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GET READY FOR SPRING! HYPERTENSION EFFECTS ON PREGNANT MOTHERS
CHOOSING A CAMP AMID A PANDEMIC
CAMP GUIDE
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volume 36 • number 2
10 WAYS TO PREP IN THE RAINY SEASON
HYPERTENSION EFFECTS ON PREGNANT MOTHERS 12 LAST-MINUTE TIPS BEFORE DAY CAMP STARTS
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CHOOSING A SUMMER CAMP AMID A PANDEMIC Magazine
WHEN THE SCHOOL WANTS TO REMOVE IEP SERVICES Magazine
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GET READY FOR SPRING!
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STRESS AWARENESS MONTH
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HOW TO PREVENT YOUR KIDS FROMMagazine BECOMING STRESSED
A HOPPY EASTER CAKE
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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. Our Kids Magazine | March / April 2021
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Feature
Get Ready for Spring!
10 Ways to Prep in the Rainy Season By Janeen Lewiss
It’s the time of the year when the calendar says spring is arriving, but warm weather hasn’t gotten the memo yet. With cool temperatures, downpours and muddy yards, families are still experiencing cabin fever. And some families are still social distancing. What are some fun, productive ways to keep busy? It’s a good time to get organized for the busy spring months ahead, when sports and outdoor activities will make it hard to get anything done indoors. Here are some ideas that will keep you from going stir crazy and get you prepared physically and mentally for spring.
1. Get ready to grill.
Feeling adventurous enough to change things up at spring dinners and family picnics? What about trying out a new a grill marinade or perfecting all the fixings for a barbecue spread? Experiment now, while you have time to research the internet for recipes. Spend a day in the kitchen with a grill pan and your kids and create a
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new family food tradition for spring. Give your creation a test run by having an indoor picnic or luau in your living room.
2. Do the spring cleaning early.
Teach kids how to deep clean the bathrooms and kitchen or use all the attachments on the vacuum. Clean out the fridge and self-clean the oven. On days that aren’t too cold, open the windows and air out the house. Hate scrubbing walls and the baseboards? This is a good time to enlist the entire family and knock it out in a day. Organize all the closets, pantry and laundry room -- projects you won’t have time for once the pool opens and the park beckons. Have a contest to see who has the most organized closet or room.
3. Be bike ready.
Replace any broken parts, pump up low tires and don’t forget to make sure kids haven’t outgrown bikes. If FRIEND US @ facebook.com/OurKidsMagazine210
you realize a bike needs to be replaced, you’ll have time to do consumer and safety research and get the best bargain.
4. Pack away winter gear. If you can get away with wearing light jackets, wash all the heavy winter coats, replace any buttons and hang up so they are ready to go next winter. Do the same with winter clothes and gear, but reserve a few items in case the weather takes a dip. Take outgrown items to a donation center or consignment store. Take an inventory of what your kids need for spring and shop early.
5. Get ready for sunbathing season. Do beach towels need to be replaced? Are you out of sunscreen? Maybe your child needs a flotation device or last year’s pool float sprung a leak. Check to make sure everyone’s swim suit fits. Make sure everyone has a pair of sunglasses to protect eyes from harmful rays. Make a list of all your needs for lounging at the pool or going to the waterpark or lake and have a beach bag ready to go in the car. Beach towels also come in handy to have when you are on an outing and an unexpected spring shower douses the family.
6. Have a foot spa party! Get all those sun-loving “soles” sandal ready. Buy or make your own foot scrubs. Soak your feet and then file, massage and use foot lotion on them. Try out a new spring nail polish. When you’re done, shop online for new flip flops or slides to wear to the beach and pool during warmer weather.
7. Plan and design a garden. Discuss what plants you want to put in your family garden. Let kids design and sketch the layout. Shop online for the best deals on tools, gloves, planters and seeds. Find your USDA plant hardiness zone, and start your seedlings indoors so they will be ready to go when it’s safe to plant outdoors for your zone.
8. Make the car interior shine. Warm weather is a good time to wash the outside of the car, but in the in-between season, you can really make the interior of the car shine even if it never leaves the garage. Hand-vacuum, wash the windows, clean out the glove box and console. Organize the inside of the car for spring trips. Don’t forget to buy a first-aid kit or restock an existing one.
9. Do an indoor home improvement project. It could be one room that the family has been wanting to improve or a small space. Paint a bedroom or organize the closets. Buy a new desk for the office or put up some eye-catching art. Buy or build some inexpensive cube organizers and decorative bins, and organize that cluttered corner you’ve been meaning to get to. A fresh coat of paint on the walls and baseboards alone can freshen up a space. If you have to open the windows to paint, this is a good time to do it before sweltering heat hits.
10. Plan a summer vacation. Discuss places the family would like to go. Take this time to do research on accommodations, attractions and costs. Present different options in a family meeting and discuss the pros and cons of different locales. As a family, find ways to save for your trip. Having a goal and a destination to look forward to can help chase rainy days away. Once you have decided where to go, put a picture of your destination on the fridge and start a savings jar -- everyone can contribute spare change. See how much is collected before vacation and put it toward meals out while traveling. Start a countdown calendar of the days until vacation begins. Now that you’re prepared, celebrate. Spring is on the way! Janeen Lewiss is a freelance writer with a degree in journalism from Eastern Kentucky University and a Master’s Degree in Education from the University of Kentucky. I have been published in several magazines across the country.
