Our Kids Magazine May June 2021

The Go-To Resource for San Antonio Families Since 1985

FREE May/June 2021

Magazine BIRTHDAY PARTIES THAT YOUR KIDS WILL LOVE

MOTHERS DAY

PRIORITIZE YOURSELF

HOWMagazine TO PREPARE FOR POOL DAYS 17 WEIRD THINGS

ALLERGY PARENTS CONSIDER NORMAL

CAMP & SUMMER Magazine CTIVITIES A

San Antonio Kids Building Relationships, Effective ASTHMA Teaching in Home Environments.

Is your child having trouble breathing due to ASTHMA?

WE CAN HELP! Contact us for a Virtual Online or InPerson (masked & distanced) Visit

210.207.7282 or

sakidsbreathe@sanantonio.gov

Services are at NO COST!

WHAT WILL I LEARN? • • • • • •

How to use asthma devices Home review for triggers: allergens or irritants that make asthma worse About your child’s asthma medicine Value of an Asthma Action Plan Connecting with your child’s health care team Connecting to community resources

We help improve children’s lives by teaching best practices to control their asthma.

Serving San Antonio Children with Asthma Ages 3-17

table of

CONTENTS

May/June 2021

4 6 10 12 18 20 22

4

HOW TO PREPARE FOR POOL DAYS

18

FUN BIRTHDAY PARTIES THAT YOUR KIDS WILL LOVE WHAT TYPE OF CAMP SHOULD YOUR CHILD ATTEND? THE CAMP NEXT DOOR TOXIC METALS IN BABY FOOD

WHAT FAMILIES CAN DO

22

HAPPY MOTHERS DAY

MAKE YOURSELF A PRIORITY

17 WEIRD THINGS ALLERGY PARENTS CONSIDER NORMAL

Magazine

PUBLISHER Rudy Riojas 210-526-0312 DISTRIBUTION Taspas Delivery

volume 37 • number 3

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

On the Cover MODEL NAME:

Magazine CELESTINA HARRIS - AGE 7

ADVERTISING: Pat Ramotowski 210-209-8673 Magazine

Amy Sugarman 210-987-2202

Magazine

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

Magazine

Magazine

Feature

How to Prepare for Pool Days

by Karissa Tunis Having small children means that trips to the pool are a lot of fun! But sometimes it can also be a very stressful experience. So I put this article and checklist together to help everyone better prepare and enjoy this special activity together.

Know your limits.

It’s not always practical to think each child will always behave exactly as expected. Is it possible for you to manage everyone if someone needs fed, someone else needs to go to the bathroom, or someone needs extra help in the water?

If not, then don’t go alone.

As moms we want to do it all. We also prefer not to always ask for, or pay for, extra help. However, the pool can be a dangerous place for any little one that is not properly watched or attended. After my second and third were each born, I never went to the pool without help from a family member, friend, or babysitter. Whether they came along to be that extra set of eyes and hands, or if they kept my baby at home, I knew I couldn’t go to the pool with all of my kids – all by myself – until they were all much older.

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Our Kids Magazine | May/June 2021

Prepare your bag ahead of time.

I always keep a separate pool bag in the closet beside my beach/pool towels. It’s always stocked with sunscreen, band-aids, bug repellent, ziploc bags for wet or dirty items, tissues, a hair brush and hair ties. All I need to add the day of is our sunglasses, hats, a change of dry clothes, a few snacks and water bottles.

Pack the toys and gear.

In our garage there is a shelf right by my car that I keep our seasonal gear for the kids. In the summertime that shelf holds the kids swimmies, pool floats, and a toy bag. This bag is filled with sand/water toys. By keeping a separate bag of toys, it saves us from collecting things around the house, and then needing to clean and return them once finished. It is also fun to save these special toys for our special outings.

Note – Be careful of pool rafts! I have a dear friend whose daughter is a strong swimmer. But one time she got trapped under a large pool raft. Every time she tried to pop up for air she was still under the raft and the lifeguard could FRIEND US @ facebook.com/OurKidsMagazine210

not see what was happening. Thankfully, the girl’s father did and ended up jumping in (fully clothed) and saving her. So ALWAYS keep an eye on your children and be aware of pool rafts!

Put bathing suits on and apply sunscreen ahead of time.

If the drive isn’t far, consider putting on bathing suits and applying sunscreen at home. It allows the sunscreen more time to absorb into the skin before getting wet, and you may also have better luck with the kids holding still and not putting up a fight. Because if your kids are like mine, they just want to jump in the water as soon as possible!

Give instructions and an item to carry.

On our way to the pool I always remind my children of what behaviors are appropriate and how I expect our pool trip to run. Safety is a huge concern for me, so I make it clear that if we are not playing in the water safely and following the rules, we will leave immediately!

Our routine from car to pool is this: As we get out of the car I give each child something to carry to our chairs. This helps to prevent them from jumping in before we arrive at our spot. Next, the kids know the routine! Everyone takes off their pool

cover-ups and puts them inside our waterproof pool bag.

