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12 n Choosing Childcare
32 n Summer Camps
44 n Wellness Choices
Regulars:
5 n Web Finds / What’s New In The Kid Biz
5 Steps to Develop a Food Allergy Policy for Children with Special Needs by Carolyn Tomlin
46 n Family Flavors
Quick, Comforting Ways to Warm Up Winter in Mere Minutes
47 n The Kiddie Gourmet Farmer’s Daughters’ Diner by Barbara Blackburn
What’s New... IN THE KIDBIZ web.finds
Winter Themed Fun to Cure Cabin Fever
If the winter blahs are setting in and you are looking for some ideas on what to do with the kids, we have found some fun items and crafts to help cure your case of cabin fever!
Winter Snow Ball Making Kit
Want to add some creativity to your next snowball (or next snowball fight)? Check out these fun snowball makers that come in the shapes of ducks, hearts, dinosaurs, and snowmen. Little ones will love to make these adorable snow toys and keep their hands warm at the same time! And in the summer, they can even use these tools at the beach to make unique sand sculptures! (Amazon, $12.99)
Plastic Spoon Snowmen
LAUREL’S LOVE CENTER FOR GRIEF AND HOPE
Popsicle Stick Snowmen
Shruti, at Artsy Craftsy Mom, lives in India and created these cuties. We thought they could be used in a variety of ways. They’d make adorable bookmarks or party favors. Or how about cupcake toppers for a special dessert to spice up Cabin Fever season in Western New York? Just be sure NOT to paint the sticks and use only ONE button, glued SECURELY, if inserting in food (obviously, this item is not a good choice for children 3 and under). You’ll find a materials list and complete instructions at https://artsycraftsymom. com/popsicle-stick-snowman-craft/.
Older kids (or grownups!) will have fun creating these snowmen found at Crafts by Amanda. Paint and decorate small clay pots, insert a block of green floral foam in the bottom in which to insert the spoon handle, wrap white tissue paper around the base of the spoon in the pot, and add white pompoms to look like a pile of snow, securing everything with your glue gun. Hats are made from felt—Amanda’s very detailed tutorial shows how to make the different styles. Optional: Paint names on the top edge of the pots if using as placecards or giving as a party favor. https://craftsbyamanda. com/plastic-spoon-crafts-snowmen/.
A new grief center providing trained peer support facilitators to children, families, and adults has opened in Western New York. Laurel’s Love Center for Grief and Hope, the first grief center in Western New York, opened in November 2024 and offers those in grief a safe, welcoming, supportive, compassionate place where people can transform the suffering that they are experiencing into an experience that helps heal the heart.
Founded by Mauri Coover, Laurel’s Love Center for Grief and Hope is named in honor of Mauri’s late daughter Laurel, who passed away from accidental fentanyl poisoning in 2018 at the age of 23 years old. While Mauri and her husband were able to find support groups for parents following their tragic loss, Laurel’s fiancé was unable to find groups for young adults allowing them to grieve with their peers who had also experienced the death of a loved one. Out of that experience, Laurel’s Love Center was created and provides a variety of services to those in need of support during their time of loss. In addition to peer grief support groups for young adults (17-25 years old), tweens and teens (1216 years old), and children (6-11 years old) and their parents/guardians, Laurel’s Love Center also offers classes that provide healing through the arts (visual arts, performing arts, and literature) and through movement, including experiences in nature, yoga, and interactive play. These classes help individuals develop a unique toolkit that they will use throughout their lives in navigating their grief.
All support groups and programs offered by Laurel’s Love Center are free to the community. Support groups meet during the first and third week of every month at the Kenilworth United Church of Christ at 45 Dalton Drive in the Town of Tonawanda. Pre-registration is recommended, but walk-ins are welcome. For a full schedule of support groups and programs or to pre-register for a group, visit laurelslovecenter.org. You may also contact Laurel’s Love Center at 716-272-2474 for additional information.
Creating C ZY Winter Family Traditions
As the days grow shorter and the air takes on a frosty bite, many families find themselves retreating indoors. Winter presents a unique opportunity to slow down, connect, and create traditions that warm not only the body but also the heart. But with everyday life, it can be challenging to carve out meaningful time together. That’s why establishing cozy winter traditions can be a gamechanger—building memories that your kids will treasure for years to come. Here are some creative and actionable ideas to get started.
1. HOST A WEEKLY HOT CHOCOLATE NIGHT
There’s nothing like a steaming mug of hot chocolate to bring everyone together. Turn this simple treat into a cherished tradition with a weekly hot chocolate night.
Actionable Ideas:
Create a Hot Chocolate Bar: Set up a station with different types of hot cocoa mix, whipped cream, marshmallows, sprinkles, candy canes, and even fun stir sticks. Let everyone customize their perfect cup.
Make It Storytime: Pair your hot chocolate night with a family readaloud. Choose a book series perfect for winter evenings, like The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe.
Get Creative with Mugs: Let kids pick their own special mug for the season or even decorate plain ones with ceramic markers for a personalized touch.
2. PLAN WINTER MOVIE NIGHTS
Cold evenings are perfect for snuggling up on the couch and watching family favorites. Elevate this into a true tradition by planning special movie nights.
Actionable Ideas:
Create a Movie Schedule: Pick a theme for the season, like classic holiday films, snowy adventures, or animated hits. Write your schedule on a chalkboard or print it out to avoid squabbles.
Build a Blanket Fort: Make the living room extra cozy with a blanket
fort or simply pile on pillows, throws, and sleeping bags for a camp-out vibe.
Make Themed Snacks: Match snacks to the movie, like popcorn with edible glitter for a magical feel or snowman-shaped cookies for a winter-themed flick.
3. START A WINTER CRAFT TRADITION
Crafting is a great way to spark creativity and bond as a family. Choose winter-themed crafts that are simple enough for everyone to enjoy.
Actionable Ideas: Create Handmade Treasures: Use materials like salt dough, popsicle sticks, or felt to craft special creations. Consider sharing them with a nursing home or senior center.
Make Snow Globes: Turn mason jars, glitter, and small figurines into whimsical snow globes that kids will love.
Host a Craft Exchange: Invite
— by Rebecca Hastings
friends or family over for a crafting session. Everyone can have fun and many hands makes light work of cleanup!
4. EMBRACE OUTDOOR ADVENTURES
Winter doesn’t have to mean staying indoors. Embracing the season’s chill can lead to some of the most memorable traditions.
Actionable Ideas:
Family Snow Day: Bundle up and head outside for sledding, snowmanbuilding, or even a friendly snowball fight. End the day with warm drinks and a movie.
Winter Walks: Go for a family hike or evening walk to enjoy the crisp air. Bring along thermoses of hot cider and look for animal tracks in the snow.
Stargazing: Clear winter nights are perfect for stargazing. Lay out blankets, bring a telescope if you have one, and marvel at the beauty of the night sky.
5. COOK OR BAKE TOGETHER
Nothing fills a home with cozy warmth like cooking or baking as a fam-
ily. Make it a tradition to prepare something special together each week.
Actionable Ideas:
Baking Marathon: Dedicate a day to baking cookies, cakes, and breads. Let everyone pick a recipe, and package extras as gifts for neighbors or friends.
Weekly Soup Night: Experiment with hearty winter soups like chicken noodle, potato leek, or minestrone. Pair it with fresh bread and make it a cozy dinner tradition.
Family Recipe Book: Collect recipes you’ve cooked together into a scrapbook or digital album. Over time, this will become a treasured family heirloom.
6. CREATE A GRATITUDE RITUAL
Winter is also a season for reflection and gratitude. Incorporate practices that help your family focus on the blessings in your lives.
Actionable Ideas:
Gratitude Jar: Keep a jar on the kitchen counter and encourage family members to write down something they’re thankful for each day. Read them together at the end of the season.
Cozy Prayer Time: For families of faith, gather by the fireplace or candlelight for a short time of prayer or devotion each evening.
Acts of Kindness: Spend a day delivering care packages, shoveling driveways for neighbors, or volunteering as a family to spread warmth to others.
BUILDING TRADITIONS THAT LAST
Cozy winter traditions aren’t about perfection; they’re about togetherness. Whether you’re sipping hot cocoa by the fire, crafting ornaments, or playing in the snow, these moments have the power to strengthen family bonds and create lasting joy. Choose a few traditions to try this winter and watch your family connect all winter long.
Rebecca Hastings is a former elementary teacher who traded the classroom for writing when she stayed home with her three children. Passionate about authenticity, faith, and family, you can find her at RebeccaHastings.net and on Amazon. In real life, she can often be found typing words, driving her kids places, or wherever there is chocolate.
IA Winter Frolic for the Family: Blizzard Blast and Cold Weather Fun
— by Kimberly Blaker
f your kids are like most, school snow closings are the highlight of the winter season. Get into the spirit with some of these fun outdoor activities. After you’ve expended your energy outdoors, there’s plenty of fun to be had indoors as well.
OUTDOOR WINTER FROLIC
Take a snowshoe hike. Buy or borrow snowshoes for the family and go on a trek through the woods or a field. Take your compass. But also tie brightly colored strips of fabric to tree branches to mark your path. Dress warm and keep track of time to prevent overtiring and frostbite. Look for animal tracks and burrows; identify trees by the bark and shape of their trunks; learn how to tell the time or direction by the position of the sun; and other nature and survival activities.
Visit an ice sculpture show. Look for these captivating displays on college campuses, in city parks, and indoor arenas. Check with your local and nearby chamber of commerce or state travel bureau for events listings.
Visit a zoo. During the winter months, zoos often bring guest animals and offer special exhibits. Arctic and cold climate animals may be more active, and indoor exhibits are easier to
view because of smaller crowds.
Build an igloo or snow fort. Choose a day when the snow is suitable for packing. Use a square or rectangular container for building snow forts, which are often found in toy departments. Be sure to stagger the blocks for support.
Take a winter carriage ride. Look for horse-drawn carriages in tourist or trendy towns and quaint villages. Bundle up and take warm blankets and hot bev-
erages. Then enjoy a cozy ride through a snowy, festive town.
Enjoy a winter fest. Visit your chamber of commerce or state travel bureau website for a list of winter festivals and events. Activities to look for include light displays, fireworks, winter sports competitions, recreational activities, ex-
hibits and ice sculpture displays, sleigh rides, snowshoe tours, and more.
Have a snow-sculpting contest, and invite your neighbors to participate. Roll a snowball as large as you can. Then fill buckets with snow and carefully dump them on top. Gently pack the snow and smooth it with your mittens. Sculpt and shape your creation using small shovels and gardening tools. When your sculpture is complete, gently pack and smooth it with your hands again.
Make an ice tree. Instead of throwing out your holiday tree, turn it into a winter display. Stand it in your yard, turn the water hose on low, and spray upward and toward the trunk of the tree. As ice forms, continue spraying until you achieve your desired effect.
Go sledding. If you have small hills in your backyard, use a trash bag for sliding down them. Better yet, head to some real hills with your toboggan or sled. Keep safety rules in mind for safe wintery fun.
INDOOR ACTIVITIES FOR BLUSTERY DAYS
Head to a museum. Most cities, even small towns, have a historical museum. Hands-on science, art, or natural history museums are found in most metropolitan areas or at nearby universities.
Grab your roller blades or skates and head to your nearby indoor rink. These arenas are updated for today’s kids and are a blast for parents and kids alike. If you’ve never roller-skated, take a class at the rink.
