PRINT SUBSCRIPTIONS: MAILED FIRST CLASS, IN AN ENVELOPE SAME DAY ISSUE IS DELIVERED FROM THE PRINTER: $28 one year, $52 two years, $75 three years. Phone & online orders accepted with credit cards. Gift subscriptions available. Single copies & back issues by mail, $2.50.
IF YOU MOVE: Missed issues will not be replaced if we do not receive an address change before issue mailing date. WE ARE AN AUDITED PUBLICATION
5 n Web Finds / What’s New In The Kid Biz
12 n Pick of the Literature by Dr. Donna Phillips
18 n Single Parenting Celebrate National Kindness Month by Meagan Ruffing
The Desperate Need for Veterinary Technicians and Assistants
46 n Family Flavors
Healthy Everyday Recipes for Real Life: Nutritious, Energy-Boosting, Egg-Inspired Breakfasts That Save Time
find FREE
Find this entire issue online at www.wnyfamilymagazine.com
What’s New... IN THE KIDBIZ web.finds
Indoor Activities to Cure Cabin Fever
February brings us a week-long school break. So far this winter, Western New York has seen plenty of high winds and frigid temperatures—not the most ideal conditions for getting outside and building a snowman! If you’re looking for some fun indoor activities to cure the boredom during the break, here are some ideas!
Hot Chocolate Bar
Who doesn’t love a nice mug of hot chocolate on a cold winter day? Make it extra fun by setting up a hot chocolate bar! Chelsea at Chelsea’s Messy Apron has a step-by-step tutorial on how to get everything set up. She uses a slow cooker to make the hot chocolate, and she has plenty of suggestions on everything from decorations to add some extra flair to fun toppings that will allow everyone to personalize their cup of cocoa. Find the instructions at https://www.chelseasmessyapron. com/a-hot-chocolate-bar-with-2-hot-cocoa-recipes/.
Family Blanket Fort
GLORIA BARRON PRIZE FOR YOUNG HEROES
The online application system for the 2026 Gloria Barron Prize for Young Heroes is now open. Established in 2001 by author T. A. Barron, the Barron Prize annually honors 25 outstanding young leaders ages 8 to 18 who have made a significant positive difference to people and the environment. Fifteen top winners each receive $10,000 to support their service work or higher education. The 15 winners and 10 runners-up will be announced in September.
Beginning with the 2026 awards cycle, the Barron Prize has moved to a two-step application process: a pre-application due March 15th and the full application due April 15th. Applicants must complete the short online pre-application as Step 1 and will be notified via email within 10 days regarding their eligibility to proceed with Step 2 of the application process. The pre-application link is available only until March 15, 2026 at barronprize.org/apply.
Ashley at The Littles & Me shows us that quality family time doesn’t have to cost a fortune with this Family Night Blanket Fort! This is an inexpensive and fun activity that the kids will love and will spark their imaginations. Just grab some blankets, sheets, pillows, chairs, and clothespins…then let the building begin! Use the fort as a space for the kids to read their favorite storybooks or get everyone cuddled up in the fort for a family movie night. Full instructions can be found at https://thelittlesandme.com/blanket-fort-family-night/.
Build Your Own Bird Feeder
As we look ahead to spring and await the return of our feathered friends, why not create your own bird feeder? Kids and adults will have a blast working together to build and decorate this feeder from National Geographic. The instructions are easy to understand, only one tool is needed (a Phillips screwdriver), and you can customize the feeder with six vibrant paint colors. The kit also includes a bird-watching journal which lets the kids track their bird sightings. (Amazon, $17.99)
Over the past 25 years, the Barron Prize has honored 625 inspiring, public-spirited young people from across the U.S. and Canada. These young heroes have helped the hungry and the homeless, invented life-saving technologies, protected our oceans and endangered species, and addressed climate change, among myriad other initiatives. They have raised more than $31 million for their causes and have inspired countless people by their example.
Prize founder T. A. Barron explains, “Nothing is more inspiring than stories about heroic people who have truly made a difference to the world. And we need our heroes today more than ever. Not celebrities but true heroes—people whose character can inspire us all. That is the purpose of the Barron Prize: to share positive examples of heroism with as many young people as possible.”
Since its inception, the Barron Prize has awarded nearly two million dollars to young leaders and has won the support of Girl Scouts of the USA, Jane Goodall’s Roots and Shoots, and Youth Service America, among other organizations.
To learn more and apply online, visit www.barronprize.org.
Quick Ways to Beat Winter Boredom with Your Kids
—by Rebecca Hastings
When the days are short and the cold lingers, it doesn’t take long before kids (and parents!) start to feel cooped up. Cabin fever is real. But you don’t need a full-blown project or a big budget to make winter days more fun. Sometimes, all it takes is a few creative ideas that help everyone laugh, move, or create together. Here are simple activities—most of which take less than 30 minutes—that you can pull out on a chilly day.
1. TRY AN ANIMAL YOGA ROUTINE
Kids love pretending, and parents love it when kids burn energy indoors. Put those together, and you’ve got animal yoga! Stretch tall like a giraffe, crawl into turtle pose, hop like a frog, or flap your arms like a bird. You can make up moves or look up kid-friendly yoga cards online. Not only does it get kids moving, but it also helps everyone shake off stress.
2. CREATE A ONE-PAGE SCRAPBOOK
Scrapbooking doesn’t have to be an overwhelming hobby with stacks of supplies. Instead, choose one favorite memory (a birthday, snow day, or summer trip) and make a single scrapbook page together. Let kids draw, glue pictures, or write captions.
Slip the page into a binder and add more throughout the year for a lowpressure family memory book.
3. WRITE A LETTER (OR DRAW A PICTURE)
Nothing brightens someone’s day like real mail. Encourage kids to write a short letter—or draw a cheerful picture—for a grandparent, friend, or even a teacher. Younger kids can dictate while you write. Slip it in an envelope and send it off. Bonus: it sneaks in some handwriting practice while teaching thoughtfulness.
4. PLAY A “QUICK GAME” CHALLENGE
Not every game needs to take an hour. Keep a basket of short, fun options on hand: Uno, Jenga, Spot It, or even a deck of cards. If you’ve got only 10 minutes before dinner, a fast round still builds connection and breaks up the day.
5.
DECORATE THE WINDOWS FOR SPRING
Beat the winter blues by painting hope right onto the glass! Window markers or washable paints let kids create flowers, sunshine, or butterflies.
When the sun shines through, the whole room feels brighter. And when spring finally does arrive, you can wash it away and start fresh.
6. BAKE SOMETHING SIMPLE – X2 AND GIVE ONE AWAY!
Snowy days and warm kitchens are a perfect match. Pick an easy recipe— cookies, muffins, or even a mug cake— and let kids measure, stir, and taste. Don’t stress about the mess; instead, enjoy the smells and the satisfaction of creating something together. The key is to double the recipe and give a treat to warm someone else’s day!
7. HAVE A DANCE BREAK
Blast a favorite song and dance around the living room. Little kids will giggle at your moves, and teens might roll their eyes—but they’ll secretly love that you joined in. Music and laughter are powerful mood boosters for the whole family.
8. HOST A FAMILY MOVIE MORNING
Instead of saving movies for the evening, surprise the kids with a morning showing. Pajamas, popcorn, and hot cocoa turn an ordinary Saturday into something special. You can even create homemade tickets and let kids “buy” snacks with play money.
9. BUILD A BLANKET FORT
It’s a classic for a reason. Pull out blankets, pillows, and chairs to create a cozy hideout. Once the fort is built, bring in flashlights and books for quiet reading—or play a board game inside. The small, cozy space feels magical to kids and offers parents a chance to slow down.
10. DO A 5-MINUTE DECLUTTER RACE
Turn chores into fun. Pick one area (a drawer, toy bin, or bookshelf) and set
a timer for five minutes. See how much clutter you can clear together before the buzzer goes off. The game makes it less overwhelming, and the reward is instant cleaner space and lighter moods. Throwing in a treat like hot cocoa when you’re done is a great motivator!
11. TRY A MINI SCIENCE EXPERIMENT
You don’t need a lab coat to be a scientist. A few easy ideas:
• Mix baking soda and vinegar for fizzy fun.
• Put food coloring in water and watch how celery stalks absorb it.
• Make homemade slime with glue and contact solution.
These quick experiments spark curiosity and keep kids engaged.
12. END THE DAY WITH GRATITUDE
Even on long winter days, there are good things to celebrate. Before bedtime,
go around the table and share one thing you’re grateful for. It’s a simple tradition that helps kids focus on positives and brings the day to a peaceful close.
FINAL THOUGHTS
Beating winter boredom doesn’t mean filling every moment with activity. It’s about sprinkling in small, meaningful ways to connect. Whether you’re baking, building, writing, or wiggling through an animal yoga pose, you’re not just passing the time—you’re making memories. And that’s the best antidote to cabin fever.
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.
Embrace Winter the
Winter is long, no matter where you live. With the events of the holiday season behind us, there is no longer a distraction from the cold, dark days of winter. We are left to face days with fewer hours of sunlight and cooler temperatures, which can often leave us anxious and depressed. Thankfully, the people of Denmark, who are forced to survive much harder winters than ours, have created a wonderful solution to get you through until spring arrives.
Hygge, pronounced hoo-ga, is a Danish concept that loosely translates to a cozy atmosphere that makes a person feel content and comfortable both physically and mentally. Imagine yourself coming in from a cold, wet day, putting on your favorite fuzzy socks and pouring yourself a bowl of hot soup that you enjoy in the presence of your family. You are not only warmer physically, but your spirits have brightened, too. Take some time to discover what makes you feel content and peaceful using some of these hygge ideas.