This prevents having wet clothes later. All flip flops and sandals (make sure they don’t wear any with a slick or slippery bottom) go under my chair. This prevents them from getting lost, or tripped over. I help to put their swimmies on. Once I give the ok (and not before), they are allowed to go sit on the pool steps or stand in the shallow end while I lay out our towels and prepare our area. Once I finish setting up our space, I will give them the thumbs up to go swim. At this point everything has been done and now I can truly just focus on them having fun!

While I might sound a little strict – planning ahead, being organized, and reviewing our plan with the kids – has saved a lot of time, mishaps and frustration.

Please do not think my children are perfect little robots always following each step exactly, but it’s much easier to reel them back in when there was order to begin with. And having had left the pool abruptly in the past has taught them that it’s much more fun to follow my guidelines in order for us all to have a safe and organized pool day, verses nap time at home!

Karissa Tunis is the co-author of Parenting while Working from Home: A Monthly Guide to Help Parents Balance Their Careers, Connect with Their Kids, and Establish Their Inner Strength. She is also the co-owner of AdoreThemParenting.com, which strives to share actionable tips, heartfelt insight, and planning strategies to help you enjoy your own parenting journey!

3915 West Avenue u San Antonio, TX 78213 u 210-407-8600 u www.neisd.net/prekacademy

APPLICATION

FULL-DAY PROGRAM

CURRICULUM

Applications available for qualifying and non-qualifying students

School Hours: 7:40 a.m. - 2:55 p.m.

Drop off begins at 6:50 a.m.

Enrichment including: physical education, music and library programming

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Kid Involvement Network (KIN) After school care available until 6:30 p.m.; Healthy snacks

Convenient bus hubs located throughout the District for pick up and drop off

Breakfast and lunch available

provided

STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math) Instructional Focus Dual Language Classrooms Social Emotional Learning May/June 2021 | OurKidsMagazine.com

5

PARTY GUIDE

Fun Birthday Parties that Your Kids will Love

By Kimberly Blaker

So your child’s birthday is just around the corner, and you don’t have time to plan and prepare the perfect party? Don’t despair. There are plenty of fun places to hold kids’ parties that’ll save you time in planning, preparation, and cleanup.

Most importantly, your birthday child and guests will have a blast.

offered. Many include hayrides, petting zoos, corn mazes, apple picking, and more. These are perfect for fall birthdays.

Try some of these party places for kids of all different ages. When you call, ask what amenities are available and included. Many sites provide invitations, food and cake, balloons and decorations, a private party area, a gift for the birthday child, and other special birthday services.

You Should be Dancin’ – Check with your local dance studio for birthday party packages. Some offer professional dance instruction and allow food and party treats to be brought in, so the whole shebang is done right there.

Skates & Blades - Roller skating rinks are again gaining popularity, and most offer a choice of inline or roller skate rentals for today’s kids. Also, consider ice-skating and ice or a roller hockey party as a fun alternative.

Strike it Big – Bowling parties are a fun form of recreation for kids of all ages. Preschoolers can score every time with bumper bowling, while teens can go cosmic for glow in the dark fun. Add to the amusement by offering small prizes for low and high scores and the most and fewest gutters.

Pizza and Play – Preschool and early elementary children thrill at invitations to these parties. They can play kiddie arcade-style games, win tickets for prizes, hop on coinoperated rides, and romp in soft play areas.

Water, Water Everywhere – Head to a wave pool or water park where big kids can ride the waves, swish down water slides, take a plunge, and go on tubing adventures. What better way cool off and party on a hot summer day? Indoor water parks a fun alternative for the colder months.

Old MacDonald Had a Farm – Check with your nearby farm, ranch, or apple orchard to find out what activities are 6 Our Kids Magazine | May/June 2021

Recreational Romp – Recreation and fitness centers offer a wide variety of activities for birthdays, including gymnastics, swimming, basketball, and arts and crafts.

Music Marvel – Big kids will be in awe to see one of their favorite performers in concert. For young children, look for a kiddie musical adventure offered by an area musician or music center.

Craft Magic – Young kids love to create. So schedule a craft party at a fabric shop, craft store, or scrap-recycling center where kids’ activities are offered.

Cops and Robbers – Kids will thrill at testing their skills and cunningness in a game of laser tag. These centers often offer on-site party areas and birthday packages.

Fast Food Fun – For a simple and inexpensive toddler or preschool party, McDonald’s, Burger King, and other fast-food joints are an excellent choice. Children can crawl through a playscape and dive into a pool of balls while enjoying their favorites: hamburgers and French fries. Call ahead to make your reservation.

Putt-Putt & More - Family fun centers offer a variety of entertainment, including batting cages, miniature golf, video games, bumper boats, and go-carts.

