JANUARY 2017
Wise Choices for Moms & Families
© JoAnn LeBoeuf Photography
BAYOU REGION
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Wise Choices for You & Your Family
Children’s Clothing Girls : Pre -16 Boys : Pre-8
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Shy Kids
HOO’s PARENTING
If your child is shy, venturing into situations like a crowded birthday party can be challenging. Your child may not want to leave your side and perhaps just looks at people who try to have a conversation with him. For some kids, being shy is a personality trait and not a cause for worry. However, a child who acts shy but seems angry and unhappy may be hiding from others due to low self-esteem. Here are some tips to help your shy child successfully cope with new situations he will encounter as he grows and develops. SHY BUT HAPPY CHILD If your child is shy but seems to be selfconfident and happy, he just needs your gentle coaching to help him cope with new social situations. It is part of his personality to be reserved when meeting others and to choose his friends carefully. A shy child who is happy and confident probably is very caring, kind and empathetic, and others enjoy being around him. There is no reason to try to change his personality but you can provide him with the coping skills he needs to ease into social situations that might be difficult for him. LARGE FAMILY GATHERINGS If your shy child is attending a family gathering or a wedding that will be crowded with relatives he does not know, discuss the event with him ahead of time. Let him know that he does not have to have a long conversation when someone speaks to him but you at least expect him to be polite and offer responses. When you arrive at the wedding, set an example and model good social skills by being friendly to other guests you don’t know. PLAYDATES If your shy child has difficulty interacting with his peers in large groups, help him work on his social skills by inviting one or two friends over for a playdate. Give him some positive feedback when you do notice him doing a
good job building new relationships with his peers, and if he does run into difficulty, gently give him some suggestions on how he could have approached the situation differently. Gradually add more kids to these planned gatherings and offer suggestions that may make him more comfortable about joining in. However, allow him to decide when he is ready to join in, instead of forcing him to participate. SHY BUT ANGRY CHILD Some kids have low self-esteem and label themselves as shy to avoid having to interact with others. They are afraid others won’t like them. These kids are not just shy, they are angry and withdrawn. They seem to have a storm brewing inside of them, and won’t make eye contact when spoken to. If this is similar to your child, first try building up his self-esteem. Talk with your child to see what is causing his anger and dislike of himself. Use positive methods of disciplining him, so that you don’t reinforce his anger and self-dislike and be sure to praise him when he does something well. Once you have increased his confidence, he may be willing to use his social skills. If you find you are at a standstill and are having difficulty resolving your child’s angry feelings, you may need to seek the help of a professional.
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Wise Choices for You & Your Family
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Tammy Usie Publisher
sDigest.com
Sales@FamilyandKid
253-212-7270 Cell
Dear Parents of Terrebonne & Lafourche Parishes, Welcome to your handy, local, parenting resource guide. I hope you will find lots of helpful choices on products and services for you and your family, along with some informative articles, fun features, handy resources and things to do. If you like our magazine, then you’ll enjoy our website too, www.FamilyAndKidsDigest.com. There you can read our digital magazine and use our ONLINE SHOPPING DIRECTORY. This virtual buying guide will provide you with a list of local, family-friendly businesses that we intend to grow into something more comprehensive in time. Plus with the ability for consumers to leave reviews on these businesses, it will help other parents make buying decisions. I invite you to go leave a few reviews to help us build this resource and share them with other parents like yourself.
AD DEADLINES
1st of the Month for the Next Month’s Issue
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HOO KNOWS SPECIAL FEATURES Hoo’s crafty.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 23
Hoo’s Knew?.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 7
HOO’S Fit.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 29
Hoo’s Hungry.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 8
HOO’S Fun.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 13 & 19
Hoo’s inspired.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 9
HOO’S healthy.. . . . . . . . . . . . . page 18 & 25
HOO’S Learning.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 30
HOO KNOWS® Community Digest does not assume responsibility for products and services listed in this magazine. Ads may not be reproduced, in any way, without written consent. HOO KNOWS® is a trademark of Cinah Media Group LLC. For information on operating your own digest, contact us at 1-888-HOO-5609.