The Clowvazar Academy ALTERNATIVE EDUCATION • K-12 • YEAR-ROUND
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Apply Online Today!
www.clowvazar.com | 210-690-4800 12746 Cimarron Path #120, San Antonio TX 78249 Our Kids Magazine | March / April 2021
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Feature
Hypertension Effects on Pregnant Mothers By Lauren Demosthenes, MD, OB-GYN and Senior Medical Advisor at Babyscripts
Hypertensive disorders with onset during pregnancies are among the leading causes of maternal and infant mortality and morbidity in the US, and can have far-reaching consequences for the long-term health of the mother and child. In Dr. Jerome Adams’ recent Call to Action to recognize and address hypertension control as a public health priority, the former Surgeon General referenced the success of health care providers who have promoted shared management of hypertension through self-measured blood pressure monitoring (SMBP), empowering patients through blood pressure (BP) management and goal setting. It’s not an unusual recommendation— SMBP is well accepted in primary care for managing hypertension — but its use in pregnancy has not been routine. That’s beginning to change, for several reasons. First, the research backs it up. Recent studies show the efficacy of SMBP for identifying and controlling hypertensive complications in the prenatal and postpartum period, notably Penn Medicine’s Heart Safe 6
Our Kids Magazine | March / April 2021
Motherhood program, which resulted in 0% readmission rates for hypertension in the postpartum period with the addition of text-based monitoring. The second major factor is the pandemic. Covid-19 motivated providers to implement virtual solutions like SMBP, with the need to deliver care remotely outweighing previous barriers to adoption. Now, even as clinics and hospitals start to reopen for routine, in-office care, patients are still anxious about attending appointments in person, especially pregnant mothers, who are more prone to anxiety even in the most normal of times. SMBP carries a double benefit — it provides a means to adhere to ACOG’s new guidelines for increased BP monitoring during the prenatal and postpartum period, and it enables care management from the comfort and safety of a patient’s home. The pregnant population is ideally suited for SMBP. Women of childbearing age are comfortable with using technology to supplement their care — in fact many expect and want it. They’re already using apps and wearable devices to monitor their menstrual cycles, regulate FRIEND US @ facebook.com/OurKidsMagazine210
weight and fitness, track their diet, etc. — they often expect to use digital tools to navigate pregnancy too. As a health event that uniquely involves another person, the stakes are also much higher in pregnancy — a pregnant woman is that much more likely to engage with tools to manage her health. With women educated to take their own BP, remote monitoring can be started early in pregnancy and continued through the postpartum period. Adding in a digital educational layer safely and conveniently fills the care gap that many women experience, eliminating the outdated OB paper packet by providing a resource that is constantly accessible and up-to-date — and reducing the risk of mothers consulting “Dr. Google.” This can also safely reduce the amount of visits women have to make to the OB’s office as a study out of George Washington University shows. The usual schedule in pregnancy is an office visit every 4 weeks with more frequent visits as the due date nears. But empowering women to be part of their health care between or in place of these visits is possible and important. Women are capable of taking their own BP and learning to follow their BP trends — even recognizing when BP begins to rise. Adding in technology so that providers can monitor their patients in real time adds a dimension that is a critical part of improving health outcomes. Of course, SMBP is not a solution in and of itself — social and economic risk factors are a primary culprit in poor outcomes, and without addressing systemic problems, no technology can successfully resolve the troubling rates of hypertensive disorders in pregnancy. However, as part of a holistic approach to care that enables patient empowerment and enhances provider, payer, care team, and community support for those suffering from hypertensive disorders and their effects, it is an essential tool and should be promoted as such. Dr. Lauren Demosthenes is an OB-GYN and Senior Medical Advisor at Babyscripts. As the first female OB-GYN to practice in Greenville, SC, Dr. Demosthenes came to Babyscripts with over 35 years of experience: in private OB-GYN practice, development and course direction at the University of South Carolina School of Medicine Greenville, and as director of Innovation and High Value Care in the Department of OB-GYN at Prisma Health Upstate. Our Kids Magazine | March / April 2021
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CAMP GUIDE
12 Last-Minute Tips Before Day Camp Starts By Denise Morrison Yearian
Day camps are right around the corner. Here are 12 last-minute preparation tips before sending your child off for a great summer experience! 1. STAY HYDRATED. Each night before attending camp, put one bottle of water in the refrigerator and a second one in the freezer. Later the next day, the frozen water will melt and provide cool refreshment. Also pack a spray bottle to help keep your child’s face and body cool in the hot sun. 2. SAFEGUARD THE SKIN. Before leaving home, apply sunscreen to your child’s skin and pack a tube for later application. Be sure it has plenty of SPF, and send a hat along for extra protection. 3. WARD OFF BUGS. If your child is spending time in a natural environment, send insect repellent that is safe for children. Opt for lotion instead of sprays. At night, double check for ticks as a safekeeping measure. 4. DRESS RIGHT. Most kids like to pick out their own clothes, but be sure your child is dressed for comfort, safety and appropriate temperatures. Dark jeans and t-shirts may be his favorite outfit, but it’s not a good option on hot days. 8 Our Kids Magazine | March / April 2021
Likewise, proper shoes are important. Exchange strappy sandals and flip flops for a good pair of lightweight tennis shoes. 5. PERSONALIZE IT. Items your child brings to camp should have her name, address and phone number on them, in case something gets left behind. This can also avoid confusion if identical items are brought by two children. 6. TAKE A TECH BREAK. Depending on the camp’s policies, you may want to leave cell phones and other valuable electronic devices at home. Day camp programs are designed to provide an enriching experience, and your child should be engaging in these activities rather than playing with electronics. 7. MAKE NOTE OF MED-ALERTS. If your child is on medication, you will be required to fill out a form. But even if you’ve taken your child off a medication for the summer, make a note of that too, because changes in medication can cause changes in behavior. Likewise, list any known allergies. Equally important is to share emotionally stressful situations with the camp staff (i.e. if your family is going through a divorce or has experienced a recent death), as this might affect how your child interacts throughout the day. Camps look out FRIEND US @ facebook.com/OurKidsMagazine210
CAMP GUIDE for the physical and emotional needs of a child, so the more information you provide, the better equipped they will be. 8. NOTIFY EMERGENCY CONTACT. You will be required to designate an emergency contact person, but even more important is that this person knows you have written her name down. Every year camps call the emergency contact person and find out she was never informed. In short, before listing a person’s name on the form, call or send a text first!
during the school year. With so many ways to communicate these days, it’s easier than ever for friendships to continue to grow long after camp is over.