Hands-on Science – Kids of all ages will be thoroughly FRIEND US @ facebook.com/OurKidsMagazine210

PARTY GUIDE engrossed and entertained at one of the many hands-on science museums. The party-goers can try out gadgets, watch or participate in experiments, play instruments, construct, and much more.

Rock Climbing Adventures – Daredevils won’t want to miss one of these exciting quests. Look for a rock climbing gym in your area where party guests can do rock climbing with a professional instructor.

Beach Party – Give your teen some fun in the sun with a beach bash. Contact the park for information on volleyball equipment and to make a reservation for a covered picnic area. Look for a spot with horseshoes and plenty of sand, and don’t forget the beach balls, pizza, and cooler of pop.

Amusement Mini-Party– Theme parks make for big-time fun for older kids who are content to take only one or two guests. When planning the guest list, don’t forget to budget meals, snacks, and drinks, which add up quickly in theme parks.

Monkeyin’ Around – Parties away from home don’t have to be costly. Reserve a shelter at a nearby park with a large, fenced-in, frontier-style playscape. Little ones can run, climb, and play to their heart’s content. Bring along your party supplies and set up under a pavilion. To keep things simple, call ahead for pizza delivery.

Row, Row, Row Your Boat – An afternoon canoe excursion for teens is the ultimate in outdoor fun. Contact canoe rental facilities for details. Bring along pop and a picnic lunch, and make sure the food stays in the chaperone’s canoe where it’ll be safe from tips. Don’t forget balloons for water balloon fights during rest stops.

Z is for Zoo –Zoos are an excellent source for birthday entertainment. Many offer party packages that include meals, cake, invitations, live animal presentations, and more.

Kimberly Blaker is a freelance family writer. She’s also founder and director of KB Creative Digital Services, specializing in search engine optimization and SEO content, at kbcreativedigital.com

PLACES Abby’s Attic Sewing & Crafting Studio 210-541-5088 North Central at 281/Thousand Oaks Far West Side at Culebra www.AbbysAtticSewingSchool.com Unique SEWING parties for ages 4 and up! Handsewing projects for ages 4-7, sewing machine projects for ages 8 and up. Parties for adults too! All materials included and no sewing experience needed. We teach you what you need to know! Call us @ 210-541-5088.

Alamo Mini Golf 210-730-0893 509 Sassman Rd, 78124 Introducing a brand-new entertainment business just off 1103 near Cibolo. Alamo Mini Golf and more. Come play outdoors under the cover rain or shine. Old school video games, inflatables, 18-hole mini golf, and enclosed fully stocked toddler play area all included in admission price of $9.95 adult, $8.95 child. Fun for all ages. Full concession stand with barbecue area. BYOB until we receive our alcohol license. Find us on Facebook Alamo Mini Golf.

This is a Veteran owned business where the owners got married in England while serving in the US Air Force. Golf course is ADA compliant.

Incredible Pizza Company 2015 SW Loop 410 San Antonio, TX 78227 210-797-7639 www.incrediblepizza.com Birthday party packages starting at just $14.99 a person. Come see our new location complete with Glow Karts, XD Theater, Laser Tag, Bumper Cars, Lost in Space, All You Can Eat Buffet (with over 150 items!) and so much more. Call 210-797-7639 for more details.

ENTERTAINMENT Funny Bone 210-490-3866 Order your Moonbounce and party machines any time for 24/7 service. We have Moonbounces, Slip ‘n’ Slides, popcorn, Cotton Candy and Snowcone machines and supplies, as well as tables, chairs,

PARTIES & FIELD TRIPS for Kids Ages 5-12

Hands-On Science Fun In Person or Virtual!

Virtual & Socially Distanced Options

210-651-1143

Parties, Classes, Camps, and More!

Register your child today! imagineartsacademy.com

210-651-1143

SANANTONIO.MADSCIENCE.ORG

Let the FUN COME TO YOU!

A unique and stylish way to celebrate anywhere you can imagine.

We provide event planning, party styling and party rentals services. From kids’ birthday parties to festive soirée adult parties.

• Glamping Sleepover • Indoor/Outdoor Picnics • Spa Slumber Parties

Itsyourpartysanantonio.com

210-363-7005

May/June 2021 | OurKidsMagazine.com

7

PARTY GUIDE

Moonbounce Rental Inlcudes Cotton Candy Machine SnowCone Machine Popcorn Machine All for only

$148.88

Supplies $8.88 Delivery $8.88

FUNNY BONE 210-490-3866 / 24/7 Service

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

Great for Birthday Parties.

Alamo Mini Golf 509 Sassman Rd 78124

210-730-0893 SEWING PARTIES Ages 4 and up

North Central at 281/Thousand Oaks

210-375-5241 Far West Side at Culebra

210-541-5088

Sewing Classes In Person & Online www.AbbysAtticSewingSchool.com

balloons and other party needs. Call any time to schedule delivery and pickup.