Create an indoor snow family. Buy black and white clay from an arts and crafts supply store. Roll snow people out of the white clay, and shape hats with the black. Make arms with tiny twigs, scarves from narrow fabric strips, eyes and buttons from whole pepper, and noses from broken orange-colored toothpicks.
Tour a manufacturing plant. Tours are often available to the public even if they aren’t well-publicized. Just call to find out.
View the winter sky. Visit a planetarium to see constellations and some of the brightest stars of the year.
Hold a winter movie fest. Invite friends over, rent a selection of movies, and have everyone bring their pillows or beanbag chairs. Don’t forget the buttery popcorn and hot chocolate. If you’ve had enough of winter, hold a Hawaiian luau instead. Choose summery or vacation themed movies. Serve cold drinks with little umbrellas and fruit on top. And don’t forget the beach towels.
Make up funny skits with friends, then put on a show for parents and
neighbors. Choose household products and create silly advertisements. Make up goofy songs or poems about each product and dress up for the part. Be sure to videotape the skits for hilarious family memories.
Put together a winter emergency kit. Include spare hats, mittens, scarves, and boots, a flashlight, and other items in case you get stranded. Your home kit should include items for a snow-in
or power loss. Have everyone work together to create a list and gather items for the kits.
String a snowflake streamer. Make snowflakes by folding white paper several times and then trimming different shapes around the edges. Open the snowflakes then string them on a piece
of yarn and hang it across the room.
Visit the library to snuggle up for a relaxing read. When you arrive, learn how and where to find books on your interests such as sports, science, or a hobby. Then choose several books to bring home. Don’t forget to check out music CDs, audiobooks, videos, computer games, and magazines for plenty of indoor entertainment.
Getaway at a weekend resort. Check your travel agency for one of the many winter resorts for outdoor enthusiasts that offer activities and accommodations for the whole family. Try downhill or cross country skiing, snowshoe excursions, and more.
Make a winter-safety trivia game. Buy a pack of small index cards. Then write a question on each card related to winter safety with the answers written below. To play the game, take turns reading the questions while other players shout their answers. The first person with the correct answer scores a point.
Kimberly Blaker is a freelance writer. She also owns an online store, Sage Rare & Collectible Books, specializing in out-of-print, scarce, signed, and first editions and fine bindings at sagerarebooks.com.
(BPT) —
WInspire Your Child’s Curiosity During the Next Snow Day
inter weather brings with it numerous activities that inspire curiosity in adults and children alike. In fact, many snow day activities can even help with child development. As snowflakes begin to fall in several states across the country, parents can use this time as an opportunity to ignite their child’s curious mind and engage their imaginations.
“The winter season is a time when we see children’s curiosity soar, especially when snow is involved,” said Joy Turner, vice president of education at Kiddie Academy® Educational Child Care. “Snow days are an excellent opportunity for children to engage in play that isn’t always available to them. Not only can parents encourage their child to experience and appreciate nature, but they can also take time to teach them about snowflakes, the different seasons, how snow is formed and more.”
Kiddie Academy encourages parents to make the most of their child’s next snow day. Here are a few activities to consider:
1. Take a nature walk. Observe and discuss the quiet that descends over newly fallen snow, look for animal tracks and try to identify what animal left them, or count the number of icicles hanging from roofs. Let your child’s curiosity guide your outdoor exploration.
2. Create winter bird feeders. Cover pinecones in nut or seed butter and roll them in birdseed. String the pinecones on pieces of yarn and then hang them on a tree outside near a window with a good view. Together with your child, watch as birds of many sizes and colors enjoy the treat, taking time to call out observations about each bird that stops by.
3. Make a heartwarming soup. Talk about the origins of the recipe and explain how all the flavors and ingre-
dients mix to create a tasty meal. Let your child ask questions about the cooking process and encourage them to help with tasks like washing veggies, and measuring and combining ingredients.
4. Engage in pretend play. Act out different arctic animals like polar bears, penguins and seals. This is an opportunity to introduce different animals to your child and teach them about various habitats. Wherever this play goes, leave it unstructured and let your child’s imagination lead them.
5. Invent a snowflake matching game. Together with your child, clip symmetrical snowflakes out of paper and cut them in half. Explore how every snowflake is different, just like each person. Depending on the age and ability of your child, help them cut shapes out of paper that’s been folded into a triangle. When you unfold it, the snowflake will have a unique, symmetrical design. Cut each snowflake in half and then work with your child to match the snowflake pieces.
Snow days are an excellent way to encourage your child’s curiosity and make lasting memories. Next time you see snow in the weather forecast, take it as an opportunity to get creative with your little one.
February is Children’s Dental Health Month
Happy Smiles:
Keep Your Kids Teeth Healthy at Every Age
— by Rebecca Hastings
While every age group has unique dental needs, three key things at every age are diet, dental care, and a good example. Learning about and implementing these in your home sets the stage for healthy teeth.
• Healthy, Balanced Diet: A balanced diet is a key component to healthy teeth and development. Consider the unique needs for this at each age.
• Dental Care: Make regular dental care at home and the dentist’s office part of your child’s routine health visits. Stay consistent. If you get off track, get back on as soon as possible.
• Lead by Example: Show your children good oral hygiene habits by practicing them yourself. Kids often mimic their parents, so demonstrating proper brushing, flossing, and regular dental visits sets a positive example.
For each age group, keep specific considerations in mind to keep teeth healthy.
BABIES
SET A STRONG FOUNDATION
Healthy teeth start before you can see them. When you lay a foundation of healthy oral hygiene with your baby, you
develop habits and routines that you and your child will use for a lifetime.
Three key things in the baby stage:
• Start Early with Oral Hygiene: Even before the first tooth arrives, gently wipe your baby’s gums with a clean, damp cloth after feeding. Once teeth start to emerge, use an infant toothbrush and water to clean them twice a day. As more teeth come in, you can begin using a small smear of fluoride toothpaste (about the size of a grain of rice) on a soft-bristled toothbrush.
• Monitor Eating Habits: Be mindful of what your baby consumes. Avoid giving them sugary drinks or snacks, especially before bedtime. Even natural sugars in fruits and juices can contribute to tooth decay if left on the teeth for too long. Opt for water between meals and limit sticky or sugary foods, especially in the first year.
• Regular Dental Check-ups: It’s not too early! Schedule your baby’s first dental visit around their first birthday or within six months of their first tooth
appearing. Regular check-ups help monitor dental development and allow the dentist to identify any potential issues early on.
Remember, setting a good oral hygiene routine early on lays the foundation for healthy teeth and gums as your child grows.
TODDLERS SUPERVISE!
The toddler years are ripe with the quest for independence. While this is a great thing, it is important that you monitor things when it comes to healthy teeth. You can give them choices like picking a flavor of toothpaste or choosing between snacks to encourage their independence while still supervising them.
Three key things in the toddler years:
• Supervise Brushing: While kids may think they can do it themselves, they still need your help. Encourage your toddler to brush their teeth but ensure that you supervise and assist until they’re around 6 to 7 years old. Use a small, pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste and make continued on page 14
Choosing Childcare
HAPPY SMILES: KEEP YOUR KIDS TEETH
HEALTHY AT EVERY AGE
continued...
brushing teeth a fun and engaging activity. You can use colorful toothbrushes or play their favorite song to make it more enjoyable.
• Balanced Diet: Offer a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins while minimizing sugary snacks and drinks. If your toddler does consume sugary foods or drinks, try to limit them to meal times and encourage water as the primary drink between meals.
• Practice Good Habits: Teach your toddler good oral hygiene habits, such as rinsing with water after consuming sugary foods or drinks and avoiding constant snacking. Also, discourage habits like thumb sucking or prolonged pacifier use, as these can affect dental alignment.
Making dental care a routine part of your toddler’s day helps instill lifelong practices for maintaining healthy teeth.
SCHOOL AGE BE CONSISTENT
Consistency and positive reinforcement are key when establishing these habits. While many kids in this stage can
brush and floss independently, it is still good to check in and make sure they are doing it properly.
Three essential tips for school-age kids:
• Emphasize Consistent Oral Hygiene: Encourage your child to brush their teeth at least twice a day for two minutes each time. Use fluoride toothpaste and teach them proper brushing techniques, emphasizing the importance of reaching all tooth surfaces. Flossing should also be a part of their daily routine, helping to remove plaque and debris from between teeth.
• Encourage Healthy Snacking: Encourage nutritious snacks and meals that support dental health. Limit sugary snacks and encourage them to opt for tooth-friendly options like fresh fruits, vegetables, cheese, yogurt, and nuts. Water is the best primary drink. Keep sugary or acidic beverages to a minimum.
• Regular Dental Check-ups: Schedule dental check-ups every six months. Consistently visiting the dentist can help in the early detection of any dental issues and allow the dentist to provide guidance on proper oral care.
Consistency and a balanced approach to diet and dental care are key factors in maintaining healthy teeth for school-age children.
TEENS
PROTECT FOR A LIFETIME
While you may think that teens can handle their dental health, there are some things to keep in mind. There may be times when teens don’t manage their dental health as well as you would like, but stick with it. These habits will help protect them for a lifetime.
Three factors for teens:
• Continue Oral Hygiene Routine: Encourage your teenager to maintain a consistent oral hygiene routine by brushing at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, flossing daily, and using mouthwash if recommended by their dentist. Also, stay consistent with routine dental cleaning.
• Monitor Diet and Habits: Teens tend to have more freedom in their food choices. Encourage them to make tooth-friendly choices by minimizing sugary snacks, sodas, and acidic foods/drinks. Water is always the best choice for hydration and overall dental health. Also, discourage habits like smoking or excessive consumption of staining beverages (like coffee or tea) that can negatively impact oral health.
• Protect Teeth During Activities: If your teen participates in sports or activities where there’s a risk of dental injury (like contact sports), ensure they wear a mouthguard. This helps prevent injuries to their teeth, gums, and jaw.
Teens might be more independent, but helping them understand the longterm benefits of good oral hygiene and habits can set them up for a lifetime of healthy teeth.
WE ALL GET OFF TRACK
It’s natural to get off track sometimes. When that happens, whether it’s a day, weeks, or longer, start by focusing on consistent brushing and dental cleanings. Those two things will get you back on track to happy smiles for years to come.
— by Jill Morgenstern
WEmbracing Your Introverted Child’s Needs on Valentine’s Day
ith candy, cards, and often a school party, Valentine’s Day can be so exciting for children. But along with the excitement, some children are feeling fear and trepidation. Even in elementary school, Valentine’s Day is a high-stakes holiday and can be emotionally exhausting, especially for an introverted child. There are many steps parents can take to make sure that introverted children have just as much fun as their extroverted classmates. To discover some of these steps, I interviewed school psychologist Kayla Tucker.
AT SCHOOL
These days, most school classes have the rule that one valentine be brought for each child. However, if your child is anxious about this part of the day, it will help to find out from the teacher if this is true at your child’s school.
Tucker emphasizes that talking to your child’s teacher can be incredibly helpful. “Teachers generally appreciate knowing when a child may need extra support, and this opens the door for collaboration. Parents could start the conversation by saying something like, ‘My child often feels overwhelmed during larger group activities, and I want to work together to make sure they feel more comfortable on Valentine’s Day.’ If the teacher is open to adjusting the celebration, it’s helpful for parents to have some concrete suggestions ready to go. They might suggest their child hand out
valentines in smaller batches or take breaks as needed. Then, the teacher can share their own ideas, and they can collaborate to find the best solution for the child.”