Create a Hygge Atmosphere
Fill your spaces with things that bring you happiness. To set a hyggelig mood, consider bringing peace to all your senses. Start with incorporating the soft lighting of candles, leftover holiday lights or the glow of a fireplace. Embrace your favorite scents with wax melts or diffusers. Play
soft music or add sounds of calm like crackling fire or gentle rain. Warm up with cozy blankets or snuggle with family or fur babies. Whenever possible, bring in touches of nature—water, wood, sunlight or plants.
Embrace Hygge Activities
Winter doesn’t mean you should settle in front of the TV until spring thaw. In fact, you should try to disconnect from the digital world. Hygge activities include spending time in small groups of family and friends or recharging by yourself. Playing board games or putting together puzzles are very hygge. Crafts like pottery, coloring, bullet journaling, knitting, woodworking or anything you can do with your hands are also popular hygge activities. Getting outdoors on sunny days to hike, work in the yard or just sit in the sunlight helps to fight against the long winter days. Don’t forget to take some personal time each day to read, nap or take a long soak in the bathtub.
Spend Time in the Kitchen
Cooking and baking is very hygge. It not only nourishes your body, but spending quality time together and enjoying your creations with others, nourishes your soul. Appreciate the flavors of your favorite dishes and smell the deliciousness that fills your home. Pore through recipe books and scroll through Pinterest for comfort foods like soups, chili, roasts, baked chicken and hearty bread.
Take time to indulge in fresh baked scones or muffins and stay warm with hot drinks like hot cocoa and teas, sipped from your favorite mugs.
Wrap Yourself Up in a Hyggelig Hug—Even in the warmer climates, the evenings and early mornings are chilly. Stay warm by layering with cardigans or hoodies and slip on fuzzy socks. If you head outdoors, be sure to have warm and waterproof boots, hats, lined gloves and hooded coats. On rainy days, pack your umbrella and waterproof jacket, as being wet and cold is the opposite of hygge. When you get home, shed the worries of the day and snuggle up in your comfy pajamas, cozy robe and slippers.
Continue Hygge Habits All Year Long—Hygge is about creating a lifestyle that supports comfort and wellbeing by finding joy in the little things. The slower pace of winter allows us to appreciate our surroundings, and practice gratitude and self-care. Fall back on your new hygge habits when life gets overwhelming and find strength in knowing that there is beauty in every season.
Pam Molnar is a freelance writer who works best in a hyggelig space. She enjoys writing about things that nourish our souls.
If you are interested in learning more about the Danish concept of hygge, check out these books, YouTube channels and social media pages.
Books:
The Little Book of Hygge: Danish Secrets to Happy Living—by Meik Wiking
Disney Frozen: Anna and Elsa’s Hygge Life (Picture Books)—by Heather Knowles
Hygge: The Secrets of the Hygge Art Towards a Stress-Free and Happier Life—by Danielle Kristiansen
Hygge: Unlock the Danish Art of Coziness and Happiness—by Barbara Hayden
• Recreational Gymnastics: Beginner to Advanced
• Gym-Tots (3-4 Years Old)
• Gym-Kids (5 Years Old)
• Adult Gymnastics
• Competition Teams: USAG
—by Kimberly Blaker
Winter Boredom Busters for Parents:
Fun Ways to Keep Your Energy and Spirits High
Does being cooped up through the long winter months have you feeling down and lethargic? Staying physically and mentally active is essential to maintaining your energy and keeping your spirits high. So give the following boredom busters a try.
Go skating. Ice, inline, or roller skating is excellent cardiovascular exercise and an effective energy and mood booster. It also improves balance and coordination Not to mention, it’s just plain fun. So find a rink to get your blood pumping.
Film festival. These are often held during the winter months at independent theaters, museums, and on college campuses. If the festival has multiple films you’d like to check out, it likely offers discounted passes to see multiple or unlimited movies during the event.
Join a gym. Get your cardio workout on treadmills, stationary bicycles, stair climbers, arc trainers, indoor rowers, and elliptical trainers. Then hit the weight machines every other day to tone and strengthen your
muscles. Just think how great you’ll look come summer!
Aerobics or dance class. Aerobics is an excellent workout that also enhances energy. But if the ‘E’ word scares you, opt for a dance class instead. There are lots of styles to choose from: jazz, modern, hip-hop, ballet, clogging, ballroom, salsa, contra, square dancing, and more.
Attend a sporting event. Get tickets to a football, hockey, or basketball game. If watching team sports isn’t your thing, you might enjoy a boxing or martial arts match or ice skating competition.
Try a new sport. Get your game on with a wide variety of indoor sports. Racquetball, martial arts, tennis, rock climbing, swimming, volleyball, ice hockey, boxing, bowling, and basketball are but a few. Check with your local YMCA, recreation centers, or community parks and recreation offerings.
Spa treatment. Revitalize by scheduling a day at the spa, or give yourself a home spa treatment. Bask in luxury with a facial, manicure, pedicure, and hair treatment. A new hairstyle, color, or
highlights is also a great way to lift your spirits.
Form a weekly or monthly card-playing group. Ask friends, neighbors, coworkers, and family to join you in a regular evening of bridge, euchre, poker, or rummy. Ask everyone to bring a snack to share, and take turns with other players hosting the event.
Go to the theater or a dance performance. Look for performances at your nearby big city performing arts theatres as well as small venues found in many communities. Community colleges and universities also often have performances open to the public.
A weekend away. Are you feeling cooped up? Take a long weekend away someplace warm, or even just a lively city nearby. Look up attractions and entertainment before you go to make the most of your weekend stint.
Go to a concert. Check out large venues near you. But don’t forget about smaller community venues that often bring in national and international
independent artists of a wide variety of genres such as bluegrass, folk, jazz, Celtic, rock, R&B, blues, Latin, and much more. Smaller venues are great because they provide a more intimate experience.
Check out a museum. Look for museums and galleries in your community, the big city, and on college campuses. Art, history, and science museums are a fun, fascinating way to spend a day.
Visit the library. If you like to read, many libraries offer cozy reading nooks. So it’s an excellent way to get out of the house for a while and still relax. Add to that, libraries offer so much more than books. They house extensive collections of magazines, DVDs, video games, and music CDs as well.
Do a jigsaw puzzle. This is the perfect indoor activity for relaxing while exercising your brain. Before you begin, cut a piece of wood or cardboard a little larger than the dimensions of the puzzle. That way, if it takes a while to complete, you can store it out of your way.
Volunteer for a local charity. Choose your favorite charity and volunteer your time and service. Whether you want to help the elderly, poor, sick, homeless, kids, pets, or the environment, there’s something out there for everyone. Just choose something meaningful to you.
Rearrange your furniture. Give your living room, bedroom, or office a fresh look by rearranging for a cozier feel or for a better view of daylight to help brighten your environment.
Paint a wall. Choose a bright, cheery paint color to brighten a room. Do you need more energy? Try red on a single wall. Orange increases happiness and social behavior. Yellow is also a good choice because it helps you think better while reducing depression. A word of caution, though. Each of these intense colors can cause irritability if overdone. So paint only a single wall if you’re using a dark shade. If the color is
very muted, you might be able to use the color on more than one wall in a room.
Kimberly Blaker is a freelance writer. She also owns an online store, Sage Rare & Collectible Books, specializing in out-of-print, scarce, signed, and first editions and fine bindings at sagerarebooks.com.
PICK OF THE LITERATURE
— by Dr. Donna Phillips
If you are fan of winter and snow, this month is for you! Along with this comes the concept of “wintering,” the time of year when things go deep and everything slows down. The darkness and cold keep us indoors for warmth and contemplation. All nature slows down as animals hibernate and move deliberately and slowly. Plants rest and regroup. It is a time for family, friends, and self. It is a time for reflection and restoration in preparation for the spring to come. It is also the perfect time for reading to give us things to contemplate and ways to plan and prepare for the season ahead. There are so many book options for you to read to help you do this and here are some that might be what you are looking for.
There is nothing like settling down with some crayons or colored pencils and a coloring book. Cozy Days (Random House, New Yor, 2025, $9.00) by Coco Wyo is a book that will charm and engage the youngest child. Simple pictures and familiar images will keep young ones engaged. Not only does it
pass the time, but it is great therapy. For young children, it allows them the opportunity to express themselves and it develops hand/eye coordination and creativity. Here is a list of benefits that coloring can foster:
COGNITIVE & MOTOR SKILLS
Fine Motor Skills: Improves dexterity, hand strength, and control, essential for writing and other tasks like tying shoes.
Hand-Eye Coordination: Develops the ability to coordinate what the eyes see with hand movements.
Focus & Concentration: Helps kids concentrate on a task and follow details, even staying within lines.
Color Recognition: Teaches awareness and discernment of different colors, shapes, and patterns.
EMOTIONAL & CREATIVE GROWTH
Creativity & Imagination: Stimulates new ideas and provides a canvas for self-expression and problem-solving.
Stress Relief: Offers a calming, meditative state and a healthy outlet for frustration.
Confidence & Self-Esteem: Completing a coloring page provides a sense of accomplishment and mastery.
Patience & Perseverance: Teaches kids to stick with a task and build resilience.
ACADEMIC & LIFE SKILLS
Pre-Writing Skills: Strengthens hand muscles used for holding pencils and forming letters.
Spatial Awareness: Helps kids understand boundaries and the relationship between objects on a page.
Decision-Making: Encourages independent choices about colors and themes.
Snow and outdoor activities are the star of this month, and nothing is more appreciated by children than a snow day.
Robot’s First Snow (Sourcebooks/ Jabberwocky, Naperville, 2025, $17.99), written in delightful rhyme by Billy Sharff and illustrated by Hannah Abbo, gives life and humanity to a little robot’s first snow day experience. In this story, robot takes steps toward experiencing the wonder and joy of the human snow experience when no one shows up for work. As he wonders where they all are, he sees a family outside having fun in the snow. In this day of evolving AI, this is a charming story of robots learning to have fun with the humans they serve. The clever way the robots use their skills is perfect for a snowy day adventure. We may never look at the robots around us in the same way after reading this book!