10. MEET THE STAFF. If you are not able to attend an open house, make other arrangements to introduce yourself to the staff and those who will be caring for your child. This shows you care and may increase the chances of you staying informed on how things are going for your child at camp.
12. KEEP TALKING. Several weeks before camp begins, talk with your child about the upcoming experience. Does he have any apprehensions or anxiety? If so, reassure him that you have researched this camp well and believe he will have a positive experience. Since fear of the unknown is the greatest cause of worry, the more information you have about camp, the better off your child will be. Each day when you pick him up, ask questions: What did he do? What did he enjoy most? Did he learn anything new? Did anything funny happen? Who did he interact with? While he’s talking, give him your full attention for a few minutes and don’t get distracted by phone calls, text messages or other todos. More than likely he’ll be eager to share his day with you. Finally, encourage your child to be fully “present” and enjoy the camp experience. Mark the first day of camp on the family calendar and do a countdown. Help your child develop a checklist of items needed. And don’t forget to share your own camp stories. Remind your child to do his best, obey the rules, be respectful of others and have a great time!
11. MAKE NEW FRIENDS. If your child already knows other children at the camp, encourage him to step out and forge new friendships with those he may not interact with
-Denise Morrison Yearian is the former editor of two parenting magazines and the mother of three children and six grandchildren.
9. READ UP. Take time to review the camp’s policies, procedures and planned activities. If you know what to expect and what is expected of you, things will run much smoother. The camp may provide you with a weekly schedule so you know what the upcoming activities are and can talk with your child about them. If she cannot participate because of health reasons, make sure you (not your child!) inform the camp.
CAMPS & PARTIES Hands-on science discovery Virtual options available
SanAntonio.MadScience.org
210-651-1143 Learn More! 210-651-1143 SanAntonio.imagineartsacademy.com Our Kids Magazine | March / April 2021
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CAMP GUIDE
How to Choose a Summer Camp Your Kids Will Love and That You Approve – Even Amid a Pandemic By Kimberly Blaker
Whether you’re looking for enrichment for your child, a way to keep your kids occupied and supervised while you work, or need a short reprieve from parenting, there’s sure to be a summer camp that’s the right fit for your child and family. Even in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, many summer camps will be up and running either offering alternative programs or by following safety protocols to reduce the risk to campers and staff.
The benefits of summer camp Summer camp offers kids plenty of benefits, and many kids thrill at the idea of going away to summer camp. Still, for some kids, particularly those who are shy, introverted, or homebodies, the thought of going away for a night, let alone a week or more, can cause considerable anxiety. When kids are adamantly opposed, forcing summer camp on them may not be in their best interest. But for kids who are eager – or at least willing to give it a shot without much fuss – summer camp offers opportunities kids may not have elsewhere. Summer camp provides kids the following benefits: 10
Our Kids Magazine | March / April 2021
■ fosters independence
■ a place to develop new and lasting friendships ■ development of new skills
■ discovery of new interests and hobbies
■ the opportunity for creative expression ■ a break from being plugged-in ■ daily exercise
■ improves their self-esteem
■ teaches kids to work with others
■ makes them feel part of a community
■ prevents or reduces summer learning loss
Getting started in your search Before you begin looking into summer camps, create a list of the criteria you’re looking for. Here are some things you’ll want to consider. ■ What is your budget for summer camp?
■ What is the purpose of sending your child to sum-
mer camp? ■ Do you want a resident (overnight) or a day camp? FRIEND US @ facebook.com/OurKidsMagazine210
CAMP GUIDE ■ Are you looking for a short-term (week or two) or
summer-long program? ■ Do you want a camp that’s very structured or one that provides your child with lots of freedom and choices? ■ What are your child’s passions, such as a particular sport, hobby, or other interest?
Once you’ve narrowed down some of the criteria, you can begin your search. An excellent place to start is your local parenting magazine. Many summer camps advertise in local parenting publications found at newsstands and online. Also, visit http://www. summercamps.com/, where you can search by zip code or category. The American Camp Association (ACA) accredits summer camps. So this is another excellent place to look. The ACA educates camp owners and directors in health and safety for both staff and campers as well as program quality. It then accredits camps that meet the ACA’s standards.
Next steps to finding the perfect summer camp Once you’ve selected a few summer camps that meet your primary criteria, and that fit your child’s
interests, share the choices with your child to see what excites him or her. Be sure to let your child know upfront that you still need to thoroughly investigate the camp(s) before making a final decision. But do keep your child’s choices in mind to ensure your child gets the most out of summer camp. Once you and your child have narrowed the list down to a manageable selection, you’ll want to investigate the camps further. There are several things you’ll want to consider.
Is this camp a safe option for my child and family during the pandemic? Many summer camps are now offering virtual programs so kids can benefit from summer camp without the risk of contracting and spreading COVID-19. Virtual summer camps range from a couple hours a day to all-day camps offering a broad range of virtual activities led by counselors. Virtual summer camp programs range from free to several hundred dollars. Perhaps you’re considering sending your child to in-person summer camp. If so, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) offers suggestions on how summer camp programs can reduce campers’ risk
CAMP CHAMPIONS
r e m m u s s i h t Join us ! s n o i p m a h C at Camp WATCH TH
E VIDEO
CAMP BUILDS STRONG KIDS
WE RAN COVID-FREE IN 2020 AND ARE PREPARED TO DO IT AGAIN IN 2021
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CAMP GUIDE during the pandemic. Recommendations include promoting behaviors to minimize spread, maintaining a healthy environment, maintaining healthy operations, being prepared for when someone gets sick, and special considerations for overnight camps. When considering an in-person summer camp, review the CDC’s more detailed recommendations found at https:// www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/ schools-childcare/summer-camps.html. Then compile questions to ask the summer camp you’re considering to make sure it adheres to these safety protocols.