There may even be another overwhelmed child in the same class, in which case she might set them up with a one-on-one activity that they would both like. Alternately, a child (or parent and child) might set up a signal to the teacher so that the child can participate in high energy activities while still having an easy out when needed.
At this age, it is also helpful for children to begin learning for themselves when they need a break from the high energy of the classroom. According to Tucker, “At this age, children are still developing basic socialemotional skills, including self-awareness, which means they’re just starting to understand their own limits and how to manage them. A child might feel the need for a break if they start fidgeting, go quiet, or withdraw from group activities. Teaching them how to recognize these signs is important. Once they’re aware, they can use simple strategies like raising their hand to ask for a break or move to a quieter part of the room if that’s been prearranged with the teacher.”
AT HOME
Once school is over, parents can help make the day even more special by hosting a low-key Valentine’s Day. Any or all of these ideas might make your child’s day extra special, especially if you can do them one-on-one while a sibling spends time with the other parent:
• Write them a special card or note. Any child would love this memento but it may mean more to a child who enjoys a quiet moment.
• Why not add exercise and go for a walk together?
• Read a Valentine themed book together. The public library is a great place to find many of them!
If you’re wondering if your day is going as planned, just check in with your child. The lessons they can learn about themselves will serve them well as they develop. This is the ideal time for your child to learn more about whether they prefer quiet or noise, for example, or one-on-one time with people or small groups. Ultimately this will give them a strong sense of identity and confidence in who they are which will give them a strong start to becoming well-adjusted adults.
Teacher and writer Jill Morgenstern has four children and a Master’s Degree in teaching reading.
How The Power Of Nature Can Help Your Kids Beat The Winter Blues
— by Sandi Schwartz
Some people love the winter season and enjoy snow, warm clothes, and ski trips, while others are affected emotionally by the cold dreary weather, shorter days, and being stuck inside all of the time. For some people, including children, winter can cause them to feel down in the dumps or even depressed. Fortunately, once we understand what is going on, we can help our kids overcome their winter blues.
WHAT EXACTLY ARE THE WINTER BLUES?
We often hear the term Seasonal Affective Disorder, or SAD, to describe when someone is unhappy during wintertime. It is a form of depression that follows a seasonal pattern. The most common type occurs in the winter, but some people do experience SAD during other seasons depending on the weather and where they live.
As winter approaches, 10 to 20 percent of people experience mild symptoms of SAD and about 6 percent have
worse symptoms. Typical symptoms of SAD include:
WHEN IT’S TIME TO GET HELP
Sometimes SAD can get pretty serious and start impacting your child’s daily life. They might start crying often, withdrawing from activities that they used to enjoy, and experiencing changes in their appetite. If SAD is not addressed, your child’s self-esteem can suffer and they may start to struggle socially and academically.
Experts aren’t 100 percent sure what triggers SAD, but some theories include environmental factors like the change in the amount and intensity of light exposure we get during the colder, darker months. Additionally, levels of serotonin—a neurotransmitter linked to depression—has been shown to shift with the seasons and may be linked to SAD.
If you start to notice these changes, then it’s important to seek professional help by calling a licensed therapist. A professional will be able to assess the changes you observed and provide feedback and an action plan for how to address the situation. Be sure to note whether these symptoms fluctuate with the season and weather so that you can inform the therapist. Also, remember to discuss these issues with your child in a gentle, understanding manner and let them know that you love them and want to help them feel better.
HOW NATURE CAN HELP
Another way to help manage wintertime depression is through nature. Spending time in and around nature is so beneficial to our health and well-being. It calms us down when we are feeling stressed and boosts our mood when we are feeling down. When we think about nature, we tend to only consider that it’s outside, but we can also capture the essence of what nature has to offer through images, sounds, and plants inside our home. By bringing nature indoors during the cold, dark, rainy, snowy months, we can help our kids beat the winter blues.
NATURE IMAGERY
Amazingly, just looking at pictures of nature scenes can make us feel similar to actually spending time outdoors. Spending time in nature can also make us feel more compassionate and connected to others. Scientists have observed brain activity using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and discovered that when we view scenes from the natural environment, the parts of their brain associated with empathy and love light up.
NATURE SOUNDS
Listening to nature can also help relax us and improve our mood. One study explored how nature sounds affect people’s mental and physical health and
found that those who listened to ocean waves had considerably lower muscle tension, heart rates, and stress. These positive changes occurred quite rapidly—within five to seven minutes of listening to the sounds of nature. Keep in mind that the best sounds are those that give a sense of natural space and mimic the biorhythms of an ecosystem like a forest. Loud chirping and croaking are just not going to cause the same calming feelings as sounds of water, which are very soothing because of their slow, rhythmic whooshing noises.
PLANTS
Plants and flowers have long been known to cheer people up. Research done in hospitals, offices, and schools has consistently found that even a simple plant in a room can have a significant impact on improving mood. Plants actually boost healing, according to a study at Kansas State University, in which researchers learned that viewing plants during recovery from surgery can lead to a significant improvement in physiological responses.
HOW TO BRING MORE NATURE INSIDE
If your kids are experiencing the winter blues, try some of these ideas to brighten up their day:
u Display plants and colorful flowers throughout your house.
u Decorate your house with aweinspiring images of nature. Collect gorgeous pieces from famous photographers like Ansel Adams and Philip Hyde or start a family hobby of taking pictures of nature that you love to display throughout your house.
u Start an indoor garden of herbs and flowers.
u Play nature sounds in your home, especially at bedtime.
u Visit indoor sanctuaries of nature such as an arboretum, butterfly garden, botanical garden, greenhouse, science museum, or aquarium.
u Watch nature shows, movies, and documentaries as a family.
u Hang out in places with large windows and skylights to allow more natural light in.
Sandi Schwartz is a multi-awardwinning author, freelance journalist, and mother of two. She has written extensively about parenting, wellness, and environmental issues. As the founder and director of the Ecohappiness Project, her mission is to inspire and educate families to build a nature habit to feel happier and calmer.
— by Rebecca Hastings
Celebrate Black History Month with These Kid-Friendly Movies
Black History Month is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the achievements, culture, and resilience of Black individuals throughout history. Watching movies with your children is a meaningful way to spark conversations about equality, justice, and the power of community.
Try these family-friendly films that entertain while teaching valuable lessons. Then use the discussion points and activities to help kids connect with the story.
1. “HIDDEN FIGURES” (2016)
Rated PG, suitable for ages 8+
This inspiring movie tells the story of three brilliant African American women—Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan, and Mary Jackson—whose work at NASA was critical to the success of early space missions. It’s a powerful tale of perseverance, teamwork, and breaking barriers in STEM fields.
Discussion Points: Talk about the challenges these women faced in a segregated workplace and how they overcame them. Encourage your kids to think about their own dreams and how hard work can help them achieve their goals.
Activity: Explore math and science by building a model rocket or doing a simple STEM experiment at home.
2. “REMEMBER THE TITANS” (2000)
Rated PG, suitable for ages 10+
Set in the 1970s, this film follows a newly integrated high school football team and their journey to overcome racial tensions to achieve success. It’s a great story about teamwork, leadership, and unity.
Discussion Points: Discuss how the players and coaches learned to trust and respect one another despite their differences. Ask kids how they can build friendships with people from different backgrounds.
Activity: Organize a small family sports game to emphasize the importance of teamwork and collaboration.
3. “THE PRINCESS AND THE FROG” (2009)
Rated G, suitable for all ages
This animated Disney classic features Tiana, a hardworking young
woman who dreams of owning her own restaurant. Set in New Orleans, the film beautifully showcases Black culture, music, and the value of determination.
Discussion Points: Talk about Tiana’s work ethic and how she stays true to herself throughout the story. Invite kids to share their own dreams and how they can work toward them.
Activity: Cook a New Orleansinspired dish like beignets or gumbo together as a family.
4. “RUBY BRIDGES” (1998)
Rated PG, suitable for ages 8+
Based on a true story, this film depicts Ruby Bridges, a six-year-old girl who became the first Black child to integrate an all-white elementary school in Louisiana. Ruby’s courage and resilience in the face of adversity are deeply inspiring.
Discussion Points: Ask your children how Ruby might have felt during this time and why her bravery was so important. Use this opportunity to discuss empathy and standing up for what is right.
Activity: Create artwork or write a short story inspired by Ruby’s bravery and determination.
continued on page 45
Try these familyfriendly films!
— by Tanni Haas, Ph.D.
Practical Ways To Teach Kids About Environmental Conservation
February 22 is National Wildlife Day, a chance for parents to teach the next generation steps they can take to protect and preserve the environment. Here’s a list of practical actions that not only make a real difference but can easily be integrated into the daily lives of families.
MORNING
Most parents teach their kids to brush their teeth twice a day—in the morning when they wake up and at night before they go to sleep. Consider taking this lesson one step further. Teach them to turn the faucet off while brushing to conserve water. The same applies for when they soap their hands after using the toilet. If a shower is part of their morning routine, teach them to set a timer, say for 15 minutes, to conserve water.
Also, have them help you buy refillable soap and shampoo dispensers to reduce the use of disposable plastic bottles.
of disposing of it at school so that you can teach them how to sort garbage from recyclable materials.
SCHOOL
If you have enough time in the morning, have your kids help you pack their school lunches. If everyone is busy with their various routines, do it together the night before. Either way, the point is that the kids’ school lunches are another great opportunity to demonstrate environmental conservation. Teach them how to pack a lunchbox with little to no waste. Use reusable bottles instead of disposable juice bottles, water containers, or milk cartons, and wrap their sandwiches and snacks in beeswax wrapping or other sustainable materials instead of in cellophane. If it’s impossible to avoid trash, have them bring it home instead
If you live far from the kids’ school, you may need to drive them or have them take the bus or train. But if you live close by, and the route to and from school is safe, encourage them to walk, bike, or scooter to school. If you must drive, perhaps you could park the car a couple of hundred feet away from the school and have the kids walk the rest of the way. The goal is to start a conversation about the impact of gasoline consumption and the effects car exhaust have on the environment.
EVENING
The evening presents a time for great conversations about environmental con-
servation. Have the kids help you prepare dinner and try to come up with delicious meals that are plant-based. A good start could be “Meatless Mondays.” Also teach them to set the table with washable cloth napkins instead of disposable paper napkins.
After dinner, have the kids either help you with the dishes or, if they’re old enough, do the dishes on their own. Just like for their morning routine, have them turn off the faucet while they’re soaping the dishes. Also, teach them to separate waste in the proper containers: compostable items, glass/plastic, cardboard/paper, and garbage that will end up in a landfill.
If you’re ordering food in or are eating out at a restaurant, teach the kids to say no to plastic utensils when ordering in and plastic straws when eating out. Before they go to bed, instruct your kids not to leave their phones and laptops charging overnight to conserve energy.
More generally, teach the kids to conserve energy by turning the lights off every time they leave a room, and keep windows closed when the air-conditioning or heat is running.
WEEKEND
There are lots of things you can do with the kids on weekends to make them care about the environment. If you plan on going on a hike or biking outdoors, teach them to enjoy local wildlife responsibly. When going for a hike in a nature preserve, explain the importance of staying on the trails and not disturbing the wildlife. If you’re having a picnic at the park, encourage them to clean up and not leave behind any trash that could endanger birds and other wildlife.
If you have outside space, have the kids plant a small garden or fill planters using composted food scraps to enrich the soil. You can also have them help you set up a rain barrel so that they can water their garden or planters with the rainwater that they’ve collected.
