Boston Parent September 2020

SEPTEMBER 2020

BACK TO SCHOOL

PRODUCT ROUNDUP From books to backpacks and the Birthday Bird....

OUR FAVORITES

GREAT READS

Books to Get Your Child into the 2020 Election

THE ALLOWANCE

CONUNDRUM Should You? Or Shouldn’t You?

Expert Advice

WHEN TO TAKE YOUR SICK BABY TO THE DOCTOR

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Boston Parents Paper | September 2020

855.MATH.855

Volume 35 • Number 11

Contents

September 2020

24

WHAT’S INSIDE

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Boston Parent 841 Worcester Street Suite 344 Natick, MA 01760 • 617-522-1515 info@BostonParentsPaper.com Visit us online at BostonParentsPaper.com

4 Family F.Y.I.

4

PUBLISHER Parenting Media, Inc

Backpacks and Planners for Families

10 Product Roundup:

ASSOCIATE EDITOR | Jean Abernathy

8

Boston Parents Paper is published monthly by Parenting Media Inc. Please note that the advertisements in this magazine are paid for, which allows this magazine to be free to the consumer.

Copies of Boston Parents Paper are distributed to locations throughout Greater Boston and Eastern Massachusetts. Past issues are available on our website, www.BostonParentsPaper.com

• Family Favorite Awards • Kids and Dogs: Staying Safe • Late Night Teen Texting

8 Get Back Out There

ART DIRECTOR | Debbi Murzyn ADVERTISING SALES Holly Castro, David Morney

We Love It: From books to backpacks and the Birthday Bird....our favorites for Back to School

13 Back to School Product Review 14 Great Reads

10

Send letters to the editor or article submissions to editor@bostonparent.com.

Submit events to our Family Friendly Calendar at bostonparentspaper.com/ event

Books to Get Your Child into the 2020 Election

16 The Allowance Conumdrum

19

Should You? Or Shouldn’t You?

19 Expert Advice

When to take your sick baby to the doctor September 2020 | BostonParentsPaper.com

3

Family F.Y.I. TM

2020 WINNER

Family Favorite Awards

O

ur annual Family Favorites issue covers more than 80 different categories, including places to shop and dine, family fun attractions, school and enrichment programs and health professionals. Available online at BostonParentsPaper.com — just click on The August “Family Favorites” issue in the “Magazines” tab.

llergyEats just came out with A their Top 10 Allergy-Friendly Restaurant Chains List

and MA favorite Bertucci’s is at the top of the list!

Bertucci’s has many gluten sensitive and vegetarian options on their menu, and all nutritional information is readily available on their website! Link to AllergyEats list: https:// www.allergyeats.com/2020-top-10-most-allergyfriendly-restaurant-chains/

Late Night Teen Texting

& Sleep Loss

I

t’s not easy to pry your teen’s cell phone out of their hot little hands, but you may want to implement a no texting after dark rule. A study published in the Journal of Child Neurology showed that teens who continued to text after their presumed bedtime when lights were out slept fewer hours, making school more of a struggle the next day (no surprise there). Interestingly, students who turned off their phones or stopped texting within 30 minutes after the lights went out performed “significantly better in school” than others who did not.

LABOR DAY, September 7th

this year, is a creation of the labor movement and is dedicated to the social and economic achievements of American workers. It constitutes a yearly national tribute to the contributions workers have made to the strength, prosperity, and well-being of our country. Unofficially, this day marks a few milestones, end of summer for children going back to school, in normal times, the beginning of football season and the end of wearing white for the society ladies.Well, it used too. Labor Day became a federal holiday in 1894, and society eventually adopted it as the natural endpoint for summer fashion.

4

Boston Parents Paper | September 2020

ONE IN 54

CHILDREN HAS AUTISM.

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During this time of COVID-19, May Institute is operating programs at a reduced capacity as needed and with all recommended safety precautions in place. We are also providing telehealth services as appropriate.

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September 2020 | BostonParentsPaper.com

5

Family F.Y.I. Kids and Dogs: Staying Safe

By Michael Felber, RN Staff Nurse, Boston Children’s Hospital

D

ogs provide companionship and promote the social, emotional and cognitive development of children. But keeping kids safe around dogs is important.

Dog bites can cause physical and psychological trauma, infection, and transmission of diseases such as tetanus and rabies. Children are by far most likely to be severely injured by dog bites, making safe behavior around man’s best friend essential.

Any breed or size dog can bite a child. And most people are bitten by a dog they know. A dog’s likelihood to bite is influenced by its training, temperament, and previous experience with children. Any dog may bite if startled or overstimulated, feels cornered or threatened, or if protecting food, territory, or its canine or human family. Dogs have an instinct to chase, so the human behavior of running away can overstimulate or make aggressive behavior worse.

6

Boston Parents Paper | September 2020

To keep your child safe around dogs: • When adding a dog to your family, pick one with a good temperament.

An older dog should have had experience with children.

• Never leave young children unattended with a dog.

• Be aware of dog body language.

Going still or stiff, raising the fur on its neck, or growling are warning signs. A happy dog that wants to play should have soft and wiggly body language.

Teach your children dog safety rules, including: • Use a gentle touch and calm body with any dog. When getting acquainted with a dog stay still and let the dog approach you.

• If approached by a new or aggressive dog, use the SAFE stance – Stay still, Arms crossed, Face and Eyes looking away.

• Stay away from dogs you don’t know.

• If a dog is sleeping, eating, or caring for puppies, leave it be.