A snowy day and every day need a cozy refuge and There’s No Place Like Gnome’s (Viking, New York, 2025, $18.99), written and illustrated by Scott Magoon, is the celebration of just this very thing. Gnome is the keeper of the forest and protector of the animals. His retreat is where animals go for comfort and rest but he gets overwhelmed when
people destroy the forest and all flock to his home. To make things worse, his place is destroyed as well. With the surprise help of some Forest Elves and Garden Gnomes, they magically repair and rebuild his retreat and the forest around it. This lesson in community and care is timeless and an important message for us all.
Nothing speaks to wintering like the pinecone. The symbol of the pinecone represents the awakening of dormant energy and wintering is a time of dormancy to allow the explosive growth of spring. The Pine Cone’s Secret (Sourcebooks/Explore, Naperville, 2025, $17.99) written by Hannah Barnaby and illustrated by Cedric Abt tells a poetic story of the life cycle of the pine cone. The pine tree can be a tower, a haven, a magic trick, a feast, a home, a blanket, a gift, a celebration, a family. This poetic presentation of the science of a pine tree explores the importance this tree plays in our forests and in the lives of the animals and people that depend on it. It speaks to the value of the quiet and action in the forest and in life. Full of information and imagery, this book speaks to the mind and the heart.
As much as we are often annoyed by the sleet, snow, and cold weather of winter, seeking the quiet and calm of winter before the storm of spring is important and something that we need to appreciate and value. By honoring and understanding the seasons, we do the same for ourselves. Books help us explore this and what better way to spend this time of year than reading and readying for what is waiting for us when the snow melts.
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.
—by Rebecca Hastings
Simple Ways to Practice Random Acts of Kindness with Your Family
Heading to the car, my hands were full of everything a mom seems to grab on her way out the door. I had my bag and coat, my water bottle, the return I needed to make at the store, the envelope to mail, and a snack for my daughter. I went through my mental list of what I needed, virtually checking off boxes.
Satisfied I was ready, I made my way to the door. When I reached where we keep the keys, I realized my fatal mistake: I didn’t have an extra hand to pick up the one thing I needed to start the car. Despite all my planning and preparation, I didn’t have a free hand to pick up my keys. Seeing my predicament, my daughter offered to get them for me. I let out a sigh of relief as we made our way to the car together.
It was a little thing. She simply got my keys off the hook and carried them to the car for me. It took very little effort on her part. But it made a big difference for me. Her small act of kindness made my life easier.
As we raise our kids, we want to teach them to be kind people. We want
them to see others and show them help, to do little things to brighten someone’s day, and to discover the joy that comes with showing kindness to another person.
You can do two important things to promote kindness in your family:
1. Model: Practice kindness in your life. Model kind behavior toward people you know and strangers so your kids learn these behaviors.
2. Practice Together: Talk about kindness and practice ways to show kindness to others. Notice when someone is kind and praise them for it.
You can do these things within your home, with people you know, and in your community. Here are 12 simple ways you can practice random acts of kindness with your family:
Greet People: Teach kids the power of a simple smile and greeting. Encourage them to smile at classmates, teachers, or strangers.
Lend a Helping Hand: Encourage kids to offer help when they see someone struggling, whether it’s carrying books, opening a door, or picking up dropped items.
Write Thank You Notes: Have kids create thank-you notes for their teachers, friends, or family members. Expressing gratitude is a simple yet powerful act of kindness. Even a thank you text or video message is a good practice that brightens someone’s day.
Compliment People: Make giving compliments the norm in your family. Challenge one another to compliment one person each day. It could be about someone’s outfit, a talent, or a positive personality trait.
Share Toys or Snacks: Teach kids the joy of sharing by encouraging them to share toys, snacks, or treats with their friends or classmates.
Create Art for Others: Encourage kids to create artwork or crafts to give to someone special. This could be a drawing, a handmade card, or a small craft project.
Plant a Seed of Kindness: Help kids plant flowers or seeds to contribute to the beauty of the community. You can even share cut flowers when they grow.
Include Everyone: Encourage inclusivity by inviting someone who might be feeling left out to join a game or activity.
Get Cleaning: Teach kids the importance of keeping their environment clean. Have them participate in a community clean-up or simply pick up litter in the neighborhood.
Listen Actively: Encourage kids to actively listen by making eye contact, not interrupting, and asking appropriate questions when someone is talking. This simple
Create a Kindness Calendar: Make a calendar with daily kindness challenges for kids to complete. It could be as simple as holding the door for someone or saying something positive.
Donate Unused Items: Teach kids about generosity by encouraging them to donate clothes, toys, or books they no longer use to those in need.
Encouraging kids to practice random acts of kindness is a wonderful way to promote empathy and compassion. The key is to make acts of kindness a part of everyday life, from an early age. Try these ideas with your family to demonstrate kindness in simple ways that make a big impact.
Choosing Childcare
When my son Dylan was 10 years old, he was adamant that we organize Blessing Bags for the people we saw on the street because he thought that was the answer to solving the homelessness epidemic. He decided what he wanted in the bags and we headed to the store to purchase water, gum, granola bars, fruit snacks, and crackers. We grouped items together when we got home and carefully packed each gallon-sized Ziplock bag with the things Dylan had so carefully picked out. Our next stop was getting in the car and driving around town to pass them out. I can still remember Dylan’s smile when he rolled down his window and handed over the first of 10 Blessing Bags.
Fast forward seven years and that same little boy is now a 17-year-old young man who still has the same kind heart. What started out as Blessing Bags has now become opportunities for him to volunteer in other ways. This February, I encourage you to think about ways you and your family can serve others in your community or even within your own home. Here are 7 simple ways to spread kindness this month.
1. Sign up with your local food bank and make it a family commitment. You can usually sign up for email blasts and alerts for when food banks have open shifts. You can make this a one-time thing or even plan on volunteering your time once a month.
Celebrate National Kindness Month
SINGLE PARENTING
— by Meagan Ruffing
2. Think of things you already enjoy doing and brainstorm ways you can gift that to other people. For example, I like to bake so making brownies, cookies, or quick breads to drop off at a neighbor’s house is a win-win. It makes me happy to bake and even happier to gift someone randomly with something homemade. It’s a simple act of kindness that goes a long way.
3. My kids and I recently heard about a local animal shelter where you can volunteer to walk dogs, pet them, spend time with, and even adopt them. This is a great way to get your kids to think about animals and a fun way to
them. The smiles on the senior citizens’ faces were so fun to see and we all felt like we were part of something bigger than ourselves.
5. If you know of some friends in need (moving, garage sale, babysitting, ridesharing, etc.) pick one thing to help with over the next month and then do it again the next month. Social media is a great place to stay in touch with friends near and far away. You never know when someone might need help. The next time you see someone post an ask for help with something, volunteer yourself.
6. Sign up for a 5k and donate your time while getting in shape. There are a lot of community walks and runs that you can sign up for where the entrance fee goes towards a needy cause. You might even consider signing up for several throughout the year to challenge yourself to beat your personal record for running.
7. Offer to help a co-worker the next time you hear them say they need help with something. Maybe it’s staying late to clean up after an office function or coming in early to prepare for an event. More hands on deck always make for faster work. Be that person that offers to help.
spend time together. There is even a cute café inside the shelter where you can treat yourself to something yummy to take with you on your walk.
4. Offer to make Valentine’s Day cards for one of your local nursing homes. My girls and I did this one year when I was their Girl Scout Troop leader and it was one of the favorite community service acts we ever did. The troop decorated cards and then hand delivered
Use this month as your kickstart to spread kindness in and around your community. Even doing things at home for loved ones like putting the dishes away when it’s not your turn, or asking to help make dinner, will go a long way. National Kindness Month is the perfect opportunity to keep 2026 going in a positive direction.
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.
Science St rs: Black Innovators Who Inspire Creativity in Kids
Create a rocket using a plastic bottle, baking soda, and vinegar.
Throughout history, Black inventors and scientists have made groundbreaking contributions that shaped our modern world. From life-saving inventions to advancements in space exploration, these pioneers inspire curiosity and innovation in young learners.
WHY LEARNING ABOUT BLACK INNOVATORS MATTERS FOR KIDS
For parents, introducing children to Black innovators is about more than celebrating important historical figures. It is an opportunity to broaden how kids understand science, creativity, and problem-solving. When children see a wide range of people represented in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields, they begin to understand that innovation is not limited by background, race, or circumstance. Curiosity belongs to everyone.
Learning about Black scientists and inventors also helps kids connect science to real life. These innovators did not
work in isolation or for abstract ideas. Many of their discoveries were born out of everyday needs, perseverance, and a desire to make life better for others. This makes their stories especially powerful for young learners who may think science feels distant or intimidating. When kids see how real people identified problems and created solutions, STEM becomes more relatable and approachable.
Exploring these stories together also opens the door to meaningful family conversations. Parents can talk with kids about resilience, creativity, and how challenges can spark innovation. These discussions encourage critical thinking and empathy while helping children understand the broader context of history and progress.
MAKE IT REAL WITH KIDFRIENDLY ACTIVITIES
Hands-on activities add another layer of engagement. When kids build, experiment, and test ideas inspired by real innovators, learning moves beyond memorization and into discovery. Simple
STEM projects help children develop confidence, persistence, and a willingness to try new ideas, even when things do not work the first time. By learning about Black innovators and exploring their work through play and experimentation, families can nurture curiosity, celebrate diversity in STEM, and inspire the next generation of thinkers and creators.