Where to Find HOO? Check your local kid-friendly doctors, dentists, attractions, retail shops and restaurants. Plus grocery stores, coffee shops, and many more places of business in Terrebonne and Lafourche Parishes. Plus read our digital edition at:
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Where confidence,
discipline, determination and
friendships are forged. Jiu-Jitsu • Kickboxing • MMA Kids Classes for 3-14 • Skillz Fit
5756 W Main St, Houma / 985-303-0170
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SHOPPING GUIDE healthcare
Activities Alstarz Cheerleading Academy........ 20 Bayou Country Children’s Museum.. 11 Bayouland YMCA......................................5 Blacklist Martial Arts & Fitness...........5 Bricks 4 Kidz........................................... 20 Brushworks Art & Music..................... 23 Creative U................................................. 20 Greenwood Gator Farm & Tours........ 24 Gymnastics Development Center..... 28 James Academy of Gymnastics........ 22 Mix It Up....................................................15 Tiger-Rock.................................................15
Childcare/ education TELL THEM St. Bernadette Catholic.........................31 St. Genevieve Catholic...........................31 SENT YOU! St. Joseph Catholic................................ 28 St. Matthew’s Episcopal....................... 29 Sylvan Learning..................................... 24 The Learning Ladder................................7
Breast Care Center.................................. 11 Center for Pediatric Therapy.................7 Coastal Urgent Care.............................. 27 Ellender Orthodontics.............................5 Pelican Medical Supply..........................7 Thieler Orthodontics.............................12 Total Urgent Care....................................18
Shopping/ Retail Clearwater Pools & Spas.......................19 Downtown Houma................................... 9 Felger’s Foot Wear..................................12 JoAnn LeBoeuf Photography............. 24 Lil’ Sweet Pea’s Boutique........................2 Southland Mall....................................... 32
Food & beverage Chick-fil-A on MLK.................................12
PARENT’S ONLINE SHOPPING GUIDE
www.FamilyAndKidsDigest.com
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HOO knew?
Wacky U.S. Laws In Hartford, Connecticut, you may not, under any circumstances, walk across the street on your hands.
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In Morrisville, Pennsylvania, women need a legal permit before they can wear lipstick out in public.
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Every citizen in Kentucky is required by law to take a bath at least once a year.
It is illegal for boys in the ninth grade to grow a mustache in Binghamton, New York.
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In Omaha, Nebraska, it’s against the law to burp or sneeze while in church.
Mailing an entire building has been illegal in the United States since 1916, when a man mailed a forty-thousand-ton brick house across Utah, to avoid high freight rates.
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In Texas, it is considered illegal to put graffiti on someone else’s cow.
It is illegal in Columbus, Georgia, to carve your initials into a tree, even if it’s yours.
HOO’S PLUGGED IN WWW.familyandkidsdigest.COM
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Wise Choices for You & Your Family
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Tammy Usie creative boutique & brokerage
MARKETING l DESIGN l SALES l EVENTS 253.212.7270 TammyUsie@gmail.com
HOO’s HUNGRY ELSA’S FAVORITE
HOT CHOCOLATE
This recipe is simple, delicious, and the amazing color makes it almost too beautiful to drink. I can’t wait to make it on our next movie night.
DIRECTIONS In a small pot over med/low heat...heat the milk and white chocolate chips. Bring to a simmer, stirring the whole time. Do not bring to a boil. Stir until all the chocolate chips have fully melted. Remove from the heat. Stir in vanilla and 3 drops of food coloring. Serve in a clear fancy glass, so your littles can enjoy the beautiful blue color, top with whipped cream and finally garnish with sprinkles and maybe a fancy straw. Best if enjoyed with your favorite winter movies!
INGREDIENTS • 1/2 Cup White Chocolate Chips • 1 3/4 Cup Milk • 1/4 TSP Vanilla Extract • Neon Blue Food Coloring • Whipped Cream • Frozen Inspired Sprinkles
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HOO’s INSPIRED
Grandparents KEEPING IN TOUCH WITH
There's no arguing grandparents have special relationships with their grandchildren. But as with all relationships, they only grow stronger by the efforts you make to keep them. Here are a few ideas to help you keep in better touch. PLAY GAMES ONLINE TOGETHER Technology can be a wonderful way for different generations to connect long-distance. Beyond phone and video calls, schedule time for grandkids and grandparents to play virtually. There are numerous programs that let players in different locations challenge each other to cards, checkers, chess, interactive sketching and more. SCHEDULE WEEKLY PHONE CALLS Making a weekly phone date ensures everyone stays in touch, and gives both parties a connection time to look forward to all week.
READ A BOOK TOGETHER The written word has a way of bringing people together. Pull up video calling for the whole family to read a goodnight story together. Older kids can select a series of interest with their grandparents and read at the same time, meeting each week via a video/ phone for a discussion. Perhaps family members can take turns selecting books to share. PEN PAL EXCHANGES In a digital world, it's rare to receive letters. However, kids love to get mail, so why not start a pen pal exchange?
Small kids can color pictures while big kids can practice penmanship and writing skills. Everyone will love receiving fun surprises in the mail from each other. Strive to send items on a regular basis. VIDEO PERFORMANCES If you cannot connect in-person, send a video performance! Whether it's the year's dance recital choreography, practicing a new tune on the piano, or acting out a fun play, kids will enjoy showing off and grandparents will feel extra loved.