If you don’t have space for outdoor farming, a little herb garden on the kitchen windowsill is also an option. Herbs are great since they’re easy to take care
of and can add flavor to any plant-based dishes you and the kids make.
Perhaps take the kids to local shelters and charitable organizations to donate furniture, other household items, clothes, and toys that aren’t broken but that your family doesn’t need anymore. Have the kids decide which things to donate: it’ll teach them compassion and the importance of reducing the amount of trash that ends up in the local landfill.
Another fun and educational activity is to have the kids brainstorm ways to re-use household items instead of throwing them in the garbage. What can you do with the wood from a broken chair? Make a musical instrument? Use it to rekindle the fireplace? Instead of discarding a metal can, could it be repurposed as a pen and pencil holder?
It may not be as fun as spending time outdoors, planting a garden, or repurposing household items, but consider taking the kids to the local landfill to show them where all the trash ends after it has been picked up by the garbage truck.
For many families, the weekend is the time for grocery shopping for the upcoming week. Encourage the kids to continued on page 45
Great Getaway Ideas for Parents: Reconnecting Without the Stress
— by Rebecca Hastings
As parents, finding time to reconnect often feels impossible. Between busy schedules, childcare challenges, and the daily grind, carving out quality time together can seem like a luxury. But sometimes, a quick getaway is all you need to recharge and strengthen your relationship. Whether you have just a day, a weekend, or one special night, these ideas offer inspiration at a variety of price points to fit your lifestyle.
1. THE DAY TRIP: ESCAPE THE ROUTINE FOR A FEW HOURS
When time is tight, a day trip can be a simple yet meaningful way to hit reset. The key is choosing a destination that offers a mix of activities to enjoy together without feeling rushed.
I Tried It: Newport, Rhode Island
My husband and I started the day with a stop at Sift, a favorite coffee shop along the way to fuel up for the adventure ahead. Then we spent the morning exploring Newport’s Cliff Walk, to get fresh air with a gorgeous view. After a long walk, we indulged in an early dinner at Scales & Shells before heading home.
Why It Worked: We kept it simple. The drive was only an hour and a half and we didn’t try to pack things in. We chose places ahead of time so we weren’t trying to figure it out as we went. This helped us focus on enjoying our time together without stress.
How You Can Do It: Pick a destination within an hour or two of home. Whether it’s a scenic trail, a charming small town, or a cultural hub, plan one active outing and one relaxing meal to make the most of your time.
2. THE WEEKEND GETAWAY: A MINI-RETREAT CLOSE TO HOME
When you can spare a few nights, a local weekend getaway offers a chance to unwind, reconnect, and enjoy the
slower pace of life. This option is perfect if you want to feel far from home without traveling too far.
I Tried It: Postcard Cabins
These nature-inspired tiny cabins are tucked away in serene locations just a short drive from major cities. We were lucky to have one less than an hour away, so we headed out after work. The first night we grabbed pizza on the way and settled into the cabin. A fun card game and a long night walk were the perfect way to leave the stress of the week behind. The rest of the weekend was spent hiking nearby trails, stargazing by the fire pit, and savoring uninterrupted conversations. The simplicity of the surroundings makes it easy to relax and reconnect.
Why It Worked: It wasn’t about activities. Staying in the cabin was simply about spending time together, embracing the quiet, and enjoying uninterrupted time together. We had no agenda. Instead of busying ourselves with activities, we took time to relax.
How You Can Do It: Look for unique accommodations near nature, like cabins, glamping sites, or boutique inns. Even if you’re not outdoorsy, the quiet and simplicity of these settings can work wonders for your relationship.
3. THE LUXURY NIGHT AWAY: TREAT YOURSELVES TO PAMPERING
Sometimes, you just need a taste of luxury to feel refreshed. A single night at a resort or high-end hotel can deliver the relaxation and indulgence you deserve while still being manageable to plan.
I Tried It: Winvian Farm in Connecticut
We arrived at this luxurious resort that offers themed cottages, spa treatments, and farm-to-table dining and immediately felt pampered. It was lovely to spend the day getting couples’ massages and enjoying a decadent dinner before retreating to our cozy accommodations. In the morning we felt like the everyday cares had melted away.
Why It Worked: As parents, we are so busy taking care of everyone else. Taking one night for a getaway felt easier than planning a weekend, and the luxuriousness of the resort made every minute count.
How You Can Do It: Search for resorts, boutique hotels, or even urban hideaways offering spa services, gourmet dining, and other perks. Prioritize places with an all-inclusive feel so you can relax without planning too much.
WHY THESE TRIPS MATTER
These short trips don’t just offer a break from the daily grind—they create space for meaningful connection. You don’t need a weeklong vacation or elaborate plans to enjoy quality time as a couple. Even a few hours away can leave you feeling refreshed and closer to each other.
So, grab your calendar, find a day or two that works, and choose a getaway idea that fits your budget and interests. The most important part isn’t where you go—it’s taking the time to prioritize your relationship.
FAMILY TRAVEL
— by Deborah Williams
Close To Home Romantic Getaways
It is February, the year’s shortest month and the month for celebrating romance since Valentine’s Day falls in the middle.
It is the perfect month for planning a close to home romantic getaway without children. Often, hotels have special winter rates since there are usually rooms to spare during the area’s cold winter months. It could make the perfect birthday or anniversary gift.
It surprises me every time I am away for just an overnight because it is always rejuvenating and relaxing. When I return home, it seems as if I have been away longer than just an overnight.
This month’s top choice is the Roycroft Inn in East Aurora. The village is one of the gems of our region and the Roycroft Inn is the crown jewel of the village and the Roycroft Campus. Last year, it was acquired by developer Douglas Jemal and added to his ever-growing portfolio of distinctive area inns and hotels.
Founded by Elbert Hubbard in 1897, the Roycroft Campus began as a small printing business. It would later expand into a community of skilled craftspeople and artists and ignite the birth of the Arts & Crafts Movement in the United States.
The campus buildings are on the National Register of Historic Places.
Before becoming a philosopher, writer, and movement leader, Hubbard was a successful soap company executive who had a genius for promotion. It was his talent for marketing that attracted some of the country’s most talented artisans. At the Roycroft Movement’s height, there were more than 500 Roycrofters working as printers, coppersmiths, furniture makers, silversmiths, potters, artists, and innkeepers.
Hubbard was East Aurora’s largest employer and he kept the post office busy distributing his books and essays. More than nine million copies of his famed essay, “Message to Garcia,” were distributed.
The inn was created out of several buildings on the campus and opened in 1905. Rates were 25 cents a meal and 50 cents a night. The massive solid oak door engraved with a favorite Hubbard motto, “Produce great people—the rest follows,” still welcomes visitors.
Klaus, a visitor from Dortmund, Germany, writing in the guestbook summed up his Roycroft experience: “Always the best place to be.” A snowbound visitor said it was the only inn
with a room and marveled at his luck: “What a lovely discovery.” A Hamburg visitor said: “Love the Roycroft, beautiful, warm, cozy, character, quaint, elegant, homey—thank you for the incredible experience.”
Time seems to stand still the moment you step inside. Fires are usually burning in the stone fireplaces. In the Salon, guests are surrounded by the beautifully restored murals created by Alexis Jean Fournier, an original Roycroft artist. Sit in an original Roycroft Morris chair, read a book by the light of a handcrafted lamp, or just wander through the exquisitely restored rooms and breathe in the history.
A bar was recently added to the dining room behind the staircase. It is a good place to stop for a drink and lighter fare. The dining rooms are open for dinner and Sunday brunch has long been popular. An expansive continental breakfast with freshly made pastries is included for overnight guests.
In the early days, such notables as Ralph Waldo Emerson, Thomas Edison, Henry David Thoreau, and Susan B. Anthony journeyed to East Aurora for inspiration from Hubbard. His philosophy was “better art, better work and a better
Roycroft
and more reasonable way of living.”
The 28 beautifully recreated guest suites reflect the origins of the inn and the arts and crafts style, while including all the modern conveniences and comforts including spacious bathrooms, robes, and whirlpool tubs. Mine was the Richard Wagner suite on the third floor which came complete with a desk in an alcove. I had visions of moving in, setting up my computer and gaining inspiration from the great writers who had stayed here.
Other Favorite Getaways
The Curtiss Hotel, 210 Franklin St., Buffalo, curtisshotel.com, (716954-4900) is a high tech, 68-room luxury boutique hotel inside the shell of a historic former office building. Commissioned by attorney Harlow Curtiss in 1912, the building was home to various businesses over the years including the legendary Kittinger Furniture Company. The hotel was recently named a AAA Four Diamond property.
Opened in 2017, the $24 million hotel took nearly eight years in the planning and construction. Since its opening, the hotel has attracted quite a buzz in-
cluding some celebrity guests. The hotel’s public areas certainly possess a Vegas vibe and the décor is clearly chosen for the “wow” factor.
The most impressive rooftop bar is officially called the Vue Rooftop Lounge. The panoramic views of Lake Erie, the Canadian Shoreline, and downtown buildings are hard to top. The fire pit and heated enclosed bar areas offer warm spots to get away from Buffalo’s winter cold.
Downstairs, just off the lobby, are the revolving bar and the 200-seat Chez Ami Restaurant. The name is homage to the former Chez Ami Restaurant on Delaware Avenue that was known as the Home of the Revolving Bar back in the 1950s.
Also off the lobby is the unusual hot tub that is billed as “Buffalo’s first and only year-round Urban Hot Springs experience.” Soaking in the spa on a cold winter night while the snow is falling is an unworldly experience. The Harlow Spa offers a full array of services.
The Richardson Hotel, 444 Forest Ave., Buffalo, richardsonhotelbuffalo.com (716-493-2610) has had a storied and complicated history. It is now one of the shining jewels of Jemal’s
portfolio of hotels and a National Historic Landmark.
It occupies three of the buildings that make up the Richardson Olmsted campus. The buildings began their life in 1880 as the Buffalo State Asylum for the Insane. It was the creation of great minds: architect Henry Hobson Richardson, Frederick Law Olmsted and his partner Calvert Vaux—famed landscape architects who created Buffalo’s Park system—and Dr. Thomas Story Kirkbride, who believed in natural light, wide hallways, fresh air, and the opportunity for patients to do productive work.
The iconic towers that have become one of the of the city’s most distinctive structures were designed by Richardson, considered the first American architect who gained an international reputation.
After a long period of abandonment and deterioration and $100 million in state funds, the Hotel Henry was opened in 2017 to great fanfare. The 88-room hotel received widespread accolades and Time Magazine named the hotel to one of its 100 Greatest Places in the World in 2018.
Despite its awards and popularity, the hotel closed four years later, a viccontinued on page 31
Roycroft Inn
The Curtiss Hotel
PICK OF THE LITERATURE
— by Dr. Donna Phillips
February is the special month when we recall and express our love for who and what we hold dear. What do you love? Is it a person, place, or thing? While you may know who or what, have you considered why? It is often easiest to express this outwardly, but have you also included yourself on this list? Sometimes it is helpful to replace the word “love” with the word “value.” This can help us better understand the “why” and “how” we can best express the emotions of the month. Books are a wonderful way to explore emotions and here are some of the new ones you might like to share with your family.
