real local moms
since 2005
Lane County | August / September 2021
COVER MOM
PARENTING COACHES
CHOOSING A
SHEENA JOHNSON
DO YOU NEED ONE?
FAMILY PET
LARGE PRIZE WALL FOR A JOB WELL DONE! • 15 years experience in
the dental field
• birth to 16 years old • accepting all insurances • offering sedation dentistry • awesome monthly
prize drawings
• all new state-of-the-art
dental equipment
• lobby treehouse
with slide
• coffee bar •
fun, fun, fun
Dr. Erin Estep
Treehouse Kids Dentist provides the highest quality pediatric dentistry in an incredibly warm, friendly, and fun environment. We are committed to giving you and your child the very best care in a welcoming and playful manner.
1611 J Street Springfield, OR • 541-515-6631 • office@treehousekidsdental.com mommag.com 2
It’s what‘s
Parenting Coaches
20
Meet the MOM experts ... 4
inside that counts
Choosing a Family Pet
Dip, Dip Hooray
22
They know what they’re
Cover MOM: Sheena Johnson..............10
talking about.
This mom gets real
Because I said so............... 5
Parenting coaches..........20
A message from MOM
What are they, and do you
Vacation MOM................... 6
26
Choosing a family pet..........................22 Dip, dip hooray................26 Snack plates & dips
need one?
Vacation in the Riviera Maya
1
More ways to love your MOM mommag.com facebook.com/ lovemommag info@mommag.com We love hearing from you. Email us with feedback, story ideas or nominations.
Cover MOM
10
Photos by Fremouw Photography
CONGRATULATIONS to the Eugene Family YMCA, winner of the 2021 MOM Magazine Community Impact Award. For more information about the Eugene Family YMCA, see their ad on page 29.
Advertise today Want to get the word out about your business? Contact Linda Blair at linda@mommag.com mommag.com 3
meet the
experts
[They know what they’re talking about]
Vacation MOM
Focus on MOM
Beyond the Bin
with Dr. David Hackett, pediatric optometrist, page 8
with Kelly Bell, waste reduction specialist, page 25
with Donnita Bassinger, travel agent, page 6
“
Sometimes I question my parenting, and other times I question my with Dr. Brad Chvatal, orthodontist, page 19
child’s childing.
“
Say Cheese
— Just about every mom
Healthy MOM with Annie Ziemba, MSN, CNM, page 18
Smile with Dr. Erin Estep, pediatric dentist, page 24
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EDITOR'S NOTE
Because I said so! Published by GO Creative, LLC 263 29th Avenue SW Albany, OR 97322 Editor-in-Chief Managing Director Audrey Meier DeKam audrey@mommag.com Mid-Valley & Lane County Business Development Manager Linda Blair linda@mommag.com 541-231-7250 Salem Advertising Representative Kim Leighty kim.leighty@mommag.com 503-510-9036 Designer Sean Carver s.carver@oregonwebpress.com
MOM Magazine is sustainably delivered throughout the community thanks to pedalersexpress.com MOM MagazineTM is produced by GO Creative, LLC. © 2021 All rights reserved. Any reproduction, in whole or part, without written permission of the publisher, is prohibited. Information in the magazine is provided for general information purposes only with the understanding that none of the content constitutes professional advice. Opinions expressed by the writers or advertisers are not necessarily the opinions of the magazine or the publisher. Inclusion in the magazine does not constitute endorsement of information, products or services.
My favorite child A MOTHER SHOULDN’T PLAY FAVORITES, BUT... Meet Murphy, my beloved four-year-old golden retriever. He’s my favorite child* mostly because he doesn’t talk back, is always happy to see me and loves every meal I’ve ever served him. He sleeps through the night, is completely pottytrained and jumps immediately into my car when we need to go somewhere. Before you judge, you should know that my children also much prefer Murphy over me or any other humans. As is usually the case, our beloved family pet has the best relationship with everyone in the house. It wasn’t necessarily always this way. When the kids were babies it seemed like our dog at the time was always underfoot in an attempt to trip me. In that chaotic swirl of caring for small children, a pet was one more being that needed something from me. But then those babies became toddlers who shrieked in delight when the dog ate food dropped from a high chair. The cat was just so funny when it climbed a tree. As my boys grew into adolescence they discovered a true friend in our big shaggy dog, curling up with her on the floor and fashioning her hair into faux hawks. Now into the teen years, the kids want less of my attention. In fact, they probably share more of their inner thoughts with the non-human beings in the house. As the writer Nora Ephron said, “When your children are teenagers, it’s important to have a dog so that someone in the house is happy to see you.” Indeed. The reality is that with my dog, the stakes are low. I’m not worried about the fourlegged boy wearing a helmet or playing with fireworks; it’s not on my radar to
MURPHY, THE GOLDEN BOY
remind him about stranger danger (though he would listen and likely wag his tail). I’m not fretting about saving for my dog’s future education, discussing consent or what not to post online. The beauty of being a pet parent is the simplicity. At a high point recently, our household contained a dog, cat, chameleon, two tadpoles and two foster kittens. My kids disagree with me on many things, but we all agree on a love for creatures. I’ve run the numbers, and if all goes well, Murphy will be around for some years after the boys launch. He and I can then look out the window together and wonder when they will come home. Audrey Meier DeKam Editor-in-Chief * Necessary disclaimer about how I love my human children to my core and would throw myself in front of a speeding train for them.