• Never take food or a toy out of a dog’s mouth.

• Stay out of a dog’s personal space, such as its crate. Leave a dog that is tied up or behind a fence alone.

You can provide first aid for a dog bite by applying pressure to stop the bleeding, washing the area with soap and water, and applying antibiotic ointment and a clean bandage. It is important to see a doctor for any bite that is deep, from an unknown animal, or if there are signs of infection such as warmth, redness, or pus. For severe or multiple bites, spurting or uncontrolled bleeding (does not stop after 10 minutes of pressure), call 911 for emergency treatment.

IS IT JUST A “PHASE”— OR SOMETHING MORE SERIOUS? If your child is struggling, Borderline Personality Disorder may be the cause.

We will find the answers, together.

877.203.2240 mclean.org/bpd

September 2020 | BostonParentsPaper.com

7

Get Back Out there!

Backpacks and planners that fit your families life!

For Middle and High School Kids

H

igh Sierra backpacks serve up all sorts of pockets for organizing your school supplies.

Plus, they are padded and large enough to store most laptops and tablets. These packs have reflectivity and two water bottle pockets.

Perfect for any middle and high school student!

Target.com, $29.99 and up

For the Goal Setter

H

appy Planner’s Girls Can student planner box kit is here to unite and empower all females everywhere!

Remember girls— you can achieve ANYTHING. Set your hearts and minds on those goals and plans with the bold tools and planner essentials in this planner box kit. Your productivity will soar while you get your daily dose of that GIRL POWER! Thehappyplanner.com, $39.99

For the Environmentalist

D

esigned in urban-cool gray, Solo New York’s Re:cycled Collection brings sleek design to bags made from recycled materials, making sustainable bags accessible to the masses. Solo-ny.com, $59.99 and up.

For the Weekend Warrior

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rban Armor Gear offers the Standard Issue 24-liter backpack fully loaded with room for your gear and then some. With backpacking backpack details like multiple compartments at different easy access points, chest strap, and ergonomic design. Grab all your basics and explore more. Well suited for the weekend warrior and the constant traveler. urbanarmorgear.com, $119.95

Boston Parents Paper | September 2020

SAVE THE DATE! SEPTEMBER 24 - 26

T

BU BOSTON TEACHERS UNION

7th Annual

40,000 FREE BOOKS

FOR BOSTON PUBLIC SCHOOL FAMILIES! You must pre-register in advance for a time slot to come by.

Pre-Register and Sign Up to Volunteer Sept. 24 2:00 - 6:00 p.m.

Sept. 25 2:00 - 6:00 p.m.

Sept. 26 12:00 - 3:00 p.m.

ALL ATTENDEES MUST WEAR MASKS AND GLOVES The fair will be scaled down this year without the usual activities, food and resource fair due to COVID-19.

BTU.ORG/BACK-TO-SCHOOL September 2020 | BostonParentsPaper.com

9

Product Roundup

By Elena Epstein, Director of the National Parenting Product Awards

The Highlights Book of Things to Do: Discover, Explore, Create, and Do Great Things

A Smart Girl’s Guide: Crushes

The essential book of pure creativity and inspiration. You’ll find hundreds of ways to build, play, experiment, craft, cook, dream, think, and become outstanding citizens of the world. $24.99, ages 7+.

Help your child embrace and understand the new emotional feelings they’re starting to have for others during puberty. It includes tips and quizzes, plus age-appropriate and honest advice on navigating crushes and, most importantly, staying true to themselves. $12.99, ages 10+.

Pink Unicorn Backpack

by JOJOOKIDS

BWICHED Sandwich Cutter and Sealer

Bright and fun, featuring 3 easyaccess compartments, 2 side elastic pockets for water bottles and adjustable padded shoulder straps. Great for Kindergarten or Elementary School. $35, ages 3 – 15.

Don’t pay a fortune on store-bought crustless sandwiches. Use your creativity and home-made ingredients to make creative lunches and snacks. Easy to use – prepare, cut and seal. $17.99, ages 3+.

10

Boston Parents Paper | September 2020

Washaway Lunch Box Notes Personalized peel-and-stick label you can adhere to the outside of your child’s lunch container every morning so you can write them a fun daily message. The label will disintegrate quickly in water, whether you wash the lunch box by hand or in the dishwasher – no soaking or scrubbing required. $17.99, ages 4+.

For more product reviews visit nappaawards.com

Continued on page 12 >

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Product Roundup

< continued from page 10

Classroom Lineup Floor Decals Telly Jr. Teaching Time Clock Help your child learn to tell both analog and digital time. In the learning mode, Telly Jr. teaches time in five-minute increments when the hands are moved, updating the LCD screen. In the quiz mode, Telly Jr. asks your child to move the hands on the clock face to match the time displayed on the screen. $27.99, ages 3+.

The durable, non-slip floor stickers are a fun and useful addition to any classroom or home learning pods, whether you need to guide students where they should line up or where to sit. Adhere to most floors, including low pile carpet. Easy to apply, wipeable and removable. $18.

Cauliflower Power Get the new school year off to a healthy start with this cookbook filled with 75 recipes built around this versatile veggie packed with vitamin C. $19.95.

Kai Bear

Happy the Birthday Bird

Starting the new school year can be scary. These sweet dreamers with their head in the clouds are perfect companions. $20/$40 depending on size.

Start a new birthday tradition this year with this keepsake plush and book set that teaches kids about overcoming challenges and following their dreams.

Book includes interactive memory pages. $39.99.