The youngest ones on your “Love List” will certainly enjoy Hedge-hugs and Kisses (Cartwheel Books, New York, 2024, $7.99), written and illustrated by Sandra Magsamen. This ador-
closeness, and calm send powerful messages to those we love and value. Children learn early the lessons that these can teach, even though they may not be fully aware of them. The time you spend reading to and with your child will remain with them throughout their life and will be passed down to the next generation. This is a true form of eternal love.
able board book has a soft hedgehog “handle” for helping it come alive, a delightful way to share your love and create the closeness that books can create. The rhymes in this story invite action and imagination. Physicality, language,
What could be more to love than a play date with Grandma? How about a play date with her new puppy? The Little Puppy (Paula Wiseman Books, New York, 2024, $17.99), written and illustrated by Nicola Killen, is a celebration of good intentions, forgiveness, and lots of fun. Her illustrations, done in shades of gray highlighted by red details and paper cutouts, make this book visually engaging with lots to look for and talk about.
What starts out as a project to make a picture for Grandma turns into a bit of a disaster as the puppy chews it up. But that actually prompts an adventure of love and delight. The power of pretending and playing results in a wonderful romp in the woods, creating a lovely end of the day and an even better picture for Grandma. This would be a lovely Valentine gift for Grandma and a fun book to read to her puppy!
A World of Love (Nancy Paulsen Books, New York, 2024, $18.99), written by Aimee Reid and illustrated by Christopher Lyles, shares how animal parents show their little ones their love in their own unique ways. Using lyrical text and collage illustrations, we see animals communicating, protecting, guiding, and nurturing their young ones in a gentle loving story. Exactly how do they show this? The back of the book has a section that gives more details about animal nurturing, communication, and protection. Mourning doves coo, male penguins have special pouches near their feet to shelter their young, mountain goats stay below their young in case they might slip, silverback gorillas tussle and nuzzle their young. There are many ways that animals show their love to their young ones and so do people. This book explores the many ways to show love and is a wonderful way to share and assure children that they are loved.
Poetry has been called the language of love and How to Say I Love You: Delightful Poems for Valentine’s Day (Penguin Workshop, New York, 2024, $17.99), written and illustrated by Mr. Boddington’s Studio (aka Rebecca Ruebensaal), is the perfect example of this. From classics by Elizabeth Barrett Browning, Shakespeare, and Percy Bysshe Shelly to light and delightful originals by the author, this book has a poem for all ages. Sprinkled throughout these pages are charming little characters expressing
and celebrating love. The perfect blend of language, sentiment, and images will make this book one to treasure for years to come.
So where does love begin? Love starts with you. What do you value in yourself? How does this reflect what you value in others and in life? How will you express this “love” this time of year? The books you choose to share reflect all of this and show your children who you are and what you value. The time you take to share books with them is one of the best ways to show them your love.
Happy
Valentine’s Day!
Dr. Donna Phillips is an associate professor in the College of Education at Niagara University where her specialty is literacy and children’s literature. She lives on Grand Island, NY and is the mother of two adult children and the grandmother of one. Follow
Healing Hearts, Restoring Hope
All Groups and Classes are FREE to the Community
Children’s Grief Groups
Wednesday, February 5 & 19 6:30pm – 7:45pm
Children (6-11 yrs.)
Teen/Tweens (12-16 yrs.)
Also support for parents/guardians of children attending a group.
Pizza will be served at 5:45pm for children & adults. Parents must stay on premises during group.
LAUREL’S LOVE
CENTER FOR GRIEF AND HOPE
Grief Support Group Mondays Monday February 3 & 17 6:30pm – 7:45pm
Loss of spouse, significant other, any type of loss for adults or young adults.
Grief Yoga February 10 & March 15 10am – 11am Beginners Welcome
Create a Remembrance Heart Ornament February 15 11:30am – 12:30pm
IDaddy Daddy The Track
– by Shannon Carpenter
“It will be ok, peanut,” I said, because I needed to believe it. All parents do, even when we do not know if it’s true. It’s the lies we tell ourselves to cope with whatever comes next. There is always a next, and it usually comes in the form of the germs that I catch from the kids.
n preschool, my daughter brought home her first gift. A mysterious cough that made her throat raw and her voice as gravely as a hard-smoking 1800s sailor. At night, she would lie on my chest while I rubbed her back.
Fast forward a couple of years and my daughter is in second grade. She brought home strep throat. She and I watched Tron. She made it about twenty minutes before she fell asleep next to me. Barricaded in by a sick daughter and excellent sci-fi, I let her know that it would be just fine. Everything would be just fine. A week later, my throat would start to hurt.
As my kids grew, so did the ailments that they brought home. A rash showed up on my daughter’s arms after a day volunteering at the local food bank. It was a school service project to help the community. I joined her as the adult chaperone. That was when we both learned that we were allergic to sweet potatoes. Sorting them all day made us very itchy, and as we took copious amounts of Benadryl, I told her that this
had. I picked my daughter up and ran to the bathtub. My wife woke up, confused, and asked why there was vomit on the dog.
“Are you serious right now? Look at me,” I said. My wife hasn’t stopped laughing about that one.
Love is a Virus
A couple of days later, as my daughter was getting better and I was getting worse, I told her that everything was fine. I told her to think of it as a way that we can bond. What she goes through, I go through. A father-daughter version of an epic tale! Bards will one day write about our ailments and how we fought the good fight!
was nothing. Just another bump in the road, and we would be fine.
We were fine all the way up until fifth grade when, in the middle of the night, my daughter appeared by my bedside like an apparition. Backlit by the
My daughter is now in college, just having completed her first semester. She is breaking outside of her bubble and meeting new people, having new experiences, and bringing home viruses that none of us are prepared for. At one point, perhaps on purpose, she coughed right in my face as she snuggled up on my chest. She should have just saved us all the drama and licked my face.
The holidays were spent with the persistent cough that she bounced back from in a day but kept me down for a week. As I sat on the couch, water and cough drops nearby, she came and patted me on the head like the old man that I am.
“It’s gonna be fine, Dad,” she said.
This is the month that we celebrate love, but it tends to be the type that comes with flowers, chocolates, and romantic dinners. But it misses that deeper love, the kind that is eternal and built on the low moments of life. The love that won’t bolt when someone pukes on your chest or coughs right in your face.
hall light, she looked just like the girl from The Ring, with long dark hair that hung limply about her face. I may have screamed.
“Dad,” was all she said before a Linda Blair level of vomit came out of her. Thinking quickly, I cupped my hands to catch it. It was not my best parenting move. The filth hit my hands and used it as a ramp to direct it to my chest and face. I’m a hairy individual, so you can imagine the gross shampoo effect that it
The love that can make you believe that everything is going to be all right.
Shannon Carpenter is the father of three and has been a stay-at-home dad since 2008. He’s the author of the book “Stay-at-Home Dad: Your Essential Manual for Being an Awesome Full-Time Father.” as well as the co-host of Dadhouse Pod. In addition to his writing on parenting, he is also a humor writer trained through the famous Second City. And we all know that having a sense of humor is essential to surviving parenthood!
Family Movie Options: In Theaters and Streaming Online
Mufasa: The Lion King
Sonic the Hedgehog 3
& Gromit: Vengeance Most Fowl
When a flood separates him from his parents, young Mufasa is adopted by another pride of lions. The king’s son becomes his best friend, and when disaster befalls, the two go on a quest for a magical green oasis called Milele. But it isn’t an easy journey. Once again, Disney produces a flawlessly animated film that is strong on technique and low on heart. The soundtrack is strangely forgettable, the meticulously recreated lion faces struggle to depict emotion, and the film feels like a lost opportunity.
Detailed reviews available at www.parentpreviews.com
TWEENS & TEENS
— by Jesse Neve
Teenage Love: Where
Do Parents Fit in?
Four kids aged five and under. Then four kids in grades 2 through 8. Then four teenagers.
Each new timeframe with our big crowd has brought exciting times and times of change and growth. As we entered the new chapter of High School with our four children, it was hard for me to imagine what it would be like when my teenage kids started dating. I never had a boyfriend until I was in college, and the only boy I “brought home,” I ended up marrying, so I didn’t even know what “normal” was. I knew that the odds were that a number of boy and girlfriends would come and go with our crew, but the idea of it all worried me. What role does a parent play in the love interests of teenagers?
or concerned about what their friends will think about our family. We are a big, loud crowd, but they are comfortable enough that we can show the “real” us. We try to invite their dates to join us in family parties and outings as often as possible so they can truly see what our family is all about.
WELCOME THEM IN
“Mom, Sonja’s coming over for dinner.” Now, six years into our family’s high school career, I smile at this normal occurrence. In fact, as a mom, I love it when our kids bring their dates to our house. I feel like they aren’t embarrassed
BE YOURSELVES
I used to be anxious that I might say the wrong thing or serve an unpopular meal when their guests were around, but I think that being ourselves is the best way to invite them in. We include them as if they were our own, and they like that. They can feel that they are accepted
and can join in and be themselves around us, too.
INVITE THEM TO HELP OUT, TOO
It makes me feel so good when these friends are willing to pitch in and help with things, too. Last month, Daniel’s girlfriend came to Grandma’s house with us for a “workday.” We shoveled rock and trimmed trees. She was right there helping along with us. And it goes both ways. Daniel helps out with her family, too. It’s really a nice way for them to both learn about each other and spend time together.
FUN TO WATCH THE RELATIONSHIPS DEVELOP
It’s neat to see where God has led them in their journey together and, from an outsider’s viewpoint, to see the qualities that attracted them to one another. Sometimes the age old, “you marry your mother” is apparent, as some of the characteristics of my sons’ girlfriends’ mirror mine. Whereas other times “opposites
attract” seems more spot on.
So, instead of being a nervous, time of concern for me, this new chapter of our lives has opened up a whole new venue of learning—of course my big kids learning about themselves and their love interests, how to think of others first and how to put others’ needs before one’s own; but also, my learning about them, and their changing selves. From a mom’s perspective, I’m filled with joy that they are spreading their wings, meeting people and learning about relationships. It’s fun to watch them grow and blossom. It makes me proud to see them mature and change into caring and loving young adults.
Jesse Neve is a wife and mother of four from Minnetrista, Minnesota. She enjoys traveling with her big crowd, and writing about her family’s adventures and what they learn together.
FAMILY TRAVEL continued...
tim of the pandemic. Jemal came to the rescue and the hotel had a grand reopening in 2023 under the Richardson Hotel name. He breathed new life into the establishment and today it can rightly be called the city’s most distinctive and historic hotel.
Belhurst Castle, 4069 West Lake Rd., Geneva, www.belhurst.com, (315-781-0201), another award-winning hotel, has it all, especially if you have had a dream of sleeping in a castle. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, it occupies a prime spot on Seneca Lake, the deepest of New York’s Finger Lakes.
It was built under the direction of Carrie Collins in 1885. Fifty craftsmen labored six days a week for four years to create her fantasy which boasts turrets, gargoyles, and decorative terra cotta. Mrs. Collins, her husband, and 22 servants lived in the Romanesque mansion
for nearly 40 years. Many items in the castle were imported from Europe and there are more stained-glass windows than in many churches. There is carved oak, cherry and mahogany everywhere.
After her death in 1926, her grandson lived there briefly and then sold it to Cornelius J. Dwyer whose ownership heralded the castle’s most colorful time. Known as “Red” Dwyer, he opened it as a restaurant, gambling casino, and speakeasy.
Sadly, for many, the feds put an end to the gambling in 1952, but it continued as a well-regarded restaurant until 1975 when it was sold to Robert and Nancy Golden. They created a most distinctive hotel in the castle and opened the doors in 1984.