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Wise Choices for You & Your Family
HOO’S at the Movies 10
MONSTER TRUCKS PG | Ok for kids 7+ Tripp (Lucas Till), a high school senior, builds a Monster Truck from bits and pieces of scrapped cars. After an accident at an oil-drilling site displaces a strange creature with a taste for speed, Tripp may have found a most unlikely friend. Melding cutting edge visual effects and CGI, Monster Trucks is an action-filled adventure that will keep you on the edge of your seat and touch your heart. Directed by Chris Wedge, starring Lucas Till, Danny Glover, Rob Lowe and Amy Ryan.
A dog’s purpose PG | Ok for kids 8+ Based on the beloved bestselling novel by W. Bruce Cameron, “A Dog’s Purpose,” from director Lasse Hallström (“The Cider House Rules,” “Dear John,” “The 100-Foot Journey”), shares the soulful and surprising story of one devoted dog (voiced by Josh Gad) who finds the meaning of his own existence through the lives of the humans he teaches to laugh and love. This family film told from the dog’s perspective also stars Dennis Quaid, Britt Robertson and Peggy Lipton.
hidden figures PG | Ok for kids 9+ Directed by Theodore Melfi, “Hidden Figures” is the incredible untold story of Katherine G. Johnson (Taraji P. Henson), Dorothy Vaughan (Octavia Spencer) and Mary Jackson (Janelle Monáe). These brilliant African-American women working at NASA served as the brains behind one of the greatest operations in history: the launch of astronaut John Glenn into orbit. This achievement restored the nation’s confidence, turned around the Space Race, and galvanized the world. Also stars Kevin Costner, Kirsten Dunst, Jim Parsons, Mahershala Ali, Aldis Hodge and Glen Powell.
NEW ON DVD | BLU-RAY: harry and snowman NR | Ok for kids 13+ Follows the story of Dutch immigrant Harry deLeyer and his relationship with a broken down Amish plow horse –named Snowman – that he rescued off a truck bound for the glue factory. In less than two years, Harry and Snowman would go on to win the triple crown of show jumping, beating the nation’s blue bloods and traveling the world together as they became the media darlings of the 1950s and 60s. Their chance meeting at a Pennsylvania horse auction saved them both and crafted a friendship that would last a lifetime, as told by 86-year-old Harry firsthand.
i’m not ashamed PG-13 | Ok for kids 14+ Columbine High School student Rachel Joy Scott grew up knowing the love of God but wasn’t always ready to receive it. At times her faith is strong, but at other times, she finds that it’s at odds with her daily life. After a difficult breakup with her non-believing boyfriend, Rachel finds inspiration from a formerly homeless teen, and her renewed commitment to Christ plays out powerfully at her high school and around the world. Based on a true story.
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166 Corporate Dr, Houma 985-858-3333
Caring for women is a
WAY OF LIFE for us.
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Wise Choices for You & Your Family
Braces for Children, Teenagers, and Adults 2016 READERS’ CHOICE AWARD WINNER
Nicole Thieler, DDS, MSD 206 Mystic Boulevard Houma, LA 70360
Call for a complimentary consultation!
(985) 876-4484 www.thielerorthodontics.com
HOO’s Fun
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Winter Word Search
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Dining Deals
Wise Choices for You & Your Family
With deals this good, save the mess and dine out!
MONDAY Cajun Critters. 1029 W Tunnel Blvd, Houma. Kids eat free from kids’ menu. Balloon art and face painting. El Paso Mexican Grill. 602 N Canal Blvd, Thibodaux. Kids10 and under. Free kid’s meal with adult entrée. Face painting. IHOP. 1719 MLK Blvd, Houma. 4-9pm. Free kid’s meal with adult entrée. La Casa Del Sol. 141 Westover Rd. Thibodaux. 5-8pm. Kids’ meals $2.99 for12 and under. Face painting.
Sicily’s Buffet. 1539 MLK Blvd, Houma. Up to 2 free kids’ buffets for kids 12 and under with paid adult.
wednesday Big Mike’s BBQ. 3034 Barrow St, Houma. From 4pm to close. Kids’ meals $.99. El Paso Mexican Grill. 4560 Louisiana 1, Raceland. 6-8pm. Free balloon art and face painting.
thursday Dynasty Buffet. 6425 West Park Ave, Houma. Kids 3-6 eat free. Free balloon art and face painting.