It’s Your Party San Antonio 210-363-7005 Itsyourpartysanantonio.com We craft themed party settings by selecting all the elements that allow us to create a cohesive aesthetic “Oneof-a-kind” look. Parties for kids of all ages! You provide the party place and we come to you to do all the set up and collection. Balloons, Sleepover Tents, Slumber Spa Party, Picnic Parties, and Now Drive By Parties! We also have tons of add on options.

Game Truck Party 210-501-4177 Gametruckparty.com If you want a Video Game Party, GameTruck’s unique mobile video gaming theaters can make your ultimate party wishes come true. With our expert GameCoaches and stateof-the-art equipment, your party will be as stress-free as it is spectacular!

Imagine Arts Academy of Austin & San Antonio P.O. Box 92701 Austin, Tx 78709 210-651-1143 http://sanantonio. imagineartsacademy.com Imagine Arts Academy programs are designed with exciting, fun art activities. Your child will become an artist, having the opportunity to experience a variety of hands-on adventures.

Children will design, create, build and assemble a variety of interesting projects based on many different themes, including Wild World, World of Design, and Artist’s Passport! Programs starting in January and through the Summer $18-325. Locations Include Enjoy the fun of learning jump rope from the Virtualcowith delivered to your mfort of yoSupplies ur own home. door!

Learn Skills, Get Fit & Stay Active!

Jump Rope Express 210-269-0725 www.Coach7755@aol.com Let Jump Rope Express provide you with a dynamic environment for your child’s birthday. For 90 Minutes the kids will participate in jump rope games, activities, challenges and drills.

The kids will have a fun-filled time!

Contact Coach Bobby at 210-269-0725 / coachbobby7755@gmail.com for availability and pricing.

Mad Science of San Antonio 512- 892-1143 210-651-1143 www.austin.madscience.org We have Birthday Parties down to a science! Mad Science birthday parties entertain children with exciting, high-energy, interactive shows that come to you. Your child will enjoy activities such as: Discover objects that float through columns of air! Relish the mystery of fireworks! Watch in amazement as energy lights up a ball of plasma! See in wonder as water takes on an eerie green glow! And much, much more! Parents will love the fact that Mad Science birthday parties are mess-free and hassle-free.

Best of all, we provide a satisfaction guarantee!

My Gym Cibolo Mobile 210-897-1142 cibolo@mygym.com www.mygym.com/cibolo Make it a My Gym party and your child’s birthday will be the best birthday ever! With My Gym Cibolo, your child is the star of a perfectly planned celebration created especially for them. Let us take care of the details so you can focus on the moments that matter.

All Spring Zoom Classes Free Enjoy the fun of learning jump rope from the comfort of your own home.

Learn Skills, Get Fit & Stay Active!

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Learn Skills, Get Fit & Stay Active!

Open to Elementary & Middle School Students

Spring & SSKILLS, ummer Classes GET Free LEARN FIT Parents& love thSTAY e convenience aACTIVE! nd kids enjoy the fun drills,

Spring & Summer Classes Free

skills, and challenges. All that is needed is a jump rope and space to jump.

achbobby77Students 55@gmail.com Open to Elementary & MiddleCoSchool Open to Elementary & Midchallenges. dle Sch2o d ts 1Parents 0o -2l69S-0t7u2love 5 enthe w.n cojaocy hbtoh bbeyspfu orn ts.cd om e ire ndtoday kidwswe rills, KP idsa er nje oyn thtesfunlo dfitness riv llse , skitllh s, a ndc cho aln lenv gee s.n PaContact enn ts lc ove e tha e us physical involved. to reserve your spot.

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Coachbobby7755@gmail.com C 21o 0-a 26c9h -0b 72o 5 bby7755@gmail.com www.coachbobbyspo2 rts1 .c0 om-269-0725

www.coachbobbysports.com

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Our Kids Magazine | May/June 2021

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PARTY GUIDE

At Gaylord Texan Resort, the summer fun is endless.

Become an honorary pirate or princess for the day; make a splash at our exclusive 10-acre Paradise

MORE ADVENTURE

Springs water park; explore our four-and-a-half acres of airy indoor atriums, luxury guest rooms, award-winning restaurants, and world-class spa; or even do it all!

EXPERIENCE MORE AT GaylordTexan.com

MORE THRILLS

May/June 2021 | OurKidsMagazine.com

9

CAMP & SUMMER ACTIVITIES

What Type of Camp Should Your Child Attend?

By Sandi Schwartz

When we were kids, life was simpler. Many of us just hung around the house during the summer and played with neighborhood friends or maybe attended a local day camp sponsored by our school or city. Well, nowadays there are camps for everything you can imagine! It can be quite confusing, and even stressful, trying to find the right camp for our kids. Sometimes we even have to choose different camps for each child based on their interests.

Finding the best camp is essential for our children’s comfort and growth. Camps can offer them experiences and tools to go out in the world and discover who they are and what they want to become. A child can only truly grow if given the freedom and chance to gain confidence by exploring new ideas and activities, and eventually finding their passion.