What are the staff’s qualifications?
Many summer camps use teens to staff the camps. Teens make excellent mentors and can bring liveliness to summer camp programs. However, the programs themselves should be developed by professionals and have professional oversight to ensure kids are getting the most from their camp experience.
How does the camp ensure your child’s safety?
Find out what kind of safety training the camp provides its staffers. Also, is there staff on hand at all times that knows CPR? What are the camp’s procedures in the event your child becomes ill, has an accident, or an emergency?
What is the daily schedule for campers? Ask for a daily itinerary, so you know your child will be getting everything you and your child anticipate from the program.
What are the rules? Each camp has its own set of rules. So, find out whether your child is allowed to call you. If it’s a summer-long residential camp, can parents come and visit? Can kids bring along a cell phone or electronics? Also, how much money can they bring, and how is it managed?
Don’t sweat it Keep in mind, although there are many great camps, no camp is likely to offer everything precisely the way you want it. Just choose the one that best fits your child and satisfies your most important criteria. Remember, your child will have many summers to come and plenty more opportunities to work in more exciting camp experiences. Kimberly Blaker is a freelance family writer. She’s also founder and director of KB Creative Digital Services, an internet marketing agency, at kbcreativedigital.com
EST. 1963
• 15 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
Advertise in Our Next Camp Issue Call 210-305-4181 12
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CAMP GUIDE Abby’s Attic Sewing & Crafting Studio #1 9815 Culebra Suite 112 78251 2250 Thousand Oaks Suite 208 78232 210.541.5088 http://www.AbbysAtticSewingSchool. com Abby’s Attic Sewing Studio offers beginner sewing camps for ages 8 and up! We teach your child all the fundamentals of learning to use a sewing machine safely and proficiently, while also emphasizing math and reading skills, manners, self-patience, fine motor skills, and so much more. Half days or full days; before and after care available too. All
Camp Champions 775 Camp Road, Marble Falls, TX, 78654 830-598-2571 info@campchampions.com www.campchampions.com Camp Champions has created a tradition of excellence since 1967. With the facility and staff expected from a premier overnight camp, Champions is distinguished by its developmental focus on building strong kids. Camp Champions specializes in two and three-week sessions where each camper will be challenged, make friends, and have fun. We operated COVID-free in 2020. Reach us at www.campchampions.com, and find a link to our COVID preparation plan on the home page.
materials and snacks provided. Two convenient locations. AbbysAtticSewingSchool.com The Clowvazar Academy 12746 Cimarron Path #120 SA, TX 78249210-690-4800 www.clowvazar.com The Clowvazar Academy is hosting summer camps in June, July & August for kids in Kinder12th grade. We specialize in education for kids with Anxiety, Autism, ADD, ADHD et cetera. The Clowvazar Academy is a year-round, K-12, private school for kids with Anxiety, Autism, ADD, ADHD, Dyslexia, et cetera.
Camp Invention Multiple San Antonio locations 800-968-4332 Invent.org/camp Energize your child’s creativity with our new Camp Invention® program, Recharge! Campers in will team up to take on fun, hands-on STEM challenges. From taking apart their own microphone to exploring solar-powered crickets and creating duck-launching devices, each activity is designed to give your innovator an unforgettable summer experience. This year, local camps are being offered in person and at home so your child can experience the fun no matter where they are! Register and save at invent.org/local!
Camp Einstein Various Locations in San Antonio 972-333-7371 www.CampEinstein.org STEMulating Enrichment! We believe you learn the best when having fun! Our exciting STEM classes are designed to spark creativity and learning through hands-on activities! From CSI Forensics to Lego Engineering, we offer many enriching camps for all ages. Come join the fun this summer. Country Home Learning Center 8 locations in San Antonio 210-687-1002 www.countryhomelearningcenter.com Join us for an INCREDIBLE Summer Camp Experience! *Kinder – 13 years *Child Approved Special Events *Fun-filled days with activities every child enjoys *Kids’ Choice Special Interest Clubs *Exciting Weekly Field Trips. Dorothy Keck Dancers 1532 Austin Hwy. SATX 78218 210-829-8489 www.dorothykeckdancers.com Join us for a fun-filled summer dance camp! Learn different dance styles and create themed crafts in each two or three day camp. Each camp has a unique theme such as Moana, Mermaid, Olaf, Trolls or Diva; find one to fit your child’s interests! Camps range from 4-10 years old.
Are You Ready For An Adventure? EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS . . . We offer a nationally accredited, innovative educational program in a beautiful state-of-the-art facility, where a warm and caring staff utilizes an exclusive curriculum and the very best in educational toys and equipment! • Full & Part Time: Infants – Age 13 • Drop-Ins Accepted • Exciting, Theme-Based Educational Units • Includes All of Our "On-Campus" Enrichment Destinations • Hours: 6:30am - 6:30pm SUMMER CAMP . . . Join us for an incredible Summer
Camp experience! • Kinder – 13 Years • Fabulous Weekly Field Trips to Exciting Destinations • In-House, Special Events • Splash Days in Our Waterpark • Kids’ Choice Special Interest Clubs
OUR “ON-CAMPUS” ENRICHMENT DESTINATIONS
• Country Home Waterpark • Adventure Jungle Indoor Playground • 1950’s-Style Soda Shop for Cooking & Science Projects • Country Home Movie Theater • Putt-Putt Golf Course • Arts/Crafts Lab & Computer Lab • Large Indoor Gym & Basketball Court • Student ABCMouse.com Accounts • iPad Station & Interactive Whiteboard
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Our Kids Magazine | March / April 2021
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CAMP GUIDE 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.