Here are the stories of 10 remarkable individuals with fun STEM activities to bring their achievements to life.
1. GEORGE WASHINGTON CARVER
Known as the “Peanut Man,” George Washington Carver was a scientist and inventor who developed over 300 products from peanuts, including peanut oil and paper. He also worked tirelessly to promote sustainable farming practices. Activity Idea: Try extracting oil from peanuts at home! Crush roasted peanuts, wrap them in a paper towel, and press down with a heavy object. Observe how the oil seeps out.
continued on page 20
SCIENCE STARS
2. MAE JEMISON
Mae Jemison is a trailblazing astronaut, physician, and engineer who became the first Black woman to travel to space in 1992 aboard the Space Shuttle Endeavour. She also advocates for STEM education for young people.
Activity Idea: Create a rocket using a plastic bottle, baking soda, and vinegar. Watch as the reaction powers your mini rocket into the sky—just like Mae Jemison’s historic journey.
3. GARRETT MORGAN
Garrett Morgan invented the three-position traffic signal, making roads safer for everyone. He also created a breathing device that became the prototype for modern gas masks.
Activity Idea: Design a traffic light model using colored paper, cardboard, and a flashlight to understand how his invention manages traffic flow.
4. KATHERINE JOHNSON
Katherine Johnson was a mathematician whose calculations were critical to NASA’s space missions, including the Apollo 11 moon landing. Her work inspired the movie Hidden Figures.
Activity Idea: Practice plotting a spacecraft’s trajectory by creating a simple math problem involving angles and distances. Use paper and pencils to calculate the path, just like Johnson did.
5. BENJAMIN BANNEKER
A self-taught mathematician and astronomer, Benjamin Banneker built the first clock made entirely in America. He also published almanacs that included information on astronomy and weather patterns.
Activity Idea: Make a simple sundial with a paper plate and a pencil. Place it outside and track the shadows to
Make a simple sundial with a paper plate and a pencil.
tell time, just as Banneker did with his astronomical observations.
6. DR. PATRICIA BATH
Dr. Patricia Bath was an ophthalmologist and inventor who developed a laser technique for removing cataracts, restoring sight to countless patients.
Activity Idea: Explore the science of optics by creating a basic pinhole camera using a shoebox, wax paper, and aluminum foil. Learn how light travels and creates images.
7. LEWIS LATIMER
Lewis Latimer worked with Thomas Edison and Alexander Graham Bell to improve the design of the light bulb and the telephone. His carbon filament innovation made light bulbs last longer and be more practical for everyday use.
Activity Idea: Create a simple circuit with a battery, wires, and a small bulb to understand how electricity powers light, inspired by Latimer’s work.
8. MARIE MAYNARD DALY
Marie Maynard Daly was the first Black woman to earn a PhD in chemistry in the United States. Her groundbreaking research explored the effects of hypertension on arteries and how diet impacts heart health.
Activity Idea: Conduct a fun kitchen chemistry experiment by testing the acidity of different foods like lemon juice, vinegar, and baking soda with pH strips.
Create a string telephone. Use two paper cups connected by a string.
9. ELIJAH MCCOY
Elijah McCoy invented an automatic lubricator for steam engines, ensuring trains ran more efficiently. His work was so exceptional that people asked for “the real McCoy,” coining the famous phrase.
Activity Idea: Build a model train or car and discuss how lubrication reduces friction and helps machines run smoothly. Try adding small drops of oil to gears in a toy to see how it works.
10. DR. SHIRLEY ANN JACKSON
Dr. Shirley Ann Jackson is a physicist whose research led to advances in telecommunications technology, including innovations like touch-tone phones and fiber optics.
Activity Idea: Experiment with sound by creating a string telephone. Use two paper cups connected by a string to learn how vibrations travel, just like Dr. Jackson’s discoveries improved communication.
INSPIRING THE NEXT GENERATION
These inventors and scientists paved the way for future generations by breaking barriers and pushing the boundaries of innovation. By exploring their contributions through hands-on STEM activities, kids can see how creativity, perseverance, and curiosity can change the world. Encourage young learners to ask questions, experiment, and dream big—because the next groundbreaking discovery could come from them!
Making The Right Camp Choice
Summer camps have become an absolute necessity for many working parents who need coverage during the weeks when school is no longer in session, but camp has always been an important experience for children.
Camp experiences allow children to make new friends, relate to adult supervisors other than their parents, develop a sense of independence and self-confidence, as well as the ability to work with others as a team.
In today’s technology-oriented world, summer camp gets kids away from their screens and outdoors to interact with the natural world. Sports and physical activities get kids moving — literally — toward increased fitness levels.
Camp is a natural extension of the classroom — today’s camps offer many traditional activities such as swimming, arts and crafts, and hikes, but there are many creative and exciting opportunities to explore specific areas such as performing in a theater production, learning to dance, riding a horse, or trying gymnastics.
Choosing a camp is a very individual decision based on many factors. Some important questions to ask are:
1) How does the camp recruit its staff? What type of training do the camp counselors have? How old are they? Are background checks done? Do they have first aid training?
2) What is the ratio of counselors to campers? Day camp guidelines call for 1:8 for children ages 6-8; 1:10 for children ages 9-14; and 1:12 for ages 15-18.
3) Ask about return rates. How many staff members return each year? How many campers return? Ask for references — talk to some parents who have recently sent their children to the camp.
Visit the American Camp Association’s website at www. acacamps.org for more complete parent checklists and the questions to ask when “interviewing” a camp to see if it’s a good fit for your child and your family.
5 Things Only a Mom Would Say on Valentine’s Day
On Valentine’s Day, long before your mom days, you probably dined by candlelight in some swanky restaurant. Once you give birth to those sweet little munchkins, your meal is more likely to involve baby spit up or chicken nuggets. Besides the lack of a romantic dining experience, you may also find yourself saying the following:
1.
“Thank God this holiday doesn’t entail elves, fairies, leprechauns or any other magical night creatures.”
I’m not sure who came up with the brilliant idea of having “magical night creatures” but I can guarantee it wasn’t a mom. At night, moms are counting down the seconds until they can go to sleep. The last thing on a mom’s mind is remembering to move an elf, retrieve a tooth or paint green leprechaun footprints on the floor. Plus, who would want to create a “leprechaun mess” knowing who will have to clean it up later— definitely not a mom! We have enough messes we already clean daily. So please don’t create a magical “cupid” that comes in the night—we already have more magic than Harry Potter at our house—thanks but no thanks.
2.
“I just need about ten more hours on Pinterest to find the perfect Valentine’s Day craft, cupcake and card.”
Pinterest is a black hole that will suck all of the hours out of your day. Just when you think you found the perfect craft, cupcake
or card to replicate for the twenty-five kids in your child’s class, you will see another one and then another one and before you know it the whole day is gone and you still haven’t picked up a glue gun or spatula.
3.
“I know you already have five Valentine’s Day t-shirts but I couldn’t resist buying another one. I mean what other time can you wear a shirt that says, ‘Love-a-saurus’ with an adorable red dinosaur on it?”
Valentine’s Day kid shirts are adorable. And let’s face it, your teen isn’t going to let you dress them up in a “Love-a-saurus” shirt. So I’m going to dress them up in as many as I can while I still can. Some of my favorites besides “Love-a-saurus” are “More Spice than Sugar,” “I Choo-Choo Choose You,” and “You Have a Pizza of My Heart.”
4.
“Roses are red, Violets are Blue, I’ll give you some candy if you go number 2—in the potty this time.”
Oh, the joys of potty training on Valentine’s Day! Enough said.
5.
“I think a fair cut of your Valentine’s Day school candy would be half since I wrote all twenty-five of your Valentine Cards.”
Not only do you have to write each kid’s name on the Valentine’s card but then you have to lick each envelope and then put a candy or sticker on it. If you are lucky enough to have three kids that is seventy-five cards in one night since, of course, you waited until the night before to do this “work.” Surely this warrants at least half of the candy take if not more—actually 60/40 is probably a fairer cut.
Once that Hershey kiss starts melting in your mouth, that hand cramp will be a distant memory—until next year.
Cheryl Maguire holds a Master of Counseling Psychology degree. She is married and is the mother of twins and a daughter. Her writing has been published in The New York Times, National Geographic, The Washington Post, The Boston Globe, Parents Magazine, AARP, Healthline, Your Teen Magazine and many other publications. She is a professional member of ASJA and SATW. You can find her on X @ CherylMaguire05
—by Cheryl Maguire
FAMILY TRAVEL
— by Deborah Williams
Romantic Destinations
February is here and it is a month for celebrations—it is the shortest month of the year; it brings us closer to Spring; it is the birthday month of two of our greatest presidents and it is a wonderful time for celebrating romance since Valentine’s Day falls in the middle.
Looking for the perfect birthday or anniversary gift? Need a winter break? Consider a close to home romantic getaway without the kids. If you are lucky there are grandparents happy to take over or perhaps you can work out a trade with friends. Often there are special rates because this time of the year is usually considered the slow season.
New York’s Finger Lakes have long had a romantic aura with the hills, lakes, and award-winning wineries. The region of eleven lakes between Rochester and Syracuse has also gained a reputation for the many distinctive lodgings. In recent years, new hotels and inns have opened to many accolades—both national and international.
The area’s newest resort—Skaneateles Fields Resort & Spa has it all including some attractions that come as a wonderful surprise. A red fox named Scout is the resort’s mascot. Red foxes are native to the area and have been spotted on the property according to Kyle Hares, general manager. The fox was named in part after Scout Finch from To Kill a Mockingbird. She was cherished for her honesty, boldness, and sense of wonder.
My first brief visit came last fall, soon after the resort opened in September. It was a warm sunny day and the outdoor swimming pool looked quite inviting, as did the nearby hot tubs and the indoor pool. People were enjoying lunch on the outdoor patio.