For more product reviews visit nappaawards.com 12

Boston Parents Paper | September 2020

Kensington Keyboard for Life Wireless Desktop Set includes a spill-proof, full-sized

BIC Xtra-Smooth Mechanical Pencils are reliable for everyday writing tasks!

keyboard and a two-button, scroll wheel design, ambidextrous mouse is optimal for mobility and ease. Compatible with Windows® 8.1/8/7.

USB-C to USB-A connector is needed for newer Mac products. $29.99

Each Bic Mechanical Pencil equals 2-1/2 wood case pencils, featuring smoothwriting lead that advances quickly, no smudge and erases cleanly. These pencils are ultra-convenient and never needs sharpening. $5.97

Let your creativity soar with the BIC

Gel-ocity Original Retractable Gel Pen Spinner! The smooth-writing BIC Gel-ocity gel ink pens come in a vibrant assortment of colors, helping you take note-taking, doodling and other writing activities to a whole new level. The convenient storage spinner makes it easy to organize and quickly find the color you want, and also makes clean-up a cinch. $15.99 Anyone being on a computer all day can appreciate the Kensington

Wrist Pillow Mouse Wrist Rest to provide

extra support and ensure a comfortable experience throughout the day. Thanks to the anti-slip rubber base and ergonomic design you can take on the longest of homework assignments! $12.25

CLASSES AND ENRICHMENT

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FrenchCulturalCenter.org | 617.912.0400 September 2020 | BostonParentsPaper.com

13

Books to Get Your Child into the 2020 Election!

EVERYONE GETS A SAY written byJill Twiss and illustrated by EGKeller

SOMETIMES PEOPLE MARCH by Tessa Allen Sometimes People March is a

timely and inspiring introduction to how Americans exercise their right to free speech by marching in the name of justice, from debut author-illustrator Tessa Allen. With a spare, inspiring text and gorgeous watercolor illustrations, this is a timeless and important book for activists of all ages. $17.99. Ages 4-8. On Sale September 1, 2020.

LAMBSLIDE written by Ann Patchett and illustrated by Robin Preiss Glasser

From international bestselling author Ann Patchett and the bestselling illustrator of the Fancy Nancy series, Robin Preiss Glasser, comes a hilarious children’s story about a slide made just for lambs.

Nicolette Farmer is running for class president, and the rest of the Farmer family tells her she’ll win by a landslide.

A pack of overconfident lambs mistakenly hear lambslide, but when they can’t find one on the farm, there’s only one thing left to do: take a vote! $18.99. Ages 4-8.

May 2019.

14

KAMALA AND MAYA’S BIG IDEA written by Meena Harris & illus. by Ana Ramirez Gonzales Meena Harris debuts with an empowering picture book about two sisters who work with their community to effect change, inspired by a true story from the childhood of her aunt, U.S. Senator and V.P. candidate, Kamala Harris, and mother, lawyer and policy expert Maya Harris. $17.99. Ages 4-8. June 2020.

MIDDLE GRADE

From the #1 New York Times bestselling team behind Last Week Tonight with John Oliver Presents: A Day in the Life of Marlon Bundo and The Someone New, comes a new picture book about voting. Pudding the snail and his friends can’t seem to agree on anything. So when Toast the butterfly suggests they need a leader, the friends try to figure out the best way to pick someone to be in charge. $18.99. Ages 4-8. August 2020

HOW WOMEN WON THE VOTE written by Susan Campbell Bartoletti and illustrated by Ziyue Chen From Newbery Honor medalist Susan Campbell Bartoletti and in time to celebrate the 100th anniversary of women’s suffrage in America comes the page-turning, stunningly illustrated, and tirelessly researched story of the little-known DC Women’s March of 1913.

Includes extensive back matter and dozens of archival images to evoke the time period between 1909 and 1920. $18.99. Ages 8-12.

May 2020.

THANK YOU FOR VOTING YOUNG READERS’ EDITION by Erin Geiger Smith

In this young readers’ edition of Thank You for Voting, debut author and journalist Erin Geiger Smith presents a fascinating look into America’s voting history and inspires young people to get involved! $16.99. Ages 8-12. June 2020.

Boston Parents Paper | September 2020

EXPLORING THE WHITE HOUSE: INSIDE AMERICA’S MOST FAMOUS HOME by Kate Andersen Brower #1 New York

Times bestselling author Kate Andersen Brower shares a special inside look into the most famous home in America—and the lives of hardworking staff members and first ladies who’ve maintained it. Featuring fascinating photos, fun facts, and memorable quotes from the residents and first ladies of the White House. $16.99. Ages 8-12. On Sale December 8, 2020.

YOUNG ADULT

PICTURE BOOKS

Great Reads

YES NO MAYBE SO by Becky Albertalli and Aisha Saeed Jamie Goldberg is

cool with volunteering for his local state senate candidate—as long as he’s behind the scenes. Maya Rehman’s having the worst Ramadan ever. Why her mother thinks the solution to her problems is political canvassing—with some awkward dude she hardly knows—is beyond her. Going door to door isn’t exactly glamorous, but the polls are getting closer—and so are Maya and Jamie. $19.99. Ages 14 and up. 2020.

YOU SAY IT FIRST by Katie Cotugno

Meg works at a voter registration call center in her Philadelphia suburb. But everything changes when one of those calls connects her to a stranger from small-town Ohio. The last thing Colby has time for is some privileged rich girl preaching the sanctity of the political process, so he says the worst thing he can think of and hangs up. But that night on the phone winds up being the first in a series of candid, sometimes heated, always surprising conversations that lead to a long-distance friendship and then something more. $18.99. Ages 13 and up. June 2020.