If you are struggling to find the right camp for your child this summer, take this fun and easy quiz. You’ll be able to discover which type of camp is the best fit for your child.

Please only choose one answer.

2. What is your child’s favorite subject in school?

A.

Music

B.

Physical education

C.

Math or science

D.

My child likes a variety of classes

3. What is your child’s favorite activity after school?

A.

Music lessons

B.

Playing a sport

C.

Robotics or science club

D.

Participating in a bunch of different activities with

friends

4. Which type of birthday party would your child most likely choose?

1. How would you best describe your child?

A. B. C. D. 10

Artistic Athletic Brainy Adventurous

Our Kids Magazine | May/June 2021

A.

Dance party

B.

Indoor soccer or gymnastics

C.

Science museum

D.

Every year it’s different FRIEND US @ facebook.com/OurKidsMagazine210

CAMP & SUMMER ACTIVITIES 5. What does your child usually do on weekends?

8. Which would be your child’s dream vacation?

A. Goes to theater rehearsal B. Has a game C. Competes in a robotics or math tournament D. Mixes it up with bike rides, art projects, and shooting hoops

A. Seeing Broadway shows in New York City B. Touring sports stadiums around the country C. Visiting science museums D. Doing something different every day including hiking, playing on the beach, and amusement parks

6. What is your child’s favorite role in a group project?

A. B. C. D.

Presenter Collaborator Researcher Fills in wherever needed

7. What’s your child’s favorite rainy day activity?

A. B. C. D.

Listening to music Running around the house Playing a video game Inviting a friend over to hang out

9. What would your child hope to achieve at summer camp?

A. B. C. D.

Starring in a musical Being team captain Creating an app Trying new things

10. What does your child want to be when he/she grows up?

A. B. C. D.

Movie star Coach Engineer No clue

May/June 2021 | OurKidsMagazine.com

11

CAMP & SUMMER ACTIVITIES Tally up your answers and match the letter you mostly chose to the type of camp below.

A. Creative/Performing Arts Camps Specialty art and musical theater camps focus specifically on the arts. Some may offer a variety of art forms to choose from, such as pottery, woodworking, painting, and photography. Others focus solely on one type of art, such as sewing camp or band camp. Musical theater camps are quite popular and typically showcase a production after a few weeks of rehearsals. Art camps come in all lengths and locations. You can sign your child up for a one-week-long art camp at your local recreational center or find multiweek overnight art camps where they can truly hone their craft.

B. Sports Camps Sports camps usually consist of only one sport that a child plays throughout the day. The main goal is for participants to improve their skills by focusing extensively on a sport they love. Depending on where you live, you can find all types of sports camps like tennis, golf, soccer, baseball, lacrosse, or gymnastics. It is also a way for your child to try a new sport or something only offered during the summer, such as surfing and sailing.

C. Science/Tech Camps If your child loves to code, build, and tinker, then a tech camp may be the right fit. These types of camps make learning about science and technology fun and exciting for kids. They also provide an opportunity for kids to dive deeper into a subject they love, such as working on a science experiment, designing a website, or programming a robot. You can find science and tech camps through local schools, colleges, and museums.

D. Traditional Camps Traditional camps are what you think of when you envision summer camp—canoeing, hiking, archery, relay races, swim lessons, and crafts. They can be considered “jack-of-all-trades” camps because they offer all types of activities for children to try. If your child enjoys exploring and experiencing new things and has not yet found one specific activity that they are passionate about, then a traditional camp is a wonderful choice. They are very common and can be found all over. Some are day camps, while others are overnight experiences where your kids can also learn more independence skills. Overnight camps also offer a more rustic, outdoorsy experience with campouts, cabins, campfires, and activities on the lake.

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 12

Our Kids Magazine | May/June 2021

WE RAN COVID-FREE IN 2020 AND ARE PREPARED TO DO IT AGAIN IN 2021

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CAMP & SUMMER ACTIVITIES

The Camp Next Door: Day Camp

By Sarah Lyons

Many parents want their kids to experience summer camps but the idea of spending several nights away from home is a little scary for both the parent and child. A great alternative, especially for younger kids, is to send them to day camp. Day camp, as the name implies, typically consists of a series of consecutive days where the child is away during the daytime hours. . Children leave in the morning to have the camp experience and come home in the afternoon or evening to have dinner with their families and sleep in their own beds. Day camp gives kids many of the same learning experiences as a typical sleepover camp.

Builds independence

Camp is a great place for kids to explore their own independence and day camp is no different. Kids are dropped off at camp in the morning where they are challenged with new activities that they may not get the opportunity to try at home. They will make friends, eat lunch, and follow directions without the help of their parents. Kids start to feel more self confident and independent as the week goes on.

that they have never played with previously. The opportunity to make friends with children that share similar interests and a fun new experience helps kids feel more comfortable when they are in new situations.