Mad Science & Crayola Imagine Arts Academy Multiple Locations Including Online 210-651-1143 http://SanAntonio.MadScience.org Mad Science & Crayola Imagine Arts Academy programs are designed with exciting, fun and hands-on science and art activities for children . Your child will become a junior scientist or artist, having the opportunity to experience a variety of hands-on adventures. Programs starting now and through the Summer $18-325. Locations Include Virtual with Supplies delivered to your door!
Martin Swim School 210-240-7974 www.MartinSwimSchool.com Swim lessons for children aged 18 months to 10 years. 98% of children learn in 2 weeks. Only 3 students per
classes. Private lessons available. Register now as space is limited. Instructor is Marguerite Martin-Boseman.
summer sessions in June, July and August for students with Anxiety, High Functioning Autism or other related learning differences. We accept students from Kindergarten to
St. Monica Catholic School 515 North Street, Converse, TX 78109 https://saintmonica.net/summer-funprogram (210)658-6701
High School. Limited seats are available. Visit us online for tuition information and requirements.
Children’s Association for Maximum Potential (CAMP) 515 Skyline Drive Center Point, Texas 78010 (210) 671-5411 campmail@campcamp.org https://campcamp.org/
Blast into the Summer will be a daily field trip, Summer camp, where students are able to learn, love and enjoy several themed weeks of FUN! Session 1 is June 7th thru July 2nd and Session 2 is July 6th thru July 30th, $400 for each session. All field trips are an affordable additional cost to attend (optional as well). It is promised to be Out of this World!
YMCA of Greater San Antonio Summer Day Camp Multiple Locations 210-924-2277 ymcasatx.org/summer YMCA day camp programs offer youth ages 5 - 13 an opportunity to meet new friends and discover new interests. Activities vary by location but include STEM, crafts, swimming, sports, and more. Day Camp is an excellent way to ensure kids stay engaged socially, physically, and academically throughout the summer. Financial assistance is available.
SPECIAL NEEDS The Clowvazar Academy (210) 690-4800 12746 Cimarron Path, #120 www.clowvazar.com Each summer The Clowvazar Academy opens three
Since 1979, Camp CAMP has provided safe, fun-filled recreational experiences for individuals with special needs at its 55-acre summer camp along the Guadalupe River, in Center Point, TX. Camp CAMP serves individuals (aged 5 – 50) with mild to severe disabilities from diagnosis with Autism Spectrum Disorder, Intellectual Disability, Down Syndrome, Cerebral Palsy, Traumatic Brain Injury, Spina Bifida, visual impairment and/or hearing impairment. It is a certified Texas Youth Camp and accredited by the American Camp Association.
Campers’ siblings are
welcome to attend camp with them. In 2020, the six-day camps begin May 24 and run through August 7. Summer 2020 applications are now available at www.campcamp. org. Camp CAMP strives to be affordable to all families through our Scholarship Tier program or through Respite funding for campers who have Medicaid Waiver and General Revenue service programs in Texas.
SEWING CLASSES Ages 4 to adult LLC
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North Central at 281/Thousand Oaks
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Feature
What To Do When The School Wants To Remove IEP Services By Cheryl Maguire
Jennifer’s (name changed for privacy) son was on an IEP (Individual Education Plan) for seven years due to a diagnosis of ADHD and an LD (learning disability) in writing and reading. During her son’s most recent team meeting, the school personnel stated they would like to remove his services since he was doing well in school. Jennifer felt that if the services were removed that her son would not continue to receive good grades. According to the National Center for Statistics, the number of students receiving special education services has increased, from 6.4 million to 7.0 million between 2011–12 and 2017–18. The National Educational Association states that nationwide the current average per student cost in public schools is $7,552 and the average cost per special education student is an additional $9,369 per student (total average cost is $16,921 per special education student). This additional cost might be a reason school personal would want to remove services for students who are receiving high grades. “If a child is improving and meeting goals that does not mean declassification is the answer. In my practice, 99% of the time a child’s performance improves due to the IEP services. Removing the services could lead to regression,” says Dr. Kimberly Williams, a Pediatric Neuropsychologist and Clinical Psychologist with offices in Long Island and Brooklyn, New York. When the school recommends removing your child’s IEP services you can do the following. Please note laws can vary by state or change so please check with your local advocacy system for current information:
Enable Your Right to Stay Put “Many parents don’t realize that if a school tries to remove IEP services, they can enact their legal right to ‘stay-put’ which
means the services must stay in place,” said Nancy Gardner, Co-Chair of East Bridgewater SEPAC. Under the law, parents are a member of the special education team even though it may not feel that way at times. You can submit a letter requesting that the services “stay put” which means that the IEP cannot be removed.
Get Documents Time Stamped Any letters such as a “stay put letter” that you submit need to be time-stamped to prove that the school received the letter. If your case moves to mediation or due process, then you will need documentation to prove your case. If it isn’t timestamped, then school personal can state they never received it.
Request Meeting Notes You can request meeting notes from every IEP meeting. Gardner recommends doing this for every meeting, even non-contentious ones, so that you have a record of everything discussed.
Speak To Free Organizations Every state is required to have a Parent Training and Information Center which is an organization that provides free information to parents of children with disabilities. This organization can provide you with free advice regarding the next steps to take. There are also organizations like SEPAC (Special Education Parent Advisory Councils) that can provide support. “By federal mandate, every state must have a Protection and Advocacy System for people with disabilities. The names each state chooses for this program differs but you should be able to find your state’s program through a google search using ‘[State] protection and advocacy system.’” says Melanie Musson, special education teacher and educational writer for Free Legal Advice. Our Kids Magazine | March / April 2021 15
Research Non-Compliance Issues
If the school wants to remove the IEP services the school might not be providing the accommodations. “Often the district wants to declassify because the child ‘does not use’ the IEP accommodations. This may be the fault of the school and a non-compliance issue of the district. Children may not use services because they are stigmatized and/or child may not be a good self-advocate. Using services is not the responsibility of the student, it’s the responsibility of the school team to enforce,” says Dr. Williams.