Today’s Belhurst is owned by Duane and Deborah Reeder who have owned the property since 1992. Their arrival signaled a new era with the opening of the connecting 20-room Vinifera Inn, a second ballroom, a second restaurant and bar, and the Belhurst Estate Winery and Gift Shop. The Isabella Spa offers
full spa services. The Chambers in the Castle are the eleven original guestrooms—each one unique and named after a piece of the castle’s past.
The Belhurst has been voted One of the Most Romantic Places in New York State and has become a popular spot for marriage proposals, weddings, and anniversaries.
Travel Tip of the Month: Roycroft Inn, 40 South Grove St., East Aurora, RoycroftInn.com, 716-652-5552. Regular tours of the campus are offered. Stop at the M&T Bank Visitor Center in the Power House for exhibits on the Roycroft’s rich history and learn about activities and programs offered on the campus.
Deborah Williams lives in Holland, NY and is a veteran travel writer whose work has appeared in national and international publications. She is the recipient of the Society of American Travel Writers’ Lowell Thomas Gold Travel Writing Award.
Belhurst Castle
Making The Right Camp Choice
Summer camps have become an absolute necessity for many working parents who need coverage during the weeks when school is no longer in session, but camp has always been an important experience for children.
Summer camp provides numerous benefits, many of which last a lifetime.
Camp experiences allow children to make new friends, relate to adult supervisors other than their parents, develop a sense of independence and self-confidence, as well as the ability to work with others as a team.
In today’s technology-oriented world, summer camp gets kids away from their screens and outdoors to interact with the natural world. Sports and physical activities get kids moving — literally — toward increased fitness levels.
Camp is a natural extension of the classroom — today’s camps offer many traditional activities such as swimming, arts and crafts, and hikes, but there are many creative and exciting opportunities to explore specific areas such as performing in a theater production, learning to dance, riding a horse, or trying gymnastics.
Choosing a camp is a very individual decision based on many factors. Some important questions to ask are:
1) How does the camp recruit its staff? What type of training do the camp counselors have? How old are they? Are background checks done? Do they have first aid training?
2) What is the ratio of counselors to campers? Day camp guidelines call for 1:8 for children ages 6-8; 1:10 for children ages 9-14; and 1:12 for ages 15-18.
3) Ask about return rates. How many staff members return each year? How many campers return? Ask for references — talk to some parents who have recently sent their children to the camp.
Visit the American Camp Association’s website at www.acacamps.org for more complete parent checklists to help you determine if your child is ready for a summer camp experience and the questions to ask when “interviewing” a camp to see if it’s a good fit for your child and your family.
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SINGLE PARENTING
— by Meagan Ruffing
All Things Sweet
When I think about February, I think about sweet things. I think about love, but not the romantic kind. I think about my friendships and how much they nurture and sustain me. If it weren’t for my friends, I’m not sure I’d know what this kind of love felt like. I always thought that since I hadn’t sustained my friendships from high school, I would never find my girl tribe. I’m happy to tell you I was wrong.
Shortly after having my first child, I met a group of women at a local moms’ group who have become my best friends. These women have seen me through multiple pregnancies, watched me raise my kids, laughed with me when I embarrassed myself, and cried with me when I went through a divorce. This kind of love is something so special to me, that I make it a priority to include them in my life as much as I can.
I do this in many ways but mainly by remembering how I feel when I’m with them. What I mean by that is, I think about who I am when I’m around them. I notice that I am a better version of myself. I’m kinder. I’m more patient and I’m even gentler with myself. I take time to slow down, lean in, and listen. I am vulnerable with my friends and in return, they are vulnerable with me. Here are six ways that I remain open to receiving love from my friends and reciprocating that love.
Book Study — I bought two of my friends Advent devotionals for December, thinking that we would all enjoy the books on our own. Instead, one of my friends started posting on Facebook Messenger about each day and what she thought about the prompt. She’d then pose a question to the rest of us.
Pretty soon, we had a friendly conversation going on for 25 days straight! It was a fun, easy, and thoughtful way to stay connected during what is traditionally, a very busy season.
Letters
— I realize snail mail is kind of a thing of the past, but not for me and my friend Katie. We’ve been mailing letters to each other for the last 15 years and I think it’s one of the things that makes our friendship so special. She has the memory of an elephant which means there’s a card for every birthday, anniversary, and everything in between. She includes my kids in the mix and sends them sweet little $5 gift cards to celebrate another year around the sun.
Self-care Jar
— One of my friends made a self-care jar filled with strips of paper that each have a new adventure on them. She pulls one at the end of each week and invites a friend to join. We’ve done so many fun things that I would have never known about and have been able to experience new things for the first time in the company of a friend who I love.
Porch Drops
— Every now and then we do porch drops. This is when we put together a basket full of themed things for the season we’re in and we leave them on each other’s doorsteps. I usually get matching plates and napkins with fun snacks inside for my kids.
Girls’ Weekends — At least once a year, sometimes twice if we can squeeze it in, my friends and I will spend the night in a hotel, grab dinner, exchange Christmas gifts, and talk
SINGLE PARENTING
until the wee hours of the morning. It’s a time for us to reconnect without distractions and we always seem to be able to pick up where we left off.
Family Get Togethers
— I met my core group of girlfriends when I moved to the southwest part of the United States. I’ve moved states since then, but my friendships have continued to grow with those same women. We all had babies around the same time, so our kids are all around the same age which makes it convenient for us to have family get-togethers. Just the other night, I took my kids to see the Christmas lights I used to take them to when they were little, and since my friends live in that same town, we all met up and visited over yummy dessert charcuterie boards.
Over the years, I have been intentional about carrying on these traditions with my kids so that they can someday carry them on with their kids. February can be so much more than what we think of when it comes to love. I hope this article is a reminder that this month has so many sweet things in store for you other than roses, chocolates, and cards.
Meagan Ruffing is a parenting journalist, mental health therapist, and single mom who tries to do her best each day. She doesn’t always get things right but continually strives to do better.
THE FAMILY PET
— Courtesy of the Niagara Frontier Veterinary Society
Why Spaying or Neutering Your Cat is Crucial
When becoming a cat owner, the topic of spaying and neutering all of your cats is a very important one. Whether you have a new kitten, or you’ve taken on a stray or feral cat, it’s crucial that you get them spayed or neutered.
Spaying and neutering play a key role in cat population control along with health and behavioral benefits for your cat. A pair of intact cats can produce 2,000 descendants in 18 months!
which means that females can become pregnant very young. Kittens that will go outdoors should be neutered before venturing outside to prevent mating and potential pregnancies. Always discuss the timing of your cat’s neutering with your vet as their recommendations might differ slightly and they know your cat’s care best.
BENEFITS & REASONS TO SPAY YOUR FEMALE CAT:
• No pregnancy (preventing overpopulation)
• More relaxed temperament because cat is not coming into heat every three weeks
• Less risk of injury
• Less risk of catching diseases
• Eliminates risk of cancer in the reproductive system if done before first heat
• Less chance of sexual-related urine marking (urine spraying in females)
Breeding increases risk of diseases such as Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV or Feline AIDS) and Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV) due to promiscuous contact with other cats, as well as respiratory infections and fleas.
WHEN TO SPAY OR NEUTER:
Kittens should be spayed or neutered between 4 to 6 months of age. Some vets might recommend spaying or neutering at 6 months of age, while others might recommend doing it earlier at 4 months. Cats can become sexually mature from 4 to 6 months of age,
Spaying reduces or eliminates the risk of cancer and other diseases of the reproductive organs—especially breast cancer which can be prevented when a female cat is spayed at a very young age. Breast cancer is nearly always malignant (aggressive) in cats, so it’s vital to reduce the risk. To do this successfully, they need to be spayed before their first heat cycle, which can be as early as 5 months.
Spaying your cat also eliminates her chances of getting pyometra (womb in-
fection). This type of infection can kill your cat quickly and requires emergency surgery which is much more expensive than a routine spay.
Allowing a female cat to have one litter of kittens before being spayed offers no health benefits for your cat and is unnecessary. Doing so will increase her risk of breast cancer later in life.
BENEFITS/REASONS TO NEUTER YOUR MALE CAT:
Reduce unwanted kittens and reduce exposure to disease. Tomcats in the neighborhood may threaten other cats. Typically, these older Tom cats won’t hesitate to fight for territory or other females. This can increase the risk of contracting FIV and/or FeLV from fighting and biting, not to mention receiving a nasty cat bite abscess too.
Un-neutered Tomcats will stray further away from home, especially when they hear a female cat calling.
Tomcats often spray their more pungent urine to scent-mark their home.
continued on page 41
...the excitement has worn off, and managing screen time feels overwhelming
RAISING DIGITAL KIDS
— by Mike Daugherty
The Win te r Screen Struggle
The holidays have come and gone, and with them, many children unwrapped shiny new gadgets—tablets, smartphones, gaming consoles, and more. By the time February rolls around, parents often find themselves in a familiar bind: the excitement has worn off, and managing screen time feels overwhelming. If you’re reading this with a coffee in hand and a growing list of tech-related frustrations, you’re not alone. Winter months, shorter days, and new tech gifts can create a perfect storm for screen time battles. But don’t worry; there are tools and strategies to take back control of technology in your household.
Here are some updated solutions for 2025 to help parents navigate the challenges of limiting technology use effectively.
APPLE’S SCREEN TIME OPTION
If your family uses iPhones or iPads, Apple’s Screen Time remains a top-notch, built-in tool for setting app
limits, restricting inappropriate content, and creating device-free time. Apple has enhanced its features for 2024, including an even easier setup process and more granular options for parents.
With Screen Time, you can:
● Limit how long your child can use specific apps or app categories.
● Schedule “Downtime” to turn off apps during family meals or bedtime.
● Monitor which apps are being used most frequently and how much time is spent on them.
A helpful new feature is the ability to set limits by app group, such as “Social Media” or “Games.” Parents can also share these settings across devices using Family Sharing, ensuring consistency. If you’re unsure how to set up Screen Time, Apple’s website and YouTube offer detailed guides.
GOOGLE FAMILY LINK
For families already invested in the Google ecosystem, Google Family Link offers a free and user-friendly way to
manage tech use on Android devices, with some compatibility for iOS. The app empowers parents to guide their children’s digital habits through several practical features, including:
● App Management: Approve or block app downloads and set daily time limits for specific apps.
● Device Controls: Remotely lock devices when it’s time for a break or bedtime.
● Location Tracking: View your child’s real-time location, providing peace of mind when they’re away from home.
Family Link also provides a detailed breakdown of how kids are spending their screen time, making it easier to have meaningful conversations about tech use.
CIRCLE: A PARENTFOCUSED TOOL
Circle has continued to innovate, making it easier than ever for parents to monitor and control Internet usage.
Circle’s device connects to your home Wi-Fi and allows you to manage every device on the network through a userfriendly app.
Key features include:
● Individual profiles for each child with customized limits.
● “Pause” and “Offtime” options to suspend Internet access until chores or homework are completed.
● Rewards for extra screen time when kids earn it.
● The ability to manage schoolissued devices or smart TVs.
Circle’s premium subscription costs $129 annually or $299 for a lifetime plan. For families needing mobile coverage outside the home, the Circle Go feature adds similar controls to smartphones for an additional fee.
BARK: PROACTIVE MONITORING
Bark is more than just a screen time tool—it monitors texts, emails, and popular apps for inappropriate content. Using machine learning, Bark flags potential concerns like cyberbullying, predatory behavior, or signs of self-harm and sends alerts to parents.
