07-26 July Issue

VOLUME 43, #5 JULY 2026

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July 2026 • Volume 43 • Issue 5

EDITOR/PUBLISHER Paul M. Kline ADVERTISING SALES Paul M. Kline ADVERTISING DESIGN Karen Wawszczyk MAGAZINE LAYOUT/DESIGN Michelle Richter ONLINE EVENT CALENDAR EDITOR Michele Miller CONTRIBUTORS Donna Phillips • Shannon Carpenter Deborah Williams • Mike Daugherty Meagan Ruffing • Tasha Wagner

Where It’s At! Travel & Vacation Features: 6 n

Niagara Falls with Teens: 2 Days of Family Adventure and Fun

by Rebecca Hastings

12 n

Eight Bargain Stops on Your Next Vacation

by Pam Molnar

45 n

Kid-Friendly Backyards to Inspire Nature Play

by Sandi Schwartz

19 n /WNYFamily

/WNYFamily

/WNYFamily

Visit Our Web Site www.wnyfamilymagazine.com To Reach Us: Advertising Department advertising@wnyfamilymagazine.com Calendar Submissions calendar@wnyfamilymagazine.com Subscriptions subscriptions@wnyfamilymagazine.com Editorial Submissions editor@wnyfamilymagazine.com MAILING ADDRESS: P.O. Box 1573 Buffalo, NY 14225 Phone: (716) 836-3486 PRINTED BY: Commercial Printing Division The Post-Journal, Jamestown WE ARE AN AUDITED PUBLICATION CIRCULATION (copies printed): 15,000 © 2026 Western New York Family, Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction in any form without permission is strictly prohibited. Inclusion of an advertisement does not constitute an endorsement by the publisher.

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IF YOU MOVE: Missed issues will not be replaced if we do not receive an address change before issue mailing date.

HEALTHY CHILD, HEALTHY FAMILY

A Special Pull-Out Section • How to Advocate for Yourself at Doctor’s Appointments • Depression Is Far More Sinister Than Sadness—But with Treatment, There is Hope • Tips for Families to Support Nutritional Health and Wellness • Helmet 101: Choosing the Right Protection for Your Child

Directories:

17 n Summer Camps

18 n Choosing Childcare

Regulars: 5 n Web Finds / What’s New In The Kid Biz 8 n Family Travel: FREE Summertime Adventures

by Deborah Williams 14 n

Single Parenting In the Heat of the Summer, Refresh and Reset

by Meagan Ruffing

16 n Parents’ Night Out! It’s Concert Season!

by Tasha Wagner

31 n Pick of the Literature

by Dr. Donna Phillips 33 n Dear Teacher

by Peggy Gisler & Marge Eberts 34 n The Daddy Track Just Hear Me Out: I Want a Toddler Again

by Shannon Carpenter 35 n Parent Previews

by Kirsten Hawkes 36 n Raising Digital Kids The Politics of Middle School Communication: Navigating the Group Chat

by Mike Daugherty 38 n Tweens and Teens Adulting Skills to Teach your Teen BEFORE College

by Cherie Gough 40 n Compassion Corner —Courtesy of WNY Compassion Connection Summer Connection, Healing, and Hope at WNY Compassion Connection

42 n Special Needs Special Education: Getting Help for Your Child 47 n Family Flavors Fuel Growing Families with Breakfasts that Deliver Nutrition and Flavor You’ll find FREE courtesy copies of WNY Family at all Buffalo area Wegmans and 300 locations including Public Libraries, Doctors’ Offices, Child Care Centers and many of our advertisers.

Find this entire issue online at www.wnyfamilymagazine.com July 2026 WNY Family 3

For More Great Info, Download The AVAILABLE FOR FREE ON

WWW.WNYFAMILYMAGAZINEPODCAST.BUZZSPROUT.COM

4 WNY Family July 2026

web.finds Toys Inspired by The World of Eric Carle™️ The works of beloved children’s author Eric Carle have been capturing the imaginations of young readers for decades.

If your little ones are fans of his books, they’ll love these fun, educational toys that feature his most popular characters.

VERY HUNGRY CATERPILLAR™️ LEARN TO DRESS TOY

This all-time favorite character, The Very Hungry Caterpillar™ from The World of Eric Carle™, is now a cuddly and interactive stuffed toy that is sure to wiggle its way into your heart. Little ones can play with their very own 13-inch soft version of The Very Hungry Caterpillar™ and learn basic dressing functions like buckle, tie, zipper, velcro and snap. It also has engaging iconic Eric Carle tissue prints on the underside which helps child identify colors. For Ages: 2+ ($21.99, Available at Barnes & Noble and on Amazon)

LEARN TO COUNT 123

Ready, set, and draw! Follow the arrows to trace each number from 1 to 10. This Read & Doodle helps children develop fine motor skills in the company of familiar faces. Phidal Publishing Children’s Read & Doodle offers a creative experience that includes a fun story, step-by-step instructions, a magnetic pen, and an erasable magnetic doodle/drawing pad that can be used again and again! ($14.99, Available on Amazon)

MY FIRST LIBRARY BOARD BOOK BLOCK SET

The Very Hungry Caterpillar™️ is having an anniversary, and it’s a big one!

Celebrate the beloved book’s 50th anniversary with this Eric Carle Book Block Library. Look, find, and learn with the Very Hungry Caterpillar! This take-along library includes 12 sturdy little board books featuring classic Eric Carle art. Six “Look and Find” titles let little ones search the pages for hidden objects. Six “Here, There, and Everywhere” titles explore concepts like numbers, letters, colors, and shapes. It’s a perfect first reading experience for little ones who are “hungry” for fun! ($11.72, Available at Target)

What’s New...

IN THE KIDBIZ

BUFFALO ZOO WELCOMES LEMUR FAMILY The Buffalo Zoo has announced the arrival of five black-and-white ruffed lemurs, all of which come from the Roosevelt Park Zoo in Minot, North Dakota on a Species Survival Plan (SSP) recommendation from the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA).

The lemurs, which consist of a father and four of his offspring, are now on exhibit regularly in the Vanishing Animals South area alongside the Zoo’s pair of radiated tortoises.

“Our black-and-white ruffed lemurs will surely captivate visitors and serve as integral educational ambassadors as we work to protect this critically endangered species,” said Buffalo Zoo President and CEO Lisa Smith. “The lemurs are getting very acquainted with their new habitat, and we’re thrilled to have them here in Buffalo.”

The Zoo’s new lemur family is headed by dad Huey, 20, who was born on April 7, 2006. He has produced 12 offspring in his life, including the four who will reside alongside him in Buffalo—Connor, a 7-year-old male; Lucas, a 7-year-old male; Mikey, a 6-year-old male; and Olivia, a 6-year-old female.

All five lemurs were originally born at the Philadelphia Zoo. Black-and-white ruffed lemurs are considered critically endangered in the wild by the International Union for Conservation of Nature, and are a prime example of why conservation work is so critical.

Native only to Madagascar, their population has reduced by an estimated 80 percent over the past three decades. Logging, slash-andburn agriculture, development, and illegal hunting all have played a role in their decline.

Protecting habitats is critical to ensure the survival of not just black-and-white ruffed lemurs, but all lemurs. It is estimated that 95% of lemur species are endangered, with a third considered critically endangered.

The Buffalo Zoo is proud to support efforts seeking to save lemurs, and the new family will serve as powerful ambassadors for their wild counterparts to educate visitors on the importance of conservation, and what we all can do to help.

July 2026 WNY Family 5

—by Rebecca Hastings

T

raveling with four teenagers can feel like a juggling act: keeping everyone entertained while fostering moments to connect as a family. During our recent trip to Niagara Falls, we discovered the perfect balance between adventure and relaxation.

Here’s how we made the most of two unforgettable days—complete with stunning sights, thrilling activities, and a few much-needed moments of downtime.

DAY 1: EXPLORING THE AMERICAN SIDE We kicked off our adventure at Niagara Falls State Park in New York, where parking was a reasonable $15.

It’s hard to beat this park as an introduction to the Falls. The roaring water and scenic trails set the stage for the excitement ahead.

Next, we braved the Cave of the Winds experience. Walking along the wooden decks, so close to the pounding Bridal Veil Falls, was exhilarating. The 6 WNY Family July 2026

teens were thrilled to get soaked by the mist, laughing as they dodged splashes (or didn’t). This hands-on activity was the perfect way to build excitement for the Falls and left us all buzzing.

Afterward, we crossed the border to check into the Sheraton Fallsview Hotel in Canada. While there are less expensive options, this hotel was worth every penny. The central location, views of the falls, and rooftop pool were huge hits. While we unpacked and settled in, the teens recharged with a quick swim.

For dinner, we opted for the convenience of a take-out meal from the hotel, enjoying a relaxing evening together.

Later, the teens were eager to explore the lights and thrills of Clifton Hill, located right behind the hotel.

Known as the “Street of Fun,” this bustling area is packed with arcades, quirky museums, and attractions. Giving the teens a few hours to roam on their own was a win-win. They had their dose of independence, and we had a chance to unwind and enjoy the view from the hotel.

DAY 2: THE CANADIAN EXPERIENCE Day two was all about sightseeing, and we started early with a light breakfast at Tim Horton’s. For those with heartier appetites, The Flying Saucer is a fun, budget-friendly diner with great variety and big servings. It’s a bit further away, but the free bus passes at the hotel make for an easy trip.

Our first sightseeing stop was the Niagara Parks Power Station, which was included in a combo package with the Journey Behind the Falls. The underground tunnel at the Power Station captured everyone’s imagination, and the engineering marvel made for great conversation. While the Journey Behind the Falls had its moments, it was crowded and didn’t compare to the breathtaking views we’d already experienced.

For lunch, we grabbed a quick bite at Table Rock Café. The food was decent, and the location’s proximity to our next activity made it a convenient choice.

Celebrate these

F U N D A YS

“

during the month of

Giving the teens a few hours to roam on their own was a win-win.

The highlight of the trip was undoubtedly the Hornblower Boat Ride.

Being so close to the base of the Falls, with the mist swirling and the water’s thunderous roar all around us, was an unforgettable experience. We captured some fantastic photos, though we all got delightfully drenched in the process.

After the boat ride, we grabbed snacks in the gift shop of the hotel and headed back to the rooms for some downtime. The teens made a beeline for the rooftop pool, which, even during the day, offered spectacular views and a relaxing vibe.

For our final dinner, we splurged on a meal at the Skylon Tower. The panoramic views of the Falls, especially during the evening fireworks, made this an experience to remember. Everyone agreed the food was top-notch, and the teens were awestruck by the illuminated Falls. This was everyone’s favorite part of the trip. Be sure to make your reservation for the revolving dining room around sunset to see the fireworks from the observation deck after your meal. Seeing the kids’ excitement and wonder reminded us why family trips like this are so special.

A TRIP TO REMEMBER Niagara Falls offered the perfect mix of adventure and downtime to keep everyone happy. From the adrenalinepumping boat rides to serene moments overlooking the Falls, this trip created

July 4st Independence Day

lasting memories for our family. Traveling with teens can be tricky, but with the right balance of structured activities and freedom to explore, it’s possible to keep everyone engaged while connecting as a family. If you’re looking for a destination that blends natural beauty, fun attractions, and quality family time, Niagara Falls delivers.

July 7th

Father Daughter Take a Walk Day

July 13th French Fries Day

TIPS TO MAKE YOUR TRIP A SUCCESS Make reservations and buy tickets for sightseeing and important meals ahead of time.

July 20th Ice Cream Day

Plan a few pockets of down time.

Give teens a little space to do things on their own.

July 25th Carousel/ Merry-Go-Round Day

Keep snacks handy and plan dining options so no one gets cranky.

Don’t overlook the value of small details like a rooftop pool.

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.

Water Park

July 28th Waterpark Day

July 2026 WNY Family 7

—by Shannon Dean

FAMILY TRAVEL

Presque Isle State Park Beach

— by Deborah Williams

FREE Summertime Adventures

S

ummer is here and it’s time for sailing, boating, relaxing on expansive sand beaches, visiting historic Erie Canal buildings, exploring the delights of Chautauqua Institution, and viewing a War of 1812 battle reenactment at Old Fort Erie.