IEP’s Don’t Expire
According to the Wrightslaw website, “The IEP will not ‘expire’. It remains in effect until a new one is written, or you agree that an IEP for specialized instruction and related services are no longer needed.” If you write a “stay-put letter” then the last IEP remains in place until the disagreement with the school is resolved.
Check if the Student Achieved the IEP Goals
“Parents must ask if the IEP goals and the objectives have fully been achieved. ‘Almost there’ or ‘we anticipate improvements’ does not count. If goals have not been achieved you cannot declassify,” says Dr. Williams. Dr. Williams explains that if it is determined that the IEP goals have been 100% achieved, then new goals may be necessary. She says, “For example, if a child has met the goal of writing a four to five sentence paragraph, perhaps the next goal
is independently writing an essay with rich vocabulary and transition words.” Dr. Williams explains that often the IEP goals and objectives are improperly written and the means to objectively measure success is inadequate. She suggests that parents should closely review the IEP goals and have a neuropsychologist review them. Dr. Tamera Foley, CEO of Education 4 All Now LLC recommends that parents say, “Based on the information presented, the child has not met his goals so the IEP has not been met.”
Request Additional Testing
If you don’t agree with the school’s evaluation, parents have the right to request additional testing. “Parents can ask for an evaluation if one has not been completed within three years by the district. If an evaluation has been completed within three years and the parents don’t agree with the findings, then they can request that the school district provide an Independent Evaluation. Normally the parent is given a list of experts in the area and field to choose from and the amount the district will pay for the evaluation,” says Dr. Foley.
Use Data
If your case goes to mediation or court, then they will want to see data such as official state test scores and evaluations. School grades are subjective and do not count as grounds to
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remove an IEP. Also, one data point (or evaluation test) is not enough evidence to remove an IEP. “Sometimes schools respond to data and evidence. A parent can research articles explaining the ADHD (or others) is a lifelong disorder. Although children’s symptoms can improve, as curriculum demands change, they can still require accommodations. In the situation of the student receiving an IEP for seven years that already implies longstanding needs for support and if changes must occur, it should be gradual and not all at once,” says Dr. Williams. You can also provide other types of data such as a record of the number of hours it takes to complete homework. “Parents can present information that teachers wouldn’t necessarily see, such as a log of how late a student stays up completing homework or the stress they express to parents or other trusted adults. Often, school personnel see high grades and a student well prepared for class without understanding the effort it took to achieve the grades,” says Ruth Wilson, an educational therapist, a high school principal, and founder of The Polytech. Wilson explains that parents are a mandatory part of the IEP and so their evidence of how the student functions outside of the school is critical information that must be considered and written into the present levels of performance section. Dr. Foley recommends that parents say, “Based on the data presented, there is still a gap in the child’s academics/
behaviors that can only be addressed through specialized supports and services.”
Try to Collaborate with the School It may feel challenging to work with the school, but it is important to try to reach a middle ground because that is usually the best option for your child. “It is important for parents to work with their school districts. In my experience as an education attorney, the best outcomes for kids occur when parents and school districts work together in a collaborative manner. While that is not always possible, that should be the goal,” says Christine Soto, Esq., attorney at Florio Perrucci Steinhardt & Cappelli.
Hire An Advocate or an Education Lawyer If you are unable to make any progress with collaborating with the school regarding your child’s special education services, it might be necessary to hire a professional. “There are special education attorneys that cost a small fortune, but there are also non attorney parent advocates who can be more affordable and highly effective. Many cities have parent advocacy centers that offer lower fees to guide parents through the CSE and IEP process,” says Dr. Williams. 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, The Washington Post, Parents Magazine, AARP, Healthline, Your Teen Magazine, and many other publications. You can find her at Twitter @ CherylMaguire05
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Feature
April is Stress Awareness Month How To Prevent Your Kids From Becoming Stressed By Tanni Haas, Ph.D.