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VACATION IN THE RIVIERA MAYA
PHOTO CREDIT: LORI GOLD
BY DONNITA BASSINGER
E
VERY DAY I TALK TO PEOPLE who are ready to start traveling again, and they ask where I recommend they go for a tropical vacation. The Riviera Maya/Cancun area in Mexico is the number one destination I’m sending clients to right now. This area has had precautions in place since the start of the pandemic, and they take the safety of their visitors very seriously. Currently Mexico only requires a passport to enter from the U.S., but to return everyone must provide a negative COVID test taken within three days of arrival. It is expected that at some point this requirement will be waived with proof that the traveler has been fully vaccinated. Check for the latest regulations at travel.state. gov. Also, it takes months to get a passport processed so if you need one, order right away. Lucky for us, there are great flights to Cancun from the Eugene Airport on Alaska Airlines, United, Delta and American Airlines.
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WHERE TO GO The sun and fun of Cancun and the Riviera Maya are hard to resist. There are three different areas you can stay in depending on what you’re looking for. The Cancun Hotel Zone is about 14 miles of high-rise hotels along a stretch of white sand beach. This area is great for those who crave excitement and high energy. You can shop till you drop, visit world-class restaurants and dance away at crazy nightclubs. To the south of Cancun there’s a highway that goes about 80 miles to the town of Tulum. This area is the Riviera Maya. Along this highway you’ll find resorts carved out of the jungle and the towns of Puerto Morelos and Playa del Carmen. From Playa del Carmen, you can take a ferry to the Island of Cozumel for a day visit or to stay at one of its hotels. This area is full of outdoor adventures and natural wonders. The towns of Puerto Morelos and Playa del Carmen offer high-end and bargain shopping, local artisans, bars and restaurants.
Most resorts have extensive pool areas to enjoy even if there is a problem with the seaweed. Hotel and airfare prices will vary in different seasons depending on demand. Any school vacation period is high season, with the last two weeks of December being the highest prices of the year, followed by the week of Thanksgiving and over spring breaks. The lowest prices generally will be in September, October, November (except around Thanksgiving) and the first two weeks of December.
than a mile across. On the mainland across from Isla Mujeres are the new resort areas of Costa Mujeres and Playa Mujeres. There are beautiful new resorts featuring spas and golf courses on long stretches of beach. This area is less than 20 miles from the Cancun Airport.
WHEN TO GO A top attraction is the Mayan ruins in Tulum. There are underground rivers throughout this area, and when a portion of the roof collapses it forms a cenote, creating a natural pool that you can swim in. Tours are available that combine riding an ATV in the jungle, taking a zipline and swimming in one or more cenotes. There are nature parks including Xel-Ha, Xplor and Xcaret that offer all sorts of outdoor activities and water sports. To the north of Cancun, you can take a ferry to Isla Mujeres, the Island of Women. This is a fun excursion where you can rent golf carts to explore this island that is only four miles long and less
The weather in Mexico is tropical and sunny year-round. It is a little warmer in the summer and a little cooler in the winter, with June through November considered their rainy season. Of course, their “rainy season” usually consists of bright sunny days and then it will cloud up, pour rain for a short time and then return to sunshine. In recent years the area has been plagued with a seaweed called sargassum. It’s a nuisance, and the hotels and government agencies work hard to remove it but sometimes it is overwhelming. It often arrives in the spring and summer. Due to the ocean currents, some areas are more likely to have sargassum, so that is a consideration when planning a trip.
There are vast differences in quality and atmosphere at allinclusive resorts, and you can’t just trust the pretty pictures and random reviews you see on the internet. It’s important to have a travel professional help you.
WHERE TO STAY In the last 15 years, all-inclusive resorts have become very popular, as people love having meals, drinks, activities and entertainment included in one price. For families, the special programs for children and the security of having everything you need on-site make this the easiest vacation you can take. If you are traveling without children, staying in an adults-only resort is a splurge you won’t regret. There are vast differences in quality and atmosphere at all-inclusive resorts, and you can’t just trust the pretty pictures and random reviews you see on the internet. It’s important to have a travel professional help you find the perfect location for your vacation. A trip to the Riviera Maya will create memories to last a lifetime.
