry – The Bible onstage July 20-23. Call for details.

JUMP ROPE Team TEAM PERFORMANCES IMPROVE ATHLETIC SKILLS LEARN SINGLE, LONG ROPE, DOUBLE DUTCH, AND MORE Join our team or call us to schedule a performance.

NVC Community Education is a great place to learn! Their K-12 programs are committed to the development of STEM-based learning (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math), as well as, arts and environmental education.

They take pride in offering these high-quality programs that help students reach their full potential.

Coachbobby7755@gmail.com 210-269-0725 www.coachbobbysports.com

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Our Kids Magazine | July 2020

San Antonio Botanical Garden Summer Camp 555 Funston Place, SA, TX 78209 or Virtual 210.536.1400 sabot.org

The San Antonio Botanical Garden is offering in-person and virtual camps this summer for children ages 6 – 12.

Choose from art and nature themed camps to hands-on healthy cooking camps.

San Antonio College 1819 N. Main Ave.

San Antonio, TX 78212 Spend the Summer with SAC – registration is free! Virtual summer camps for Elementary, Middle and High schoolers run until August 14th. Camp themes include: Teach Me To Cook!, Fairytale Camp as well as Ballet and Jazz. Go to www.alamo.edu/sac/summer-camps and read individual camp details as some camps run longer or shorter than others.

The Circle School 217 Pershing Ave. San Antonio, TX 78209 (210)822-0461 https://www.thecircleschool.org/summerprogram

This summer we will offer a variety of online programs for ages 7-14. Weeklong Arts and Culture Sessions such as Dr. Seuss Central, Messy Science, DIY Fashion, and Southern Cooking! Students will be provided with materials, a home supplies list, daily virtual instructions, connections and demonstrations offering a full menu of choices.

We will also offer weekly academic sessions focused on strengthening core Reading, Writing, and Math skills for K - 8th grade.

The Clowvazar Academy (210) 690-4800 12746 Cimarron Path #120, San Antonio TX 78249 www.clowvazar.com

Every summer, The Clowvazar Academy holds summer school (camps) in June, July and August. Students are placed in each subject according to grade level. These camps are especially helpful for kids who are struggling in reading and math. The Clowvazar Academy is a year-round school for General Ed., Special Ed. and Gifted-and-Talented students. We work with kids with anxiety, ADD, ADHD, mild Autism, Autism and other learning challenges.

SUMMER CAMPS &

SEWING CLASSES Ages 4 to adult

sanantonio.madscience.org

North Central at 281/Thousand Oaks

BIRTHDAY PARTIES

210-375-5241 Far West Side at Culebra

First two classes free!

Practice: Sundays 2pm to 4pm Located along 1604 and I-10

Register online at: https://wherelifechanges.churchcenter. com/registrations/events/368801This foundational skills camp will be July 20 - 24, 8 am - 3 pm. This is for kids that have completed kinder daily.through 4th grade.

Campers will develop their skills and making friends. Lunch provided.

210-541-5088

Call Today:

210-651-1143

Mention this Ad for 10% OFF!

www.AbbysAtticSewingSchool.com

Open on the Weekends All Year • Petting Zoo • Pony Rides • Hay Rides • Play/Climbing Areas • Birthday Parties Owl Creek Farm 12355 Military Dr. SATX 78253

210-616-6585

http://owlcreekfarmsa.com/

Connect With US @ facebook.com/OurKidsMagazineSA

Southwest School of Art Summer Art Studios 300 Augusta, San Antonio, TX 78205 (210) 200.8213 https://www.swschool.org/summer-art-studios

Southwest School of Art’s Summer Art Studios offers a variety of online classes for students ages 5 - 18 taught by artist-teachers and focusing on fundamentals such as drawing and painting, as well as experimental design and classes that explore various techniques. Classes are limited.

The DoSeum Summer Camps The DoSeum 2800 Broadway 210-212-4453 thedoseum.org

Keep the learning and fun going with The DoSeum’s summer camps! Your child can engage in large-scale collaborative art pieces, challenging hands-on STEM investigations, and more—all taking place in our indoor and outdoor exhibit space. Whether your child is a future painter, engineer, or a combination of the two, The DoSeum offers over 20 different programs for kids ages 3-11.

Camps run June 1 – August 14. For more information, check out www.thedoseum.org/summer-camps.

The Little Gym of North San Antonio 12730 NW Military Highway, Suite 106 San Antonio 78231 210-545-3770 www.thelittlegym.com/NSanAntonioTX

School’s Out, Fun’s In! Combining physical activity, gymnastics, games, Lego-building, and crafts! Your child will spend three adventure-filled hours that will focus on serious fun! Each week revolves around an interactive learning theme with different, creative lesson plans that will keep your child engaged. We will help your child beat the heat by staying cool at The Little Gym. Please call us to book your child’s spot before it’s too late!