Beyond the pool are pickleball and bocce courts, as well as a 9-hole putting green and hiking trails. There are mountain
bikes and snowshoes for exploring the countryside. There are also firepits where you can make s’mores.
On my recent return trip, my first impression when walking into the 89-room hotel was light everywhere—particularly welcome on a dreary December day. The lobby offers an inviting fireplace and comfortable chairs.
Just beyond the fireplace is a wall devoted to the wellknown Skaneateles 19th century artist John Barrow. The six paintings were discovered at a garage sale, restored, and given a place of honor. The landscapes fit in perfectly with the resort’s emphasis on the natural world. A few miles away is the Barrow Gallery in the village of Skaneateles which opened its doors in 1900, showcasing more than 400 original Barrow oil paintings.
Just down the hall is a well-stocked library and chess board waiting for players.
Downstairs is the spa, exercise room, indoor pool, and doors leading to the patio, outdoor hot tubs, and the magnificent outdoor pool. Steam was rising since the pool temperature was 86 degrees and the air temperature was about 20 degrees. The sky was clear with a crescent moon overhead. The resort’s country location makes it a perfect spot for star gazing.
This time we were dressed for water adventures and were prepared to plunge in. It was sublime. The water was the perfect temperature—warm and welcoming—ideal for swimming or floating. There are very few places in New York where such an idyllic aquatic experience is possible on a cold winter night. It reminded me of Iceland where such experiences are the norm since geothermally heated outdoor pools are everywhere.
We followed our outdoor swim with a relaxing time in one of the two hot tubs in a covered outdoor area with lounge chairs. Just inside is another pool which was also a perfect temperature.
But faced with a choice, I would return to the outdoor pool anytime.
The spa offers classes, a Himalayan salt room, a cold plunge, hot tub, infrared hot studios, Peloton bikes and other exercise equipment, and various spa services including massages, facials and mud wraps.
The marble Lobby Bar is lit by 108 hand blown hanging lights and features a variety of wines, beers and creative drinks including non-alcoholic drinks. How about “Bouquet”—lavender, lemon, and rose petals or “Bull’s Blood Mule”—Truman vodka, ginger syrup, beet juice, and lime.
The connecting Fields Restaurant offers seasonal menu items highlighting field-to-fork ingredients from nearby Tap Root Fields farm and other farms. It is open for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and brunch.
The lakeside village of Skaneateles has long been one of the top-rated communities in the Finger Lakes. Its popularity can be seen in frequent parking issues, but the resort has solved the problem for its guests offering free shuttle service for the three-mile trip into town.
Woodbine Hospitality created the resort. It also owns the Skaneateles Boutique Hotel in the village. Woodbine is currently building Hilltop Skaneateles which will offer a place to “eat, drink, stay and play.” East Aurora’s 42 North Brewery will be on premises.
Here are two of my favorite getaways that are closer to home:
InnBuffalo, 619 Lafayette Ave., Buffalo, 716-303-4403, innbuffalo.com. This 13-room inn has appeared in several movies filmed in Buffalo including A Royal Christmas Tail which premiered at the North Park Theater in December.
It was built in 1898 as the Hewitt Mansion. Cost was not a consideration, and the mansion was one of the city’s more impressive and expensive. The architects also designed and built Lafayette Presbyterian Church just down the street at Elmwood and Lafayette Avenues. The house is part of the historic Elmwood Village East district.
The home later became a boarding house for veterans and after extensive renovations it opened as a boutique hotel in 2015. Many of the original elements of the house remain, including stained glass windows, gold leaf ceilings, hand painted stencil work, carved wood everywhere, marble fireplaces, and silk damask on walls.
It did not take long for hundreds of five-star ratings on TripAdvisor to catapult InnBuffalo to the number one Buffalo hotel based on reviews. My favorite public room on the first floor is the library which is stocked with many Buffalo related books.
In the warmer weather I can imagine myself enjoying the huge covered front porch. Are you a pianist? The 1871 Chickering Square Grand Piano, original to the mansion, has been restored to its former glory and guests are welcome to play it. Breakfast is included and dogs are allowed.
The Giacomo Hotel, 222 First St., Niagara Falls, 716-299-0200, www.thegiacomo.com. It is part of the Ascend Hotel Collection, an independent hotel brand under Choice Hotel International.
This luxury boutique hotel is just a short walk from the brink of the American Falls and the Falls on a winter night are truly magical. The trees are covered in ice from the constant spray from the Falls which are lit at night adding to the experience. continued on page 35
Skaneateles Fields Resort & Spa pool
InnBuffalo
Parents’ Night Out!
Food, fun and more…it’s what I do.
— by Tasha Wagner
Dinner the Show:
After
A Buffalo Winter Date Night Worth Staying Up For
Welcome back to the Date Night Corner! For this date night idea, I’m bringing back the age-old “dinner and a show” concept—except with a twist. The twist, you ask? Switch them around. Why not go to the show first and then enjoy your dinner?
We are in the throes of winter and looking for indoor fun, and there is no shortage of that in the City of Good Neighbors. From live music to comedy shows and more, one of our most precious gems is Shea’s Buffalo Theatre. All year long, Shea’s brings some of the best Broadway performances right to Buffalo. We are incredibly lucky to have our own version of Broadway nestled in the heart of our city.
And don’t forget about Shea’s 710 Theatre! Just down the street, this smaller, more intimate venue offers a cozy ambience perfect for plays, live music, and performances that make you feel part of the action. Whether you love a grand production or a tucked-away artistic experience, Buffalo truly has you covered.
AFTER THE SHOW: WHERE TO EAT AT 10 P.M.?
So the show ends. You’re hungry. But it’s 10:00 p.m. or later. Where in Buffalo can you find a full-course, high-end dinner with excellent wine and craft cocktails—without facing a closed kitchen?
Welcome to one of my favorite haunts: Mothers Restaurant. Ensconced on Virginia Place in Allentown, just a 15minute walk or 6-minute drive from Shea’s, Mothers is an iconic Buffalo staple. Even with a change in ownership a few years back, the new team worked tirelessly to preserve everything people loved about Mothers—its warmth, its charm, and its late-night magic.
Mothers has been open, with the same name, since 1972. When I first started exploring the Allentown scene around
1999/2000, Mothers was the place to get an elegant, late-night dinner in a sexy, candlelit dining room with upbeat music humming in the background—at 11:00 p.m. no less. While other places turned into bar-only territory, Mothers remained a dining sanctuary.
Too many times, after a show, my husband and I would try grabbing dinner elsewhere only to be told the kitchen closed at 9 or 9:30. Or we were directed to a “late-night menu”—usually fried bar food. And don’t get me wrong, I enjoy fried bar food, but sometimes you want the full restaurant experience. And Mothers delivers exactly that...late night.
Open seven days a week from 4:00 p.m. to 2:00 a.m., Mothers serves their entire menu until midnight!
WHAT TO ORDER
Start with the shrimp fritters—an iconic appetizer that has survived on the menu forever, and for good reason. Another favorite is the Brie & Artichoke dip.
For salads, get the “Loaded.” Trust me.
For entrées, my husband is devoted to the twin 4 oz filet mignon tournedos. I usually go for the pan-seared scallops with black fettuccine or the penne pasta with chicken, beets, and gorgonzola cream. And always check the specials—they’re consistently creative, delicious, and memorable.
THE PERFECT WINTER NIGHT OUT
Both Shea’s and Mothers hold a special place in my heart. Shea’s brings an instant feeling of excitement from the moment I walk through the doors. The architecture alone is a show. The performances transport you, and I always leave smiling, humming songs from the playbill for days.
Mothers, on the other hand, is a place you can get lost in. I always joke with my husband that it’s like the Lotus Eaters from
“You won’t want to leave...”
Homer’s The Odyssey. The lore says the lotus plant made travelers forget time—and that’s exactly what Mothers does. I’ve spent countless late nights there with friends, sharing wine, telling stories, and losing track of hours. Time slows. Conversations feel deeper. The room pulls you in.
It’s not something I can fully describe—you just have to go.
Save yourself from falling victim to nodding off in a darkened theater after a meal. Flip the script! Add your own plot twist to date night! Start your evening a little later, enjoy the show first, and then fall into the warm, timeless, welcoming abyss of Mothers Restaurant.
You won’t want to leave—and that’s the beauty of it.
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.
Mothers Restaurant
Daddy Daddy The Track
– by Shannon Carpenter
There was a time in my life where I was one of those guys that was 90% sure he could land an airplane if someone talked him down. And, in my most prolific over-confidence days, I could also hold my own versus a bear. At least a black or brown bear. I might have taken some damage if it were a polar bear. And if I could get a stick, then I could probably win. Sometimes I really miss that over-confident young twentyyear-old idiot.
You see, that guy truly believed that he could handle anything that the world threw at him. He read the book Into the Wild, the book about the young guy who sold all of his possessions and just existed in the world, going from town to town. Young me thought that it sounded not only interesting, but relatively easy. And I would be smarter than that guy because I wouldn’t starve myself by eating berries that held no calories. I knew bushcraft! Except I didn’t know any bushcraft, but young me was deluded by my resourcefulness.
The younger version of myself had no worries, no feelings of inadequacy, and absolutely no anxiety. I had no anxiety because I believed I was in a world that I could control and shape to my liking. I was tough.
Then I had kids, and now I have anxiety.
Parenting is humbling in a way that none of us could have imagined. One
for the rest of the time up there, I kept my hand bunched up on the back of their shirts because you can’t trust children not to break your heart.
Having Children Gave Me
Anxiety. I Was Just Fine Before.
minute we are ready to wrestle a polar bear, and the next, an infant has defeated us with their impossible screams and lack of communication. Then they start to grow up and like to do things like stick forks in the outlets or run out into traffic.