These adventures are just a sampling of summertime pleasures, but they all share one word: FREE. Some activities are always free, and others are free on certain days. All provide fun and education for the whole family including the family dog in some cases.

This year is the 10th anniversary for the unique Old Erie Canal Heritage Park. It is a year of celebration as the park welcomed a major new addition: the Lois McClure, an 83-footlong replica of an 1862 class canal schooner built in 2002 in Vermont. The design of the boat was based on two shipwrecks discovered in Lake Champlain. During her sailing days, she visited Buffalo several times for tours.

The free park is the only historical park in the nation with direct access from an interstate highway. It is also accessible from Rt. 31 in nearby Port Bryon. It is a must stop for travelers driving east on the Thruway between exits 41 and 40.

Staff and volunteers have begun the job of restoring the boat with the goal of making it accessible to visitors who will be able to go on board.

“The last boat went through Lock 52 here in 1917,” explained Darrin Rooker, Park Manager. His great-great-grandfather was a lock tender at this Lock 52 which was completed in 1853. As Rooker said, this place seems to be in his blood.

It has the distinction of being one of the most intact and wellpreserved 19th century locks in the state.

8 WNY Family July 2026

The lock’s closure coincided with the opening of the New York State Barge Canal the following year, which saw a widening, deepening and re-routing of the Erie Canal away from Port Bryon.

The park offers a gift shop, rest rooms, peppermint candies for children, and dog biscuits for your dog. The exhibits tell the lock’s history. From the early days of the saloon and boarding house, Maud, a large friendly looking dog, presided over the property and was even credited with saving her owner’s life.

Her photos enjoy a prominent place in the exhibits.

Follow the path to the Erie House complex of three restored buildings including the saloon and hotel built by Italian immigrant brothers Pietro and Salvatore Van Detto. Inside, a friendly volunteer is happy to answer questions and tell stories of the early days. The bar and gleaming cash register are originals but, alas, there is no longer any bar service.

Privacy was rare and the rates tell quite a story: five cents to sleep sitting up; ten cents to sleep on the floor; 20 cents to sleep in a bed likely with two others; and 25-30 cents to sleep in a single bed.

Just across the Niagara River from Buffalo and a quick trip over the Peace Bridge is Old Fort Erie. The original fort was built in 1764 and located on the river’s edge below the fort that stands today. For decades, Fort Erie served as a supply depot and port for ships transporting merchandise, troops, and passengers to the Upper Great Lakes.

During the American Revolution the fort was used as a supply base for British troops, Loyalist Rangers and Six Nations Warriors.

Buffalo Maritime Center

Fort Erie Battle reenactment

Old Erie Canal Heritage Park On August 8 and 9, hundreds of historical reenactors from across Ontario and the United States will demonstrate why Fort Erie is known as Canada’s bloodiest battlefield. The annual Siege of Old Fort Erie reenactment is free and is Canada’s largest and longest-running battle reenactment.

The actual siege, also known as the Battle of Erie, was one of the last engagements of the War of 1812 between British and American forces. It took place during the Niagara campaign and the Americans successfully defended Fort Erie against a British army. During the siege, the British troops suffered high casualties in a failed storming attempt; they also suffered causalities from sickness and exposure in their rough camps.

Unaware that the British were about to abandon the siege, the American garrison launched a sortie to destroy the British siege batteries, during which both sides again suffered high losses. The Americans demolished Fort Erie before leaving the area. The attempted siege ended one of the last British offensives along the northern border.

Take a journey through time and experience what it was like during the War of 1812 as British and American soldiers clashed and cannons were fired.

The annual Siege weekend is filled with family friendly activities for all ages including historic weapon demonstrations and live skirmishes. Visitors are welcome to explore the military camps including Merchant’s Row where they can browse the wares of merchants and sutlers (those allowed to follow and supply the army) dressed in period costume and carrying on business as it was done during the early 1800s. The historical camps are designed to portray authentic 1812 soldier life including field hospitals.

Children are invited to participate in hands on activities including the “Mini Militia Kids Experience,” where young visitors can participate in simulated drills.

President Teddy Roosevelt once said, “Chautauqua is the most American thing in America.” Two years ago, the Chautauqua Institution celebrated its 150th season. Although almost a century younger than the United States, it is an ideal place to visit in this special summer.

Roosevelt was enraptured with Chautauqua and visited five times. An ardent fishing enthusiast, he was a fan of fishing for Chautauqua’s famed muskies which continue to draw visitors today.

There is a gate entrance fee during the summer season, but admission is always free on Sundays and children 12 and under and anyone 90 and older are free any day. Visiting on a warm day? Enjoy the beach and the rocking chairs at the venerable Athenaeum Hotel with a lakefront front porch. Don’t miss the free Sunday afternoon family friendly concerts and programs in the Amphitheater.

This year’s 17th annual Buffalo Day will be August 25 with special programming and free admission and parking for Buffalo area residents.

“There is no place like it,” Pulitzer Prize winning historian David McCullough said about Chautauqua Institution. “No resort. No spa. Not anywhere else in the country or anywhere in the world—it is at once a summer encampment and a small town, a college campus, an arts colony, a music festival, a religious retreat and the village square—and there’s no place— no place with anything like its history.” continued on page 10 July 2026 WNY Family 9

Presque Isle State Park

FAMILY TRAVEL continued...

Children and families have always been welcome.

“Bring the boys and girls to the Assembly,” an 1877 Chautauqua newspaper said. “They may spend half their time climbing trees or boating on the lake…but they cannot avoid seeing and hearing many things which will shape their destiny in life.”

Children’s programs start as early as three years. The Boys’ and Girls’ Club for grades 2-10 is considered the oldest day camp in the country. The Youth Activities Center is a drop-in center for ages 12-17 and features a snack bar, TVs, games, table tennis and pool tables. The Special Studies program provides age-appropriate learning programs similar to programs available for adults. The wide variety of subjects available include computer skills, art, dance, music, writing, language, photography and more.

Presque Isle is the state’s only “seashore” and offers swimming, boating, fishing, hiking, bicycling and in-line skating.

The neck of the peninsula is attached to the mainland four miles west of downtown Erie. The park creates Presque Isle Bay, a wide and deep harbor for Erie which attracts pleasure craft as well as freighters from around the globe, making the city an important Great Lakes shipping port.

During the War of 1812, Little Bay was the temporary home of the fleet of ships commanded by Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry. Half his ships were built in Erie and Presque Isle protected them during construction. On September 10, 1813 during the Battle of Lake Erie, Perry and his men defeated the British at Put-in-Bay near Sandusky, Ohio.

The park features an ADA accessible sand beach at Beach 8 and it is open through Labor Day. The beach features a ramp and free beach wheelchairs are available. Dogs are welcome at several beaches.

Presque Isle State Park ranks as Erie, Pennsylvania’s premier year-round attraction but summer is the most popular season. The 3,200-acre sandy peninsula arches into Lake Erie.

With seven miles of sandy beaches, this is a park that is hard to top for beach and water lovers. Admission and parking are free year-round as are all Pennsylvania state parks.

The Tom Ridge Environment Center is the gateway to the park. Admission is free to the interactive exhibits and the 75-foot observation tower. It is dedicated to teaching visitors about the area and the many different forms of life that live here. It also promotes environmental awareness helping to preserve this unique area.

Pontoon Lagoon Tours offer free, one-hour interpretive tours on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays through Labor Day at 9am, 10:30am and 12:30pm on a first come, first serve basis. A park naturalist rides along, sharing insights about the wetland habitat and its residents.

Waldameer Park and Water World is next door to the park and admission is free for the amusement park. Ride admission is available with an all-day pass, or you can pay for rides individually. So, if children want to cap off their day at the beach with an amusement park ride, the option is available here.

10 WNY Family July 2026

Buffalo Maritime Center’s leaders believe that building and sailing on these traditional boats helps to deepen the understanding of the history and the relationship of Buffalonians and our local waterways.

On-the-water fleet available for free sails and tours: • The Scajaquada is a 28-foot Lake Erie shallop boat and the flagship of the center’s on-the-water fleet. It has spent many seasons on display at the Commercial Slip, the original terminus of the Erie Canal.

Chautauqua Institution Bell Tower

• The O.K. Clark is an example of a “No Man’s Land” type boat named after an island near Martha’s Vineyard in Massachusetts. It was developed in the mid-1800s for use in the Atlantic Ocean in the Cape Cod area and is considered most seaworthy.

• The White Electra is an example of an early 1900s electric launch. Similar boats were used to ferry passengers during Buffalo’s 1901 Pan-American Exposition. It offers free boat rides and tours of Buffalo’s Inner Harbor.

Chautauqua Institution Beach Buffalo Maritime Center’s Seneca Chief is back home at Canalside after an epic journey to New York City last fall and the return to Buffalo last month. The amazing voyage celebrated the bicentennial of the completion of the Erie Canal and attracted thousands of visitors at ports along the Erie Canal and Hudson River.

The original Seneca Chief could be called one of the most important boats in American history since it formally opened the completed Erie Canal in Buffalo on October 26, 1825. The canal totally transformed New York, the country, and the world.

The 73-foot Seneca Chief is a full-sized replica of the original boat. Hundreds of volunteers built the boat on Buffalo’s Canalside from October 2020 to June 2024 under the watchful eye of two shipwrights.

Travel Tip of the Month: For information on Old Erie Canal Heritage Park visit newyorkcanals.org or call 315-776-4112. Free audio tours are also available. For Old Fort Erie battle reenactment visit niagaraparks.com or call 905-871-0540. The actual battles will be 2pm and 8pm on August 8 and 1pm on August 9. Bring chairs because bleachers fill up quickly.

For Chautauqua Institution visit chq.org or call 800-836-ARTS. The season is June 27-August 30. For Buffalo Day, visit buffaloday.chq.org. Order your free tickets by July 11 to reserve free parking. For Presque Isle State Park visit www. discoverpi.com or www.pa.gov. Call 814-833-7424.

For Buffalo Maritime Center boat tours and volunteer programs visit buffalomaritimecenter.org or call 716-881-0111.

Seneca Chief tours will be Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays.

Sailing on the center’s sailboats is free and by reservation as is touring the harbor on the electric boat.

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.

It was one of the largest community boatbuilding projects in the world and one of few constructed on public display.

During the construction, visitors from every state and most every country learned of the canal’s history and watched the boat’s creation.

Building the Seneca Chief provided practice, teaching opportunities, and helped preserve traditional wooden boatbuilding skills. Free tours of this historic vessel are offered throughout the summer.

Volunteers have also built smaller traditional wooden boats, including several sailing vessels, at the center’s Arthur Street headquarters and are now available for free sails. Their designs were developed from the age of working sailboats and early motor launches.

July 2026 WNY Family 11

Bargain Stops on Your Next Vacation

—by Pam Molnar

A

family vacation is meant to be a time to recharge, see new sights, and make memories with those you love. It is not expected that you max out your credit card to do so. In the past few years, the cost of family vacations has gone up exponentially. Instead of cancelling your plans, why not look for more budget friendly options?

MUSEUM FREE DAYS

No matter where you are visiting this year, you can always find something fun that fits your budget. Not sure where to start? Take a look at some of these ideas.

There are many ways to tour museums for free. If you are visiting museums on your trip or those within your state, check out their websites for free days. Your local library card might also allow you to enter the museums for free. Another way to get free or reduced admissions is to look at your bank and credit card websites. Bank of America, for example, has specific free weekend offers to more than 225 museums across the U.S.

ATTEND LOCAL FESTIVALS

THE BEACH

Check out the community pages for the area you are planning to visit. Summertime community calendars are filled with farmer’s markets, state and county fairs, car shows and food festivals, plus regional religious, folk and ethnic fests.

Attending these events will give you a deeper dive into the culture of the city where you are vacationing than you would find by just visiting the tourist attractions.

If you are lucky enough to vacation near a beach (even if it’s a little bit of a drive), this is a great inexpensive day trip.

Parking is usually free or nominal. Find out if the beach rents umbrellas, chairs or sand toys. If not, a local Walmart in a beach town is a great source for those things. Look for cheap eats at nearby food trucks or bring a picnic. Consider taking your family holiday photo while you are there to save money this fall.