Santa Fe Cattle Company. 632 Canal Blvd, Thibodaux. Kids 12 and under. Free kid’s meal with adult entrée.
sunday
Tuesday
Crabby Crab. 5726 LA 1, Lockport. Free ice cream for kids, live mermaid, balloon art and facepainting from 6-8pm.
Applebee’s.1039 W Tunnel Blvd, Houma. Kids eat free from kids’ menu from 3-9pm (1 kid per adult). Chick-fil-A. 1741 MLK Blvd, Houma. Free 4 count kid’s meal with any meal purchase from 5-8pm. First Tuesday of each month is Kid’s Craft Night. Golden Corral.1724 MLK Blvd, Houma. Free balloon art and face painting. La Casa Del Sol. 4647 Louisiana 1, Raceland and 169 Monarch Dr, Houma. 5-8pm. Kids’ meals $2.99 for12 and under. Pepper’s Pizzeria. 600 W 3rd St, Thibodaux. Kids 12 and under get $1.99 pizza and free ice cream. Santa Fe Cattle Company. 632 Canal Blvd, Thibodaux. Kids 12 and under. Free kid’s meal with adult entrée.
everyday Foundry on The Bayou. 15 West 1st St, Thibodaux. For brunch (10:30am-2pm), free ice cream for kids and free face painting. Dave’s Cajun Kitchen. 6240 West Main, Houma. Kids 10 & under get kid’s meal for $.99 with a purchase of a drink. Dinner only.
Specials are subject to change without notice. Please verify them directly before dining. “Family & Kids” and the restaurants listed accept no liability, so please call them first to verify. If you know of a kid’s special not listed here, contact Sales@FamilyAndKidsDigest.com.
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We thoroughly enjoyed the party and our guests did too. They were entertained the entire 90 minutes. Fabulous job! -Jill
PA R T I E S C O O K I N G C L A S S E S C A M P S
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JANUARY Legend: TM - Terrebonne Main Library TD - Thibodaux
3 Craft night at Chick-fil-A on 11 MLK, Houma. 5-8pm.
4 Magna Tiles Playtime. Ages 2+. 11am. TD. 4 Pokémon Gym. TM. 4pm.
Open play to build decks, trade and battle.
5 Crafternoons. 4pm. TM. PreK-6th. “Birdnests.” RSVP 876-5861. 6 Open Gym. Alstarz Cheer.
6-9pm. $10. 13347 W Main St, Larose. 985-693-7109.
Virtual Reality Demos. 4pm. TM.
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Holiday Camp. Martial Arts Studio. 7:15am-6pm. 985-772-1861.
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Tween Night. 6-9pm. TD. Ages 11-15. Dinner, craft, games. RSVP 447-4119.
14 Free Art Classes. Down-
town Art Gallery 630. Classes 10am-noon for grades 2-5 and 1:30-3:30pm for grades 6-12. 630 Belanger St, Houma. RSVP 985-851-2198.
19 Crafternoons. 4pm. TM. PreK-6th. “Squirrel Homes.” RSVP 876-5861. 20 Pokémon Gym. TM. 4pm. Open play to build decks, trade and battle. 20 Open Gym. Alstarz Cheer. 6-9pm. $10. 13347 W Main St, Larose. 985-693-7109. 20 Secret Life of Pets Par-
ents’ Night Out. Mix It Up. 6-9pm. RSVP 985-868-3534.
20-22 Southern LA Boat, Sport & RV Show. Houma Civic Center. Fri 12-8p, Sat 10-8p, Sun 11-5p. $8, kids free w/ adult.
6 Pokémon Gym. TM. 4pm. Open play to build decks, trade and battle.
14 American Star Brunch &
7 Community garage sale at Bayouland YMCA. 7am-noon. 985-873-9622 to reserve a booth.
14 Movie Madness: Finding 21
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Family Craft. 10am. TD. Family Scrapbook. RSVP 4474119.
7 LEGO Robotics. TD. 11am for 2nd-3rd grade and 3pm for 4-7th grade. RSVP 447-4119. 8 Noise Makers: Movement and Music. TM. 3pm. Build reading skills with movement. 9 Pokémon League. 4pm. TD. Ages 10+. 10
Celebrate Int. Creativity Month. 10am. TD. Make a flower chime.
Doll Fashion Show. Mix It Up. 10a-12p. RSVP 985-868-3534. Dory. 1pm. TD.
16 Emoji Cupcake Wars. Mix It Up. 9-11am. RSVP 985-8683534.
Adult Night/ Seafood Bisque. Mix It Up. 6:308:30pm. RSVP 985-868-3534.
21 LEGO Club. TM. 11am and 3pm. All ages.
16 Holiday Camp. Martial Arts Studio. 7:15am-6pm. 985-772-1861.
21 LEGO Robotics. Ages 8+. 10am. TD. RSVP 447-4119.
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TM. All ages.