Take a break from the screen When children spend time at day camp, they get a much needed break from screen time. As video games, apps, TV, and tablets take more and more of our free time, getting the kids outside to play or having fun while learning new skills is a priceless benefit to parents. Who knows? When the kids come home from camp, they may realize they don’t need as much screen time as they thought they did.

Lifelong skills

Learn new skills

Day camp helps kids learn skills they can use for a lifetime including problem solving and leadership skills, improved confidence, and an openness to new things. Depending on the camp, they may learn other skills that will stick with them. My kids learned how to start a fire and cook their own meal at local scouting camps. My daughter gained the confidence to get on stage in front of a room full of parents and peers at theater camp. My kids improved their skills at sport camps and they faced their fears while trying the camp obstacle course. These experiences will stay with your child throughout their life as they are faced with challenges and successes in the future.

Make new friends

As you are deciding if day camp is right for your family, consider what type of camp your child would be most interested in. Choose something that you know they will be successful at and consider inviting a friend to sign up with your child. This can make them more comfortable that first day. Let your child help you choose the right camp and then let them know you think they will do great.

May/June 2021 | OurKidsMagazine.com 13

Day camps typically offer opportunities to learn and grow in areas that children may not be exposed to at school. Kids can pick camps that tailor to their interest including a variety of sports, music, dance, theater, science, art, exploring nature, and more. If your child is drawn to a particular activity or subject, chances are there is a camp that would interest them. Kids who are not particularly drawn to academics will thrive in day camps because they are rewarded for their talents and interests.

While you may sign your child up for a camp with a friend, they will meet many new people their age. Children gain confidence as they learn to talk to and work with people

CAMP & SUMMER ACTIVITIES 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 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 Kinder-12th 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 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.

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 ducklaunching 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.

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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.

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Children’s Association for Maximum Potential (CAMP) 515 Skyline Drive • Center Point, Texas 78010 (210) 671-5411 campmail@campcamp.org https://campcamp.org/ 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.

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Baby

Toxic metals in baby food What families can do

By Malia Jacobson

Pediatricians have long recommended simple, fresh staples like bananas and peas as healthy options for baby’s first solid foods—the less processing, the better. Those recommendations took on added importance when a new government report revealed neurotoxins like lead and arsenic in well-known packaged foods for babies.

Sheela Sathyanarayana, MD, MPH, a principal investigator in the Center for Child Health, Behavior and Development at Seattle Children’s, an associate professor of pediatrics at the University of Washington, and an adjunct associate professor in the UW Department of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences.

The report, called “Baby Foods Are Tainted with Dangerous Levels of Arsenic, Lead, Cadmium, and Mercury,” was released in February 2021 by the Subcommittee on Economic and Consumer Policy Committee on Oversight and Reform in the U.S. House of Representatives. In it, the subcommittee reported that high levels of toxic metals were found in popular products made by seven of the most recognizable baby food brands in the U.S., including Nurture (maker of HappyBABY and Happy Family Organics), Beech-Nut, Hain (maker of Earth’s Best Organic), Gerber, Walmart, Campbell, and Sprout Organics Foods.

Rigorous testing of food products may not adequately protect consumers, either. Aside from FDA-imposed regulations, many companies conduct their own tests for unsafe toxins, says Sathyanarayana. “The report showed that many of these companies had their own internal tests for toxins, and that they were having trouble meeting their own internal standards.”

Within two weeks of the subcommittee’s report, the FDA released a response that emphasized regulations in place to protect consumers from harmful toxins in foods. The report reminds us that even with regulations in place, it’s easy to unknowingly purchase potentially harmful products, says 18 Our Kids Magazine | May/June 2021

The news is particularly troubling because toxic metals can negatively impact brain development during an important stage in a child’s growth. Research links lead exposure in early childhood to developmental delays and decreased intelligence. Because lead and other metals are environmental toxins present in everything from soil to paint to lead-glazed ceramics, and because pound per pound, children take in more food, water, and air than adults, young children can accumulate more lead than adults with similar levels of exposure.

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“Parents are very concerned,” says Sathyanarayana. “They saw this on the news and are coming in and asking questions, so we’ve been aware of this and talking to families about it.”

What families can do Toxic metals are hard to avoid, because they’re part of our environment, notes Sathyanarayana. “For something like arsenic, you can avoid rice cereal, but arsenic is naturally occurring and unfortunately, it’s not easy to get out of the food supply.”

But there are a few things consumers can do. Avoiding processed foods and opting for foods with fewer ingredients and less packaging can help reduce the risk of consuming toxic metals. The more points of contact for processing, the more likely a food is contaminated, says Sathyanarayana. “If you look at an ingredient list and it’s just carrots and water, that’s less processing than something with a longer ingredient list.”

Offering babies and toddlers a broad selection of foods and not relying on one food too heavily have always been healthy habits for families, and that’s still true, she notes.