SEEK OUT LOCAL ART AND MURALS Every community has artists unique to their area.

Nashville, for example, has dozens of murals that are great photo stops. Phoenix has public art displayed in the Roosevelt Row Arts District. In New York, you can explore the public art installations in Central Park. In Philadelphia, you can explore Old City on the first Friday of each month for a variety of artists on display. An easy Google search will help you find art districts and festivals in the area you are visiting.

12 WNY Family July 2026

WALKING TOURS Many cities offer tours given by local experts. Tours vary by location but may include self-guided tours, food tours, historic tours, ghost tours or nightlife tours. FreeToursByFoot.com offers tours in 18 North American cities, but a simple Google search of walking tours in the city you plan to visit will bring you a long list of options. It’s a great way to see the city, get some exercise and people-watch along the way.

EIGHT MUST-USE TRAVEL APPS Roadtrippers—This app is an easy way to plan your road trip and shares interesting stops and local restaurants along the way.

GasBuddy—You can save money on gas by finding the best price nearby. Sometimes, it’s worth the extra few miles.

SCAVENGER HUNTS If you enjoy walking tours, be sure to look up scavenger hunts in the city you are visiting. Large groups might enjoy breaking up into smaller groups for a little friendly competition.

ScavengerHunt.com has interactive hunts for over 200 cities in the U.S. and Europe. Players explore the city on foot by looking for clues, answering trivia questions, solving riddles and taking pictures.

HISTORIC SIGHTS No matter where you vacation this year, you are bound to find some historic sites nearby. Research battlefields, forts, historic homes, cemeteries, churches, temples, gardens, hotels, or memorials in the area you are visiting on places like TripAdvisor.com. The apps Clio—Your Guide to History and ExploreHere uses your location to guide you to local landmarks and historical sites.

RV CAMPING They say that getting there is half the fun, but staying there might be even more fun. Look for unique places to camp through HarvestHosts.com. This membership plan offers dry camping hosting at over 5,000 wineries, farms, golf courses, museums, attractions and breweries in the U.S. If you are planning a trip to a theme park, many offer their own RV parking with shuttles to the parks.

Pam Molnar is a freelance writer and mother of three.

Some of their best vacation memories include free activities off the beaten path.

Happy Cow—If you are traveling with a vegan, this app will show you all the nearby vegan restaurant options.

All Trails—If you need a few minutes (or miles) for your family to run off some of the wiggles, check out All Trails for nearby hikes.

Yelp—Want recommendations for the best hotel, restaurant or activity, you need to turn to Yelp. iExit—This handy app will tell you what is available at the next exit—restaurants, gas or even stores.

SpotHero—Find the best parking spot in town and book in advance. Available in 300 US cities.

Flush—If you are traveling with kids, you need to find a bathroom quickly. There’s an app for that, too!

July 2026 WNY Family 13

SINGLE PARENTING — by Meagan Ruffing

In the Heat of the Summer, Refresh and Reset

I

t’s usually around July when I realize that summer is in full swing. June feels like a blur because the kids have only recently finished school, and I associate August with going back to school, so July feels smack dab in the middle of everything.

It also happens to be the hottest month of the year where I live, so you can usually find me either at work doing therapy or hibernating at home with the air conditioning on. I love both spaces equally and tend to use this month as a healthy reset for all things; slowing down where I can, reconnecting with routines, and finding small moments of rest before life speeds back up again. I do these 8 simple things to help me reset:

1. ‘Meagan Days’ and Girls’ Nights Out are two social

ways I reconnect with myself and with my closest friends. Since July is the one month out of the year when my kids are with their dad, I like to keep myself busy so as not to get too sad that they’re not with me. I use this time to find balance between resting and playing and doing and being. It’s the perfect time for me 14 WNY Family July 2026

to slow down and enjoy the long summer days.

2. Small moments of rest are found in drinking my morning coffee on the way to work as I listen to my latest audiobook. It’s also in the fresh flowers I buy myself to bring into my office at the beginning of each week.

Looking at them reminds me of how far I’ve come in my life when things were really hard. It’s also a nice way to freshen up my space.

3. Reconnecting with old routines is something I’m

most looking forward to this month. I recently graduated from a doctoral program and I’m now finding that I have the time to pick up old cross-stitch patterns, half-read books, and random projects around the house that need to be tended to. I find myself getting so excited about the endless possibilities that come with having extra time, that I make to-do lists every day to gather my thoughts and check things off.

4. Another small moment of rest for me is taking my two dogs for a

walk just before bed when the humidity

starts to break a little bit. Tommy and Conner have been with me for ten years now. They saw me through all three kids growing up, a divorce, a clinical internship, a new job, and a new marriage.

Good thing they can’t talk! Spending time with them reminds me how good it feels to be loved by a pet.

5. I work four, 10-hour days in the summer so I have one day off each week to do whatever I want. On these days, I like to sit by the pool and relax which helps me feel refreshed and ready to go for the next day.

6. I like to take mini road trips to Trader Joe’s to stock up on all

the fun things I can’t find in my town. If you’re not familiar with Trader Joe’s, it’s like an Aldi’s, Ikea, and Target all in one.

The closest one to my house is about two hours away and with the extra, kid-free time on my hands in July, I like to make time for these one-day, out-of-the norm errands I like to run.

7. If my budget allows, I try to book one massage and one facial

during this month. It’s easier to fit in with my one day off a week summer schedule and it’s a special treat that I’ve come to look forward to each July.

8. This is about the time when I start booking my holiday travel for Thanksgiving and Christmas. Since I get my kids every other holiday, I try to plan things as far in advance as I can to get the best deals and reduce the chance of any last-minute planning. I am originally from the east coast and so it’s important to me to try and get back home at least once a year.

What kinds of things do you do in July to help yourself feel refreshed and relaxed? Use this article as a sign to explore what things in your life need a reset so that you can go into August feeling ready to tackle the new school year.

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.

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July 2026 WNY Family 15

Parents’ Night Out!

Food, fun and more…it’s what I do.

— by Tasha Wagner

Buffalo area host their own summer music series. No matter where you live, it’s nearly impossible not to catch a great band on a warm summer night multiple times throughout the season.

It’s Concert Season!

The author and her husband

W

elcome back to another fun-filled article for you parents!

As a parent, you not only need the chance to reset your nervous system, slow down, and enjoy something fun for adults—you deserve it. This is where I take you on a journey each month into a perfectly curated date night.

Summer is finally upon us in Buffalo, so welcome to concert season!

Buffalo summers are short but oh-so-sweet. Live music is the heartbeat of this city, and the second the weather warms up, the outdoor concert lineups start rolling out. From local bands to national and worldwide performers, we’ve got it all.

Buffalo comes alive with such vibrancy that it earns its own je ne sais quoi. It becomes its own energy, its own private island of excitement. You can feel it in the air every day once the weather decides to cooperate.

16 WNY Family July 2026

I truly believe Buffalo has one of the most eclectic music scenes anywhere. Summer is the season when music comes alive. It becomes an enigma with a heart and a soul, demanding our love and attention, and we come in droves to be part of it.

Whether you prefer smaller venues featuring local bands or full-scale concert venues with household-name artists, I’ve got you covered.

Buffalo’s many towns and villages have each created a vibe and following all their own. For great local outdoor music, you have to check out the Gateway Harbor Concert Series, Bidwell Park in Elmwood Village, Caz Park, the Tappo Jazz Series, Sully’s on the Water, Mickey Rats Beach Club, and Music on Main. And that’s just naming a few!

Be sure to check your town or village social media pages to find out what’s happening in your area. From East Aurora to Hamburg to Lewiston, the many villages throughout the Greater

I personally live in Williamsville, and I will completely admit that I am biased. Thursdays on Main Street (Music on Main) are, by far, my favorite local music events every summer. Every Thursday from June through September, the Village of Williamsville turns into an all-out party. Every restaurant and bar have a band outside, people are dancing and singing in the streets, everyone is smiling, and you really just have to be there to understand it.

It doesn’t matter where you go— there’s live music and happy people everywhere. It’s simply awesome.

Now, if the big-name concert tours are your thing, this city doesn’t disappoint.

There’s Artpark, which is known for bringing in legendary artists and fan favorites. Some may not be topping today’s charts, but many were once household names and remain incredible performers. It’s a great venue to catch an oldie-but-goodie concert.

Then there’s Terminal B at the Outer Harbor. While this venue is newer to the Buffalo area, it has quickly become one of the most sought-after destinations for outdoor concerts. From festivals to chart-topping artists, it continues to attract major acts and huge crowds.

I saved the most well-known venue for last: Darien Lake.

Darien Lake is a staple of the Buffalo area. While it is known as our biggest amusement park, it has also become the premier outdoor concert venue for some of the biggest acts touring today. continued on page 37

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WNY Family Magazine | July 2026 | A Special Pull-Out Section

1 WNY Family July 2022

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V

isiting the doctor can sometimes feel overwhelming, especially when dealing with complex medical concerns or unfamiliar terminology. As we age, it becomes even more important to take an active role in our healthcare to ensure we receive the best possible treatment.

Advocating for yourself at doctor’s appointments is about being prepared, asking the right questions, and making sure your concerns are heard. Here’s how you can take control of your health and make the most of your medical visits.

PREPARE BEFORE YOUR APPOINTMENT

A productive doctor’s visit starts before you even step into the office.

Take some time to write down any symptoms, changes in health, or specific concerns you want to discuss. Keeping a health journal or list of questions can help you remember important details. If you’re seeing a new doctor, bring a summary of your medical history, including medications, previous diagnoses, and any recent test results.

20 WNY Family July 2026

Having this information readily available allows for a more efficient and thorough discussion.

BRING A TRUSTED ADVOCATE

If you feel nervous about remembering all the details or advocating for yourself, consider bringing a trusted friend or family member. A second set of ears can help catch important information, ask additional questions, and provide support. Having someone else present can also help ensure that you fully understand your doctor’s recommendations and treatment plan.

ASK QUESTIONS AND TAKE NOTES

Doctors often have limited time, so it’s essential to make your concerns clear and ask specific questions. Don’t be afraid to ask for clarification if something is unclear. Questions like, “What are the potential side effects of this medication?” or “Are there alternative

treatment options?” can help you make informed decisions. Taking notes during the appointment ensures you have accurate information to refer back to later.

back about test results, don’t assume everything is fine—call the office and ask for an update.

You can always ask the doctor to write things down for you as well. This ensures that you are getting the information that you need when you go home.

Another idea is to use your phone to record the doctor’s recommendations (with the doctor’s permission).

BUILD A RELATIONSHIP WITH YOUR DOCTOR

SPEAK UP ABOUT YOUR NEEDS AND PREFERENCES

Your healthcare should be a collaboration between you and your doctor. If a prescribed treatment doesn’t align with your lifestyle or if you have concerns about a medication’s side effects, voice those concerns. Doctors appreciate engaged patients who actively participate in their care. If you feel your doctor isn’t addressing your concerns, don’t hesitate to seek a second opinion.

A strong doctor-patient relationship is built on trust and communication. Be honest about your symptoms, lifestyle habits, and any concerns you may have.

A doctor who knows and understands you is better equipped to provide personalized care. If you feel your doctor isn’t listening to you or respecting your input, consider switching to a

provider who makes you feel heard and valued.

TAKE CONTROL OF YOUR HEALTH

Advocating for yourself at doctor’s appointments is one of the most powerful ways to take control of your health. By preparing in advance, asking questions, speaking up about your concerns, and staying organized, you can ensure you receive the best care possible. Your health is too important to leave to chance—take an active role and make your voice heard.

UNDERSTAND YOUR INSURANCE AND COSTS

Medical expenses can add up quickly, so it’s important to understand your insurance coverage and potential out-ofpocket costs. Ask your doctor or their office staff about generic medication options, alternative treatments, or financial assistance programs if needed. Being informed about costs can help prevent unexpected medical bills and ensure you receive the necessary care without financial stress.