YMCA of Greater San Antonio Summer Day Camp - Multiple Locations 210-924-2277 ymcasatx.org/summer

YMCA camp programs offer youth an opportunity to meet

new friends and discover new interests. Activities vary by location but include field trips, crafts, swimming, sports and more. Camp is an excellent way to ensure kids stay engaged socially, physically, and academically throughout the summer. Financial assistance is available.

OVERNIGHT CAMPS Camp Balcones Springs 104 Balcones Springs Drive, Marble Falls, TX 78654 830-693-CAMP info@campbalconessprings.com www.campiscool.com

A premier Christian sports and outdoor camp dedicated to building quality relationships through spiritual impact and fun. Features air-conditioned cabins with a 4:1 counselor to camper ration.

Camp La Jita Utopia, TX (on the Sabinal River) 210-349-2404 or 800-580-7247 www.girlscouts-swtx.org

Ages 7-18 Sports, horseback riding, canoeing, dance, crafts, backpacking, swimming, archery, photography, etc.

Non-Girl Scouts welcome. Please visit our website for more information.

Heart O’ the Hills Camp for Girls in Hunt, near Kerrville 2430 Hwy 39 Hunt TX 78024 830-238-4650 www.HOHcamp.com

Very limited openings for girls 6-16. Three-week session, July 13 - Aug 2, $4,305, or two-week session July 1326, $2,975. Covid distancing folded into programming, with activities ranging from swimming and canoeing to horseback and shooting sports. Family owned, friendly atmosphere, AC in cabins.

Camp Sierra Vista for Girls 175 Rio Vista Road, Ingram, TX, 78025 830-367-5353 sierravista.dir@gmail.com www.vistacamps.com

Small, private, traditional camp in the Texas Hill Country. A summer tradition of fun, friends, exciting activities, lifelong memories and life-changing experiences. Make forever friends while having the time or your life.

Charis Hills Camp Ingram, TX 888-681-2173 info@charishills.org www.charishills.org

Ages 7 – 18 •Charis Hills is a Christian Summer Camp specifically designed to help kids with learning differences (ADHD, LD, ED and Asperger’s) find success. Our focus is on building self-confidence, social skills and independence.

Heart O’ the Hills Camp for Girls in Hunt, near Kerrville 2430 Hwy 39, Hunt TX 78024 830-238-4650 www.HOHcamp.com

Very limited openings for girls 6-16. Three-week session, July 13 - Aug 2, $4,305, or two-week session July 1326, $2,975. Covid distancing folded into programming, with activities ranging from swimming and canoeing to horseback and shooting sports. Family owned, friendly atmosphere, AC in cabins.

T Bar M Camps and Retreats New Braunfels 830-620-4263 www.tbarmcamps.org

Camp is one of the most lasting, rewarding experiences parents can give their children. It builds self-esteem, gives kids a sense of independence and allows them to take a breather from the day-to-day. Over 10,000 people experience T Bar M Christ-centered Adventure every year.

Come see what It’s all about.

Apparel for Dance & Gymnastics Bodywear & Shoes for Children thru Adults

Dorothy’s Dance Shop 3 Locations: 1532 Austin Hwy.

829-8454

11255 Huebner Rd. #107

558-4200

434 N Loop 1604 W, #1102

545-4700

See our store specials online at

www.dorothysdanceshop.net To Advertise Call 305-4181

July 2020 | OurKidsMagazine.com

17

Baby

5 Simple Alternatives to Baby Books

By Pam Moore

As a kid, I would flip through my baby book, hoping my mom had filled in some of the blanks while I was sleeping or at school. But every time I took the book off its shelf, I saw the same barren pages between the faded pale yellow covers. Listed were the date and time of my birth, my birth weight, a lock of hair from my first haircut...and that was all. I promised myself that if I ever became a parent, I wouldn’t start a baby book if I couldn’t commit to the project. As an adult, I know that I’m amazing at starting projects. But finishing them? Not so much.

This is why I’ve never owned a baby book.

It turns out, I’m not alone. In the age of the smartphone, many parents are finding the traditional baby book just doesn’t make sense. That doesn’t mean those of us who are sans baby book aren’t capturing the important moments.

There are plenty of ways to hold onto the milestones, the mispronunciations that are too cute to correct, and everything in between—while letting go of the pressure to fill in the blanks.