Brought to you by:
MEET VACATION MOM
TM
Donnita Bassinger just returned from staying in all three of these areas and is happy to help you find the perfect resort. As the owner of VIP Vacations in Eugene, she has helped people plan their dream vacations for over 30 years, and is ready to chat with you about your travel plans. Contact Donnita at 541-913-5272 or on
@VacationMOMpage
mommag.com 7
August is vision and learning month
Back-to-school checklist Pediatricians often have devices called SPOT screeners, but they do not measure eye health or 20/20 score (visual acuity).
School supplies Haircut New shoes Eye exam Clear, comfortable and efficient vision is key to setting your child up for success. Children often don’t know that their vision is different than it should be, meaning you can’t wait for them to tell you there’s an issue. A comprehensive eye exam is still recommended even if your child passes a school or pediatrician’s screening, as these screenings have been shown to miss up to 75% of vision problems.
Eye care professionals with specialized equipment can measure a child’s vision for prescription, eye health and visual acuity. For children too young for reading, we use a series of symbols called Cardiff Cards or Lea Symbols, which work well for determining how a child is seeing the world. So while you’re planning for all those back-to-school (in person!) needs, be sure to put vision health near the top. Source: College of Optometrists in Vision Development
Brought to you by: David A. Hackett, OD, FCOVD Lifetime Eye Care a division of Sterling Vision 4765 Village Plaza Loop Eugene, Oregon (541) 342-3100 or 866-4EYELUV sterlingvision.com
CRUISIN’ THE FOSSIL COASTLINE Join us for an all-ages exhibition features life-size sculptures, models, and images of prehistoric creatures and authentic fossils. Exhibit Organized by Anchorage Museum Art by Ray Troll
Get tickets today at AQUARIUM.ORG 8 mommag.com
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Momism #44: You’re perfect just the way you were made.
]
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mommag.com 9
Sheena Johnson Photos by Fremouw Photography
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Family comes first. All families are unique. Tell us about yours. I am married to my high school sweetheart, and we have been together for 20 years. We have three beautiful children: Paisley is 9, and she is sweet, kindhearted and one heck of a golfer. Henlee is 6, and she is quiet, intelligent and such a comedian. Noah is 2, and he also loves golf and anything else that involves a ball. He is the perfect completion to our family. All of my kids are so different, and it’s so fun to watch them navigate life. Every family has their own traditions, rituals or inside jokes. What’s one of yours? We are big on family and holidays around here. We have several traditions we do depending on the time of year, but loading up with hot chocolate on Christmas Eve to drive around and see the lights is one of my favorites. When did you know you wanted to be a mom? I feel like I’ve always known I wanted to be a mom. It was more of when will I be a mom?! Do you think that parenting is easier or more challenging than when you were growing up? That is a hard one. I mean, I wasn’t a parent back then. However, I do think parenting is probably harder now that we have to navigate so much around social media and kids having access to everything. When I grew up, kids didn’t have all these electronics and we were forced to create our own play. Our parents weren’t worried about what devices we had access to and what we were accessing on those devices. Tell us about one of your proudest mom moments. Giving birth to all three of my children. Each experience was unique and different but I loved it every time.
Profession: Nanny agency owner & stay-at-home mom Husband: Skyler Johnson, Journeyman Lineman Children: Paisley, age 9; Henlee, age 6; and Noah, age 2 Community: Eugene
What is the most surprising thing you have found wedged between the sofa cushions or behind a car seat? Well...Don’t think less of me, but I had maggots in my car once. My middle child was a baby and wanted milk all the time, so we always traveled with sippies of milk. My car started having this awful smell and no matter how much I cleaned and aired it out, it kept coming back. My husband finally took out the seats and found a small
mommag.com 11
QA MOMs Love Local We love locally owned businesses, restaurants, places and organizations. Share your favorite… …place to treat yourself to a mani/pedi other personal service: Tips and Toes. They are family owned and I’ve been going there for years. …restaurants for a date night: Beppe & Gianni’s Trattoria …place where the kids can let off steam: We recently took the kids on a mountain hike. They loved it! …any other local places you love: We are members at Shadow Hills Country Club. It’s our playground. It’s beautiful out there.
basin under the seats where her milk had spilled and puddled. The rest is what you can imagine. Let’s just say, he wasn’t thrilled. Your biggest wish for your kids is… I hope they grow up and are happy. Wherever life takes them, I hope they live a happy life and I hope they find someone to share their life with.
No one works harder than mom. Tell us about your work or volunteerism outside of the home. When I’m not at home with my kids, I often substitute teach in local districts. When I’m not in the classroom teaching, I love being in my own children’s classroom volunteering. What have you learned professionally that has helped you as a mom? Not every kid is the same, and what works for one might not work for the other.