Bark recently has introduced realtime alerts for urgent issues and expanded its app coverage. For parents of teenagers navigating social media, Bark can be a lifesaver. Its monitoring capabilities include TikTok, Instagram, Snapchat, and more. One thing to note is that Bark can be challenging to install and maintain. Also, due to restrictions on how Apple devices operate, there are some applications that Bark cannot monitor in real time.
Two subscription tiers are available: Bark Jr. ($5/month) for basic filtering and screen time management, and Bark Premium ($14/month or $99/year) for full monitoring. While Bark doesn’t replace open communication, it’s a valuable tool for staying informed.
ENHANCED WIRELESS ROUTERS
Modern wireless routers now come equipped with advanced parental con-
trols, combining convenience with comprehensive management. Eero, Google Nest Wi-Fi, and Netgear Orbi are leading the pack.
Eero, in particular, offers seamless setup and robust features:
● Profiles to group and manage devices for each family member.
● Bedtime schedules to shut off Internet access at night.
● Ad-blocking and threat detection with a Pro subscription.
These systems also allow you to expand your home’s Wi-Fi coverage, ensuring reliable Internet for all devices. Investing in a smart router can provide long-term value, simplifying Internet safety and improving connectivity.
OPENDNS: A FREE ALTERNATIVE
For families looking for costeffective options, OpenDNS offers a powerful way to filter Internet content at no charge. While it doesn’t include time-management features like the tools above, it’s excellent for blocking inappropriate websites and categories (e.g., adult content, gaming).
However, OpenDNS can be tricky to set up if you’re unfamiliar with router settings. Many parents seek help from tech-savvy friends or local IT professionals to configure it properly. Once installed, it operates in the background, keeping your household devices safe.
MAKING IT WORK FOR YOUR FAMILY
The tools listed above offer varying levels of control and customization. Choosing the right one depends on your family’s needs and tech habits. Here are some tips to make these solutions more effective:
1. Set Clear Expectations: Sit down as a family to discuss screen time rules and consequences. Involve your children in the process so they feel heard.
2. Be Consistent: Whether it’s a bedtime schedule or limits on gaming,
consistency is key to making these tools work.
3. Use Technology as a Springboard for Connection: Instead of viewing tech solely as a problem, use it as an opportunity to bond with your kids. Watch their favorite YouTube videos together or play a video game as a family.
4. Unplug Together: Lead by example and create tech-free zones, like the dinner table, to encourage meaningful conversations.
5. Review and Adjust Regularly: Kids grow, and their tech needs change. Revisit your settings every few months to ensure they’re still appropriate.
LOOKING AHEAD
As technology continues to evolve, so do the tools for managing it. Many developers are introducing features to address emerging challenges, like limiting AI-driven apps or preventing overuse of virtual reality headsets. Stay informed and adaptable as new trends arise.
Ultimately, the goal isn’t to eliminate technology from your child’s life but to create a healthy balance. By implementing these strategies, you can regain control of screen time and foster positive habits that will benefit your family for years to come.
Remember, you’re not alone in this journey. With the right tools and a proactive approach, you can make technology a positive force in your household— even after the holiday glow has faded.
Mike Daugherty is a husband, father of three young children, author, speaker, Google Innovator, and possible Starbucks addict. He is a certified educational technology leader who has served in a variety of roles through his twenty-year career in public education. Currently, Mike is the Assistant Superintendent of Innovation, Technology, and Communications for the Chagrin Falls Exempted Village School district in Northeast Ohio. As an IT director he has developed creative, well thought out solutions that positively impact teaching and learning.
DEAR TEACHER
– by Peggy Gisler and Marge Eberts
Helping all parents make their children’s educational experience as successful as possible
How to Talk to Your Children about their School Day?
Parents: All parents wish that they knew what is happening during their children’s day at school! However, without a camera in the classroom, they often have no idea what their kids did at school. Not all children are very chatty so it is very important for parents to ask the right questions so they will know what their children are doing in school.
Here is our list of questions that will help you start a conversation with your children about their school day. They can be especially helpful if your children are tight-lipped. Good times to start these conversations are on a ride home from school, snack time after school, or at the dinner table. Be sure it is a time when you can fully focus on what the children are saying.
How would you rate your day from one to ten?
When did you have the most fun at school today?
What was the best thing that happened at school today?
Was there anything that bothered you at school today?
Were you bored today? If so, when?
What made you feel proud of yourself today?
Can you tell me something interesting that you learned today?
Did you do anything different today?
Were there any moments today that you felt worried or scared?
Were there any moments today that you felt proud of yourself?
Is there anything that you would like for me to talk to your teacher about?
Did you like your lunch?
What are you looking forward to tomorrow?
First of all, you certainly don’t want to ask all these questions every day. Two or three should be sufficient. After a while, you will learn which questions give you the most information about your children’s school day.
One additional pointer for your conversation time is being sure to listen carefully to your children and not interrupt them. It is also a good idea to ask for more information from time to time or to have them explain an answer more.
In addition, you might expand a conversation by asking how they felt about an experience.
Should my Child Take Algebra in Seventh Grade?
Question: At our children’s middle school, they can take algebra in seventh grade. Both of my children have always been good math students and in challenging math classes. What are the plusses and minuses of their taking algebra before high school? – Love Math
Answer: About 50 or more years ago, some children started taking algebra in eighth grade. It was a new idea then. Now some students are starting algebra in seventh grade, and studying pre-algebra is typically begun for students as early as fourth grade. This is something that parents don’t often realize. For example, children at this level are solving basic algebra problems like n – 4 = ?.
By taking algebra early, students will have developed the building blocks for advanced math courses like geometry, trigonometry, and calculus in high school. Algebra helps students develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills that are not just useful in math classes. It also gives them a step up for doing well on standardized tests including state tests and the SAT and ACT. Since many jobs require mathematical proficiency, students are setting themselves up earlier for future success.
All children are definitely not ready to take algebra in seventh grade. It is not the child’s grade level or age that determines when they should take algebra. It is their preparation for doing this. Many do not have the needed “math maturity.” Certainly, your children’s math teachers are the ones who know whether algebra is appropriate for them to study in seventh grade. And you can get an idea of their readiness for studying algebra at this level from their standardized test scores in math.
Specia l N eeds
P otential Growth
Strategies
5 Steps to Develop a Food Allergy Policy for Children with Special Needs
— by Carolyn Tomlin
Like other parents, David’s mother waited in the long line of cars to pick up her 5-year-old son after day care. As they came running out of the building, she noticed the children were happy and laughing. Today was their annual Valentine party. Each youngster had a valentine sack overflowing with cards from friends. And some were still licking the heart-shaped suckers from the Valentine’s Day party they enjoyed. Then she saw David, her son. Like the others, he carried a bag filled with valentines. But instead of being happy and laughing like his friends, he had tears in his eyes.
“What is wrong, honey? Why are you crying?”
Bursting out in sobs, he said, “We had a Valentine’s Party today. And my teacher gave everyone a peanut-butter cookie, except me. Why didn’t I get one, too?”
Giving David a hug, his mother felt heart-broken for her son. “When I enrolled David, I marked that he had a
“...Why didn’t I get one, too?”
peanut allergy—but didn’t discuss this with his teacher. Thank goodness, she had read my checklist. If only I had remembered to send a peanut-free snack for him,” she thought to herself. “If only the teacher had provided a substitution for others like David. If only…”
Breathing a sigh of relief that the teacher was aware of the food allergy, she vowed this situation would never happen again.
What Can Parents Do to Safeguard their Child?
According to the Foundation of America one in 13 children have a food allergy. As parents, you must be in control and in charge of your child’s health. Hopefully, your child’s daycare or preschool will follow the ADA guidelines (Americans with Disabilities Act), but as a concerned parent, you are responsible.
Are you aware that our youngest students often face the highest risk of a
mild or serious reaction to a food allergy while in a school setting? Planning and effort for both the parents and the child care center are necessary. Children with food allergies need a safe and nurturing environment at an early care center. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) created voluntary guidelines to assist schools in managing children with specific food allergies.
As a parent with a child who has a food allergy, how does your child care center address the following?
1. Is there an emergency plan in place with specific instructions concerning which food(s) the child is allergic to?
2. How would your center react if the child does not have a history of a food allergy? Does the staff know the signs and symptoms of an allergic reaction? Is there a staff member who is trained to identify symptoms and give epinephrine?
3. ADA applies to childcare centers (and privately-run childcare centers) the same as it does to other public recreation centers, restaurants, hotels, movie theaters, and banks. These must comply with title III of the ADA. Other programs conducted by Head Start, summer programs, and extended school day programs fall under guidelines for title II of the ADA.
4. Does your school have an Individual Education Plan (IEP) for special education services that address children with special needs? In addition to education, an IEP can make accommodations necessary for your child’s food allergy.
5. Who is authorized to administer medication when, or if, needed? Is someone with anaphylaxis training authorized to give medication?
6. Is handwashing practiced and used throughout the day? Small children put objects and hands in their mouth and share toys. Soap and water are needed to remove food allergies. Plain water and hand sanitizers are not as effective in removing these allergies.
7. Speak with the teachers and staff when teaching hands-on and motor skill development. Some items used in lesson plans may include potentially dangerous allergens, including play-dough and clay.
8. Teach your child about food and food-related items to avoid. Talk with your child’s teacher and staff about how you can work together as a team to prevent exposure to allergic materials.
9. Check your local library for grade-level books on food allergens. Share with your child’s teacher and read books with your child at home.
10. Most of all, you want your child to have a positive earlylearning experience. By working together with your child’s teacher and by creating a normal homelife, you can make this happen.
Home Activities that Create Good Memories
It’s been said, “A parent is a child’s best teacher.” I agree. These home activities provide time to bond with your child and develop a strong relationship. There is “more” your child can do—than he/she cannot. Focus on these strengths.
• Engage your child in making wholesome snacks that include foods they can eat.
• Collect simple recipes that do not contain food allergens.
• Share these snacks with his friends at school.
• When a school party is planned, send food substitutes.
• Ask the teacher to notify you when food is being brought in.
• Work with other parents whose children may have food allergies.
• Practice proper hand-washing at home.
Carolyn Tomlin, M. Ed, is a former kindergarten teacher, university professor of education, and has written numerous articles on children with special needs.
Steps to Safeguard Your Child with Food Allergies
It is reported that 8% of all American children, which included youngsters with special needs, have food allergies. Parents want to be assured their child is protected. Does your child’s school have these policies in place?
• Make sure your child’s teacher knows your child has a food allergy.
• Develop an individual management plan.
• Have proper medication available in an emergency.
• Establish a positive social environment for all students.
• Educate classroom students and teachers to food allergens of your child.
ChoicesWellness
(StatePoint)
Your child has a stuffy nose, cough and fever. Is it the flu? COVID? A common cold? Or are they symptoms of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)? Or another virus known to cause the common cold? There seem to be so many, especially in young children who can have several colds per year.
Viruses can keep your child out of school for days and aren’t cured by antibiotics. Days being sick mean missing activities and time with friends. One of the best ways to keep everyone healthy is to get vaccinated when you can, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics.
It’s easy to share germs when you are playing, especially for younger children who may not be as good at wiping their nose or washing their hands,” said Dr. Joanna Parga-Belinkie, a neonatologist, pediatrician and mom of three.
like when your phone updates its software to recognize and resist viruses. This boost helps protect children and the community from severe illness.”