FOLLOW UP AND STAY ORGANIZED

Advocating for yourself doesn’t end when the appointment is over. Follow up on test results, referrals, or prescribed treatments. Keep a folder or digital record of your medical history, medications, and doctor’s notes so you can track your progress and maintain an accurate health record. If you don’t hear July 2026 WNY Family 21

despite the bleak and gloomy outlook that looms over me. Other episodes are major and impact all areas of my life.

—by Kimberly Blaker

Recently, I experienced my first dysthymic episode—a depression that lasted two years, cycling between mild and severe. I had become resistant to my long-trusted friend, Wellbutrin, and none of the other medications I tried gave me any relief. Finally, I found a psychopharmacologist who knew just the right cocktail (a combination of medications) for me, and my depression went back into remission.

People with one depressive disorder often suffer from various forms. I’ve been diagnosed with major depressive disorder, dysthymia, seasonal affective disorder (SAD), and either cyclothymia or bipolar II (hypomania, rather than mania), with the depression component being the more severe problem for me.

DEPRESSION Is Far More Sinister Than Sadness— But with Treatment,

I

There is Hope

was first diagnosed with major depression at the age of 31. I was married, had two beautiful kids ages 7 and 3, and owned a thriving business. Yet, despite having so much to live for, my mood plummeted into despair. I lost all motivation to do anything. The simplest everyday tasks suddenly required an extraordinary effort. At night, I’d lie awake ruminating over every minor thing I had ever said or done that was wrong—or less than perfect. My life felt utterly worthless, despite all evidence to the contrary, and I became engulfed in sorrow and hopelessness.

As days turned into weeks, I continued to spiral downward. I became increasingly focused on death. I wasn’t suicidal, 22 WNY Family July 2026

per se—though thoughts of the least painful methods of ending my suffering swirled around in my mind. I wanted nothing more than to fall asleep and never wake up again.

Unable to endure the pain and emptiness any longer and terrified by my thoughts, I finally sought help. My doctor prescribed an antidepressant, and within a few weeks, the darkness lifted.

I was once again my usual happy, energetic self.

But this was only the beginning of a lifelong battle with depression. Over the past couple of decades, I’ve had far too many bouts of depression to even count.

Some are mild and short-lived, having minimal impact on my functioning,

WOMEN ARE PARTICULARLY AT RISK FOR DEPRESSION Depression does affect both women and men. But women are twice as likely to experience major depression, according to Harvard Medical School.

Women also experience higher rates of dysthymia, seasonal affective disorder (SAD), and the depressive side of bipolar disorder.

Depression, unlike the normal sadness everyone experiences from time to time, is a soul-sucking darkness that’s debilitating. It causes feelings of hopelessness, helplessness, and worthlessness.

Depression can affect every aspect of life, from work and school to parenting, friendships, and the very basics of living.

For most women who’ve been diagnosed with depression in the past, the feeling is unmistakable when it begins to set in. But those who suffer from milder forms of depression and sometimes, even those suffering from a first major depressive episode, don’t immediately connect all the dots. So, some people can experience depression and not realize they’re suffering from a treatable illness.

SIGNS OF DEPRESSION

Symptoms of depression can range from mild to severe. Not everyone experiences every symptom. But several symptoms must be present for at least two weeks to receive a diagnosis of depression. The exact criteria for specific types of depression vary slightly. But the following are all indicators.

•

Feeling depressed (sad, empty, or hopeless) nearly every day for at least a couple weeks

•

Unusual irritability or difficulty controlling anger

•

Ongoing trouble sleeping or sleeping more than usual

•

An increase or decrease in appetite or significant unexplained weight loss or gain

•

Loss of interest or pleasure in all or most activities

•

Difficulty concentrating or making decisions

•

Feelings of fatigue or loss of energy

•

Excessive or inappropriate feelings of guilt or worthlessness

•

Visible psychomotor down or agitation

•

Recurrent thoughts of death or suicide, with or without a plan, or attempted suicide

Dysthymia is diagnosed when someone experiences depression for most of each day and on most days for at least two years. It’s often a lower level yet enduring depression. But those with major depression who are treatmentresistant can also meet the diagnosis of dysthymia. So, impairment from dysthymia can range from mild to severe. Women, according to HealthFundingResearch. org, are three times more likely than men to suffer from dysthymia.

Those with seasonal affective disorder (SAD) become depressed only or primarily during a particular season.

For most with SAD, it’s during the fall and winter months resulting from the shorter days and reduced sunshine. But some people experience SAD during

the summer months instead. The onset of SAD is typically around the age of 20 and affects 10 million Americans each year.

Bipolar disorder affects 2.6% of American adults, according to the NIMH. This treatable but lifelong disease typically develops in women in their mid to upper 20s. For men, the onset is usually in the teens to the early 20s. Bipolar is signified by its bouts of both mania (or hypomania) and its opposite extreme, depression. Though an individual with bipolar will experience both sides of the spectrum, in women, depression is often the most problematic.

For men, it’s the mania. Those with bipolar often experience psychosis continued on page 24

slowing

TYPES OF DEPRESSION

There are quite a few classifications, or types, of depression. The following are a few of the more common.

In any given year, major depressive disorder affects nearly 7% of the U.S. population, according to the National Institutes of Mental Health (NIMH).

During a major depressive episode, almost all aspects of a person’s life are affected. Someone suffering from major depression may lack the motivation to do anything, including such necessities as taking a shower. Because of the impairment, both work and personal life suffer. In addition to the symptoms noted above, 20% of those with major depression will also experience psychosis (hallucinations or delusions).

July 2026 WNY Family 23

DEPRESSION continued...

CAUSES

during bouts of mania and sometimes with depression.

The exact cause of depression is unknown. But several factors likely contribute to the condition. According to the Mayo Clinic, those with depression have physical changes in their brains.

These changes in the brain may eventually help researchers determine the exact cause of depression.

Postpartum depression will affect 10 to 15% of women, according to the NIMH. Postpartum depression shouldn’t be confused with the “baby blues,” which is milder, short-lived, and related to the worry and fatigue of parenting a new baby. Instead, postpartum depression results from hormonal changes. During pregnancy, a woman’s hormone levels increase. Then immediately following childbirth, hormone levels rapidly drop to normal levels. This ultimately results in depression in some women. Like other forms of depression, it can be mildly to severely debilitating.

24 WNY Family July 2026

Depression is also genetic. A higher incidence of depression has been found in those with blood relatives who suffer from the condition.

Brain chemicals called neurotransmitters play a role in depression. The Mayo Clinic explains that the way neurotransmitters function and their effect on the neurocircuits involved in

mood stability plays a significant role both

in depression and its treatment.

Hormonal changes can also play a role in depression, particularly for women. During pregnancy and for several months following pregnancy, women are especially vulnerable.

Menstruation cycles and menopause can also trigger depression.

TREATMENT In some cases, depression results from an underlying medical condition such as thyroid problems or low vitamin B levels. For this reason, it’s essential to visit your primary care physician for continued on page 28

——by Dr. Greg Carnevale, MD

Tips for Families to Support Nutritional Health and Wellness

G

ood nutrition is about more than maintaining a healthy weight; it promotes healthy aging and helps combat diseases such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and obesity. Despite the benefits of a healthy lifestyle, only 7.4% of adults nationally and 12% in New York reported eating two or more fruits or three or more vegetables a day.

Prioritizing nutrient-rich foods, such as a variety of fruits and vegetables, healthy proteins like nuts and fish, and whole-grain fiber, while limiting processed foods and added sugars is essential for overall wellness.

A nutritious diet does not have to look the same for everyone. The Dietary Guidelines for Americans purposely provides recommendations based on food groups and subgroups—not specific foods and beverages—to allow for customization and make food their own by selecting healthy foods, beverages, and snacks that work for individuals’ personal preferences.

Here are some tips for individuals to help promote strong nutritional health: Encourage healthy eating from a young age. According to the CDC, fewer than 1 in 10 children and adults eat the recommended daily amount of vegetables, and only 4 in 10 meet fruit recommendations. A great way to ensure children receive a nutritionally balanced, healthy, and appealing meal is to pack a healthy school lunch. Swap out added sugars, such as those found in grainbased desserts, breakfast cereals, yogurts, and flavored milks, with fresh-cut fruits and veggies, whole grains, seafood, beans, low-fat dairy products, or lean meats and poultry.

Limit or avoid foods high in added sugar, carbohydrates, and saturated fat.

Most foods can fit into a healthy eating pattern when consumed in moderation.

However, according to the USDA’s Dietary Guidelines, some foods and beverages that are higher in added sugar, saturated fat, and sodium should be limited, including:

•

Alcoholic beverages: If adults of legal drinking age choose to drink alcohol, they should limit their intake to two drinks per day for men or one drink or less per day for women. Some people should avoid drinking alcohol altogether, including women who are pregnant and those with certain health conditions.

•

Sodium: Adults should consume less than 2,300 milligrams per day—even less for children under 14. High sodium content is often continued on page 27 July 2026 WNY Family 25

—by Rebecca Hastings

Helmet 101:

Choosing the Right Protection for Your Child

I

t’s always great to see kids outside playing, especially in the nice weather. Kids are particularly drawn to riding things like bikes and scooters. But the risk of head injury is something parents need to consider.

Ensuring your child wears a helmet during activities like biking, horseback riding, scootering, skateboarding, or rollerblading is one of the best ways to prevent head injuries.

However, not all helmets are created equal, and choosing the right one is crucial for safety. Here’s what parents need to know about selecting, fitting, and maintaining helmets.

Snug Fit

No Movement

Position Straps

HOW A HELMET SHOULD FIT A properly fitting helmet is essential for effective protection. The first step for a properly fitting helmet is making sure kids wear them. A helmet does no good if it’s hanging on the handlebars or sitting in the garage. Make helmets a requirement at all times and go through this checklist to ensure the helmet fits properly to protect your child in case of accidents.

26 WNY Family July 2026

Snug Fit: The helmet should sit level on the head and not tilt forward or backward. It should be snug but not uncomfortably tight.

Position: The helmet should rest low on the forehead, about two finger-widths above the eyebrows.

Straps: The side straps should form a V-shape around the ears, and the chin strap should be tight enough that only one or two fingers can fit underneath.

No Movement: When your child shakes their head, the helmet should stay securely in place without wobbling.

TYPES OF HELMETS Different activities require different types of helmets.

Choosing the right one ensures maximum protection. Bike Helmets, for example, are designed for single-impact protection, meaning they should be replaced after a crash.

Multi-Sport Helmets are suitable for activities like skateboarding and rollerblading. These helmets offer more coverage and are designed for multiple minor impacts. They should be replaced if there is a major impact or the helmet is damaged in any way.

Specialty helmets provide targeted protection for specific activities. Ski & Snowboard Helmets provide insulation and impact protection for winter sports. They are not only beneficial for skiing and snowboarding but also for ice skating, sledding, and tubing. Equestrian Helmets are specifically made for horseback riding. These helmets are designed to withstand falls from greater heights.

Choosing the right type of helmet for your child’s activities provides the specific protection they need.

Regardless of the type of helmet, make sure your child

wears it properly. A helmet should always be strapped and clipped in place to provide maximum protection.

HELMET TIPS BY AGE GROUP Ages 2-4 •

Look for lightweight helmets with extra cushioning.

•

Many toddler helmets come with an adjustable dial for a better fit.

•

Set a good example by wearing a helmet yourself.

Ages 5-9 •

As kids become more active, ensure their helmet is certified for the activities they engage in.

•

Encourage them to personalize their helmet with stickers to increase the likelihood they’ll wear it.

•

Check for proper fit frequently, as children’s heads grow rapidly.

Ages 10-14 •

Teens may resist wearing helmets, so stress the importance of safety.

•

Consider stylish, low-profile options that provide safety without bulkiness.

•

Ensure the helmet meets safety certifications like CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission).

ADDITIONAL HELMET SAFETY TIPS

in direct sunlight, which can weaken materials.

Lead by example: If kids see parents and older siblings wearing helmets, they are more likely to follow suit.

Dr. David Lewis ~ Dr. Emily Patrick Dr. John Rockas ~ Dr. Jessica Carrick

General Family Practice

HELMETS MATTER Choosing the right helmet and ensuring a proper fit can significantly reduce the risk of head injuries. By making helmet-wearing a routine habit, parents can help keep their children safe while they enjoy their favorite activities. A well-fitted helmet isn’t just a piece of gear—it’s a vital layer of protection that can make all the difference in preventing serious injuries.