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Tell us about a recent achievement you’re proud of, or a personal passion or talent. I always wanted to start my own nanny agency. Three years ago I had the opportunity to make this dream a reality, and I jumped in. I started Eugene Nanny Services, and I love helping families find quality child care. Do you have a goal you’d like to accomplish within the next five years? I hope to have started my career path. My kids will be older, and I hope to be teaching full-time or that my nanny agency is successful enough that it needs me full-time.
If mom’s not happy, nobody’s happy. Tell us about your community/upbringing growing up. How did it shape the mother you are today? My mom taught me that family and friends were important. She was a good role model in caring for all children and welcoming them in our home. Our home was always filled with more than
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What is special about where you grew up? Growing up in a small town in the country we were a product of playing outside until the street lights came on. Except that in the country, there weren’t street lights: instead, it was my mom yelling it was time to come in. I remember spending most of my childhood outside just playing with my siblings and neighbor kids. What do you think is the most important life skill or value your parents taught you? To be kind, honest and do the right thing. When was the last time you did something for the first time? Last November we were in Monterey, California, and we rented electric bikes. We cruised the coast line with the kids in tow, just enjoying the scenery and having the best time. I never knew a simple bike ride could make so many happy memories. We will do this again! What is something you will NEVER do again? Drive to Disneyland. We drove our first time when our girls were 5 and 2. We drove through the night and getting there wasn’t that bad. But the drive back seemed like it took forever! I am not much for long road trips and with young kids it was brutal. What are three words your best friend would use to describe you? Honest, giving and loyal. What are three words your kids would use to describe you? Well I asked them because I was curious myself. Paisley said loving, and Henlee said nice. What is the quality you like most about yourself? I love to help people. I’ll go out of my way to help someone and expect nothing in return.
Tell us something about you that would surprise your kids (or your husband). I think my kids would be surprised to know I used to be a decent athlete in high school. Dad gets all the glory in that department. It’s Saturday afternoon and you suddenly find yourself at home alone for a few hours (we know, it never happens). What do you do? I would be running to get some alone shopping done or binge watching something on Netflix. Then I would get up and clean the house, of course. What keeps you sane? Taking a quick walk or relaxing bath. They both calm me, give me quiet time and I feel recharged. What is the best way that you let off steam? Walking. The fresh air, a good friend by my side or just the quiet outdoors calms me.
“
Being a parent can be hard. We don’t always have the best day or do everything the way in which we hoped. But tomorrow is a new day. Nobody is perfect.
”
'
our family of six. It’s a big reason why I love entertaining my friends and family — I love the noise of a busy household.
MOM s Favorite... …family game: We love doing puzzles as a family, and we did a lot during the last year. …place to find some peace & quiet: Baths. I take a bath multiple nights a week. I go in to relax, recharge and read. …binge-worthy TV: A Million Little Things and This is Us. They both show such detail of family and the dynamics that come along with it.
If you could instantly have one new skill (i.e. foreign language, musical talent, eyes in the back of your head, etc.), what would it be? I wish I could speak Spanish fluently. I took some courses when I was younger but didn’t stick with it. What’s your superpower? Multi-tasking. I work best when I have a lot going on. What’s in your mom purse right now? My wallet, masks, a diaper, wipes, lip gloss, random change and a bouncy ball. mommag.com 15
Who is your favorite real-life hero? I have a few single mom friends and by far, they are who I look up to the most. Being a parent is hard enough as it is with the support of a spouse, but to do it alone 100% of the time takes a strong person.
What advice would you give your younger mom self? What do you wish you knew then that you know now? Don’t sweat the small stuff. If they want to sleep with you, enjoy and embrace it. They all grow out of these stages and then they are gone.
Listen to mom.
What message would you like to share with other moms? Remember to tell it like it is. Being a parent can be hard. We don’t always have the best day or do everything the way in which we hoped. But tomorrow is a new day. Nobody is perfect.
Is motherhood what you expected? What surprised you the most? Everything I expected and more. It surprised me with each addition to our family how my love grew exponentially. Who has influenced the mother you are today? My mom is hands down my biggest influencer.
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Momism #198: Take your phone — and make sure it’s charged!
]
Let Vacation MOM Plan Your Dream Vacation! Family Vacations Romantic Getaways Cruises All Inclusive Resorts Disney Vacations
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Donnita Bassinger VIP Vacations, Inc. 541-913-5272 Facebook: Vacation MOM mommag.com 17
healthy MOM
™
Nitrous oxide now a pain relief option during labor W
hile many people know about nitrous oxide use in dental procedures, this inhaled gas is used around the world to ease labor pain. It is quick-acting, safe, effective and easy-to-use, and it is not associated with any increase in adverse maternal or newborn effects.