“Eating a variety of foods and not feeding any food every single day are some of the things I talk about with families, and those were the things we talked about before this report.”

Families concerned about exposure to lead or other toxins can talk to their pediatrician about testing; infants are usually tested for lead at their 9-month well-child appointment, and tests for other toxins are available. “Families can talk to their doctor or contact the University of Washington Pediatric Environmental Health Unit about testing. It’s a free service,” says Sathyanarayana.

She’s reminding families that avoiding all toxic metals isn’t possible. “There’s no way to get to zero risk and you can’t avoid everything,” Sathyanarayana says. “So we talk about ways to reduce exposures.”

Malia Jacobson is a journalist specializing in health and family topics.

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www.clowvazar.com | 210-690-4800 12746 Cimarron Path #120, San Antonio TX 78249 May/June 2021 | OurKidsMagazine.com

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Feature

Make YOURSELF a Priority

By Sarah Lyons

Raising kids is one of the most life-changing and rewarding times of your life but it can also be the most exhausting and draining as well. While moms typically make their kids their top priority, putting them above their own needs and wants, moms need to make time for themselves so that they can continue to be at their best when it comes to supporting and taking care of their families. Moms, it’s time to make you a priority.

Why? Your mental health is a important

Being a mother has its emotional highs and lows.

Your body goes through amazing changes both physically and mentally during pregnancy, birth, and the years that follow. It is important for moms to make their mental health a priority. Ask your significant other or a trusted friend to help you monitor when you are struggling. Ask for help if you feel you are not at your best emotionally. Taking care of your family on a day-to-day basis can be draining on your emotional reserves, but when you have participated in activities that make you feel happy and healthy, it is easier to be attentive and supportive to those around you.

Your physical health is a priority

If you are physically exhausted, it is hard to be patient with your kids or get anything productive accomplished at home or work. Getting good rest, exercising, and eating healthy are important for moms to feel at their best. It’s also important for moms to make their health important by visiting the doctor, dentist, 20

Our Kids Magazine | May/June 2021

and other appointments to maintain health on a regular basis. So often moms will delay their own scheduled doctor visits to make time for their families but routine check-ups can prevent issues before they arise.

Make yourself a priority? Find your tribe Having a group of friends that understand what it’s like to raise children, work, maintain a healthy lifestyle,and commit to a loving marriage is important for moms to feel “normal” and supported. Moms groups (like MOPS), online meetups or groups, book clubs, or church groups are great places to meet other moms that you have things in common with and connect.

Set aside time

Between running errands, extracurricular activities, housework, and spending time with your kids it can be hard to set aside time for yourself. Spending time alone, with your spouse (without your kids), and with friends is so important for moms to feel energized for another day. Add time for you to the family calendar to assure that it happens on a regular basis and any child care needs are met.

Exercise

A good exercise routine not only keeps you healthy and fit, but it can also help you feel better about yourself as well as give you an extra energy boost for the long days of mothering. Taking time for exercise can FRIEND US @ facebook.com/OurKidsMagazine210

also give you a chance to be alone and listen to a podcast, audiobook, or music you enjoy while working out. If your exercise takes you outside, you also get an added boost of Vitamin D which has been proven to help you feel happier too.

Treat yourself

Moms work hard. Allow yourself a treat such as a coffee, a new outfit, a fresh haircut, pedicure, or a sweet treat on occasion. Giving yourself permission to treat yourself can boost your mood and acknowledge that you work hard and deserve something special. You don’t have to spend a lot of time or money, it’s more about putting yourself first on occasion.

Talk to someone

Sometimes we just need someone to talk to about our feelings, what is going on in our lives, and share the details of everyday life. One way moms make themselves a priority is to find a friend or family member you can chat with on a regular basis. Some may find it helpful to talk to a counselor if you have a lot to work through and have dealt with depression or feel like you could use some unbiased advice.

Ask for help

Moms are used to helping others and many of us have a hard time reaching out and asking for help. However, when a friend asks, we are the first to offer assistance. Give others

a chance to help you. Set up a carpool so you are not always the one playing taxi with the kids for their after school activities, accept help when offered, or trade babysitting with a friend so you can have a much needed date night. If your significant other offers to help out around the house, let them, even if it isn’t exactly the way you would have done it. Accepting help can be a big relief and can give moms the chance for some much needed time to focus on themselves.

Take up a hobby What do you love to do? Many moms find they have forgotten the hobbies they used to enjoy prior to kids. Make time for yourself and your interests. Seek out an old hobby or find a new one - reading, running, sewing, scrapbooking - whatever activity gets you excited is what you need to make time for. Whether you do your hobby with a group of friends or on your own, you will not regret making time for something that is important to you.

It’s not possible to put yourself first all the time when you are a busy mom but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t set aside time when you are the priority. It’s important for your mental and physical health and well-being and will make you a better mom overall.