I was never afraid of heights until I had children. Hand to all that is holy, I didn’t see the big deal surrounding heights. Because deep down, I knew that no one was really counting on me. If I tumbled off a mountain or died skydiving, I would have an awesome funeral like James Dean, but everyone would be okay. They would adapt and tell my stories at bars after last call. I would become a folk hero.
But kids. Kids change all that. I once took my toddler daughter and son to a lighthouse in Florida during a vacation. We climbed over 150 daunting stairs to the top in time to watch the sunset. And the first thing those two anxiety-inducing creatures did was to run to the ramshackle fence. My heart left my body, and I felt every ounce of overconfidence leave my body. These two little lovable demons shattered my entire worldview in just seconds.
I was sure they didn’t see the fence and would crash right into it. And surely this fence hadn’t been inspected since the 1850s, so it wasn’t strong to begin with, and so they would go head over heels to their doom. I practically tackled them before they could get close. Then
Ever since then, I am afraid of heights. Not for me, but for them, and that makes it worse. Because every parent knows that deep down, we can’t control our children, but they can certainly control our fears. They live on them, and suddenly we have undiscovered phobias.
I was never afraid to get a flat tire on the side of the road. I could change it in a matter of minutes. Then it happened with a newborn and all I could think about was doing it as fast as I could before a drunk driver plowed into my defenseless little girl.
Lost in the woods late at night? Sounds like a good time to go camping and build a lean-to. Gas station sushi? Hey, maybe I’ve stumbled upon a holein-the-wall masterpiece. NASA needs a spare astronaut? Sign me up, I’ll whip training out in a week.
There is power in overconfidence that I think the young need. It allows us to take risks to improve ourselves, be bold in our decision-making, and deal with failure as just a part of life. It also allows us to think to ourselves, “I should have kids.” Without that self-assurance, we may never have the bravery to ask out that girl, hold her hand, and ask her to marry us.
But it comes with the cost of never being able to walk up a lighthouse without just a small bit of you wondering if safety inspections are really up to snuff. Or if you get a flat tire on the highway. Or when they decide to leave your house and grow up on their own.
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 FullTime 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
A mechanic, Vietnam vet, and recovering alcoholic, Mike loves to sing, performing tribute acts all over the Milwaukee area. Then he meets Claire, who also sings on the local circuit. She suggests that he create a Neil Diamond tribute band, which proves successful beyond their wildest dreams – until tragedy strikes. Filled with laughter, tears, and irresistible music, this is a feel good film for anyone who can’t get enough of Neil Diamond’s classic songs. Negative
content is smack in the middle of the PG-13 range.
PHow Your Digital Habits Shape Your Child’s Tech Relationship
icture this scenario: You are at the neighborhood park. The sun is shining, and the air is filled with the chaotic symphony of children laughing, shouting, and playing tag. You are sitting on a bench, technically watching your child. But are you really there? Or are you physically present on the bench while your mind is miles away, navigating a contentious work email or scrolling through the curated lives of strangers on Instagram?
If you flinched a little reading that, you are not alone. We have all been there. We have all experienced that tug of war between the tangible world of our children and the infinite digital world in our pockets. I know the scenario focuses on being outdoors at a park, but I feel like this is an even bigger issue in the winter months when families can be trapped inside. This phenomenon is what experts are calling the “Parental Presence Paradox.” It is the state of being physically available to our children while being emotionally and cognitively elsewhere.
For years, the conversation around screen time has focused almost exclusively on the kids. We worry about how many hours of Fortnite are too many, or whether social media is ruining our teenagers’ self-esteem. These are valid concerns. However, we rarely turn the lens on ourselves. The truth is, our own digital consumption habits are not just a personal vice; they are the primary blueprint from which our children build their own relationship with technology. To raise healthy digital citizens, we must first be brave enough to look in the mirror.
THE MIRROR EFFECT: MONKEY SEE, MONKEY SCROLL
Children are biologically wired to mimic their caregivers. From the moment they are born, they look to us to understand how to interact with the world. This is the essence of social learning. When a toddler sees a parent constantly gazing into a glowing rectangle, they don’t understand that you are paying the electric bill or
scheduling a dentist appointment. They simply learn that the device is the center of gravity. It is the most important object in the room.
If we constantly check our notifications during dinner or text while driving, we are silently teaching our children that digital interruptions are more important than real world connections. We can lecture them until we are blue in the face about putting their iPads away, but if we do not model that behavior, our words ring hollow. It is the classic “do as I say, not as I do” trap. By the time they reach their teenage years, our children will have normalized the behavior of “continuous partial attention”—the habit of never being fully focused on the people right in front of them.
UNDERSTANDING TECHNOFERENCE
Psychologists have coined a term for the intrusions of digital devices into our interpersonal interactions: “technoference.” While it sounds like a sci fi villain, it is a very real issue in modern parenting. Technoference occurs when
“I’m going to try to leave my phone in the kitchen after 7 PM. Do you want to try doing a detox with me?”
your child tries to show you a drawing or tell you a story, and you respond with a delayed “uh huh” without looking up from your screen.
These micro interruptions might seem harmless in isolation, but cumulatively, they send a powerful message. They tell the child, “You are less interesting than what is on this screen.” For infants and toddlers, this is particularly critical. Early development relies heavily on “serve and return” interactions: the baby coos (serves), and the parent smiles back (returns). When a phone blocks that face-to-face connection, the return serve is missed. The baby eventually stops serving, which can impact emotional bonding and language development.
For older children, high levels of parental technoference are associated with behavioral issues. When kids feel they have to compete with a smartphone for attention, they often act out to regain the spotlight. Ironically, we then often use technology to pacify them, creating a cycle of digital dependency for the whole family.
THE GUILT TRAP AND THE NEED FOR COMPASSION
Before you throw your smartphone into the nearest river, take a deep breath. The goal of discussing the Parental Presence Paradox is not to induce shame. Modern parenting is relentlessly demanding. We are expected to work like we don’t have kids and parent like we don’t have work. The smartphone is often our lifeline—it is how we manage our households, stay employed, and find moments of respite in a chaotic day.
We need to approach this with empathy for ourselves. You are not a bad parent because you checked a text message. You are a human being living in a digital age designed to hijack your attention. The tech companies employ the brightest minds in the world to keep you scrolling. Fighting that addiction requires more than just willpower; it requires strategy and self-compassion.
The objective isn’t to become a Luddite or to banish technology from the home. That is neither practical nor helpful, as our kids need to learn
to navigate the digital world eventually. The goal is to move from mindless consumption to mindful usage. We want to show our children that we are masters of our tools, not servants to them.
REWRITING THE DIGITAL SCRIPT
So, how do we break the paradox? It starts with “narrating your usage.” One of the biggest problems is the mystery of the screen. When you are silent on your phone, you could be doing anything. Start verbalizing what you are doing. Say, “I am looking up a recipe for dinner,” or “I am sending a quick email to Grandma to see if she is coming over.”
This simple act accomplishes two things. First, it models utility. It shows your child that the phone is a tool for accomplishing tasks, not just a black hole for boredom. Second, it keeps you accountable. If you find yourself unable to narrate what you are doing because you are mindlessly scrolling social media, it serves as a wake up call to put the device down.
Next, establish sacred “phone free zones.” The dinner table and the bedroom are great places to start. If the phone is physically out of reach, you eliminate the temptation to check that buzzing notification. Buy an oldfashioned alarm clock so you don’t need your phone by your bedside. These boundaries protect the quality of your sleep and your family conversations.
RAISING DIGITAL CITIZENS THROUGH MENTORSHIP
Ultimately, shifting your habits allows you to transition from a digital restrictor to a digital mentor. When we constantly police our kids’ screen time while ignoring our own, we create an adversarial relationship. But when we acknowledge our own struggles with technology, we open the door to honest conversations.
You can say to your teen, “I’ve noticed I’ve been spending too much time on Instagram lately, and it’s making me feel anxious. I’m going to try to leave my phone in the kitchen after
continued on page 37
DEAR TEACHER
– by Peggy Gisler and Marge Eberts
Helping all parents make their children’s educational experience as successful as possible
INTEGRATING MEDIA INTO YOUR CHILDREN’S LIVES IN A RESPONSIBLE WAY
Parents: As everyone knows, so many children are on their cell phones and other media devices far more than they should be. Hopefully, you are aware of how much time your children are spending and exactly what they are doing. Studies are all over the place in describing how much time is being spent, and naturally it depends on the individual child. The overall average amount of time may be as high as almost an hour for children under 2, up to 2 1/2 hours for 2-to-4-year olds, and for 5-to 8-year olds more than 3 hours, and for teens an astonishing 7 1/2 hours a day.
Through talking to many school children, we have also learned that many of them are actually playing games or visiting social media sites when they are supposed to be working on their computers in the classroom. And college students have told us that during lectures when they are supposedly taking notes on their computers, more than half are playing games or looking at social media.
Should a child be spending more time than is appropriate for him or her, it can cause unfortunate problems such as:
1. Lower grades in school
2. An inadequate amount of sleep
3. Exposure to predators and cyberbullies
4. Videos of dangerous stunts
5. Seeing inappropriate displays of sexual content
6. Less time with family and friends
7. Lack of confidence in personal appearance
8. Feeling of missing social events described online by peers
9. Reading fewer books
10. Reduced time outdoors
HOW TO ENCOURAGE MODERATION IN SOCIAL MEDIA USE AND GAMING
Fortunately, there are things that you can do to ensure that screen time is not all the time. Make the dinner table, the bathroom, and the car media free zones, as well as the bedroom 30 to 60 minutes before bedtime. Encourage other activities. Help your children discover or remember that other activities are fun. Do let them see you reading a book, or having a hobby, or walking or hiking regularly. Talk to them about when and why they are picking up their devices. Is it because of boredom or anxiety? Ask them to think of two or three things to do when they feel they must be online. Learning to pause can reduce screen time.