If your child isn’t feeling well and has a fever, stuffy nose, cough, headache or body aches, is throwing up or has diarrhea, it is most likely from a virus. There are tests for things like the flu, RSV and other causes of illness. Be sure to call your pediatrician to help sort out if you need testing and if it could be flu, COVID, or a cold.
Ask your pediatrician about the flu vaccine. It is recommended for everyone 6 months and older each year. Just last year in 2024, nearly 200 U.S. children died of flu-related illness. Eighty-three percent of the children who died from the flu were not vaccinated, making it clear that the flu vaccine helped children avoid getting very sick.
“Children spend a lot of time indoors close to others during the winter.
“It’s not too late to have your child vaccinated for flu and COVID to help keep them from passing and picking up viruses during play. These vaccines help boost the immune system. It’s sort of
It’s also important to get the updated COVID vaccine. This virus has not gone away, and it still makes kids sick. In August 2024 during a COVID spike, nearly 6% of emergency department visits for children younger than 5 years old were from COVID, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Lastly, the most common cause of hospitalization in infants under 1 year of age is RSV. Infecting nearly all children at least once by the time they are 2 years old, RSV can be dangerous. The infection can spread to the lungs and cause serious breathing problems that can’t be managed at home. Nirsevimab (Beyfortus) immunization is for infants under 8 months of age during RSV season. It is also for some children age 8 through 19 months who are at increased risk for severe RSV disease and entering their second RSV season.
Healthy Children, the parent and caregiver website of the American Academy of Pediatrics, offers more information at healthychildren.org.
PRACTICAL WAYS TO TEACH KIDS ABOUT ENVIRONMENTAL CONSERVATION
continued...
join you and ask them to pack reusable shopping and produce bags to save on plastic and other non-biodegradable materials. While at the supermarket or farmer’s market, have them select loose fruits and vegetables instead of those pre-packaged and wrapped in plastic. Teach them to compare products not just by price, but also by how sustainably they’re produced and distributed (explain that shipping distances can impact the environment). If the kids need clothes, take them to second-hand stores or choose sustainable brands.
Finally, consider volunteering together. Most communities offer opportunities for families to engage in environmental conservation efforts like clean-ups and tree planting. Make it extra fun for the kids by letting their friends join. You can also participate in the “community science movement” where you go to local beaches, marshes, and nature reserves to collect data about the health of animal and plant life. The data is then uploaded to apps like eBird, iNaturalist, and ISeeChange to alert scientists to changes in wildlife that may need further study or intervention.
Tanni Haas, Ph.D. is a Professor in the Department of Communication Arts, Sciences, and Disorders at the City University of New York – Brooklyn College.
CELEBRATE BLACK HISTORY MONTH WITH THESE KID-FRIENDLY MOVIES
continued...
5. “AKEELAH AND THE BEE” (2006)
Rated PG, suitable for ages 8+
This heartwarming film follows Akeelah, an 11-year-old girl from South Los Angeles, as she pursues her dream of competing in the National Spelling Bee. The movie celebrates hard work, mentorship, and community support.
Discussion Points: Highlight the importance of education and how Akeelah’s determination inspired others. Discuss how mentorship can help us achieve our dreams.
Activity: Hold a family spelling bee to celebrate learning and challenge each other with new words.
6. “SOUL” (2020)
Rated PG, suitable for ages 7+
This Pixar film explores the life of Joe Gardner, a middle school music teacher and jazz musician, as he learns about pas-
sion, purpose, and appreciating life’s small moments. The movie highlights the richness of Black music and culture.
Discussion Points: Talk about the importance of pursuing your passions and appreciating everyday joys. Ask kids what makes their own lives meaningful.
Activity: Introduce your children to jazz music by listening to artists like Miles Davis or Louis Armstrong. Encourage them to try creating their own music or rhythms with instruments or household objects.
7. “THE WATSONS GO TO BIRMINGHAM” (2013)
Rated PG, suitable for ages 10+
Based on the award-winning book, this film follows the Watson family as they travel to Alabama during the Civil Rights Movement. The story addresses racism and the importance of family and community in difficult times.
Discussion Points: Use this movie to discuss the Civil Rights Movement and the courage of those who fought for equality. Ask your children how families can support one another during challenging times.
Activity: Read the book together as a family and compare it to the film. Encourage your kids to write about a family trip they’ve taken.
8. “BLACK PANTHER” (2018)
Rated PG-13, suitable for ages 12+
Marvel’s groundbreaking superhero film celebrates African culture and heritage through the fictional kingdom of Wakanda. The movie emphasizes themes of leadership, responsibility, and unity.
Discussion Points: Discuss how T’Challa balances tradition and innovation as a leader. Ask your kids what qualities they admire in heroes and leaders.
Activity: Create Wakandan-inspired crafts, such as designing your own tribal masks or jewelry.
BRINGING HISTORY TO LIFE
Watching these movies during Black History Month is a meaningful way to teach kids about the past while inspiring them for the future. By combining these films with thoughtful discussions and creative activities, you can help your children understand the importance of diversity, resilience, and the ongoing fight for equality.
Quick, Comforting Ways to Warm Up Winter in Mere Minutes
(Family Features) After a day battling the cold and fighting the wind, a comforting meal made at home is often just what you crave. Turn those blustery winter conditions into warm, cozy evenings with favorite recipes that offer not only convenience but provide a little kick of spice.
For a quick and delightful meal that’s equal parts comforting and unique, try this Hot Honey Chicken and Waffle that’s sure to please with a crispy rice waffle loaded with sweet and spicy flavor, topped with chicken and drizzled with honey. It’s a treat that truly satisfies from the inside out in just 7 minutes.
The crispness of the gluten-free rice waffle is made possible by Minute Rice’s Hot Honey Chicken Seasoned Rice Cup that entices taste buds with a sweet and mildly spicy contrast and playful presentation. Ready in as little as 60 seconds, the rice cup ensures convenience and distinct seasoning, making each waffle perfectly flavored and offering a satisfying crunch with every bite.
Whether you’re shaking up your breakfast routine or enjoying a fun and easy dinner, it can be taken to new heights with the combination of honey and a sprinkle of powdered sugar for delicious decadence.
For a savory solution the entire family can enjoy together, this cheesy Buffalo Cauliflower Casserole combines jasmine rice, cheddar cheese, roasted cauliflower, Buffalo hot sauce and crumbled blue cheese for a craveworthy oven bake.
Prepare the Minute Instant Jasmine Rice in just 5 minutes for a quick mealtime solution without compromising quality or taste. Next, heat the oven and mix the ingredients, then sit back and wait for a golden brown casserole with a cheesy interior and tantalizing blend of spicy, salty and tangy flavors.
Topped with green onions, this vegetarian meal is sure to please your hungry loved ones. If meat lovers need a bite of protein, simply serve alongside seared chicken or beef.
Visit MinuteRice.com to find more family-friendly ways to warm up mealtimes all winter long.
Hot Honey Chicken and Waffle
Prep time: 2 minutes
Cook time: 5 minutes
Servings: 1
1 Minute Hot Honey Chicken
Seasoned Rice Cup
1 egg
nonstick cooking spray
2 chicken tenders, cooked
2 tablespoons honey, for garnish
1 tablespoon powdered sugar, for garnish
Preheat mini waffle maker. Heat rice according to package directions. In medium mixing bowl, combine rice and egg. Mix well.
Spoon rice mixture into waffle maker. Cook until light goes off.
Place waffle on plate with cooked chicken tenders on top.
Drizzle with honey, sprinkle powdered sugar on top and serve.
Buffalo Cauliflower
Casserole
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Servings: 6
2 cups Minute Jasmine Rice
1 package (8 ounces) plain cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup Buffalo hot sauce
4 cups frozen cauliflower florets, blanched and cooled
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/3 cup finely crumbled blue cheese
2 green onions, thinly sliced
Preheat oven to 400º F. Prepare rice according to package directions. Transfer to greased 8-by-8-inch baking dish. In medium bowl, stir cream cheese and hot sauce. Add cauliflower, cheddar cheese, salt and pepper; toss to combine. Spoon over rice. Sprinkle with blue cheese.
Bake 25-30 minutes until golden brown and bubbly. Sprinkle with green onions.
Tips: Substitute goat cheese or feta for blue cheese, if desired. Meat lovers can serve as a side dish to seared chicken or beef.
THE KIDDIE GOUR ME T
We heard about the Farmer’s Daughters’ Diner thanks to an ad on my favorite country radio station. The menu might look limited until you consider the changing weekly specials; then it’s a more than satisfying selection of choices. This restaurant touts a kids’ menu; this motivated us to drive to Marilla. On a Saturday between breakfast and lunch, kids of all ages were dining comfortably with their parents.
— by Barbara Blackburn Farmer’s
Daughters’ Diner
11520 Bullis Road
Marilla, NY 14102
716-714-9010 ~ SPOONS ~
5/5
5/5
stead of fries, he opted for onion rings. You can build this choice your way, as he did, with some extra priced ingredients, including mushrooms. His special added cheese. You get similar choices when creating your own burger. (The sandwich started out at $8.00.)
Whether at home or in the car on a road trip, Would You Rather? questions can strike up some fun conversations .
Those kids 10 and under were offered a $5.00 breakfast or a $7.00 lunch. With my adult main choice, I was allowed to have one of the kids’ specials: Hot Dog with applesauce (in place of fries). The perfect waitress Sarah even ended my meal with a chocolate chip cookie. A kid gets a kid-sized juice or milk. Other main choices are 2 Chicken Tenders, kid-sized; Hamburger or Cheeseburger; half a ham, turkey, bologna or PBJ Sandwich with kid-sized Mac ‘n Cheese; or Grilled Cheese.
Other considerations include a Lite Lunch Combo. That’s a cup of soup and a house salad ($7.00) or a half sandwich and cup of soup. Homestyle Goulash ($10) looked good on someone else’s table. It would be neglectful to ignore the specials board before perusing the menu. You might, as in the past, find items such as potato pancakes, country fried steak with gravy, and pot roast sandwich.
Here are some QUESTIONS you can ask your child!
Would you rather stay up late every night or wake up early every morning?
Would you rather live in the city or in the country?
My adult choice was a special for the day: Crock of Chili, with a cheesy corn muffin. What a deal for $7.00! The chili reminded me of a Sloppy Joe, which had been a special the previous week. There’s an accomplished baker in the vicinity, what with those muffins and my dessert, Apple Crumb Pie. This was a perfect crust made with lard. Many old-fashioned touches make many foods special here, and with a price of $4.00 it’s even more special. While dining we admired the cheery decor, featuring two silhouette cameos.
Dad ordered an item always on the menu, but put on the special board: A Grilled Chicken Sandwich, with extra onions and peppers, plus pickles. In-
From the time we drove into the parking lot and were greeted by cute cows and whimsical pigs on the porch, we knew we had made the right choice for our meal. The “founder of the feast,” so to speak, is a boxing champion, as is witnessed on the wall. Also, on the wall, was a screen with cartoons; Daffy Duck was featured that Saturday.
We walked in with high expectations and we walked out very content. The farmer and his daughters did themselves proud. Our complements to this down-to-earth marvel in Marilla!
Barb has been happily doing the Kiddie Gourmet for over 35 years. She has two aging children and four grandchildren, all living in Florida. She is a home instructor and community education cooking instructor for Williamsville Central Schools. She is the 2023 recipient of the Buffalo State Alumni Association Senior Service Award.
Would you rather be able to meet your favorite book character or meet someone famous from history?
Would you rather be a scientist or an artist?
Would you rather spend the day at the museum of your choice or spend the day at the store of your choice?