1. Write them down Instead of baby books, I have a blank, lined journal for each of my two daughters. When I feel inclined to record a precious moment I simply open the book and write it down. There is no schedule, so I never feel like I’m “behind.” Each entry is dated. Some are briefer than others. Some note milestones like the first step or the first three-word sentence. Others capture funny conversations or serve as a brain-dump of every word they pronounce incorrectly. Sometimes I’m just saying, “I love you.” I plan to give each girl her book when she’s an adult… but not before photocopying one for myself.

2. Type them up and send them off You’re never too young for an email address. At least that’s what Lakeville, MN dad Joe Meyers thinks. When his son Aden was still in the womb, Meyers set up an email account for him. Since then Meyers and his wife have been sending three-year-old Aden all kinds of emails, ranging from medical records and party invitations to notes regarding milestones including his first dessert (mocha ice cream). This will be fourth consecutive year the Meyers’ are requesting family and friends send emails in lieu of birthday cards.

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Our Kids Magazine | July 2020

3. Box them up Boxing memories means no pages to put in order or blanks to complete, and you can include anything you want. Best of all, a memory box serves as an actual treasure chest. At her daughter’s birthday parties, Lakeland, Fla. mom Tangela Walker-Craft has each guest write a message on a small piece of paper and then collects them in a jewelry box. “The message can be a serious personal message, or a favorite motto or quote.” Walker-Craft says she and her daughter enjoy reflecting on the memories and the messages, particularly the ones from Walker-Crafts late grandmother.

4. Film them There is nothing quite like a video to preserve a moment. At the end of each year, Bailey Gaddis, the Ojai, CA mother and author of “Feng Shui Mommy”, creates a “Year in Review” video montage of all the short takes she’s recorded of her four-year-old son throughout the year.

Not only does the video showcase milestones and random sweet and funny moments, Gaddis loves that they double as holiday gifts for the grandparents. As an added bonus, videos won’t create clutter.

5. Collect them (Dr. Suess style) My husband bought each of our kids a copy of Dr. Suess’s “Oh the Places You’ll Go.” Once a year he makes sure it’s signed by the important people in their lives, including ourselves, extended family, close friends, regular babysitters, and teachers. The inscriptions are reminiscent of the sentiments you’d see in a yearbook missive. My husband plans to give the girls their books when they graduate high school. Meanwhile, the books have been sitting on my desk for four weeks, and my husband has been gently nudging me to write my annual messages. I can only be responsible for one thing, it seems.

There were many things I did not know before I became a parent. One thing I did know was that I never wanted an abandoned baby book in my home. It turns out, there’s no one right way when it comes to parenting or capturing memories.

Pam Moore helps women push through fear to become their best selves. To get her free guide to crushing Impostor Syndrome visit pam-moore.com Connect With US @ facebook.com/OurKidsMagazineSA

Dorothy Keck Dancers Register Now for Dance Classes

• 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

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Feature

How Birth Order Affects Kids

By Sarah Lyons

Have you ever thought about how your birth order affects your personality and how you interact with others? Birth order can play a huge role in what you consider to be your strengths and weaknesses and how you react to situations.

While not every person fits the stereotypes of their birth order, you may find traits that fit yourself or your children very closely.

The First Born Child First borns are their parents one and only focus, at least for a short time, until a baby brother or sister comes along.

Because of this, they are used to being the center of attention and may excel in school because they have had more one-onone time to work on skills with the help of their parents.

Strengths: They are generally dependable, cautious, conscientious, high achievers, and responsible.

Challenges: Because they are given more responsibility at a younger age, they may be controlling and bossy. They often develop a “Type A” personality and can be hard on themselves and others. They tend to be perfectionists and can develop a fear of failure that makes it hard to step out of their comfort zone.

Parenting tips: Let your child know it is okay to make mistakes and that not everyone excels in every area. It’s also 20

Our Kids Magazine | July 2020

wise to make sure your expectations are age appropriate as parents often hold their first born child to a higher standard.

The Middle Child Middle children can often feel overlooked because they are stuck in between the over-achieving older sibling and the free-spirited and charming baby of the family. Feeling left out at home, middle children often seek out close relationships with friends and usually have a large social circle.

Strengths: Middle children tend to be very social and are great peacemakers. They become good at negotiating and compromise and develop the ability to “go with the flow”.

Challenges: It is never fun to feel left out or feel unimportant. This can lead to rebelliousness and feelings of inadequacy.

Parenting tips: Encourage your middle child to pursue activities and interests that are unique to them. Make a point to spend a little extra one-on-one time with your middle child so that they don’t feel overlooked.