Not all parents will need to set time boundaries for media use. Some will in
order to make their children’s online time a reasonable amount. The Academy of Pediatrics makes these recommendations:
Under 18 months: no screen time before 18 months of age except video chatting. There is little to no evidence that playing with phones or games or visiting websites is educational.
Toddlers: can watch high quality programs. Co-viewing with caregivers is encouraged.
Two to Five: Limit to an hour a day of high-quality programming and co-view with child.
Older Children: Establish consistent limits on screen time and types of media and ensure media use does not interfere with sleep, physical activity, and other healthy behaviors.
GETTING THE MOST OUT OF SCREEN TIME
Screen time can be worthwhile. Children can enjoy playing games. And it can definitely play a role in learning. There are good apps and websites that can actually help young children learn their letters and other pre-reading skills as well as numbers.
And when older school children run into a problem with their homework or difficulty mastering new material, websites can give them the guidance they need. Plus, there is so much material online that can expand what they are learning in the classroom.
FINDING THE BEST MEDIA
Not all media is created equal. How can you know if what your children are viewing is worthwhile and appropriate? We have found one guide that has very reliable answers to this question. It is Common Sense’s Tips at www.commonsensemedia. org/digital-skills. You can gain access to many guides tailored to each specific social media platform including information on how the platforms operate, safety, privacy settings, and parental controls.
SOME HELPFUL MEDIA GUIDELINES
1. Wean your children away from media by making sure at all ages they engage in free play and outdoor activities.
2. Play games with both young and older children, including teens.
3. Encourage your children to do more than watch media or play games by having them create media and learn to code.
4. When out and about, don’t give a pad or phone to a young child, instead talk to the child.
5. Lead by example and limit your own viewing time.
6. Know what your children of all ages are viewing online. And talk to them about their online viewing habits.
7. If they are viewing inappropriate sites or acting inappropriately, consider cutting or limiting their viewing privileges.
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.
Celebrate these FUN DAYS during the month of
FAMILY TRAVEL continued...
Long admired as one of Niagara Falls’ signature buildings, it was built in 1929 as the United Office Building. The 20-story building was the tallest in downtown until the arrival of the Seneca Niagara Hotel in 2005.
When Buffalo developer Carl Paladino acquired the once grand building, it had been abandoned and was a shell of its former self. Paladino brought it back to life as a 39-room hotel and 24 apartments—now condos. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
February 1st
Take Your Child to the Library Day
February 4th Friend’s Day
February 9th Pizza Day
February 17th
Random Acts of Kindness Day
February 26th
Tell a Fairy Tale Day
Day
Don’t miss the 19th floor Skyview Lounge which offers expansive views of the Falls and the city. It is the perfect spot to watch fireworks over the Falls or just gaze upon the mesmerizing waterfall that is dazzling under a kaleidoscope of color at night. There are rooms with fireplaces—ideal for a winter stay. Breakfast is included and the first-floor lounge offers drinks and snacks. Dogs are allowed.
Travel Tip of the Month: For Skaneateles Fields Resort & Spa, 1000 Mottville Rd., Skaneateles, call 315-291-7500 or visit skaneatelesfields.com. The resort is part of the Hilton Hotels Curio Collection. Children and dogs are also welcome.
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.
The Giacomo Hotel
One morning before school, I greeted my oldest daughter as she walked into the kitchen.
“Hi!” I said. “Want some breakfast?”
“Nah, I’m good,” she said without looking up, her fingers tapping replies to a barrage of texts.
“Are you sure?” I pressed. I was nagging, but I couldn’t stop. “What about just half of a bagel? Or we have some nice yogurt and granola—”
This time her response was decisive. “Mom. I’m not hungry!”
My heart sank as my teenager headed out the door a few minutes later, her stomach virtually empty. I’ve always believed the conventional wisdom about breakfast being the most important meal of the day. (Fun fact: The phrase dates back to 1917, when Kellogg Company launched a marketing campaign to boost sales of its cereals.)
Though my kids, ages 14 and 16, ate breakfast reliably when they were younger, that changed when they hit the teenage years. And they’re not outliers: According to the CDC’s Youth Risk Behavior Survey, only
What I Did When My Teens Stopped Eating Breakfast
TWEENS & TEENS
—by Gina Rich
about one in four high schoolers ate breakfast daily in 2023.
My teens’ aversion to the meal troubled me. But my attempts to get them to eat were creating a power struggle that left us all in sour moods. I decided to change my approach. Here’s what I did.
I GOT CURIOUS ABOUT MY FEELINGS
In a 2021 episode of her podcast, Burnt Toast, writer Virginia SoleSmith discussed why we often fret about our children’s eating habits. “Am I really worried about my kids’ intake here?” she said. “Or am I worried about how I’m being perceived as their parent because we tie so much of our self-worth as a parent to their eating performance in a way that’s problematic?”
Her words struck a chord. Successfully nourishing my children— one of whom was born prematurely— has always been entwined with my definition of a good mother. When my kids eat what I judge to be a nutritionally balanced array of foods, I breathe easier because I’ve fulfilled my role. If
they don’t, I feel guilty and anxious. It makes sense that I worry when my teens skip breakfast. They have hours of school and extracurricular activities ahead of them, and I want to ensure they’re well-nourished and ready for whatever the day brings. But I’m trying to remember that whether my kids eat breakfast or not is their choice, not a measure of my success or failure as a parent.
I TRIED MORE FLEXIBILITY AND EMPATHY
When I shared my struggles with my sister, a registered dietitian, she confirmed that breakfast is an important opportunity to take in nutrients— but she said that a good breakfast doesn’t have to include the traditional eggs and bacon or pancakes. It could be cheese and crackers, trail mix, or even leftover pizza. For those who don’t like to eat first thing in the morning, my sister suggested offering liquid foods like shakes and smoothies, or perhaps some fruit. Over time, bodies can adjust to eating earlier.
These days, I set out sliced plums or strawberries each morning, because they are foods my daughters like. And I’m learning to accept that my teens might nibble some strawberries or toast on the ride to school, or they might wait longer to have their first meal of the day. What matters most is that they’re eating enough. To me, that means their growth is on track, they have adequate energy for school, and they’re not waking up in the middle of the night famished.
I’m also trying to approach the breakfast situation with more empathy. Thinking back to my own teenage years has helped. I almost never wanted to eat before school, and it’s no wonder: It’s not easy to down a bowl of oatmeal when your adolescent circadian rhythms are telling your body it should be asleep!
I STOPPED REACTING
Ultimately, my teens’ choices around breakfast are yet another aspect of growing up I can’t control. When my kids didn’t eat, I felt panicky and frustrated, so I reacted by trying even harder to get them to eat. My efforts to fix what I saw as a problem only grated on everyone’s nerves. But my teens’ decisions weren’t the issue; rather, it was the inner turmoil their behavior sparked in me.
Instead of trying to control my kids’ choices about breakfast, I now focus on controlling my own emotions in those precarious morning hours. If we’re getting ready to leave and my daughters haven’t gravitated toward a particular food, I usually ask if they want some toast. If they say no, I cringe inwardly but don’t press the issue. And we move on with our day.
Though I still wish they ate breakfast regularly, I’ve realized that sometimes the best way to support my teens is to respect their preferences—even when they differ from my own.
RAISING DIGITAL KIDS
7 PM. Do you want to try doing a detox with me?”
This approach changes the dynamic entirely. You become teammates tackling a challenge together. You are teaching them self-regulation by showing them how you regulate yourself. You are validating that the pull of technology is strong, but that human connection is stronger.
CONCLUSION
The Parental Presence Paradox is one of the defining challenges of our generation. We are the pioneers of parenting in the age of ubiquitous computing. We won’t get it perfect every day. There will still be times when we hide in the bathroom to scroll through news feeds, and times when we miss a “watch me!” moment because we were answering an email.
But awareness is the antidote. By recognizing the link between our digital habits and our children’s development, we can make small, intentional changes. We can choose to lift our heads, make eye contact, and be fully, messy, beautifully present. The notifications will still be there later. These moments with our children will not.
So, here is your first challenge: Once you finish reading this sentence, put your phone down, take a deep breath, and go find your child. Just be there.
Looking to strike up a conversation with your child? Here are some FUN QUESTIONS to get things going!
Gina Rich is a Wisconsin freelance writer who focuses on parenting, health, and the natural world. Her work has been published in the Washington Post, Good Housekeeping, WIRED, and other outlets.
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.
If you could grow anything in the garden, what would it be?
What is your favorite thing about yourself?
Where is your favorite place to go on vacation?
What is your favorite flavor of ice cream?
An Amazon box shows up. What do you hope is inside?
*Source – familyeducation.com
Finding Respite Care
If you’re raising a child with special health care needs, you might find that “me time” is more fantasy than reality. Sure, you’d love some time to yourself, or one-on-one time with a spouse, partner, friend, or another child. But how can you find that perfect person to care for your child? And even then, can you trust someone else to provide just what your child needs?
Luckily, finding respite care—a well-deserved break from caregiving—with a skilled and caring person that you trust might be easier than you think.
WHAT’S AVAILABLE?
The many types of respite care include:
• a caregiver who comes to your home for a few hours daily, weekly, or as needed
• drop-off day programs (at a school, health care facility, or faith-based or volunteer agency) that provide activities
• daily or weekly respite programs offered by a community-based agency, host family, residential facility, or sleepaway camp
Another option that families enjoy is respite care offered through parent “co-ops.” This is when families take turns watching each other’s kids. For example, you can take some-
one else’s child for one day or evening a month, and that person can do the same for you. Support groups for families with your child’s condition are a good place to meet other families.