TIPS FOR FAMILIES TO SUPPORT NUTRITIONAL HEALTH AND WELLNESS continued...

•

found in highly processed foods and should be avoided.

•

Added sugars: Added sugars can be hard to spot. To help identify sources of added sugars, look for ingredients that include the word “sugar” or “syrup” or end in “-ose.”

•

Saturated fat: Healthy fats from meats, poultry, and eggs are essential in a balanced diet; however, saturated fat intake should not exceed 10% of total daily calories.

Check for certification: Always look for safety standards like CPSC, ASTM, or Snell certification.

Understand the most important guidelines. Food and diet can be customized to reflect personal preferences, budgetary restrictions and cultural traditions. The USDA recommends that Americans meet their nutritional needs through consuming nutrient-dense foods and beverages and staying within daily calorie limits.

Store properly: Keep helmets in a cool, dry place and avoid leaving them

Ultimately, choosing nutrient-rich foods should be the focus when deciding

Replace after impact: Helmets are designed to absorb impact only once. If a helmet takes a hit, replace it even if there are no visible cracks.

Clarence Chiropractic

Also specializing in: • Webster Technique for Pregnancy • Children • Athletic Injuries • Auto/Work Injuries • Graston Technique • Flexion/Distraction Technique

Call for an Appointment 4440 Shimerville Rd., Clarence, NY 14031

716-633-2036

www.MainChiropractor.com

what to eat. Most of the calories (approximately 85 percent) a person consumes in a day come from nutrientrich foods; only a small amount (approximately 15 percent) is left over for saturated fats, sugar, or alcoholic beverages.

Where to begin. While making any major lifestyle change can feel overwhelming, incorporating more nutritious foods does not have to be challenging.

Recognizing that the foods and beverages we consume have a profound effect on our health is a great place to start. The scientific connection between food and health is well documented, and there is substantial evidence that healthy dietary patterns can help people achieve and maintain good health and reduce the risk of chronic diseases at all stages of life.

Encouraging healthy eating habits from a young age and staying consistent by prioritizing a nutrient-rich lifestyle are key to living a longer, healthier life.

Using online resources, such as the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, can help you decide what to eat and drink to support a healthy eating routine.

Dr. Greg Carnevale is Chief Medical Officer for UnitedHealthcare of NY. July 2026 WNY Family 27

DEPRESSION continued... blood work to rule out other causes. If the cause of depression is an underlying medical condition, treatment for that condition is likely all that’s needed to cure the depression.

If medical causes have been ruled out, then it’s best to consult with a psychiatrist. Although primary care physicians can treat depression, psychiatrists have specialized training in diagnosing the various forms of depression and experience in treating them. Psychiatrists often know which medications will work best for a particular patient based on a variety of factors. In fact, depending on the type of depression and the specific set of symptoms, some

28 WNY Family July 2026

people with depression require a combination of antidepressants, anti-anxiety medications, and mood stabilizers.

Psychiatrists know how to tailor treatment to each individual for optimal results.

For those who are treatment-resistant, look for a psychiatrist with the special ‘psychopharmacologist’ designation. Psychopharmacologists have gone through additional specialized training in how drugs affect the mind and behavior.

In addition to medication, many psychiatrists recommend cognitive therapy with a psychologist or behavioral therapist in conjunction. This can help people cope with the effects of depression as well as dealing with any

underlying trauma or events fueling the depression.

Finally, for those with SAD, sitting under a light therapy box is often recommended and can be helpful. You can order one online and, depending on your doctor’s recommendations, you can sit under it for 20 to 40 minutes each day.

Kimberly Blaker is a freelance writer. She also owns an online bookshop, Sage Rare & Collectible Books, specializing in out-of-print, scarce, signed, and first editions; fine bindings; ephemera and more at sagerarebooks.com

decks of cards each with hundreds of questions about our presidents that run from George Washington to Donald Trump. Categories for each include “Name that Chief,” “Oval Office,” “Big Moments,” “Path to Presidency,” “First Families,” and “Wild Card.” They’ll keep everyone meaningfully engaged and participating as they celebrate. This is fun for a party but is equally perfect for someone who wants to know more about the presidents and their times.

PICK OF THE LITERATURE — by Dr. Donna Phillips

I

t is time to celebrate July and the birth of our nation! This year is exceptionally special as we celebrate 250 years of our successes, failures, learning, and growing into what the United States of America has become today. With so much to celebrate, there are many books for all ages to help us dig into our history and the people who have shaped it.

Meet July (Sourcebooks, Naperville, 2026, $16.99), written and illustrated by April Martin, is the perfect book to welcome us into the celebrations of the month. All the good food, activities, and family parties can come with noise and confusion. Unexpected thunderstorms, loud music, and fireworks can scare children as well as animals. How can we handle all of this? July and his friends show us how in this lively and colorful celebration book. The ideas and lessons might help children be more comfortable with the chaos this month can bring and help them cope with it.

It’s Time for Red, White, and Blue (Gibbs Smith, Kaysville, 2026, $17.99) by Katherin Fehrl is a sturdy

board book that is sure to capture the attention of your young ones. This unique book unfolds in layers as the pages are turned. With each turn of the page, we see more activities, people, and events as it builds to a beautiful fireworks display. It begins with decorating the lawn for the celebration then moves to a party with friends and family.

The next page reveals a parade that takes us to the big evening event. As sparklers and fireworks light up the evening sky, everyone is happy to celebrate the 4th of July.

Brain Quest has a great way to entertain (and educate) at your holiday party. Smart Cards Presidents (Workman Publishing, New York, 2026, $16.99) has something for the curious and the trivia buffs. There are 2

Troubled Waters: A River’s Journey Toward Justice (Bloomsbury Books, Somerville, 2026, $20.99), beautifully written by Carole Boston Weatherford and passionately illustrated by Bryan Collier, tells the story of the struggle for equality and freedom from the perspective of the Alabama River. Through the “eyes” of the river, we witness the history, events, tragedies, apologies, and accomplishments of the Native Americans, slaves, and those disenfranchised as it winds its way on its course to the Gulf of Mexico. It is almost haunting as it tells these stories from a perspective of thousands of years of existence. Beginning CIRCA 10,000 BC when it first witnessed the humans coming to live by its shores to the 1965 Voting Rights Act, this is a revelation in human cruelty and human determination. Simply but powerfully told and darkly illustrated, it captures the intensity of the struggle for freedom and human dignity.

If chapter books are of interest, you can be sure that books in the Dear America series will be on a summer reading list.

The Winter of Red Snow (Scholastic, continued on page 32 July 2026 WNY Family 31

PICK OF THE LITERATURE continued...

New York, 2026, $9.99) is set in Valley Forge in 1777. Through the diary entries of 11-year-old Abigail Jane Steward, we learn about life during this time and the efforts to become a free nation.

This book and others like it are a wonderful way to get students engaged in this time period and the novel format will draw them into the energy and emotions of this remarkable period in our history.

All of these stories have an element of determination with a focus on freedom and what it takes to achieve and keep it. Let’s let this month be a reminder of what we have accomplished but what we still have left to do. What has helped to make us great is the foundation of family, the belief we can do and be better, and the expectation of accountability. All our great moments resonate with this. Long may our flag wave to remind us and guide us in our effort to continue these values.

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.

32 WNY Family July 2026

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DEAR TEACHER – by Peggy Gisler and Marge Eberts

Helping all parents make their children’s educational experience as successful as possible

P

arents: Believe it or not, most of your children will be back in school next month.

Now is the time to make sure that they have completed any assignments that were given to them to do before they go back to school. Don’t let them wait until next month to rush through these assignments.

At the same time, if your children are seniors in high school, they should have started on their college applications before they plunge into this very busy academic year when it will be difficult for them to find time to do their very best on them.

History is not always a favorite subject for many students. This month take a step towards turning their perception of history into a fun subject through these activities: The Fourth of July is truly a familyfun holiday. You can make it more meaningful and educational by having your children practice their reading skills and, at the same time, become better acquainted with patriotic documents and American history.

On the more serious side, have your children visit www.constitutionfacts. com and click on “Declaration of Independence” to find out more details about the signers and signing of the Declaration.

Once your children have expanded their knowledge, they can take a quiz on the Declaration.

Go to www.readingrockets.org and search for “Celebrate America,” and you will have a list of recommended books for children ages 0-9. Each book gives children information about real and legendary heroes and heroines. This can make history come alive.

Let your children have some red, white, and blue fun. Visit our dearteacher.com website and search for

“Fourth of July.” Scroll down the science activities list to “Patriotic Activities.” Your children can read and learn some safe things that they can do to celebrate the Fourth, including creating “Fireworks in a Glass,” experiencing “Fireworks in Your Mouth,” or making a “Red, White, and Blue Bracelet.”

A truly fun website that family members should visit is www.history. com. Have your children visit this website frequently as its “Day in History” has a different story each day for children to read about what happened on that date in history. These stories can make for some very interesting conversations at the dinner table. For example, the shortest war ever only lasted between 38 and 45 minutes. It was between the United Kingdom and Zanzibar. Unbelievably, the longest war in history lasted 1,213 years and was the Muslim invasion of India.

Help your children understand that burgers were definitely not the diet of their ancestors. However, French fried potatoes did come about by the end of the Civil War. Still the main dish for the soldiers then was hardtack. Consider having them make or try hardtack to understand what it tasted like. It can actually be purchased in online stores.

Reading about historical events is definitely not appealing to every student.

There are movies that give insight into them with considerable accuracies.

You can search online for ones that are considered authentic depictions of events from The Killing Fields describing the Cambodian Civil War to the not completely accurate Zero Dark Thirty on the decades long hunt for Osama bin Laden. And they can learn about Margaret Thatcher, the longest running prime minister in the United Kingdom by watching The Iron Lady. Other good choices are: Apollo 13, Gettysburg, 12 Years a Slave, and All the President’s Men.

Your family’s state is unique for its landscape, culture, and various symbols.

Do your children know your state’s motto, its flower, or animal? The grizzly bear is California’s state mammal, for Kansas it is the American Bison, for New York it is the beaver, and for Tennessee it is the raccoon. This is a fun fact for them to know. These animals are typically chosen for their prevalence in the state.

Your city may also have jumped on this bandwagon and chosen an animal that is commonly found in your area.

While traveling in the family car, increase a bit of what your children know about other states by looking at their license plates. Some state plates have the official mottos while others have popular tourism slogans like Idaho’s Famous Potatoes and Texas’s The Lone Star State.

Parents should send questions and comments to dearteacher@dearteacher. com and visit the dearteacher.com website to learn more about helping their children succeed in school.

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July 2026 WNY Family 33

And I have no reasonable explanation why I miss those days. It’s flat out stupid and certifiably insane. It’s a sign of decreased cognitive function, and there should be some medication I could take. At 50, I take enough pills for everything else. Just throw them on the pile.

The

y d d Da Track

– by Shannon Carpenter

Just Hear Me Out: I Want a Toddler Again

I

have three kids, two of whom are now officially in college. My youngest is 13 and spends a lot of time calling me old. It’s his favorite pastime. He’s not wrong. I’m 50, and most of my beard is gray. I get sore from the following activities:

• Sleeping • Waking up • Existing And yet, for some reason, I want a toddler again. This is how I know life is stupid.

There is a time in parenting when you are exhausted. There are toddlers, and they attract sickness like a petri dish. There is a moment where both you and your wife have food poisoning, and you have to make the weirdest deal in history. The one not using the toilet must take care of the toddlers and babies.

That’s when the toddler decides to bolt out of the house completely naked. Pretty soon, you are a grown man chasing your child down the street in the middle of the day while stopping by a bush to throw up.

That’s when people tell you not to worry and that things get easier. I’m in the easier stage.

A lot of the teenage years require less of the physical parenting and more of the emotional parenting. Helping your 34 WNY Family July 2026

kids understand their emotions and then working through them. Sometimes, they revert back to their toddler stage and throw things at your head. But in general, they become more independent and follow simple instructions such as “Stop Biting Me.” Mostly.