April is Stress Awareness Month, a great occasion to consider what you can do to prevent your kids from becoming stressed. While low levels of stress are normal, stress can be damaging to your kids’ physical, mental, and emotional health if it comes in high doses and persists over time. If that’s the case, what can you do to prevent your kids from becoming overwhelmed by high levels of stress? Experts agree on the following points: Take Good Care of Yourself – and Model Stress-Free Behaviors It might sound counter-intuitive, but the first and most important thing is to take good care of yourself and try not to get stressed. ”Stress is really contagious,” says child psychotherapist Lynn Lyons, the author of Anxious Kids, Anxious Parents. “When parents are stressed out, kids are stressed out.” Try to stay calm at all times and model stress-free behaviors to your kids. “Just like flight attendants advise adult passengers to put on their own oxygen masks before assisting others,” says child psychologist Dr. Jamie Howard, “parents need to attend to their own physical and emotional needs to be able to best support their children.” This means that you should avoid being tired or hungry for prolonged periods of time, and that you should seek emotional support from other adults when needed. “If you take care of yourself and schedule time for your own needs,” says professor of 18
Our Kids Magazine | March / April 2021
child psychology Dr. Amy Przeworski, “your child will learn that self-care is an important part of life. Children learn behaviors from watching their parents. So when you think about your child’s psychological well-being think about your own as well.” Educate Your Kids about Stress: What It Is and How to Recognize It Educate your kids about stress – what it is and how to recognize it. Mrs. Lyons says it’s important that you teach your kids “to understand their own bodies and the physiology of stress.” Specifically, kids need to learn to tell the difference between normal and stressed reactions to what’s happening to them. “While it’s normal for a child’s stomach to feel jumpy on the first day of school,” says Mrs. Lyons, “leaving class because their stomach hurts or waking up repeatedly with a headache is a sign there’s too much going on.” Child psychotherapist Katie Hurley, the author of The Happy Kids Handbook, agrees: “To help your child connect the dots, draw the outline of a body and pinpoint different places where stress can cause problems.” Explain to your kids all the common physical symptoms of stress, including backaches, headaches, neck aches, and stomachaches, and help them see where and how they react when they are stressed. As Mrs. Hurley puts it, “the more kids FRIEND US @ facebook.com/OurKidsMagazine210
understand the connection between symptoms and stress, the better able they will be to seek help.” Help Your Kids Become More Resilient Besides teaching your kids how to recognize stress, also try to make them more resilient towards it. One useful technique is to teach your kids to take a couple of deep breaths when they are in a stressful situation. “Taking deep breaths can actually have a physiological effect on the body,” says licensed mental health counselor Janice Halloran, the author of The Coping Skills for Kids Workbook. “When you’re stressed, your body goes into fight, flight or freeze mode and your breathing automatically gets more shallow. To trick your body into getting back to a more restful state, take deep breaths.” It’s also useful to practice relaxation techniques with your kids. Dr. Przeworski recommends teaching your kids to imagine themselves somewhere relaxing, like the beach or in a backyard hammock, and then imagining all “the sounds, smells, and sensations associated with the image.” You can help make your kids more stress-resilient by encouraging them to confront their fears head on instead of shying away from them. Licensed psychotherapist Amy Morin, the author of 13 Things Mentally Strong Parents Don’t Do, makes this important point with the example of elevators. If your kid is afraid of elevators and you always suggest taking the
stairs instead, you are essentially teaching your kid that s/he must be too fragile to take the elevator: “They grow up thinking, ‘I’m not a capable person. If I’m afraid of something, I shouldn’t do it. My parents don’t believe in me, why should I believe in myself ’”? Once again, kids model what their parents do. “If children are surrounded by adults who model resilience,” says child psychologist Dr. Lyn O’Grady, “through their own behaviours as well as by explicitly teaching and practicing the social and emotional skills, they will be more likely to develop resilience themselves.” Cultivate Stress-Free Activities Finally, cultivate stress-free activities for your kids to do whenever they feel like they are about to get stressed. Mrs. Hurley suggests that parents create “stress-free zones” or “relaxation centers” in the home where kids can engage in their favorite activities. Similarly, Mrs. Lyons recommends that parents encourage their kids to engage in activities that are characterized by “pure play” - with no winners or losers, no particular end goal, and therefore no pressure to perform or reason to get stressed, such as outdoor sports like bike riding, hiking, and running. Tanni Haas is a Professor in the Department of Communication Arts, Sciences & Disorders at the City University of New York – Brooklyn College.
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Our Kids Magazine | March / April 2021
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A Hoppy Easter Cake Easter Bunny Butt Cake Servings: 10-12 Nonstick cooking spray 2 eggs, plus 4 egg whites, at room temperature 3/ cup cream of coconut 4 1/ cup crushed pineapple, drained 2 2 teaspoons coconut extract 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 2 1/4 cups flour 1 cup sugar 2 teaspoons baking powder 1/ teaspoon salt 2 12 tablespoons unsalted butter, at room temperature
Warmer days at the start of spring mean Easter is almost here, and the big bunny himself will be hopping around in no time delivering goodies. This Easter, celebrate with your loved ones with a delicious and colorful Easter Bunny Butt Cake. It can bring smiles and laughter while putting everyone in a light, joyful mood. This cake is fun and bright with a fluffy, moist interior. Complete with chocolate candy eggs, shredded coconut and chocolate chips for little bunny toes, this recipe goes all out to paint a picture of the Easter bunny. Find more creative and scrumptious holiday recipes at Culinary.net ■ Heat oven to 325 F. ■ Line muffin pan with four paper liners. Spray ovensafe glass bowl with nonstick cooking spray. ■ In large bowl, whisk eggs, egg whites, cream of coconut, pineapple, coconut extract and vanilla extract until combined. ■ In food processor, pulse flour, sugar, baking powder and salt until combined. Add 6 tablespoons butter. Pulse until combined. Add remaining butter. Pulse until coarse meal forms. ■ In large mixing bowl, add coarse flour butter meal. Add half of egg mixture. Beat 1-2 minutes. Add remaining egg mixture; beat until combined. ■ Fill each muffin cup 2/3 full. Bake 18-20 minutes, or until done. Cool completely. ■ Pour remaining batter into prepared oven-safe bowl. Bake 1 hour, 40 minutes, or until done. Cool completely. 20