Reptile Camp. BCCM. 9am-3pm. Bccm.info.
18 Hoopla for Kids Demo.
11am. TD. How to use for shows, books and comics with library card.
18 MoboRobo Robotics Lab for 4-6th grade. TM. 4pm. RSVP 876-5861.
22 Create! With Yarn. 3pm. 25 Craftganza. 4pm. TM. 4th grade and up. “Puzzle Piece Plaques.” RSVP 876-5861 25 MoboRobo Robotics Lab for PreK-3rd. TM. 4pm. RSVP 876-5861. 27 Dancercize. 4pm. TM. All ages.
Y EVENTS
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Branch Library BCCM - Bayou Country Children’s Museum
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Storytime with craft. TD. 10:30am. All ages welcome.
Exercise class. 11am. TD. Style varies.
Baby OHM/ Prenatal Yoga. Anela’s. 4pm. 7720 Main St, Houma. anelaslounge.com.
SATURDAY
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THURSDAY
Thibodaux Main Street Market. 8am-12:30pm next to Jean Lafitte Park. Buy fresh, buy local.
MONDAY
Toddler Storytime. 19 mon-3 years. TM. 2pm.
TUESDAY
Free kids’ yoga. Anela’s. 6:30pm. 7720 Main St, Houma. anelaslounge.com
Kids’ Club. Michael’s, Houma. 10am-12pm. $2. Adult required. 985-872-3132.
Signature King Cakes Parent/Child Class. Mix It Up. 10a-12p. RSVP 985-868-3534. Monster Jam. 7pm. Smoothie King Center. Tickets at monsterjam.com.
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Family Movie Matinee: Finding Dory. 3pm. TM.
WEEKLY EVENTS Toddler Time. TM. 10am and 6pm for 19mon-3yrs. (not 9/3) Storytime. TM. 10am for newborns-18mon, and 6pm for 4-8 year olds and their families. (not on 25th) Family storytime. 6pm. TM. 4-8yr olds & families. Tales for Tots. 10:30pm. bccm.info
BCCM.
Interactive Storytime for infants and toddlers. TD. 10:30am.
Prenatal yoga. Anela’s. 6pm. anelaslounge.com. Computer instruction classes. 2pm. TD. RSVP 447-4119. English as a second language. TM. 6:30pm.
FRIDAY
Bingo. TD. 10am. All ages. Prizes awarded.
Wiggle, Move & Giggle. BCCM. 1:30pm. bccm.info
Board Game night. TD. 5pm. All ages. Prizes awarded. Snacks provided.
Open Gym. JAG. 7-9pm. $7$10 for non members. Adult required for ages 5 and under. 308 Venture Blvd, Houma. 985-851-3001.
WEDNESDAY
Storytime for PreK-3rd grade. TM. 10am. Pre-K storytime. TM. 10am for 3-5 year olds.
Open Gym. LA Sports Gym. 6:30-9pm. $10. Toddler Time 10am-noon. $7. Kids 4 and under. 544 S Hollywood Rd, Houma. 985-580-9746.
Lafourche Central Market. Farmers, fishermen, artisans and activities. 8a-noon.
Build and Grow Clinic. Lowe’s, Houma. 10am. Free. RSVP lowes.com/buildandgrow. 985-223-7575. Kids’ Workshop. Home Depot, Houma. 9am-12pm. Ages 5-12. Adult required. Free. RSVP homedepot.com/workshops/kids-workshops. 985223-1485. Please call ahead to confirm event dates, times and age appropriateness, in case changes were made after the info was obtained.
LIBRAR Y ACTIVITIES Terrebonne Parish
http://mytpl.evanced.info/signup/ EventCalendar.aspx
Lafourche Parish
www.lafourche.org Click on Locations & Contacts
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Wise Choices for You & Your Family
Close to home, far from ordinary.
Because we live in this community, too. Committed to a healthier hometown.
We’re open after hours and seven days a week with experienced medical staff committed to helping you and your loved ones stay healthy. 314 Hwy 3162 • Cut Off, LA 70345 (985) 632-1820 Mon-Fri 8AM-8PM • Sat-Sun 8AM-5PM MyTotalUrgentCare.com
HOO’s HEALTHY
COLD & FLU MYTHS Colds and flu are upper respiratory illnesses caused by viruses. There is no cure for colds or the flu, so prevention is important. However, there are some misconceptions about these illnesses that seem to persist. Let’s clear those up so you have the best chance possible of keeping your family happy and healthy during cold and flu season.
MYTH: Once you have had a cold or the flu, you are immune for the rest of the season.