So why in the name of all that is holy do I want a toddler again? I have no ticking clock; I’m a dad. I build the clocks. I have my spawn out in the world, ready to conquer it.

I want a toddler again because I have gone insane. There is no other explanation.

While I thought I was infecting the world with another me, instead, they infected me. When I was sitting on a soccer field trying to convince a handful of two-year-olds to chase a ball instead of an airplane, they weaseled their way into my brain.

Potty training was so bad that I had to use a tarp and pre-print apology cards for random strangers that came into our lives. In a thrift store once, my son threw a full-on tantrum right next to all the antique dishware. I’ve learned that “4 for a Dollar” adds up really fast.

Toddlers like to wake up at 12 a.m., 4 a.m., and 6 a.m. At which point you just call it a night and start your day. And this happens for so long that you have a problem sleeping past dawn right around the time they become teenagers, and Noon is early for them.

Make no mistake, I have no desire for grandkids. I’m way too young for that and I don’t want my 20-year-old or 18-year-old to have children anytime soon. I am actually totally fine if they don’t. I want them to be like Conan the Barbarian and fight the world! Suit up, create an A-Team, and change it for the better. I don’t want grandkids anytime soon.

But I do want a little buddy to go see weird museums with me. I want snack time and nap time. I want latenight cuddles and early-morning hugs.

I want those moments where they look at me like I can give them the world.

Because I can, I swear to you, I can.

I don’t want to deal with discipline, tantrums, or potty training. I don’t want to transition anyone from a crib to a bed.

I don’t want to be woken up in the middle of the night because someone got sick and needs to show you in the face.

This is the insanity of parenting.

I’ve written enough about fatherhood over the last two decades that I’m not looking at the past through rose colored glasses. I have documented proof of how hard it was, and how exhausted I was.

And yet…I want a toddler for like an hour. To go see the World’s Biggest Ball of Twine with me. To visit the birthplace of John Wayne and Mickey Mantle.

For all my younger parents out there, it doesn’t get easier. It just gets a whole lot weirder.

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 Disclosure Day

Theaters

Rating

Overall

Violence

Sex

Profanity

Alcohol/Drugs

PG-13

B

C+

A-

D+

A-

Daniel Kellner is determined to tell the world what he knows about an eightdecades-long cover-up and he’s soon joined by a TV meteorologist who has suddenly developed unexpected abilities. Steven Spielberg strikes again with this film - a fast-moving, exciting thrill ride that will keep audiences glued to their seats. A brilliant cast, unpredictable script, and weighty themes give the movie staying power. Plot-related violence is responsible for the PG-13 rating which is fair. The movie is definitely suitable for teens. Photo ©Universal Pictures

Masters of the Universe

Theaters

Rating

Overall

Violence

Sex

Profanity

Alcohol/Drugs

PG-13

B-

C-

B

B-

C+

Fifteen years after being sent to Earth for his own safety, Adam has found the Sword of Power. Now he needs to return to Eternia and depose the evil Skeletor.

Luckily the planet has other heroic residents who will come to his aid. Based on the 1980s animated TV series, this movie maintains the cheesy vibe along with plenty of punch-em-up scenes. Fans of the original series will enoy this film and it should also entertain moviegoers looking for a lighthearted, albeit violent and silly, action flick. Photo ©Amazon MGM Studios

Pressure

Theaters

Rating

Overall

Violence

Sex

Profanity

Alcohol/Drugs

PG-13

B-

D+

A

B-

C

The D-Day invasion is days away, and meteorologists are locked in a debate about the upcoming weather forecast. This historical film tells the true story of British weatherman James Stagg who played a critical role in determining the timing of the largest seaborne invasion in history. It’s a compelling WWII film, with strong performances in the lead roles. Negative content primarily consists of war violence and historically accurate smoking and drinking. Recommended for adults and teens with an interest in history. Photo ©Focus Features

The Breadwinner

Theaters

Rating

Overall

Violence

Sex

Profanity

Alcohol/Drugs

PG

C+

B

B+

B+

B

When a career opportunity sees his wife on a multi-week business trip, Nate takes time off to care for their three daughters. As he flounders in his new responsibilities, Nate triggers one disaster after another. This film has little serious negative content, but it is chock full of unfavorable gender stereotypes, treating men as incompetent, bumbling morons. It’s too loaded with cringey, sexist moments to recommend for families. Photo ©Sony Pictures Releasing

Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu

Theaters

Rating

Overall

Violence

Sex

Profanity

Alcohol/Drugs

PG-13

B

C

A

A

B+

A former bounty hunter turned New Republic fighter, the Mandalorian (aka Mando) carries and cares for Grogu, a baby of Master Yoda’s species. In this continuation of the TV series, Mando is on the hunt for a son of Jabba the Hutt but double-crosses make the quest extremely dangerous. Followers of the TV series will find the solid writing, strong acting, and narrative arcs they expect, along with non-stop sci-fi violence. Photo ©Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures Detailed reviews available at www.parentpreviews.com July 2026 WNY Family 35

RAISING DIGITAL KIDS — by Mike Daugherty

The Politics of Middle School Communication: Navigating the Group Chat

P

icture a typical weeknight in your home. Dinner is finished, and a heavy hum fills the living room. It is the silent focus of everyone staring at a glowing device.

On the couch, your middle schooler is furiously texting, and their face is a volatile mix of anxiety and intense focus.

For parents who grew up before smartphones, social drama ended when the school bell rang at 3:00 PM. Home was a safe zone where you could escape peer pressure. Today, that boundary is completely gone. The modern middle school playground lives inside message threads, WhatsApp groups, and Discord servers. These spaces are the main stage for early adolescent life where friendships are made and social power is traded.

Understanding them is no longer just about tracking screen time because it is now a necessary step in protecting our children’s emotional wellbeing.

THE SECRET WORLD OF “SUB CHATS” In the physical world, leaving someone out is usually passive, such as sitting at a different lunch table. In the digital world, exclusion is active and deliberate.

One of the most common tactics in middle school circles is the creation of the “sub chat.” If a main group chat includes eight friends, it takes only a few taps to create 36 WNY Family July 2026

a secondary chat that includes seven of them. This intentionally leaves one person out. This secret digital space is then used to talk about or plan events around the excluded peer.

To be fair, adults use sub chats all the time. You probably have a few threads that live outside of a main group chat to plan a surprise party, coordinate a carpool, or discuss a specific topic without spamming the larger group. For adults, the intent is usually efficiency, not to specifically leave someone out.

According to data from the Pew Research Center, while digital spaces help teenagers feel connected, a significant number of youth regularly witness their peers being intentionally left out online.

This behavior is incredibly damaging because the proof is out in the open. A child faces concrete digital proof through a leaked screenshot or by watching the main chat suddenly go dead silent because everyone else moved to the subchat.

When a child seems glued to their phone during family time, it is rarely out of simple disrespect. More often, it is a survival tactic. They are terrified that logging off for even an hour means missing a sudden shift in the social landscape, which leaves them locked out of the loop.

THE ONLINE DISINHIBITION EFFECT: WHY THE SCREEN FLATTENS CARE When kids speak face to face, their brains naturally process real time social data, like a wince of pain or a genuine smile. These natural biological cues instantly trigger empathy and tell a child when a joke has gone too far.

Online, those crucial cues vanish.

Text on a screen is flat, making it incredibly easy to forget that a real person with real feelings is receiving the message.

Psychologists call this the “online disinhibition effect.” It explains why a middle schooler who is perfectly polite at the dinner table might suddenly make a harsh, cutting comment in a group thread. Because they cannot see the immediate, painful reaction of the other person, they do not feel the instant emotional consequence of their words.

In his research on the modern phone-based childhood, social psychologist Jonathan Haidt notes that this lack of real-world feedback loops trains kids to be more reactive and less empathetic.

This leaves them vulnerable to the non-stop, hyperspeed social feedback of the group chat economy.

THE DANGER OF THE INVISIBLE AUDIENCE Middle schoolers often feel like they are in a completely private bubble when texting from their bedroom. They forget that the digital world is never truly private. A poorly phrased text, a late-night emotional outburst, or a deeply personal secret can be instantly captured and forwarded to the entire grade with a single screenshot.

We have to teach our kids to respect the “invisible audience.” This is not about scare tactics. Instead, it is about protecting their future selves and helping them understand that everything they post becomes a permanent part of their digital footprint. We constantly talk to our kids about how other parents can (and probably will) read everything they write in a group chat.

FROM COP TO MENTOR: HOW PARENTS CAN HELP When parents notice how toxic these group chats can get, the first instinct is to act like a digital police officer by confiscating phones or reading every message. While these reactions come from love, they often backfire.

This can worsen social isolation or drive the behavior underground into hidden apps.

Instead, parents need to shift from acting as a digital cop to acting as a digital mentor, giving kids the practical tools to manage these spaces on their own.

Create an Exit Strategy: Many kids stay trapped in toxic chats because they do not know how to leave without starting a fight. Help them write a simple text script to escape, such as telling the group that the chat is blowing up while they are trying to do homework, so they are leaving for a bit. Alternatively, let them blame you by saying that their parents are checking screen limits tonight, so they have to leave the thread.

Teach the “Power of the Pause”: Because the adolescent brain is still developing, impulse control is a constant struggle. Implement a household Ten Second Rule where your child must count to ten and reread their text before hitting send. Use the “Hallway Test” by asking if they would shout that exact sentence in the middle of a crowded

school hallway while looking that person right in the eye. If the answer is no, it does not belong in a chat.

PARENTS’ NIGHT OUT continued...

Move from Bystander to Upstander: In a massive group chat, it is easy for a child to stay silent when digital bullying happens.

We need to encourage our kids to be upstanders who have the bravery to intervene.

This does not require a public comments war. Digital bravery can be a quiet, private act, like sending a direct message to the targeted peer saying that they saw what was said in the main chat, it was not cool, and asking if they are okay.

Because of its popularity, this is the one venue that requires a little planning.

But planning the ultimate date night is kind of my thing, so here’s exactly how I do Darien Lake:

Model the Behavior: Our own digital habits form the primary blueprint our children use. We cannot expect them to be empathetic digital citizens if we are distracted digital consumers. Try “narrating your tech use” by saying aloud what you are doing, such as looking up a recipe for dinner or sending a quick text to a neighbor. This simple habit keeps you accountable and teaches your children that the phone is a specific tool, not an endless black hole for boredom.

RECLAIMING PERSPECTIVE Ultimately, our goal as parents is not to create a perfectly peaceful digital world for our children because given the volatility of early adolescence, that is an impossibility. Instead, our goal is to help them realize that the online world is like a funhouse mirror that distorts reality and magnifies insecurities. By providing a calm, non-judgmental, and deeply supportive home environment, we can ensure that even if our kids have to play the complicated game of middle school digital politics, they will never let a screen define their true self-worth.

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.

Get there a couple of hours early and tailgate in the parking lot.

Honestly, the parking lot at Darien Lake can become so much fun that you’ll think you’re already at the concert. LOL. Now, leaving that venue is another story. #IYKYK But I’ve got a pro tip for you.

When the concert is over, tailgate again.

This time, you’re tailgating with a charcuterie board and your pajamas.

Yes, you read that correctly.

Bring your jammies, bring snacks, and make sure you have enough food to get comfortable because you’ll likely be waiting for traffic to clear for quite a while.

We used to sit in traffic for over an hour. Even worse, we’d leave concerts early just to beat the traffic.

And who wants to leave a concert early?

Ninety-nine percent of the time, the artist you’re seeing is going to save their biggest hit for last. So, I made a decision a long time ago: I would never miss the last song again.

Take it from someone who attended 27 concerts in one summer—all in Buffalo. That’s probably one of my favorite claims to fame. LOL. So, check out these venues and villages! Grab those tickets or take advantage of the many free local summer concerts. Don’t let these beautiful but fleeting Buffalo summers pass you by without experiencing the music.

It truly is magical and makes for a great date, whether it’s with your partner or your partners in crime.

Enjoy concert season!

Tasha Wagner is a Buffalo born and raised, recent empty nester, known for her connections in the local foodie scene. Tasha is fully equipped to be your personal date night concierge.