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Feature

17 Weird Things Allergy Parents Consider Totally Normal

By Pam Moore

Before we found out our younger child had severe, life-threatening food allergies, we kept the kids’ emergency information on a crumpled piece of paper, shoved in a drawer between the vegetable peeler and the wine opener.

2. When the gluten-free, casein-free, dairy-free, soy-free chicken nuggets are on sale you buy 10 packages.

But when our daughter was 8 months old, we went to the allergist, hoping to figure out why she was chronically congested and why nothing we tried could touch her eczema.

Going into the appointment, I was hopeful. Leaving the appointment, I was deflated. We learned our baby was allergic to eggs, peanuts, tree nuts, dairy, and wheat. We had strict instructions to keep the EpiPen with her at all times, to avoid letting someone who had so much as eaten a peanut kiss her, and to schedule a follow-up appointment.

4. You read food labels compulsively. You know all the 18-syllable words that dairy, wheat, nuts, and eggs hide in.

In the weeks following the diagnosis, I cried overwhelmed tears whenever I thought about it. Could I protect my baby from the danger of a rogue cashew? Would I be able to trust anyone else to keep her safe? Would she miss the chance to be a normal kid? Fear consumed me.

It has been a year since we got the diagnosis and I still worry. I plan ahead for everything when food is involved. But just as friends and family assured me it would, living with allergies has become our new normal. If any of the below feel normal to you, welcome to the world of parenting an allergic kid, where a random piece of food at the playground is just as scary as a rattlesnake sighting.

1. You don’t think twice about telling anyone, whether it’s a babysitter, a friend, or an overly friendly grandma-type in line at the bank, “Don’t feed my kid.” You’d hang a “Do Not Feed Me” sign around her neck, like they have at the zoo if it were socially acceptable.

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Our Kids Magazine | May/June 2021

3. Your kids’ baby doll is prone to bouts of “anaphylactic.”

5. You think nothing of digging through the trash to retrieve food packaging at a friend’s house in order to see the ingredient list.

6. Your toddler brags to babysitters that she knows how to work the EpiPen. And though you’ve never verified whether or not this is actually true, she’s seen you show enough sitters how to do it that you’re pretty sure it is.

7. When you arrive at any park/library/indoor play area/ friend’s living room, you scan the floor for potential allergens.

You do it again whenever a new child arrives. You do it again even if no one new has arrived, just to be on the safe side. You know people probably assume you’re a helicopter parent. You are too busy looking for rogue peanuts to care, though.

8. When you are invited to a social gathering, you consider a number of factors including: the time of the event, your relationship with the host, how long you plan to stay, whether or not young children will be eating (and dropping) allergens, and the host’s personal experience with allergies. You use this matrix to determine whether 1) you will attend, 2) you will interrogate the host about the menu in advance, 3) you will casually inquire about the menu when you arrive, or 4) just bring your own safe meal—although you know you will bring your own food in the end, regardless.

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9. Your three-year-old bakes “birthday cakes” (piles of blocks heaped atop the lid of a shoebox) that she boasts are “dairy-free, gluten-free and vegan.”

where the host reached out to you in advance to find out exactly what your baby was allergic to and went out of her way to make special, allergen-free pancakes for her.

10. You are used to putting the fear of God in everyone who watches your kid, and you prefer it that way. Well, not everyone. You wish your mom would be more scared.

15. When you fly, your diaper bag is stuffed with multiple days’ worth of safe snacks because although air travel with a toddler is unpredictable, you can depend on one thing: None of the free, processed, delicious snacks they give out on the plane are safe for your child.

11. You have the local gluten-free, dairy-free bakery’s number stored in your contacts, and you have memorized their hours. You keep a few of their cupcakes in the freezer so you can bring your kid a safe treat to any birthday party or social gathering at a moment’s notice, and you don’t gorge on them until after the kids go to bed. Well, sometimes you do, but you always replace them ASAP. 12. Your baby’s first taste of ice cream is not actually ice cream, but vegan, gluten-free lemon basil gelato, and it’s not because you’re crunchy hippies (even though that is exactly what you are, by most people’s standards) 13. Your sister blows up your phone with photos not of your nephew, but of ingredient lists on the foods she’s considering buying when you visit, to make sure they’re safe.

You are beside yourself with gratitude. You feel extra bad for being such a shit to her when you were kids.

14. The best birthday party you ever went to was the one

16. You keep your kids’ emergency information up-to-date in a special plastic folder that is always stored in the same place. You’ve stuck a neon yellow piece of duct tape across the front, where you’ve listed all the allergies and your address because 911 doesn’t know where you’re calling from when you use a cell phone. In said folder, five pieces of paper are devoted to the child with allergies. The child without allergies gets one measly page.

17. You can’t wait for your allergic child to start talking— not because you want to hear all the sweet, funny things she will say (although you do), but because you will sleep better when she can say, “I have food allergies.”

But, who are you kidding? You’re a mom. Better sleep is a fantasy.

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

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