For many of our patients, this is an ideal option given their wishes and hopes for labor and birth. It allows the person the ability to move and reposition themselves, which can be helpful in finding what works best for their bodies and what may aid in the progression of labor.
Nitrous oxide is a unique pain-relief option. It’s blended with oxygen and inhaled through a mouthpiece or mask that the laboring person holds themselves. Nitrous oxide is effective while actively being inhaled during a contraction, and then it quickly wears off. This is a great option for someone needing support with their contraction pain while wanting to maintain mobility.
If nitrous oxide is not providing the right type of pain relief, it can be discontinued, and other options can be used. We continue to provide epidural and IV pain relief options as well as non-pharmacologic methods. To find out if nitrous oxide might be right for you, and more of what to expect with use, ask your midwife.
Source: American College of Nurse Midwives, “Nitrous Oxide for Labor Analgesia,” 2011.
Annie Ziemba, MSN, CNM McKenzie Midwives & Lactation Services 960 N. 16th St., Ste 104, Springfield (541) 744-8660
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Brought to you by:
Lactation Corner Having support as you navigate the early weeks of feeding a baby makes a big difference. At McKenzie Midwives, we provide lactation support services to the entire community. Regardless of where or how you birth, we can help with breast/ chestfeeding, pumping and baby weight checks. We help manage complex lactation issues as well as routine check-ins for reassurance and guidance. We also offer a lactation preparation class during pregnancy as well as ongoing postpartum lactation support as long as needed.
Say Cheese
™
NOW ALSO AT 2215 WILLAMETTE STREET!
Smiling through summer ’ easier than you might think Its
M
ANY PEOPLE THINK they can’t afford braces or Invisalign to get the smile they have always wanted.
But many orthodontists offer flexible financing and payment plans to allow you to pay for your treatment over time, as well as discounts for payment in full. They also might offer family discounts and other ways to make it easy to get your new smile and bite.
Brought to you by:
At Chvatal Orthodontics, we try to make paying for treatment as
easy as possible, with a goal of finding a payment option that works for each unique situation. We offer payments as low as $149/month, $0 down, as well as extended financing, and generous discounts if you pay for your treatment in full. Best of all, your first visit is completely free. It includes all of your necessary X-rays, photographs, 3D scans, and a treatment plan by a boardcertified orthodontist.
(541) 683-8490 • EugeneBraces.com 1400 Valley River Drive, 240, Eugene 1130 E. Main Street, Cottage Grove 2215 Willamette Street, Ste. B, Eugene
OFFERING MORE THAN PREGNANCY CARE—CONTRACEPTION, WELL WOMEN CARE, MENOPAUSAL MANAGEMENT, LACTATION SERVICES AND GYNECOLOGICAL PROBLEM VISITS.
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KANYA DELPOZZO, MSN, CNM, IBCLC EMILY DOWNING-MOORE, MSN, CNM ANNE ZIEMBA, MSN, CNM ANNIE SNYDER, DNP, CNM DANA CUMMINGS, MSN, CNM
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PARENTING COACHES W HAT A R E T H E Y, A N D D O YO U N E E D O N E ? IT SEEMED STRAIGHTFORWARD: have a child and raise it using the vast knowledge of parenting you gained before having said child. Then along comes this kid with her own mind and ideas. This marvelous, smart, sentient being with...demands, love, hostility, kindness and that mouth. Those pre-child notions of parenting are yeeted out the window. Now what? Entering the chat: parenting coaches. 20 mommag.com
What are parenting coaches? A parenting coach is someone who serves as a consultant to you in how to navigate the challenges of raising children. They provide tools, training and advice that is specific to your needs. Parenting coaches do not act as therapists or diagnose mental health conditions; what they do provide is practical ways to make parenting less frustrating and more joyful. For instance, imagine you and your daughter have locked horns about brushing her teeth. You know she needs to keep her teeth healthy, and physically forcing such a thing is ridiculous. How do you move beyond the impasse? That’s where a parenting coach comes in. They might suggest a new way for you to approach the conversation, such as asking your child, “What do you need to do to get ready for bed?” Or, “Talk to me about what you know about keeping our teeth healthy.” We interviewed two local parenting coaches: Sophie Grow of ProSocial Parent Coaching in Philomath, and Tami Meyers of Passionate Parent Coaching in Salem. Tami Meyers worked in mental health and education before becoming a certified parenting coach. “I came to realize that counseling kids was more of a bandaid. It didn’t get to the root issues, which is usually the pain and struggle of parents that is passed on to kids,” said Meyers. Meyers said parents who reach out to her are often “Overwhelmed and struggling with isolation. Parenting can feel lonely,” she said. Meyers specializes in working with parents who have children who might be considered neurodivergent, including parents who have a child with ADHD or who have the condition themselves. Parenting coach Sophie Grow has a background as a birth doula and parent educator, and she is currently in a graduate program studying infant-toddler mental health. “Coaching isn’t therapy, but it’s an excellent complement,” she said. “Parenting is both hard and beautiful,” said Grow. “If a child is acting out — what many parents call ‘mischievous’ behavior — almost always what that child really wants is connection.” In her work with parents she focuses on active, compassionate listening and skill building.