Our Kids Magazine | March / April 2021
■ To make buttercream frosting: In large bowl, add
powdered sugar and butter; beat until fluffy. Add milk, vanilla extract and coconut extract; beat until creamy. ■ Turn bowl upside-down on cake stand until cake removes from bowl. If cake needs leveled, turn cake over and trim to flatten. Frost cake. ■ Remove wrappers from cupcakes. Using two pretzel sticks, press into base of cupcakes ■ and anchor to bottom rim of bowl cake to create bunny feet. Frost feet. ■ Take third cupcake and cut muffin top off. Cut muffin top in half. Using one pretzel stick, anchor one muffin top half at bottom of full cupcake to form toes. Repeat with second muffin top half for other foot. Frost toes. ■ Attach final cupcake with remaining pretzel stick to butt area of cake to make tail. Frost tail. ■ Apply 1 1/2 cups shredded coconut all over cake. Press chocolate candy melts into bottoms of bunny feet to resemble foot pads. Add chocolate chips to resemble pads for toes. ■ Place remaining coconut in plastic bag. Add green food coloring. Toss in bag until coconut is colored. Spread around base of cake for grass. Decorate grass with chocolate eggs. SOURCE: Culinary.net FRIEND US @ facebook.com/OurKidsMagazine210
Spring Products Page
4Fun Wicket Kick: Giant Kick Croquet Kids will have a ball with this fun, outdoor, GIANT kick croquet game! Kick Croquet combines the fun of running and kicking a ball with the extra added attraction of guiding it through a course of wickets. You can make the course as hard or easy as you wish just by the way you space the six wickets. $29.99 Age: 3+ Wicked Big Sports Kickball Classic Kickball but BIGGER and BETTER! Wicked Big Sports Kickball takes traditional kickball to the next level! Each kickball inflates to 20” in diameter – over 2X the size of a traditional kickball! Everything you need to play a game comes in the set: 1 oversized kickball, 3 bases, 1 home plate, 1 pump, 3 ball plugs, and 1 plug remover. $19.99 Age: 8+
BUILDZI by TENZI A fast building block game that rewards creativity and quick problem-solving skills. 7 different ways to play including Together BUILDZI where you use your STEM skills to work as a team building a tower that includes 32 BUILDZI Blocks, 32 double-sided Tower Cards, 32 Block Cards and instructions for 7 different faststacking, nerve-racking, building block games for kids that is easily adaptable for all ages. 2 to 4 players with party games for up to 8 players. Ages 6 to 96 HABA Terra Kids Connectors Starter Set Forage, saw, drill, join. With Terra Kids Connectors you can construct lots of fascinating animals, vehicles and figures. The principle is simple and at the same time ingenious: drill holes in bits of wood, join them together using the connectors provided. The figures gradually take shape. The starter kit includes prefabricated wooden twigs (with bark) which can be pieced together to make a crab. The instructions contain many suggestions for other projects. $34.99 Ages: 8+
iPlay iLearn Flynoculars Get out and start exploring with Flynoculars! Take them camping, to the zoo, on vacation, bird watching, or any other trip you can imagine. Encourage observation skills and curiosity in the natural world. Flynoculars are 3 in 1: One unique toy with multiple uses! Pretend to fly with an airplane, explore with binoculars, and cool down with a fan! No complicated adjustment function, a child can easily and safely use these binoculars. Magnification of 4X allows your child a wide field of vision for distinguishing objects easily. (2 AAA batteries required) $14.99 Age: 3+ HABA TerraKids Glider This glider flies through the air with ease. Made from premium foam and plastic, it will handle the rugged outdoors. Endless aviation fun! Simply hold the aircraft’s shaft between thumb and pointer, take a running start and toss it into the air and watch it fly elegantly and speedily through the air! $14.99 Age: 6+
Crep Protect Cleaning Kit
About the brand: The Crep Protect Cleaning Kit is the ultimate when it comes to a shoe cleaning kit, and like everything we create, we did it with the sneakerhead in mind. We created our own cleaning solution, as well as creating our own brush that is suitable for any and all shoe materials. It is designed to clean deeply without affecting the look, feel, and shape of your shoe in any way. Our Kids Magazine | March / April 2021
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National Parenting Product Awards 2021 By Elena Epstein, Director of the National Parenting Product Awards
Loop Lab STEM Subscription We know
Mad Science from fun after-school enrichment programs and now you can bring home the hands-on experiments with their new STEM subscription boxes. Different theme for each box include Gross Science, Spy Science and Sense-ational Science. $32.99/box, ages 8-12, https://shop.madscience.com
Just Add Fruits & Veggies
This STEAM kit will deliver hours of exploration, creativity, learning and enjoyment using items already in your kitchen. More than 20 science and art activities allow kids to explore chemical reactions, osmosis, germination and study of electricity. $22.95, ages 8+, https://www.griddlygames. com/product/just-add-fruits-veggies/
Froggy’s Lair BioSphere
MindLabs Energy and Circuits
Each one-gallon tank comes with bioactive sand, colored gravel, two African Dwarf Frogs and a piece of living bamboo, so it’s a miniature ecosystem that is practically self-sustaining. Just need to change the water every three months and feed these swimming, hopping frogs two times per week. $69.95, ages 5+, https://froggyslair.com/
A magical STEM learning tool combining a digital app, physical cards, and augmented reality in a fun and exciting approach to learning core science concepts. $24.95, ages 8-11, https:// exploremindlabs.com/
In KidZ AMERICA BOX, BLACK HISTORY EDITIONIn KidZ AMERICA BOX,
BLACK HISTORY EDITION Expand children’s knowledge of different countries and customs through with a box-full of engaging activities and games. Kids will be able to share details about a country without having to get on a plane. $50/monthly OR $49/per box, ages 2-11, http://www.inkidzco.com
GROOVY WUBBLE
It looks like a bubble and plays like a ball. Kick it, whack it, throw it, bounce it – even sit on it! Made from squishy, squashy, super soft and lightweight XpandiumTM, Groovy Wubble can be inflated to gnarly proportions (24-30 inches is best). Inflates in just minutes with the enclosed pump. $19.99 with pump, $12.99 without pump, ages 6+, https://www.wubbleball.com/
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Our Kids Magazine | March / April 2021
Babily UV Sterilizer
Harnesses the power of ultraviolet light to kill germs in less than 11 minutes without chemicals. The built-in viewing window gives your family confidence that the powerful UV-C bulb is at work, sterilizing bottles, pacifiers, cell phones, keys and more. $159, https:// www.mybabily.com
LASER X REVOLUTION A laser tag arena in your own backyard! Blast opponents up to 300’ away – inside or out, in darkness or bright sunlight. Blaster beams go through windows and strategically bounce off walls and mirrors. $39.99, ages 6+, https://getlaserx.com/
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