Learn Piano Today!

Virtual Lessons • In-Home Lessons Lessons on site Small Group • Private

Attributes of a Successful Student Fun • Creative • Piano Lessons It can be difficult to accurately and objectively assess Contact Molly at how your children are developing as students. Selwyn 617-999-8794 points to benchmark skills to be aware of that kids need www.pianoplaytime.com to acquire from the earliest grades, such as knowing how to organize binders, writing down homework assignments and checking book bags and planners, to make sure they have everything they need. She also says it’s a good sign when kids have the impetus to ask a friend or go to the teacher if they aren’t sure or have a question.

Often during the school year your children might spend more time with their class than they do with you, so it’s essential they learn to be proactive. “I think one mistake parents make, especially in the younger grades, is assuming their child is either too young or not able to advocate for themselves,” says Dean. She sees a lot of emails from parents trying to smooth out problems their kids are having in class. As a teacher, Dean would rather parents encourage her students to work out the problem for themselves by using available resources or speaking to her to get the information they require.

Says Dean, “A lot of times when I look at my classrooms, the kids that are successful are more well equipped at navigating the school, the class, their friends – problem-solving through things so they don’t take away from doing their work.”

In addition to self-advocating and having a strong organizational system, Selwyn says the better students tend to enjoy reading. “The more they put their hands on books, the better off they are. But that’s not the whole picture,” she adds. “The good student would be the well-rounded student. They like to do other kinds of things so it gives the child the opportunity to develop and to see what they really like.”

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Celebrating Success Raising a child with the skills to be successful in school isn’t something that happens by accident or overnight. It requires a thoughtful approach, consistent support and a concerted effort by the parent, school and most importantly the student. And when success is attained, whether it manifests itself in improved grades, increased sense of responsibility or anything else that makes you, as a parent, proud, cheer them on as you would if they just scored the winning touchdown or nailed a solo at the choir recital. Says Dean, “Success in school should get equal weight if not more than anything else they might do. I’m all for celebrating effort, improvement and growth.” ■ Brian Spero is a frequent contributor to Boston Parents Paper.

WATERWORKS MUSEUM Interested in Science? Engineering? Architecture?

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FAMILY DAY ~ SUNDAY, OCTOBER 4 Hands-on Engineering Activities!

Science Demonstrations! Water Fun! FREE ADMISSION www.WaterworksMuseum.org 2450 Beacon Street, Boston, MA 02467 ~ 617-277-0065 Hours ~ Wed: 11am-9pm; Thur-Sun: 11am-4pm September 2015 September 2020| |BostonParentsPaper.com BostonParentsPaper.com

19 15

By Kerrie McLoughlin

T

he word “allowance” might conjure up images of trust-fund kids and seems to hint at getting paid to do nothing. Poll a few of your friends about whether or not kids should get an allowance, and you’ll hear all sorts of answers. I’ve found there are several different camps on this issue, including those who believe kids should:

• Do chores because they get a place to sleep and food to eat • Be paid by the chore to learn the value of working for money • Receive a set amount of money every week to do chores as needed or • Be paid an allowance to learn how to manage money.

Michele Shimp is of Camp #1 but visits Camp #2 and said, “As for allowance, no, we don’t pay it. We decided that there are things the kids just have to do as members of the family: dishes, trash, laundry, feeding pets, cleaning room, mowing the lawn in the summer, the basics. However, they do have opportunities for money chores. These are chores out of the norm like cleaning the fridge, vacuuming the van, mowing a part of the lawn that is not your responsibility, cleaning a closet, etc.”

Weighing in for Camp #2, we have my husband. He pays a quarter per chore (called Chore Points) for things like emptying the dishwasher and gives maybe three Chore Points for something like cleaning the bathroom. Daniél Waters Minton has a different way of paying: “Max has always been able to earn money if he wants it. He gets 1 cent per minute, or 10 cents for 10 minutes, or $6/ hour. I break it down because sometimes he’s only got 25 minutes in him. He can earn it by doing chores outside of his normal expected stuff, or by babysitting his little brother.”

“ 16

Continued next page >

The purpose of an allowance is to give your children the opportunity to learn how to manage money through their own successes and failures and the input of their parents.

Boston Parents Paper | September 2020

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binoculars, go on a bird hike and create some seed and fruit art for the birds to enjoy. Registration required. < continued from page 16 Youth, $7. 617-983-8500; massaudubon.org.

Registration recommended. $12 per pair or trio.

413-658-1100; carlemuseum.org.

29 Sunday

Matias Latelier, 10:30am, Regent Theatre, 7 Medford St., of costs, and let them know that they TheKidsMoney.

Enchanted Forest, 10:30am, Coolidge Corner Arlington. An hour Joanna of magic and surprisesDavid from aMcCurrach Chilean 290 Harvard St., Brookline.

Artbarn, a youth magician and mentalist. Adults, $10; youth, $8. “Remember,Theatre, org said, the purpose of are expected to remember their Nesbit community theater company, presents the tale of a 781-646-4849; regenttheatre.com. an allowance is to give your children money and budget in order to have of Camp family vacation gone wrong. Adults, $13; youth, $10.

SOUTH the opportunity to learn how to enough for what they need.