or video call. You might sign up for a six-week plan of individual coaching which would involve an hour per week, along with some supplemental articles or videos. Parenting groups or circles offer a way to gain insight from peers, with a coach as the facilitator. Costs for individual coaching can range from $60 - $150 per session. You might pay around $400 for an eight-week session, and less to join a small parenting group. If cost is a concern, ask about sliding scales. Grow gives thoughtful prompts to her clients, such as “What do you want out of parenting?” Or, “What’s the suitcase you need to pack for your child as they go into life?” She might also draw visuals and share diagrams and analogies.
“
If a child is acting out — what many parents call ‘mischievous’ behavior — almost always what that child really wants is connection.
”
She said that many parents are driven by the desire to be more present with their kids. Sometimes the conflicts that people are scared of having is the opportunity to show up as their best selves. They’ve felt so isolated and have pent up shame around these issues. Meyers guides parents in exploring conscious parenting. “The focus is on connecting rather than punishing,” she said. “We talk about the struggles that came up over the week, and we work through them. I’ll often ask parents to look at the stories they tell themselves. For instance, I’ll hear a parent say ‘I never made friends and now my child isn’t either.’” Meyers invites them to share that pain, validate it and then challenge the conditions. “Maybe it’s not for you to judge or fix; your child is a different human.”
development and education, and their careers have typically been focused on children. There are certification programs, such as Parent Coach Certification, the Jai Institute for Parenting, and many others. If you seek a certified coach, explore the program they trained in to see if it aligns with your core beliefs and values. Perhaps you watched that Supernanny show and thought, I’d sure like that British lady to come to my house and tame this wild bunch. It made for good reality TV, but it’s not what you’ll get with a parenting coach. Be prepared to look in the mirror because it’s more about you than it is about your kids. In fact, your children very likely won’t be interviewed or coached at all. Grow said, “It’s all about the parents. Kids are not interviewed or involved in parenting coach sessions.” Meyers said parents should understand that “Parent coaching is about healing the parent, not fixing the child. It is an opportunity to understand what our triggers are, and why they impact us the way they do…and recognize that when our children exhibit difficult behaviors, they are struggling and need our support the most.” Most parenting coaches offer a free consultation, to see if you fit. Meyers advised that there is a style of parenting coach out there for everyone, so shop around until you find the one that feels right for you. Choose someone you feel comfortable with in sharing details of yourself and your family’s inner workings. Finding a parenting coach also depends on if you want someone local or not. Plenty of coaches offer services via phone and video calls, which means you could work with someone from virtually anywhere in the world. If you’re seeking a local coach, ask your friends, your child’s pediatrician or teachers, or hit the internet. We found a few this way, and there’s something to be said for engaging with a coach who knows about local culture and resources.
She also likes to bring in tools to inspire meaningful changes. “It’s not a quick fix, it’s a gradual shift of awareness.”
So how does it work, exactly?
How do you find one, and what should you look for?
Many parenting coaches offer individual sessions as well as group sessions, which can be in person, but more likely by phone
Parenting coaches come from a variety of experience and training. Many have backgrounds in counseling, childhood
Sophie Grow
Tami Meyers
ProSocial Parent Coaching in Philomath
Passionate Parent Coaching in Salem
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Choosing a family pet KIDS AND PETS GO TOGETHER LIKE PEANUT BUTTER AND JELLY: THEY COMPLEMENT EACH OTHER IN THE BEST WAYS.
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EFORE YOU COMMIT TO A PET, consider your family’s lifestyle and budget. Are you a go-go-go group, or a chill-at-home type of family? Do you have the budget for veterinary care, food, pet sitting, toys and supplies? How much effort do you want to put into the care and feeding of a pet? It’s a lot to take in. When making your choice, consider the annual needs, said veterinarian Dr. Josiah Moses of Eastgate Veterinary Clinic in Corvallis. “General annual recommendations include an exam, about two to four vaccines (depending on the year and age of animal), annual lab testing to check for parasites and other early disease monitoring, and monthly flea and heartworm prevention,” said Dr. Moses. You also need to factor your own experience level, and how much you and your family will need to learn (which can be quite fun for all of you). “For children, taking care of a pet develops compassion, caring and responsibility,” said veterinarian Emily Kalenius of WilVet Salem. But once you choose your pet, you get to enjoy the beauty of the human-animal bond.
such as fur on your clothes and the 4 a.m. zoomies are all forgiven when you look at their adorable feline faces. This phenomenon has been described as kitty mind control, or being owned by a cat.