FACT: Yes, keeping your distance from someone displaying symptoms is wise. However, colds and the flu can be contagious even before the person infected shows symptoms. Also, it is possible for flu and cold viruses to live for short periods of time on hard surfaces, like doorknobs. Use frequent hand washing to help prevent the spread of colds and the flu. For everyone 6 months and older, getting a flu shot every year is an important step in preventing the flu.
MYTH: Taking vitamin C or echinacea can help prevent catching colds and the flu.
FACT: Unfortunately there can be more than one variation of the flu virus being passed around during flu season, and just because you catch one version of the virus does not make you immune to all of the different MYTH: If you stay away from people who have cold or strains of flu viruses. The same goes for colds, since there are many different viruses that can cause cold symptoms. flu symptoms, you won’t catch it.
FACT: Vitamin C and echinacea won’t help prevent catching cold or the flu or do much to help to shorten the duration of the illness. However, if you see your doctor right away when you start experiencing flu symptoms, you may be prescribed an anti-viral medication that helps shorten the duration and severity of the flu.
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HOO’s FUN
COPY THE SNOWFLAKE START BY COPYING ONE GRID SQUARE AT A TIME
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Wise Choices for You & Your Family
starting in march Issue
Camp & Activities Guide 20 1 7 advertising deadline
FEb. 1
A Page In A Book www.FamilyAndKidsDigest.com
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Recommending the Best Books for Children and Teens By Gerry P. Smith
Books for When the Mood Strikes
As adults, we have a lifetime to cultivate various coping strategies and ways to minimize the effect our grumpy moments have on those around us. But kids are still new to bad moods and struggling with management of same. Learning ways to keep the peace and resolve issues that bring them down is an important part of growing up. The following titles share lighthearted insights that can help kids work around those times that morph our moods for the worse.
Field Guide to the Grumpasaurus
By Edward Hemingway (Clarion / Houghton Mifflin Harcourt)
The unexpected appearance of the Grumpasaurus can be startling. Its arrival can be triggered by something as simple as a broken toy, but once Badmoodicus Grumpasouricus is on the scene, a savvy observer can spot tell-tale signs that will help them survive in its presence. Sulking may be an early warning sign of pending outbursts (and the repercussions that may follow). Caution is advised when approaching these creatures until they can be calmed. Using this charming field guide, young readers can explore the evolution of a bad mood and recognize the tools that may help send an unwelcome Grumpasaurus on its way.
Meanie Head
By Bruce Eric Kaplan (Simon & Schuster)
When Eve and Henry both reach for the same toy at the same time, their simple disagreement quickly escalates into a sibling conflict of epic proportions. The fighting expands and the coveted toy is thrown, breaking their mother’s lamp. Their feud spreads out of their home, into the neighborhood, and beyond. Fires, bulldozers and opposing football teams enter the fray. Only cool heads can reel in the anger before it goes too far. Uncomplicated illustrations tame the whimsically terrifying effects that can result when a Meanie Head gets the better of us.
How Do Dinosaurs Stay Friends? By Jane Yolen and Mark Teague (Scholastic)
These larger-than-life young dinosaurs are perfect partners to highlight common conflict behaviors that kids struggle with. When these dinosaurs get moody with their friends, the following scowls, shoves and tantrums are comically rendered in super-sized living color. And after the dust settles, solutions and redemption for dinosaur friends are likewise illustrated in adorably helpful ways. By nudging kids to recognize behaviors that affect themselves and others in a negative way, this title gently serves up solutions that can turn bad mood moments around and keep friends, friendly!
Wise Choices for You & Your Family
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HOO’s CUTE
CONTEST Visit our website to enter:
w w w. F a m i l y A n d K i d s D i g e s t . c o m
Claire, 1 year Houma
Knight, 3 years Houma
Meggie, 4 years Labadieville
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HOO’s CRAFTY
SIMPLY STIPPLED
DISH TOWELS
These cute little dish towels are a fun, indoor project to do when it’s too cold for the kids to go outside. They can be kept to admire or gifted to friends and family far or near.