617-734-2501; coolidge.org. #3 said, Tracking the Winter Wild Thing, 9am, Francis William manage money through their own • Teach them not to “buy on credit” “We give NORTH Bird Park, 251 Washington St., Walpole. See Jan. 14 listing. successes and failures and the input (“Mom, can you give me an Ward Winter Fest, noon to 3pm, Ward Reservation, kids Winter Warm Up, our 2-6pm, World’s End, Hingham. Get Andover.

Explore the property on a guided hike, or of their parents.” advance on my allowance?”) and outdoors for hiking,allowance. sledding, snowshoeing, owl prowls bring your snowshoes and sled to play. Then warm up and tales around the campfi re.

Adults, $10; youth, free.

No matter which Allowance or instead to save their money and We don’t pay with refreshments by the fire. $10 per car. 978-886-5297; 781-740-7233; ttor.org.

Chore Camp you come from, here are only buy what they can pay cash ttor.org. for chores, Family Owl Prowl, 7pm, Blue Hills Trailside Museum, some tips from counselor Andrea for. but we 1904 giveCanton a predictable set amount Ave., Milton.

Practice owl calls and meet Ramsay Speers, MA: • Don’t base an allowance amount someand of the museum’s resident owls before going on a each week, then we require the night hike to search for them.

Registration required. $10.

• Don’t link allowance to chores. on age, base in on need and kids to pay for things like clothes WEST 617-983-8500; massaudon.org.

Expect kids to pitch in with chores maturity level. Decide with your Backwards Storytime, 10am, The Discovery Museums, (my 15-year-old), meals with friends, Stargazing: Jewels of the Night, 7pm, because North River 177 Main St., Acton.

Celebrate National Backwards Day they are a part of the kids individually what each movies,Wildlife toys, anything wantSt., that Sanctuary, they 2000 Main Marshfield. Join with silly stories and activities. Free with admission. family, not because they’re getting of them can handle based on astronomy enthusiast Peter Reed as he guides you is considered extra.”

978-264-4200; discoverymuseums.org. through the constellations. Registration required. paid. $13. experience, and go from there.

And finally, Deanna Butler of 781-837-9400; massaudubon.org.

• Teach them how to save by turning • Don’t forget that your kids are

31 Tuesday

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EXPERT ADVICE WHEN TO TAKE YOUR SICK BABY TO THE DOCTOR

By Malia Jacobson

Not every sniffle or sneeze warrants a doctor visit—and going in for unneeded office visits may expose your baby to more harmful germs or spread them to others.

D

oes your little one have the sniffles, or something more serious? Now more than ever, you may be wondering when to take your fussy, under-theweather baby to the doctor. Per the American Academy

of Pediatrics, babies catch up to 10 colds per year, more if they have older siblings or attend daycare. Since each illness may result in two to three weeks of symptoms, a baby may be sick up to 140 days out of their first year of life.

Because babies are still building critical immune-supporting antibodies, they lack protection against viruses and bacterial illnesses that circulate during cold and flu season. But not every sniffle or sneeze warrants a doctor visit—

and going in for unneeded office visits may expose your baby to more harmful germs or spread them to others. When you’re considering a doctor visit for your baby, here’s how to know when to go.

Continued next page >

September 2020 | BostonParentsPaper.com

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< continued from page 19

EXPERT ADVICE

VIRAL ILLNESSES V

iral illnesses like influenza (a.k.a. the flu) are more common during the winter and spring months but can happen at any time. “For viral infections, we treat symptoms, but because the illness is viral and not bacterial, antibiotics are not needed,” says Frida Pena, MD, a family medicine physician at Overlake Medical Center in Bellevue, Washington.

RSV AND BRONCHIOLITIS Respiratory syncytial virus (or RSV) is a common respiratory illness that can progress into a lung infection called bronchiolitis. RSV usually begins like a regular cold, with a stuffy or runny nose, mild cough, fever (temperature higher than 100.4), and decreased appetite.

As the illness progresses, children may breathe rapidly or have trouble breathing, wheeze or make a whistling sound when breathing, or have a severe cough.

WHEN TO GO

Many children with RSV or bronchiolitis do not need to see a doctor. But parents should watch for some important symptoms, says Pena. Call your healthcare provider if: • You can see indentations between or below your baby’s ribs when they breathe.

• Your baby’s nostrils flare (get bigger) when they breathe.

• Your baby younger than 3 months has a fever (temperature greater than 100.4ºF or 38ºC).

• Your baby older than 3 months has a fever (temperature greater than 100.4ºF or 38ºC) for more than 3 days • Your baby has fewer wet diapers than normal.

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Boston Parents Paper | September 2020

FIFTH DISEASE (ERYTHEMA INFECTIOSUM) Erythema infectiosum, or fifth disease, is a common, contagious illness with mild symptoms that include fever, headache, sore throat, cough, diarrhea, vomiting, and muscle aches that last for 2-5 days. After these symptoms fade, children may develop a lacy, bright pink “slapped cheek” across the face, arms, and upper back along with joint pain.

WHEN TO GO

Most children feel better within a week and don’t require a doctor visit. See your pediatrician or healthcare provider in the following situations: • If your baby has an immune or blood disorder and has symptoms of fifth disease.

• If your baby has symptoms for more than a month.

• If you develop fifth disease during pregnancy. Rarely, fifth disease can be dangerous for an unborn baby.

HAND, FOOT AND MOUTH DISEASE Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFM) is a common babyhood illness that causes painful sores to form in the mouth and on the hands, feet, buttocks and sometimes genitals. The condition is uncomfortable but usually shortlived—symptoms fade within a week or so.