Cats and why they win the internet Is it their beseeching eyes, sweet purrs and general allaround adorableness that made cats the keepers of our hearts? Their antics in play and affection certainly make them wonderful family pets. Cats are also easy to leave at home for stretches of time, as long as food, water and litter boxes are available. The minor drawbacks 22 mommag.com
While kittens are undeniably adorable, they grow up quickly. Consider adopting an older cat, as they often have much love to give. Want some short-term kitty goodness? Try fostering through a local humane society. It gives your family a chance to learn what it’s like to have a pet in the house...and whether you want to commit to scooping litter regularly.
When are children old enough to help with pet care? Dogs: An ongoing love story with humans What started with cave humans tossing a few scraps of leftover meat to wolves turned into dressing your dog in a tutu and having a professional photoshoot. Our years together have evolved, to say the least, into a beautiful and enduring friendship. In terms of effort, dogs require a solid investment of time: they need to be exercised,
Notice we say help with and not take on 100 percent of pet care duties. If you’re looking to put all the responsibility of pet care on your child, rethink your decision. Consider your child’s age and maturity before you commit to a pet, and make peace with yourself that at the end of the day, you are the overall responsible party for both pets and children in your household.
so daily walks or trips to the dog park are key. They are incredibly bonded to us and need love and attention, which can be an issue if you and your family don’t spend a lot of time at home. The joy dogs bring us is undeniable: these loyal friends are just happy to be with us. Consider size: is a small dog right for your household, or a bigger dog better? How much fur you want to deal with is another question: short-haired dogs like boxers, greyhounds, Boston terriers and many mixed breeds have minimal grooming needs with little shedding. Doodle dogs — poodles mixed with another breed or more — are having a moment, but know that the poodle lineage can often mean higher grooming needs. Training is a must, as you want a doggo who knows some basic commands and doesn’t jump up on visitors. Adolescents and teens do great in structured dog training classes.
Prepare for the unexpected
Two is better In Switzerland, it’s illegal to own only one guinea pig. These social creatures need company and do best when they have a pal of the same species.
The fascinating world of reptiles Got allergies to furry creatures? A reptile such as a bearded dragon, chameleon or gecko can be an engaging pet. There’s a learning curve to the habitat you’ll need for them, but a reputable reptile business or organization can offer guidance on enclosures, lighting, water misting, etc. For your kids, learning about reptiles and the care they need can be a fun project. Note that some reptiles will need live food, like crickets and mealworms. It’s not for the faint of heart. If a tortoise or turtle is more your family’s style, remember that they live a long time — like 50 years for a well-cared for tortoise and 30 for a turtle.
A little birdy told us Bird lovers enjoy the companionship of feathered friends for good reason: pet birds can be social, smart and affectionate. Birds work well in small spaces, and the cost of feeding them is low, making them a budget-friendly pick. They can be quite loud though, as bird noise in the wild is meant to travel over distances, so be mindful if you share walls with neighbors. Also be prepared that birds can live a very long time, as in decades or even over 100 years for some parrots.
You can find goldfish that do not require bubblers or temperature regulation. Once you launch into more exotic fish, however, you enter the land of freshwater vs. saltwater, temperature regulators, algae control, etc. It can get complicated, so best left to an adolescent or teen who is motivated to learn the details and put in the effort.
Pocket pets: small size, big personalities The term pocket pets encompasses small animals such as guinea pigs, gerbils, hamsters, etc. They are often school classroom favorites, as they are easy to care for and fun to interact with. Nutritional needs are specific and varied; chewing blocks or other supplies are often called for to keep teeth from growing too long. Chinchillas, hedgehogs and sugar gliders are nocturnal, so they’ll be more active at night. Habitats for pocket pets are quite specific, so have your setup ready before bringing one home.
How to train your goldfish An ode to the humble goldfish: give them a roomy bowl full of water and some fish flakes, and these guys can live happily ever after. Believe it or not, you can train a goldfish to do tricks, like swimming through a hoop.
Emily Kalenius, DVM
Josiah Moses, DVM
Wilvet Salem
Eastgate Veterinary Clinic
As with many things in life, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, so it makes sense to keep your pets up on regular veterinary care. But sometimes the unexpected happens — the dog eats a superball and needs surgery, the cat develops a weird lump — these events can come as a shock emotionally and financially. “Depending on the severity, the diagnostics, treatments and hospitalization situations can have a very wide price range. It can be very simple and inexpensive, to upwards of a few thousand dollars,” said Dr. Moses. Dr. Kalenius sees emergent cases only at Wilvet Salem, such as pets hit by cars, or those suffering from vomiting, diarrhea, or infections. Dogs and cats can be curious eaters, and on the list of oddities pulled out of stomachs via endoscope include: 7 L.O.L dolls, socks, foam bullets, ear plugs, ribbon and hair ties. No one likes those surprise bills of thousands of dollars, so pet insurance or a savings account just for your pet needs might be worth looking into.