DIRECTIONS
SUPPLIES
Choose a cookie cutter shape and trace it on the back of the contact paper, then cut out the shape.
white dish towels
Peel the back off the contact paper and stick your shape to the bottom end of the dish towel, leaving room for your stippling.
contact paper
Place your towel over a piece off cardboard, then use a pencil eraser to stipple paint around your shapes. Then, just let the paint dry and peel of the contact paper to let your little ones see the beautiful towels they’ve created!
cookie cutters fabric paint new pencils scissors cardboard
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HOO’s HEALTHY
tips for preparing for multiples The number of U.S. parents expecting twins and triplets has reached an all-time high according to the National Center for Health Statistics. Multiple births make up a small portion of births in general, but since 1980, multiples numbers have been on the rise. The number of twins born in the U.S. has increased the most. Along with twice the cuteness comes twice the workload. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) offers parents of multiples some handy preparation tips: Keep in mind that “multiples” are often born early and tend to be smaller than the average newborn. The AAP says parents may need to visit with their pediatrician more often than usual and reach out for help with feeding concerns or strategies. And then there are the diapers- lots and lots of diapers! Go ahead and start purchasing your diapers ahead of time. The more you have stocked away before your little ones are born, the less worries you’ll have about running out when you need them most. Also, you’ll be able to gage about how many you’ll need when you start shopping again. Having multiples also means fitting more safety seats into the car, more clothing, more food and possibly even a larger home! Check out how well your home is going to work for a larger family and plan accordingly. One of the most important things for parents to consider is making sure that each child has their own identity. Multiples may share everything, but they are individuals and should be raised as such. Identical twins, in particular, may seem like a duo, and parents might be tempted to give them the same things and the same amount of attention. But even genetically identical children have different personalities, thoughts and emotions. The AAP urges parents to acknowledge and support their
The
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Kids
Doctor
Sue Hubbard, MD kidsdr.com
differences to help them become happy and secure individuals. If you have other children, remember they need special attention too. It’s easy to overlook the older kids when the new kids on the block are demanding so much attention. As multiples grow, they may form exclusive bonds and may even communicate in a way only they can understand. Sometimes, they become unwilling to seek out other friendships. Giving multiples some time apart can help them develop friendships and ensure that other siblings aren’t left out, the academy says. And efforts to encourage multiples to spend time apart should start early to head off resistance. Most elementary schools place multiples in separate classes, the news release noted. Parents who are concerned about preventing separation anxiety can turn to their pediatrician for advice. Don’t be afraid to ask for help! Multiples demand a lot of attention. If your budget allows, hire someone to clean the house a few days a week. Grandparents, uncles and aunts, or brothers and sisters may be willing to pitch in and give you some much needed down time or date time. Don’t forget about your friends – while you may think it’s too much of an imposition, they may love being able to spend some quality time with your children – then turn them back over to you! Take turns getting up at night for feedings and changings. Giving your spouse a few hours of uninterrupted sleep will do wonders for your relationship. There’s a lot to prepare for when multiples are involved but the rewards are great. It may feel a little overwhelming at first, but eventually you will figure out a routine that works for everyone.
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LIGHT UP THE TOY BOX!
Wise Choices for You & Your Family
Because the human eye naturally seeks out contrast between light and dark, lights are understandably popular additions that inject extra flash into playtime. Adding glowin-the-dark features to toys and games that also motivate a degree of assembly double down on honing kids’ attention to play. Cultivate a child’s focus with the following illuminating choices that command attention as they brighten up the play landscape.
Sands Alive Glow Super Set (Sands Alive)
Sand castle construction rises to a new level with the Sands Alive Glow Super Set. Featuring three pounds of sand that not only glows under black light, but also holds light and designs ‘drawn’ with a UV pen (included), the possibilities for creative sand design are endless. The set comes with a large play tray to minimize mess and includes shape molds, rollers, and special UV glasses so young sand sculptors can review their glowing handiwork in real time. Glow-in-the-dark technology, creativity and traditional sand play combine in an all-inone great play set for kids who like to sink their hands into a good time.
Glow-in-the-Dark Connectagons (Hearthsong)
This Glow-in-the-Dark Celestial Connectagon set includes 157-piece interlocking pieces that feature moon phases, constellations and galaxies rendered in glowing paint. How the parts connect is at the command of the builder – tall and towering, broad and expansive – the universe is theirs to illuminate. The longer the structure is exposed to light, the brighter the features will glow. Just like the universe, the Celestial Connectagon Set is an expanding exploration that punctuates the dark with magical points of light.
Laser Pegs 12-in-1 Race Car Set (Laser Pegs)
Building a car is just one of the possibilities with the Laser Pegs 12-in-1 Race Car Building Set. With eighty-four tinted construction elements and twenty laser pegs, young modelers can craft a rocket, a robot, a submarine and more glowing marvels. Once the models are complete, they easily connect to the battery-operated power base and come to life with hypnotically beautiful illumination. Supporting creative reasoning alongside directed design, this set lights up the modeling landscape with its versatility and bright vision learning.