WHEN TO GO

It’s best to keep kids with HFM at home to avoid spreading this highly contagious illness, says Pena. Call your pediatrician if: • Your baby is drinking less that usual and hasn’t had a wet diaper for 4-6 hours.

• The condition isn’t improving after several days or symptoms seem to be getting worse. continued on page 22 >

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8

EXPERT ADVICE

< continued from page 20

CROUP Croup is a term for a group of infections that affect the trachea (main airway through which we breathe), causing a distinctive cough that sounds like a seal barking. Croup infections are most common between 6 months and 3 years of age and less common after age 6.

WHEN TO GO

In most children, croup goes away on its own. In some cases, croup warrants a doctor visit or even immediate medical attention in an emergency department.

CALL 911 • If your baby starts to turn blue or pale.

• If your baby is breathing with extreme difficulty.

• If your baby can’t speak or cry because he can’t get enough air.

• If your baby is very upset, very sleepy or doesn’t seem to respond to you.

Call your baby’s pediatrician if: • Your baby’s cough won’t go away.

• Your baby starts to drool or can’t swallow.

• Your baby makes a noisy, high-pitched sound when breathing, even while just sitting or resting.

• You see indentations between or under your baby’s ribs when breathing.

• Your baby younger than 3 months has a fever (temperature greater than 100.4 F or 38 C).

“All these diseases can be prevented by washing your hands and your baby’s hands often with soap and water, or using alcohol-based hand sanitizers for older children, staying away from adults and children who are sick, and making sure your baby gets all the recommended vaccines, including the flu shot,” says Pena. While you’re at it, get a flu shot yourself, too.

BACTERIAL INFECTIONS M

any common babyhood illnesses, from strep throat to whooping cough, are caused by bacteria. “For bacterial infections, recommendations in terms of how to prevent them are the same as for viral infections,” says Pena. The main difference between these illnesses and viral infections: Bacterial illnesses require either oral or topical treatment, and an office visit is usually required.

STREP THROAT About 3 in 10 sore throats are strep throat, caused by streptococcal bacteria. Strep throat causes severe throat pain, fever, and swollen glands in the neck. Strep

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Boston Parents Paper | September 2020

throat is less common in babies than in older children; babies with strep throat may be extra fussy or disinterested in eating.

WHEN TO GO

If you suspect strep throat, contact your baby’s healthcare provider, since this bacterial infection requires treatment. Additionally, contact your baby’s doctor if: • If your baby has a fever of at least 101 F or 38.5 C. • If your baby doesn’t want to eat or drink anything.

• Call 911 if your baby has trouble breathing or swallowing, is drooling much more than usual or has a stiff of swollen neck.

EXPERT ADVICE SCARLET FEVER The same bacteria that cause strep throat can also cause scarlet fever, a condition that causes a red rash. Children with scarlet fever usually have a sore throat along with a spotty, red, sandpaper-like rash on the head and neck that spreads to the body, arms and legs. Your baby’s tongue may appear bright red with white spots.

WHEN TO GO

Scarlet fever is treated with antibiotics, so it’s important to call your baby’s healthcare provider if your baby has a sore throat accompanied by a rash.

As with strep throat, seek medical attention if: • If your baby has a fever of at least 101 F or 38.5 C. • If your baby doesn’t want to eat or drink anything.

• Call 911 if your baby has trouble breathing or swallowing, is drooling much more than usual or has a still or swollen neck.

IMPETIGO When bacteria get into cuts and scrapes, a skin infection called impetigo can cause red, painful bumps on the skin, usually on the face, arms, or legs.

These bumps go on to form blisters before scabbing over; scabs are often yellow, gold, or brown.

lingers and gets worse after other symptoms resolve.

This illness is preventable through vaccination; children should get 5 doses of the whooping cough vaccine by age 6.

WHEN TO GO

Whooping cough requires treatment with antibiotics for the person with the illness as well as family members, even if they’re not sick. After your baby begins antibiotic treatment, watch for the following signs that may require another doctor visit: • Your baby develops a fever.

• Your baby vomits repeatedly from coughing.

• Your baby loses interest in eating or drinking.

• Your baby appears dehydrated with fewer than 4-6 wet diapers in 24 hours.

If you still have questions about when to go, pick up the phone. Caregivers should always call their baby’s healthcare provider any time they have questions or concerns about their baby’s health, says Pena. Here’s to a healthier first year with fewer sick days—for the entire family.

Malia Jacobson is a health and family journalist, author of “Ready, Set, Sleep: 50 Ways to Help Your Baby Sleep So You Can Sleep Too” and host of the Sleep Well Stay Well podcast.

WHEN TO GO

Call your baby’s doctor if you suspect impetigo; the condition requires treatment with antibiotics to avoid spreading the illness to others. More reasons to call your baby’s doctor: • If sores continue to spread after beginning antibiotic treatment.

• If sores don’t begin to improve 24 hours after beginning treatment.

WHOOPING COUGH Also called pertussis, whooping cough is an infection that causes a severe cough that can last for weeks and months. The distinctive “whoop” sound occurs when someone tries to breathe after a coughing attack, but not everyone with whooping cough will make the sound, says Pena. Symptoms include sneezing, runny nose, and a cough that

September 2020 | BostonParentsPaper.com

23

By Alyson Young Gregory

Things to Do t is time to get out of the house, get some fresh air and safely explore local adventures with your family. Not sure what to do?

Hereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a selection of 21 outdoor adventures just outside your doorstep, chock-full with learning and stimulation!

#1 Allens Pond Wildlife Sanctuary SEPTEMBER 5TH & 12TH Westport â&#x20AC;&#x201D;Join the butterfly brigade at Allens Pond Wildlife Sanctuary and register for the free 16th annual Butterfly Census to count butterflies across multiple habitats!

Registration required.

massaudubon.org

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Boston Parents Paper | September 2020

PHOTOS: WIKIMEDIA COMMONS DADEROT

#2 Greenway Carousel

Boston —Take a spin on Boston’s famed Greenway Carousel in the heart of the city. Did you know these magnificent, hand-carved New England animals were all inspired by the imaginations of Boston school children? Find your favorite, and let your spirit soar.

rosekennedygreenway.org

#3 Drumlin Farm’s Apple Honey Harvest

SEPTEMBER 16TH Lincoln — Make a bee-line for Drumlin Farm’s Apple Honey Harvest where you can meet the bees and taste delicious honey and apple pairings, then try your hand at some apple crafts. Stories will be shared and songs will be sung!

Advance registration required. massaudubon.org September 2020 | BostonParentsPaper.com

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21 Things to Do

#4 Drumlin Farm Wildlife Sanctuary

SEPTEMBER 19TH Lincoln — Discover the wonder that comes from observing birds at the All About Birds event hosted by Drumlin Farm Wildlife Sanctuary.

Meet a variety of finefeathered friends, join a naturalist on a bird walk, and take home your own bird craft.

massaudubon.org

#5 Plimouth Plantation and Mayflower II SEPTEMBER 20TH Plymouth — Step back in time at Plimoth Plantation and attend the Pilgrim Doll Making workshop to learn how to make a 17th-century poppet just like the pilgrims did! All supplies included. plimoth.org Plus, Mayflower II returned to her home port in Plymouth on August 10th. The ship is ready to welcome visitors to check out the refurbished beauty. For more information and updates visit:

plimoth.org/mayflowervoyage

#6 Allens Pond Field Station

SEPTEMBER 26TH Westport — Want to learn more about the famed monarch butterfly? Sign up for the Monarch Tagging event at Allens Pond field station where you’ll find out how to handle and tag them, and understand more about this migration mystery through scientific investigations.

massaudubon.org 26

Boston Parents Paper | September 2020

PHOTO: WIKIMEDIA COMMONS MASSDOT

#7 Shining Sea Bikeway

Cape Cod — Return to one of life’s simplest pastimes on the Shining Sea Bikeway for a casual, coastal family ride from Falmouth to Woods Hole on a wide, flat path perfect for every age. Beautiful views the whole way through take you past seashore, inland marshes, beautiful neighborhoods, woods, and more for a truly unforgettable day. No bike?

Local rentals of every kind abound!

#8 Salt Pond Visitor’s Center Cape Cod — Share an off-the-grid day with

your family on one of Cape Cod National Seashore’s hiking trails. Check in at the Salt Pond Visitor Center in Eastham and venture out onto the 1.3 mile Nauset Marsh Trail for a walk that crosses woods, fields, and a breathtaking salt marsh. Want to hear some waves crash? Take the 1-mile trail extension to Coast Guard Beach, or start from the Doane Picnic Area (parking lot available) and walk just the extension.

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21 Things to Do

#10 Blooming Cranberry Bog

Milton — Visit the outdoor animal exhibits at Blue Hills Trailside Museum to learn about nature and native animals. Bring some duck feed, meet the resident snowy owl, and walk the nearby trails.

massaudubon.org

West Barnstable — Have you ever

imagined what it would it be like to float in a sea of cranberries? See a blooming cranberry bog during growing or harvest season and learn about one of Cape Cod’s most important industries from a grower with 30 years of experience on a small group cranberry tour.

508-237-5478.

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45 Matignon Road, Cambridge, MA admissions@isbos.org | 617-499-1459

28

Boston Parents Paper | September 2020

OWL PHOTO: COURTESY MASSAUDUBON

#9 Blue Hills Trailside Museum

#11 Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum Boston — Take the family on a revolutionary

experience at The Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum where you can step back in time to a 1773 meeting house, storm aboard 18th century sailing vessels, and even throw some tea into Boston Harbor!

PHOTO: WIKIMEDIA COMMONS ROBERT LINSDELL

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#12 Lookout Farm Natick — What better way to kick off the

harvest season than with a family visit to a local apple orchard? Get inspired by your favorite apple-filled recipes, then make a U-pick weekend reservation at Lookout Farm. Check out the curbside market pickup menu before you go— it’s never too early for an apple cider doughnut! lookoutfarm.com

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Learn more: wellan.org Toddler–Grade 8 | Newton Centre, MA Need-based financial aid is available September 2020 | BostonParentsPaper.com

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#14 Spectacle Island

Natick — Experience a private, Naturalist-led

Boston — Leave the mainland behind and

nature tour at Broadmoor Wildlife Sanctuary for an up-close outdoor exploration that unlocks the mysteries of plants, animals, and ecosystems. Sign-up with another family to split the cost, and choose from Marsh Wonders, Magic Pool in the Forest, and Field Mysteries! Max 10 people.

massaudubon.org

daytrip to Spectacle Island via round-trip ferry passage from Boston’s Long Wharf terminal. Hike the trails for a (more) spectacular view of Boston Harbor and spend a couple of hours relaxing on the serene beach a world away from the urban hustle. Know before you go: Beach is rocky, bring water shoes. bostonharborislands.org

SCHOOLS & CHILDCARE CENTERS

Learn more about 2020 Fall Semester Reopening at bardacademy.simons-rock.edu.