July 2026 WNY Family 37

Adulting Skills to Teach your Teen BEFORE College

W

hen our kids were young, I asked a good friend why she was so strict about chores. She replied, “Ultimately, we’re raising our kids to be responsible, reliable adults.” That stuck with me. It’s easier to do things for my kids the “right” way (yes, I’ve picked up socks from every room), but that doesn’t set them up for success. I’ve committed to teaching my kids the real-world skills they’ll need as adults.

Read on for practical skills kids need for life after high school—broken into manageable, bite-sized steps.

PERSONAL CARE AND WELL-BEING Health & Wellness

• Keep a calendar of medical checkups and practice making appointments online and by phone.

• Use a gratitude journal or send a daily positive text to build a positive mindset.

• Cool tool: The Calm app offers a low student rate.

Time Management

• College and work life can be full of distractions. Use social media blockers to stay focused.

• Consistently use a planner or online calendar that works best for you.

• Schedule downtime and fun alongside responsibilities.

It’s crucial to find balance and make time for friends.

• Plan for the long term. Set quarterly goals to develop your personal and professional priorities.

• Cool tool: Habit app helps track goals daily.

PERSONAL RESPONSIBILITY & DOMESTIC SKILLS

illness hits.

who is. Set up a ride-share app with emergency funds.

Mindfulness & Self-Care

• Gretchen Rubin, author of The Happiness Project, suggests: “Treat yourself like a toddler.” Sleep enough, eat when hungry, hydrate. Go outside into nature when stressed.

• Try meditation, yoga, or breathing exercises. Build a list 38 WNY Family July 2026

—by Cherie Gough

of calming techniques that work for you and practice them at home.

• Schedule time to exercise—ideally with friends.

• Create a small first aid kit and keep it stocked before • Know how to fill prescriptions and replace eyeglasses.

• Use a condom every time.

• Never drive under the influence or ride with someone

TWEENS & TEENS

Taking responsibility for your space shows care for yourself and others. When living with roommates, establish shared expectations early—who does what chores and when.

Skills to teach:

• • • •

Do laundry and put it away.

Wash dishes right after eating.

Properly clean a bathroom.

Vacuum and dust.

• Perform simple home maintenance.

• Grocery shop smartly—understand when a sale is a true bargain.

• How to cook nutritious, budget-friendly meals.

Additional basics:

• Learn to manage a bank account, including setting up auto-pay for bills.

• Understand credit cards. Pay off the balance in full to avoid debt.

• Start saving for retirement ASAP—it’s paying your future self.

• Know how to find your polling place and vote (visit

https://www.usa.gov/how-to-vote for info). If out-ofstate, register to vote by absentee ballot.

• Book flights, check in, and pack luggage effectively.

COMMUNICATION: THE KEY TO HEALTHY RELATIONSHIPS Be Assertive

• Practice expressing needs with clarity and confidence.

• Use positive body language and posture.

• Role-play tough conversations. What would you say if a

roommate takes your food or borrows clothes without asking?

• Address tension with roommates ASAP. Don’t let things stew. It will only worsen. Check in afterward by simply asking,” Are we good?”

• Cool tool: The Naked Roommate by Harlan Cohen.

Stay Connected

• Set and stick to a regular call schedule with family.

• Speak in person for clear, open communication. Texting is quick, but some conversations—apologies and conflicts—are better handled face-to-face. Never rant, accuse, or gossip via text.

Build Positivity

• Speak up in class and attend professors’ office hours.

• Choose relationships that make you feel good—you

JOB SKILLS • College students: As early as freshman year, visit your

campus career center. Familiarize yourself with resources.

Ask about mentorships and how to find an academic advisor.

• Take a career inventory to determine your strengths, interests and jobs that best fit your definition of success.

• Build a resume and cover letter. Have a savvy adult look them over and practice interview questions.

• Set up a LinkedIn profile.

• Expect to apply to many jobs or internships before getting one.

And when you do land a job—even if it’s not your dream one—show up on time, communicate positively, and pitch in where you can. Reliability and enthusiasm matter.

Cherie Gough is a writer, mom of two teens, and college essay coach. Find her at cheriegough.com.

Looking to strike up a conversation with your child?

Here are some FUN QUESTIONS to get things going!

What is your favorite song?

deserve respect and support.

If you could be a character from any book, who would you be?

friend.

If you could open a store, what would you sell?

• You won’t be everyone’s cup of tea. Don’t dwell on it.

• Be kind to yourself. Talk to yourself as you would a • Be kind to others—you never know what someone’s going through.

MANAGING PERSONAL FINANCES • Know the difference between needs and wants. Stick to a basic budget based on needs (rent, food, utilities) and wants (streaming, eating out, entertainment). Use a notebook, app, or spreadsheet to track spending.

• Remember: Instagram is an ad space. Avoid the pull of online ads targeted to you.

What do you want to be when you grow up?

When you become a grown-up, what’s the first thing you want to do? *Source – familyeducation.com July 2026 WNY Family 39

ssion a p m o C CORNER Courtesy of WNY Compassion Connection

Summer Connection, Healing, and Hope at WNY Compassion Connection day, campers participate in activities that help them express their grief, honor their loved ones, and connect with peers who understand what they are going through.

At the same time, they enjoy games, team-building activities, and opportunities to simply be kids.

For many participants, Camp Erin becomes a powerful reminder that they are not alone. Surrounded by peers who share similar experiences, children often find comfort in knowing that others understand their feelings and their loss.

S

ummer is often thought of as a season filled with sunshine, celebrations, vacations, and family memories. But for children, teens, and adults navigating grief, summer can also bring reminders of the people they miss most. At WNY Compassion Connection, we understand that grief does not take a season off and neither does support.

This summer, WNY Compassion Connection is proud to offer a variety of meaningful programs and events designed to help individuals and families process grief, build connections, and find moments of healing in community.

Through creative expression, play, 40 WNY Family July 2026

conversation, and shared experiences, our summer offerings provide safe spaces where grief can be acknowledged while hope and connection continue to grow.

One of the highlights of our summer programming is Camp Erin. Camp Erin is a nationally recognized bereavement camp experience, funded by the Eluna Network, that provides grieving children and teens with opportunities for healing, connection, and fun. Our day camp is offered at no cost for families, reducing barriers that many grieving families face. This summer, WNY Compassion Connection will be hosting Camp Erin on Sunday, July 26th at the University at Buffalo Field House. Throughout the

This summer marks the third Camp Erin hosted by WNY Compassion Connection in Buffalo. Over the past two years, more than 75 bereaved children have participated, finding support, connection, and a sense of belonging during one of the most difficult times in their lives.

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BEYOND CAMP ERIN: CONTINUING SUPPORT THROUGHOUT THE SUMMER While Camp Erin serves as a cornerstone of our summer programming, WNY Compassion Connection offers additional opportunities for individuals and families to connect and heal.

means learning how to carry loss while continuing to move forward with support and connection.

As summer approaches, we invite our WNY community to join us in creating spaces where grief can be shared openly and where no one has to feel alone.

Together, we can continue building connection, healing, and hope one conversation, one activity, and one family at a time.

For more information about Camp Erin and other upcoming summer programs, please visit WNYCompassionConnection.org.

Adults and older teens can participate in a Yoga and Journaling Night focused on mindfulness, reflection, and emotional wellness. Our Kintsugi Bowl Night uses the art of repairing broken pottery as a powerful metaphor for life after loss, encouraging participants to explore themes of resilience and healing.

For children and teens especially, grief is not always processed through words. Sports Night provides an opportunity to process emotions through movement, teamwork, and play.

Research continues to show that play can be a critical coping tool for grieving children, helping them express feelings, reduce stress, and build supportive peer relationships.

In addition to our therapeutic and support-based programming, WNY Compassion Connection also believes deeply in the importance of community connection and creating opportunities for families to spend time together in meaningful ways. On August 20th, we will host our WNYCC Family Night at the Buffalo Bisons Game. Moments of joy and togetherness are an important part of healing, and events like these remind families that it is okay to laugh, smile, and create new memories even while grieving.

To close out the summer, WNY Compassion Connection will host an Ice Cream Social and Open House.

Community members, families, and supporters are invited to visit the center, learn about available services, and connect with others in a welcoming environment.

Whether someone is newly grieving or has been walking through grief for years, our doors remain open to anyone seeking support and understanding.

WNY Compassion Connection: A Center for Grieving Children and Families is an expanded service of the nonprofit P.U.N.T. Pediatric Cancer Collaborative bereavement program for any origin of loss. WNYCC’s mission is to help children and adults navigate their journey to healing and resilience following a loss to death through the power of peer support and grief education.

In addition, educational presentations focused on anticipatory grief will be available over the summer for individuals and families preparing for or navigating an expected loss. Anticipatory grief can bring complex emotions including fear, sadness, anxiety, anger, and uncertainty.

Through education and conversation, these speakers aim to provide guidance, validation, and practical support for those experiencing grief before a loss has occurred.

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CREATING SPACES FOR GRIEF AND HOPE At WNY Compassion Connection, we believe grief deserves space, compassion, and community. Every program we offer is rooted in the understanding that healing does not mean forgetting. It

Health & Wellness

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Special

Education: Getting Help for Your Child WHAT IS SPECIAL EDUCATION?

M

WHAT’S THE LAW?

any students qualify for extra help and support in school. This is called “special education.” Kids are eligible for special education if learning is impacted by a physical, cognitive, behavioral, or emotional condition.

Special education ensures that all students who are eligible receive a free appropriate public education alongside their peers who are not disabled, as much as possible.

Services can include:

• • •

•

an individualized education program (IEP) supplemental aids and services, like a classroom aide speech therapy to help with speaking or communicating, and feeding needs occupational therapy to help with daily activities

Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP): This is given to infants and toddlers up to age 3 who have developmental delays or medical problems that can lead to delays (such as hearing loss, being born early, or genetic conditions like Down syndrome).

Empower Ability

Inspire Advocate

Special Needs Potential Thri

Growth Strategies

If you have a concern about your child’s ability to learn, ask your child’s daycare or school for an educational evaluation. The sooner kids get the help that’s needed, the more successful they can be in school.

42 WNY Family July 2026

The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) makes sure that people with disabilities from birth to age 21 receive a free public education that’s tailored to their needs.

and others work as a team to create the plan. Plans are offered based on ability and age:

Children who qualify for extra help can receive a plan that sets learning goals and includes accommodations (supports to help with a general education) and modifications (changes to the general education) that promote success. Parents, teachers, therapists, school psychologists,

Individualized Education Program (IEP). This outlines a student’s present achievement levels and plots out reachable learning goals. It also includes any accommodations or modifications and related services (like therapy), plus a transition plan for life after high school if a student is 14 or above. The IEP includes yearly review and quarterly progress reports.

WHAT DO I DO FIRST?

Talk to your doctor. If your child has special needs that make it harder to learn or seems behind in development, tell your doctor. The doctor can see if your child could benefit from an evaluation or should be seen by a specialist (like a speech therapist or psychologist).

Request or agree to an evaluation. A child who may need extra help to reach milestones will be referred for evaluation. This can happen through your state’s early intervention program or your local school district. Evaluations use tests to find a child’s strengths and challenges. You can request a free evaluation, even without a referral from your doctor. Here’s how:

• • •

If your child is under age 3, call your state’s early intervention program.

If your child is age 3 or older, call your local school district.

If your child is older and struggling in school, ask for an evaluation at any time. Talk with teachers, the principal, a school guidance counselor, or psychologist to set up testing.

HOW WILL MY CHILD BE TESTED? The kinds of tests given depend on your concerns and the needs of your child. Tests can check for language skills, motor skills, development, behavior problems, IQ, and achievement.

WHAT SERVICES ARE OFFERED? Babies & Toddlers Babies and toddlers are enrolled in their state’s early intervention programs.

Most services are given in the home and include help learning to walk, talk, play, and develop other skills. Families and caregivers learn how to help kids reach their goals and may get support managing problem behaviors or other concerns.

Before kids turn 3 years old, they are tested again to see if they need to continue with special education. If a child qualifies, a plan is put in place for preschool.