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something to smile about
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Tooth knocked out before its time? Here’s what to do. With summer in all its glory, more and more time is spent outside in beautiful weather. Playgrounds, skateparks and swimming pools are super fun but they also present opportunities for various accidents, including facial trauma. So, what should you do if your child experiences facial trauma and loses a tooth? This can be very troubling to not only the child but the parent as well. The most important thing you can do is remain calm. Pediatric dentists do not re-implant baby teeth for numerous reasons, primarily because they tend to abscess and cause facial swelling. They may also damage the permanent tooth if put back into the socket. Permanent teeth are different. If a child loses a permanent tooth, try to reinsert it into the socket as quickly as you can. If that is not possible, put the tooth into a glass of milk (if not available, use the child’s own saliva by having them spit into a cup), and take the child immediately to a pediatric dentist. Time is of utmost importance. The sooner it is re-implanted and splinted, the higher the success of saving the tooth.
Brought to you by: Dr. Erin Estep is a board-certified pediatric dentist who owns Treehouse Kids Dentist in Springfield. She and her staff are committed to making sure your child has an amazing, safe, memorable dental experience.
treehousekidsdental.com 1611 J street Springfield, OR 541-515-6631 office@treehousekidsdental.com
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When back-to-school clothes shopping... Consider the environmental impact
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he trendy outfits are adorable and hard to resist buying for your child, especially when they beg for the sequined skirt or latest kicks. But all those purchases have consequences beyond the moment of fast fashion, as poorly made clothes wear out quickly and end up in landfills. In fact, Americans throw away over an astonishing 32 billion pounds of textiles a year.
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Clothing does not belong in your recycling bin, and they will be thrown away if they arrive at a recycling facility. The best place to take clothing that is still wearable is a donation center, such as a thrift store. Some thrift stores may have recycling options for textiles. If an item of clothing is no longer usable, it belongs in the garbage.
Kelly Bell is the Master Recycler coordinator for the Lane County Waste Management Division. She feels privileged to support the many citizen waste prevention educators who volunteer their time. Learn more at lanecountyor.gov/masterrecyclers.
Well-made clothes are available for every budget, are built to last and can be worn often. When you’re clothes shopping for kids, consider items from reputable brands made from durable fabrics like 100% cotton. Look for pants with reinforced knees and strong stitching, in classic styles. Initially, you may pay a bit more for better quality items, but in the long run, well-made clothes will save you money — and help the environment. Find more recycling guidance: lanecountyor.gov/wastewise. Source: Oregon Department of Environmental Quality
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D I P, DI P HOOR AY ! Snack plates can double as meals in our book, especially when it’s too hot to cook.
MOM's Black Bean Dip
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What to dip Vegetables Snap peas
Celery sticks
Sliced cucumbers
Asparagus sticks
Cherry tomatoes
Sliced mushrooms
Carrots, julienned
Green beans
Red, yellow and green peppers
Sliced radishes
Broccoli, cauliflower “mini trees”
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What to dip Crackers & chips Mixed crackers
Pretzels
Tortilla, bagel and pita chips
Focaccia, sourdough, French bread
Breadsticks
Garden Veggie Straws
MOM’S BLACK BEAN DIP INGREDIENTS
1 can black beans, drained and rinsed 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons sliced jalapenos or pickled jalapenos (might serve on the side for grown-ups only)
2 cloves fresh garlic, chopped 1 teaspoon cumin 1 teaspoon dried oregano 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped Kosher salt and black pepper to taste
DIRECTIONS Put all ingredients into a food processor or blender. Note that sometimes with blenders, a little water is needed. Pulse until smooth. When serving, sprinkle with a pinch of oregano for presentation.
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CLASSIC HUMMUS INGREDIENTS
1 - 2 cloves of fresh garlic, chopped 1 cup drained, cooked garbanzo beans 4 tablespoons lemon juice 2 tablespoons tahini 1 teaspoon salt Black pepper to taste
DIRECTIONS Blend all ingredients in a blender or food processor. Transfer into a serving bowl, and drizzle with olive oil and garnish with fresh chopped parsley and paprika, if desired.
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No matter what fall looks like... KidSpirit is here for your family! Check out our fall in-person gymnastics classes at kidspirit.oregonstate.edu/programs. kidspirit.oregonstate.edu
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