High School. Reimagined.

Bard Academy at Simon’s Rock is the nation’s first two-year high school.

Our 9th- and 10th-graders pursue a curriculum taught by college faculty and enter Bard College at Simon’s Rock after the 10th grade.

Bard Academy at Simon’s Rock | 84 Alford Road, Great Barrington, MA 01230 | bardacademy.simons-rock.edu

30

Boston Parents Paper | September 2020

BROADMOOR PHOTO: COURTESY MASSAUDUBON

#13 Broadmoor Wildlife Sanctuary

PHOTO WIKIMEDIA COMMONS: BEYOND MY KEN

21 Things to Do

Mendon — Visit the 1950’s

#15 Mendon Twin Drive-In

HASSOCKY MEADOW TRAIL WIKIMEDIA COMMONS: BOTTEVILLE

Mendon Twin Drive-In movie theatre and tune your car radio to the giant screen for a night of old-fashioned family fun. Arrive early and visit the nostalgicfashioned snack bar popping fresh popcorn. Pop over to the ice cream window for another treat under the stars. mendondrivein.com

Topsfield — Become a nature detective

at the Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary, and explore the wetlands and habitats along the riverbank trails that wind through the sanctuary. Want to make it official? Download a free wildlife scavenger hunt activity sheet and grab a magnifying glass before you go.

Don’t forget the bird seed—chickadees will eat from your hand! massaudubon.org

#16 Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary

SCHOOLS & CHILDCARE CENTERS

Fall Virtual Open Houses

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Wednesday, October 28 To receive a Zoom link to these virtual open houses, email admission director Tricia Moran and a link will be sent to you.

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THE TOBIN SCHOOL Preschool – Kindergarten 73 Cottage Street • Natick, MA 01760 508-655-5006 • www.thetobinschool.org

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TOBIN CHILDREN’S SCHOOL Infants – PreK 71 Cottage Street • Natick, MA 01760 508-653-6300 • www.tobinchildrensschool.org

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childcare & preschool GUIDE From Babies to Toddlers to Preschool

TOBIN SCHOOL WESTWOOD PreK & Junior K 1054 High Street • Westwood, MA 02090 781-329-7775 • www.tobinschoolwestwood.org WESTWOOD CHILDREN’S SCHOOL Infants – Preschool 808 High Street • Westwood, MA 02090 781-329-7766 • www.westwoodchildrensschool.org www.thEtobiNFAmilYoFsChools.org

September 2020 | BostonParentsPaper.com

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21 Things to Do

#17 Marshfield Drive-in Marshfield — Head south of the city to

one of Massachusetts‘ newest DriveIns located on the historic Marshfield fairgrounds and extend your summer with an outdoor family movie night!

Showtimes start when it gets dark so kids won’t be up too late, and snack bar serves food throughout the show.

marshfielddrivein.com

Concord — Rent a canoe or kayak at the familyowned South Bridge Boat House and float down the ever-so-tranquil Sudbury, Assabet, and Concord Rivers past beautiful countryside, stately homes, and woodlands. Set your course for the historic North Bridge for a leisurely 1.5 to 2-hour round trip and keep your eyes peeled for sunning turtles and blue herons along the riverbank.

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Your wellness matters to us! Travel over to plimoth.org for our most up-to-date hours and programs, the latest on the newly restored Mayflower, and information about the steps we’re taking to create a healthy, safe and fun visit.

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PHOTO: WIKIMEDIA COMMONS: J. REDDOCH

#18 South Bridge Boat House

#19 Discovery Woods Acton — Go on the coolest,

greatest nature adventure ever at Discovery Woods, the all-outdoor exhibit at Discovery Museum.

Climb up a ginormous treehouse built by the DIY network’s The Treehouse Guys, go native in the nature playscape, and run amok in the Great Hill Conservation Area.

PHOTOS COURTESY JESSICA CRONIN PHOTOGRAPHY

discoveryacton.org

September 2020 | BostonParentsPaper.com

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21 Things to Do

#20 The Great Goat Experience Barnstable ­— Sign up for The Great Goat Experience hosted by a small Cape Cod farm certified wildlife habitat in Barnstable for a truly unique outing. Tour the beautiful land abundant with fruit trees and flowers, feed the goats, Stella and Bella, oak leaves right from your hands, and even learn to make goat milk soap! Lather up back home with your take-home sample. airbnbexperiences

#21 Old Sturbridge Village

Sturbridge — Time travel with your

family to the 19th-century at Old Sturbridge Village where kids’ admission is free through September 7th. Experience authentic New England on the farm, in the gardens, and in trade shops all in a day’s visit. Want to offer your children the opportunity to join in? Pre-register for the September 11th Homeschool Day for hands-on workshops.

osv.org

Review current policies in accordance with Massachusetts reopening guidelines and the evolving Coronavirus pandemic.

34

Boston Parents Paper | September 2020

PHOTOS COURTESY OSV.ORG

Alyson Young Gregory is a native New Yorker, and Bostonbased freelance writer, mother, and Holistic Health Educator specializing in Ayurveda. She has a passion for maximizing vitality through nutrition based on environment and individual body constitution for all ages, supporting children’s wellness policies, and finding inspiring local activities for families.

September 2020 | BostonParentsPaper.com

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Boston Parents Paper | September 2020