The Youngest Child The youngest child of the family usually reaps the benefits from extra parent attention as well as attention from older siblings. Parents may have also, sometimes unknowingly, loosened the rules since the older children were born so the Connect With US @ facebook.com/OurKidsMagazineSA

baby of the family may get away with more (or at least that’s how the older children view it). Youngest are often comfortable being the class clown and love to show off and make people laugh.

Strengths - Youngest children are typically natural charmers and have an outgoing personality. Many comedians and actors are youngest children. They are often risk takers and described as fearless.

Challenges - Parents may react less to accomplishments because they have seen it before and therefore the youngest child may feel like nothing is ever good enough.

Parents can also have the tendency to coddle the youngest child, giving them less chores and responsibility and holding them to a lower standard than older kids.

Parenting tips: Encourage your youngest child to be independent and learn to do things on their own. This will help build their self confidence and teach responsibility. Charismatic younger children love a chance to put their charms to good use. If this describes your child, consider what extracurricular activities might help them develop these gifts.

The Only Child The only child and the oldest child have some similar traits because both have the parents undivided attention and love. Where the oldest child is eventually “dethroned” by the younger siblings, an only child has the benefit of one-on-one attention indefinitely. Dr. Kevn Leman, author of “The Birth Order Book: Why You Are the Way You Are” calls the only child a “super oldest child” because they develop similar traits as the oldest but to the extreme.

Strengths - Only children possess many of the traits that oldest children do (responsible, conscientious, perfectionist) but in addition they tend to be creative, more comfortable talking to adults than their peers, resourceful, and independent.

Challenges - Because they are the only child in the family they do not have the chance to work on negotiating, compromise, sharing, flexibility, and other things that come naturally when you interact with siblings.

They may also feel lonely because they don’t always have another child to play with.

Parenting tips: Encourage relationships with other children to build social skills with peers and give the only child the chance to experience situations that will help them learn flexibility and compromise.

It’s easy to see these traits as you observe your own family of origin and your children and how they react to each other. As you consider each person in relation to their birth order, consider their strengths and challenges as you discipline your kids, interact with them, and encourage them in the things they love.

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Engaging in activities that raise your heart rate burns calories, improves circulation, and lowers your blood pressure.

There are a number of at-home activities that can get your heart pumping and help keep you active and healthy. To help you get moving at home, the health experts at Envolve, an integrated healthcare solutions company, have put together five house and yard work activities that can improve your health.

1. Go For Gardening. Tending to a garden is a great way to enhance your overall health and get outdoors. Thirty minutes of moderate-intensity weeding, mulching, hoeing, or harvesting can help you meet the level of recommended daily exercise. Spending time surrounded by plants and green space is also a therapeutic way to reduce stress and anxiety. Plus, the extra time spent in the sun can increase vitamin D levels improving your mood and keeping your immune system strong.

2. Complete Chores. Sweeping, mopping, or vacuuming the floor is also a productive way to get off the couch and get moving. With the potential to burn more than 200 calories per hour, these chores help you get your steps in and tidy up at the same time. Even scrubbing the bathroom or washing the windows are great ways to shed calories, plus you might tone your arm muscles, as well. Car looking a little dingy? Try scrubbing it by hand to turn your chore into a workout.

3. Wrap Up Yard Work. Manicuring your lawn includes many high-intensity actions that can help you lose almost as many calories as you would at the gym. Digging and raking can really work up a sweat. In addition, mowing your lawn using a push mower builds cardiovascular endurance that can help reduce blood pressure.

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4. Perform Upgrades. An elevated heart rate burns calories, so pull out plans for your next home improvement project and do-it-yourself. Activities like painting a room, tiling a floor, or staining a fence can get your heart pumping.

These projects won’t take the place of a full workout, but they are still beneficial to your health. Plus, when you’re done you will be able to enjoy the fruits of your labor.

5. Participate in Play. Playing with your kids or pets is a great way to burn calories. Try enjoying a game of tag or catch in the backyard, and you all will get the heart-healthy benefits of the activity and the added advantage of being in the fresh air. A game of fetch with your dog is an aerobic exercise for both of you and can boost your health and your mood.

Envolve, Inc.® is a family of health solutions, working together to make healthcare simpler, more effective and more accessible for everyone. As an agent for change in healthcare, Envolve is committed to transforming the health of the community, one person at a time.

Envolve unifies specialty pharmacy, PBM, vision, dental, 24/7 nurse advice services, MSO solutions, and more. For more information, visit website www.envolvehealth.com Connect With US @ facebook.com/OurKidsMagazineSA

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June 2020 | OurKidsMagazine.com

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