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Wise Choices for You & Your Family EDUCATION DIRECTORY
• Committed to Academic Rigor & Technology Integration • State of the Art Library, Computer Lab & Promethean Classrooms • Full-Day Pre-K for Four-Year-Olds • Variety of Clubs, Activities & Sports Teams • Attention to Special Academic Needs
501 Cardinal Dr, Thibodaux
•
985-446-1346
stjosephcesthibodaux.org No discrimination is made on the basis of race, sex, religion, national, or ethnic origin and is open to students who share our values and traditions.
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HOO’s FIT EATING FOR
ACADEMIC SUCCESS
POWERFUL PROTEINS
Protein for breakfast and lunch will not only curb hunger pangs throughout the school day, but will also help sustain mental energy and level moods. Kid-friendly ideas include eggs, organic chicken/turkey/beef, non-GMO nitrate-free turkey bacon, and beans. Have leftovers from last night? Dinners traditionally have more protein, so eating last night’s leftovers for breakfast is a good brain-boosting option. INCREDIBLE CARBOHYDRATES
Healthy complex carbohydrates elevate levels of serotonin in the brain, which has a calming effect. Some ideal carbs are brown rice, quinoa and oats.
What do the foods your children eat have to do with the grades they bring home? Surprisingly, more than many people think. Research shows that certain vitamins and nutrients support brain health and development. That means the foods your child consumes can give them an academic edge, in the classroom and in life. coconut oil. Eat more meals with cold-water fish like salmon to get more omega-3 essential fats. MIGHTY NUTS AND SEEDS
These nutritional powerhouses provide generous amounts of calories, fats, complex carbs, protein, vitamins, minerals and fiber. Let kids enjoy making their own seed-nut snack mixes. Also, try swapping traditional peanut butter for other nut butters like almond or cashew. VIVACIOUS VEGGIES AND FRUIT
Real, whole foods like fruits and vegetables support brain health while calming the nervous system during times of stress. Blueberries, raspberries and strawberries are full of antioxidants FANTASTIC FATS Did you know the brain is about 60 percent fat? That and vitamin C, which research shows helps regulate cortisol, a means when your kids eat healthy fats, it can support brain hormone responsible for stress. And don’t forget bananas! Not development and cellular health. Pack snacks with nuts, seeds only are they full of potassium, but they also help the body produce and avocado. Use healthier oils such as extra-virgin olive oil or hormones that help reduce stress and promote better sleep.
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Wise Choices for You & Your Family
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Helping To Develop Their
HOO’s learning
STUDY SKILLS
Try to remember. When you were a student, did you ever ask, “How will grammar (or geometry or social studies) benefit me later in life?” Be honest. Now, return to today. When was the last time you took notes at a meeting? Or prioritized your “to-do” list? Or organized a project from start to finish? The skills you use to do these tasks at work and at home are the same skills you learned and honed in English class (and geometry and social studies). Now, your children are developing those skills that will enable them to read analytically, write and speak expressively and think strategically. And when they ask, “What good is this going to do me?” - you know that it all starts with taking notes in history class, studying for that bio exam and juggling time to accommodate school, sports and social calendars!
Organization, time management, note taking, test taking and strategic reading are all essential study skills that are first introduced to young people in the classroom, but ultimately transfer far beyond school. To help your child develop these skills in a way that is meaningful to them, mainly applying them to their “job” which is school, we have a few tips for you below. Studies show that the more involved parents are with their children’s education, the better the children do in school. What the studies don’t say is that this involvement is not just in the children’s school, but in the children’s lives. Because life is a balance of basic core skills (reading and math) and personal skills, such as communication and responsibility skills (organization and time management), parents need to nourish all of these skills, not just the ones that yield a grade.
ORGANIZATION & TIME MANAGEMENT
TEST TAKING
• Have students use a planning calendar to track daily, weekly and monthly assignments and responsibilities. • Encourage children to break down large, complex tasks into manageable pieces. • Have children prioritize homework and other tasks when they get home from school, then complete the tasks in that order.
• Urge a student to study over a period of days or weeks instead of cramming. • Be sure students go into the test with the right equipment, i.e. calculator, class notes, textbooks or simply a pencil. • Encourage them to answer test questions they know first and then go on to the more challenging questions.
READING
NOTE TAKING
• Encourage them to use all the clues available to them while reading, such as headlines, pictures, captions, charts, tables and graphs. • Urge them to read different types of writing, such as books (fiction and nonfiction), newspapers, magazines, letters and web sites. • Talk with kids after they read a book or article. Have them tell you what the story was about, why it did or didn’t interest them and how it related to their life.
• Don’t panic if a child’s notes look sloppy and disorganized. It’s often just a sign of a student with an active mind who is organizing things in ways that work best for him or her. • Encourage students to review their notes and even rewrite them, if necessary, to be sure they make sense. • As they review their notes, have children identify the most important points and highlight them.
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Excellence
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