Preschoolers After age 3, children usually get services outside the home. Preschoolers learn best when around their peers, and teachers help prepare them for kindergarten. This happens in special education preschools or other learning centers. If

needed, a child may get extra services— such as speech therapy — to help meet learning goals.

After preschool ends, children can be evaluated again to see if they need to continue with special education services in elementary school.

School-Age Kids Depending on the need, students from kindergarten age through age 21 may qualify for either an IEP or a 504 education plan. Students must be determined eligible by a multidisciplinary team.

While the IEP provides special education services, including any modifications, and outlines goals, the 504 plan helps a child with a disability succeed with behavioral and/or environmental accommodations in a general classroom.

The two plans might sound the same but a 504 plan is different from IEP. The main difference is that a 504 plan modifies a student’s regular education program in a regular classroom setting.

A 504 plan is monitored by classroom teachers. A student with an IEP may receive different educational services in a special or regular educational setting, depending on the student’s need. IEP

programs are delivered and monitored by additional school support staff.

Also, parental approval and involvement is required for an IEP, but not for a 504 plan. Full parental participation in the 504 plan process, however, is important for the student’s academic success.

Students with needs that go beyond what the school district can offer may be placed in an alternate school or program.

These students will also require an IEP. Teens The IEP will start to prepare a child at age 14 for adult life. This is called “transition planning.” Transition planning focuses on what a teen wants to do after graduation—such as college or vocational school, working, or volunteering—and the skills needed to reach those goals.

The transition plan also includes where a young adult might live and whether he or she can live independently. It addresses life-skills education (like money management, transportation, personal care, and household chores), and sets a plan for switching to adult health care services. continued on page 44 July 2026 WNY Family 43

and/or ask to change it. An IEP is considered to be a draft until the IEP team agrees to the plan and signs the document.

If this effort does not get the results wanted, you can work with a mediator or make a “due process” complaint to help resolve the issues between you and the school district. You also can file a complaint through your state education agency or file a lawsuit.

Your child will continue with services while you go through the resolution process.

WHAT ELSE SHOULD I KNOW? Your child’s pathway to learning may be different from what you expected. It may sometimes feel like an overwhelming process. But remember that you do not need to go through it alone.

10 Things a Part-Time Job Will Teach Your Teen

SPECIAL NEEDS continued...

HOW OFTEN ARE PLANS REVIEWED?

IEPs and 504 plans are reviewed every year. A major review, which can include a re-evaluation, happens every 3 years.

Find support at school and in the community. Talk to other parents who have been through it before you. Join a support group, either online or in person.

With careful planning and patience, working together (That They Can’t Learn in School)

CAN I CHANGE MY CHILD’S PLAN?

with the school, you can help your child learn and reach their full potential.

You (or anyone one else on your child’s planning team) can ask for a review at any time. If you disagree with your child’s IEP, request a meeting with the IEP team to discuss your concerns. Guardians have the right to be in all IEP planning meetings, to look over school records, and to disagree with the plan

Information provided by Nemours Children’s Health through its award-winning Nemours KidsHealth website. For more on this topic, visit KidsHealth.org. Reprinted following Guidelines.

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Kid-Friendly Backyards to Inspire Nature Play

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s the weather warms up, it is a wonderful time to encourage children to play outside more often. The natural world offers both physical and emotional benefits for our kids, helping them feel happier, healthier, and calmer. Yet, it can sometimes be challenging to get the kids to play outside since nature often has to compete with screen time.

With kids’ outdoor play time declining sharply in recent decades, it is more important than ever to incorporate nature time into our family’s routine. Fortunately, many of us have the perfect place to do just that: our own backyard.

You can also add water fun by setting up a water table for the kids to splash around in. Be sure to include some floating toys like boats and marine animals for them to play with.

Sprinklers are also an enjoyable way for kids to cool off and get some exercise as they run around in the backyard. Finally, every child will love playing out back on a slip ‘n slide or similar water play product.

So, how can we make our backyard more attractive to our kids so they will want to head outside? There are many fun, easy ways to set up our backyard to encourage more outdoor activities, including water play, arts and crafts, animal connection, and gardening.

Another way to get the kids interested in heading outdoors is to set up creative activities for them. Children love arts and crafts, and it is a wonderful way to keep them busy and calmly focused on a project. Some ideas include setting up an outdoor easel or craft station in your backyard filled with art supplies.

They can paint a picture of their favorite tree or draw a bird they see hanging out behind your house.

WATER PLAY Spending time in and around water has a tremendous soothing effect, helping kids feel more relaxed and refreshed. Both swimming and floating have been shown to reduce stress and boost mood. These activities also provide hours of enjoyment and exercise for kids of all ages, whether they are swimming laps; doing cannonballs into the water; playing Marco polo; or engaging in water sports like basketball, water gymnastics, or volleyball.

You can be sure the kids enjoy water time out back by providing a few key items. You might decide to invest in a pool for your family, but you do not need to build an expensive in-ground pool. A large inflatable one will also do the job. Make sure to have all the toys and equipment that make pool time a blast for kids, such as goggles, rafts, tubes, sports games, snorkels, water squirters, and of course sunscreen.

ARTS AND CRAFTS

You can also encourage them to collect nature items they find in the yard—such as sticks, flower petals, pinecones, rocks, and grass—to create a collage, nature mandala, or even musical instruments to play. Some kids also enjoy making fairies and fairy houses, which leads to hours of imagination time. Another fun activity is creating your own inks, paints, and brushes out of natural materials. The brushes, for example, can be made by wrapping yarn around sticks and making a brush head from pine needles, grass, or leaves.

The options for nature art in your backyard are endless.

Some other ideas include nature photography, keeping a nature journal, sculpting animals out of clay, doing leaf prints, and making your own paper. The trick is to have the supplies on hand and ideas ready to go to get your kids inspired. continued on page 46 July 2026 WNY Family 45

KID-FRIENDLY BACKYARDS TO INSPIRE NATURE PLAY continued...

ANIMAL CONNECTION Children tend to love animals, so what better place to connect them to both pets and wildlife than in your own backyard? If you have a dog, for example, then be sure to encourage your kids to play outside with your furry friend.

There is also so much wildlife out there if we just pay attention. Here are some ways for your kids to enjoy animals out back:

•

•

•

•

Make your own birdhouses to attract more birds to your backyard. Your kids will love looking out for new visitors and listening to their cheerful birdsong.

Create a wildlife Bingo game or scavenger hunt for your kids to find animals in your yard, such as lady bugs, squirrels, certain types of birds, bees, spiders, ducks, etc.

Have some science kits or outdoor exploration backpacks on hand. Many libraries now let you borrow kits that include a book on a particular science topic and materials for an experiment or project. Topics range from biodiversity to weather to insects and more.

Sign up for a citizen science project, which involves volunteering to collect scientific data for government offices and other organizations. Many of the projects ask people to count or take pictures of nature in their backyard, such as butterflies, flowers, or birds. By engaging in citizen science, your kids will not only help the scientific community, but also discover how incredible their own backyard is!

46 WNY Family July 2026

GARDENING Getting kids involved in the family garden is a wonderful way to make outside time enjoyable. They can help by planting, watering, and weeding.

Gardening offers so many benefits, such as teaching kids about healthy eating, providing some light exercise, and offering a time to unwind and be mindful.

The best part about this activity is your children will want to visit it over and over again to check on the progress of the produce growing.

You can engage your children in gardening by buying them their own gardening tools, asking them to pick out the seeds they want to plant, and using the produce you grow to cook meals together. Setting aside a section of your backyard to grow fruits and vegetables creates a special place for kids to gather outside. If digging an entire garden in your backyard sounds intimidating, consider starting slowly by growing a few herbs in containers or one vegetable at a time in large flowerpots.

You can also encourage more outdoor time by hosting a backyard barbeque or picnic featuring the produce from your garden. Any time you can take a meal or family gathering outdoors, you are helping to build a nature connection for your children that they will then end up seeking on their own.

Sandi Schwartz is an 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. Both her parenting book, Finding Ecohappiness: Fun Nature Activities to Help Your Kids Feel Happier and Calmer, and children’s book, Sky’s Search for Ecohappiness, are available now. Learn more at www. ecohappinessproject.com.

The essence of nature play is interacting with natural materials like plants, trees, rocks, water, dirt, logs, and many other parts of nature in an imaginative, spirited way that provides endless hours of fun and important lessons for kids.

Our backyard is the perfect place for free play; we just need to know how to set it up in a way that is inviting for kids so they want to head outside.

Some ideas to include in your backyard:

• • • • • • •

A digging pit

•

A play log that can be used as a table, bench, balance beam, and more.

Dirt pile Plants

Rocks and boulders Rain barrel Sandbox

Somewhere to sit (swing, hammock, bench, Adirondack chair)

It is also handy to have some essential nature play tools around like shovels, rakes, hoes, buckets, collection boxes, binoculars, a compass, a magnifying glass, flashlight, tweezers, bug cages, and nets.

Fuel Growing Families with Breakfasts that Deliver Nutrition and Flavor (Feature Impact)

W

hether you’re enjoying a leisurely weekend morning with the family or savoring those last few moments before rushing out the door, a filling, healthy breakfast is a perfect way to begin the day. Easy recipes that take less than 30 minutes (and can even be prepared the night before) make busy mornings a breeze.

just five ingredients, including protein pancake mix to help fuel the day. The savory combination of turkey sausage and cheddar cheese is complemented by the sweetness of onion, giving them the flavor your family desires.

To find more ways to put a nutritious breakfast on the family table, visit HealthyFamilyProject.com.

Sheet Pan Pancakes are simple to whip up any day of the week—no flipping required—while Healthy Sausage Breakfast Muffins let you put protein on the menu in a kid-friendly package. When shopping for these delicious breakfasts, look for the Healthy Family Project and Produce for Kids logos to choose healthier foods and make a difference locally.

“Breakfast doesn’t have to be complicated to be powerful—a quick, balanced meal can help kids stay full, focused and energized for the day ahead,” said Tony Castillo, contributing registered dietitian at Healthy Family Project. “For growing kids, a proteinrich breakfast can help support energy, satiety and the building blocks they need as they develop. The best breakfast is one that’s simple, satisfying and realistic for busy mornings because consistency matters more than perfection.”

The versatility of these pancakes allows for endless customization and experimentation with different toppings, from fresh fruit and nuts to savory options like cheese and spinach, making them an ideal fit for the whole family.

They also freeze well, so you can pop them in the toaster to have breakfast ready in a flash when hectic schedules interfere with your morning routine.

For another on-the-go solution, these breakfast muffins are made with

In large bowl, mix flour, baking powder, sugar and salt. Add milk, egg and melted butter; mix until smooth.

Pour batter onto prepared baking sheet and smooth into even layer that covers pan. Top with strawberries, blueberries and chocolate chips.

Bake 5-7 minutes, or until cooked and golden brown. Let cool slightly before cutting into squares.

Healthy Sausage Breakfast Muffins

Recipe courtesy of the Healthy Family Project Prep time: 3 minutes Cook time: 23 minutes Servings: 12

Sheet Pan Pancakes

Recipe courtesy of the Healthy Family Project Prep time: 10 minutes Cook time: 5 minutes Servings: 6 Nonstick cooking spray 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour 3 1/2 teaspoons baking powder 1 tablespoon sugar 1 teaspoon salt 1 1/4 cups milk 1 large egg 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted 1/2 cup sliced strawberries 1/4 cup blueberries 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips Preheat oven to 425º F. Cover baking sheet with parchment paper and spray with nonstick cooking spray. Set aside.

Nonstick cooking spray 1 onion, diced 1 pound turkey sausage 4 eggs 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese 1 cup protein pancake mix Preheat oven to 350º F. Spray 12-cup muffin pan with nonstick cooking spray; set aside.

Spray large skillet with nonstick cooking spray.

In prepared skillet over medium heat, cook onion until translucent. Add turkey sausage and cook until no longer pink. Remove from heat.

In large mixing bowl, lightly beat eggs. Add shredded cheese, pancake mix and sausage and onion mixture; mix well.

Fill prepared muffin cups about 3/4 full with mixture.

Bake 18-20 minutes, or until golden brown on top.

July 2026 WNY Family 47