You also might consider asking for help from extended family, friends, or neighbors, and give them the training they need to care for your child.
WHERE CAN I FIND LOCAL CAREGIVERS?
Special health care needs usually require care beyond what the average babysitter can offer. Here are some ways to find experienced caregivers:
• Ask your care team or hospital social worker about programs in your area.
• Contact advocacy groups in your area, like your state’s developmental disabilities agency (find a local chapter). Tell them what kind of care you need and get a list of providers that may include visiting nurses, childcare centers, and sleepaway camps. These groups offer help and information, and may have chapters in your area:
• ARCH National Respite Network
• United Cerebral Palsy
• Easter Seals
• Family Voices
• The Arc
HOW SHOULD I INTERVIEW CAREGIVERS?
Once you’ve narrowed your search and decided on a person or program, do a telephone interview. Ask caregivers if they’ve had background and reference checks. Make a list of all your child’s needs, from toileting to communicating, and make sure the caregiver has the skills to handle them. Ask to meet in person, and watch how the caregiver interacts with your child.
Call the applicant’s references and ask about the caregiver. Were there things the caregiver did that they didn’t like? Keep interviewing and asking questions until you find someone you feel truly comfortable with.
HOW CAN I PAY FOR RESPITE CARE?
Respite care can be costly, but there are programs that can help. They include:
Medicaid waiver funding. Most children with a disability qualify for home and community-based Medicaid waivers that cover the cost of respite care. Waivers either pay for the cost of care or reimburse you for out-of-pocket costs. Contact your local department of developmental disabilities to see if your child qualifies for Medicaid waiver funding. To learn about programs in your state, go to www.kidswaivers.org.
Lifespan financial aid. Kids who do not qualify for a Medicaid waiver may be eligible for financial assistance for respite care through a State Lifespan Respite Grant, if it’s available in their state.
Military childcare benefits. Some members of the military qualify for respite care as part of the childcare benefit.
For help figuring out which respite services your child may be eligible for, talk to your social worker or contact your local Family Voices chapter (https://familyvoices.org).
Once you find respite care for your child, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it. Having an extra set of hands so that you can run errands, go to an appointment, or just take a break works wonders for your mental health. You’ll feel better and have more energy to do the things you need to do for your child and family.
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.
This special section features topics important to parents of children with special needs, not just in April, but in each and every issue of WNY Family Magazine with our monthly Special Needs column.
ChoicesWellness
5Sugar Intake Tips to Prevent Cavities in 2026
(StatePoint)
Holiday celebrations often feature lots of great food and drinks, including sweet treats to indulge in. But too much sugar in your diet can weaken your teeth, leaving your smile vulnerable to cavities. After a sweet holiday season, follow these five sugar intake tips so you can prevent cavities and improve your oral and overall health in 2026.
Restore the balance. If your holiday season was filled with candy canes, hot cocoa and cookies, now is the time to revive a balanced diet with a variety of healthy foods from each of the five major food groups. Fill your plate with whole grains, fruits, vegetables, lean proteins and low-fat dairy foods.
Sugary beverages like soda and juice should be served sparingly, as healthier options like water and plain milk have far more nutritional value. “Water is the best beverage for your teeth,” said American Dental Association (ADA) dentist, Mirissa Price, D.M.D. “Not only does water help wash away cavitycausing bacteria and weaken the acids
in your mouth, but water with optimal levels of fluoride strengthens your teeth against cavities.
Be picky if it’s sticky and watch out for starch. You might think dried fruit is a healthy choice, but raisins and dried cranberries often stick to your teeth, giving the bacteria in your mouth more time to feast on the natural sugars. Meanwhile, starchy foods like chips and cakes often get trapped between your teeth where cavities also form. “If you choose these foods, pair them with water, and make sure to brush and floss thoroughly,” said Dr. Price.
Resolve to maintain your dental routine. Speaking of brushing and flossing, it’s important to keep up with your dental care routine no matter what your diet looks like. That means brushing your teeth twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and cleaning between your teeth once a day. Choose dental products with the ADA Seal of Acceptance and see your dentist regularly for valuable checkups. Appointments can fill up fast after the holidays, so schedule them far in advance to avoid delays.
Timing matters. Instead of eating sweets on their own, pair them with meals or eat them shortly after mealtimes. During a meal, your mouth releases more saliva, which is another tool in the fight against tooth decay, canceling out acids and washing away food from teeth and gums. Saliva also contains minerals to repair weakened teeth. For snacks between meals, choose a healthy option like fruit, vegetables or cheese. “If you find yourself enjoying a sweet treat apart from a meal, chewing sugarfree gum with the ADA Seal of Acceptance after can increase saliva and may help counter acidity,” said Dr. Price. Set a good example. It’s no surprise that most kids also want to enjoy a sweet treat now and then, but remember that cavities are the most common chronic childhood disease. Provide children with foods and drinks that are healthy and low in sugar, remind them about regular at-home dental care, and set a good example by modeling all the tips above.
To learn more about how nutrition affects your teeth, visit MouthHealthy. org/nutritionsimpact. For help keeping your child’s dental routine on track, visit MouthHealthy.org/calendar to download a free 12-month brushing and flossing calendar.
“Making choices to keep your mouth healthy doesn’t stop you from enjoying good food,” said Dr. Price. “Finding a balance is key, and the start of a new year is a great time to focus on healthy behaviors to benefit your dental and overall health.”
Food allergies are the most common cause of anaphylaxis in infants and toddlers.
How to Recognize Anaphylaxis in Infants and Toddlers
(BPT)
Anaphylaxis is a severe, lifethreatening allergic reaction that can happen at any age. In infants and toddlers, symptoms can escalate quickly. Spotting the early warning signs of anaphylaxis and acting fast can help keep a child safe.
The challenge for parents and caregivers? Infants and toddlers are unable to tell you what’s wrong. They don’t yet have the words to describe what they’re feeling. It’s up to you to recognize that something serious may be happening.
That’s why it’s important to learn the unique symptoms of anaphylaxis in very young children—and know how to respond quickly.
Allergy & Asthma Network, the leading national nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the health of people with asthma, allergies and related conditions, recently launched a new Infant Anaphylaxis online guide. It includes practical information and resources for parents and caregivers.
WHAT IS ANAPHYLAXIS?
Anaphylaxis occurs when the body’s immune system reacts to a substance—such as food, medication, an insect sting or latex—as if it were dangerous. This triggers the release of histamine and other chemicals, leading to a chain reaction of severe symptoms.
The response can affect multiple body systems, including the skin, breathing, digestion, nervous system, and heart. Because babies can’t tell you how they feel, the signs are more subtle—and easy to miss.
Without prompt treatment, anaphylaxis can cause swelling of the airways, breathing difficulties, or even shock. Epinephrine is the first line of treatment for anaphylaxis.
WHAT CAUSES ANAPHYLAXIS
IN YOUNG CHILDREN?
Food allergies are the most common cause of anaphylaxis in infants and
toddlers. Foods that may cause a reaction include cow’s milk, infant formula, eggs or peanut products. Infants may also develop symptoms when a mother consumes a food allergen and it passes into her breast milk.
Certain medications such as penicillin-based antibiotics may cause allergic reactions. Insect venom from a sting and latex are other potential allergic triggers. Latex can be found in bottle nipples, pacifiers and other rubbery products. Experts now recommended introducing common food allergens to babies at 4-6 months of age. Research shows that when babies eat these foods early and often, their immune systems can learn to accept them instead of reacting to them. This can reduce the risk of food allergies later in life.
If your baby has eczema or already has a food allergy, speak with a pediatrician or pediatric allergist before introducing common food allergens into your child’s diet.
continued on page 42
Behavior
WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS
OF ANAPHYLAXIS IN INFANTS AND TODDLERS?
Anaphylaxis can look different in infants and toddlers than it does in older children and adults. Recognizing the early signs is critical. Symptoms can change quickly and may become lifethreatening if not treated right away.
It’s important for parents and caregivers to watch closely for physical or behavioral changes. Here are some common signs of anaphylaxis in each body system, with additional signs to watch for in infants and toddlers:
Breathing
• Common signs in all ages: shortness of breath, cough, tight or hoarse throat, swelling of lips or tongue that impacts breathing
• Additional signs in infants and toddlers: belly breathing, rapid breathing, nasal flaring, tugging the chest or neck, hoarse cry
Heart
• Common signs in all ages: skin color is pale or has a bluish tint, weak pulse, dizziness or fainting
• Additional signs in infants and toddlers: blotchy discoloration of the skin, fast heartbeat, appearing limp or wobbly with poor head control
Skin
• Common signs in all ages: many hives across the body
• Additional signs in infants and toddlers: obvious swelling on the face
Stomach
• Common signs in all ages: severe vomiting or diarrhea (may be combined with other symptoms)
• Additional signs in infants and toddlers: vomiting more than once, vomiting or diarrhea combined with other symptoms
• Common signs in all ages: feeling of “doom,” confusion, agitation, altered consciousness
• Additional signs in infants and toddlers: very tired, difficult to wake up, withdrawn, crankiness, inconsolable crying
Symptoms of anaphylaxis may vary among babies and can be different each time a baby has an allergic reaction.
TREATING ANAPHYLAXIS
Infant anaphylaxis is a medical emergency needing immediate action. Epinephrine is the only medication that effectively treats anaphylaxis. It’s key to always have at least two doses on hand, as symptoms can sometimes come back after the first dose is given.
If you think your child has been exposed to a food allergen, or severe symptoms are occurring in one or more body system, give epinephrine right away. If symptoms are mild but occurring in more than one body system, you should also give epinephrine. Seek emergency medical help if your baby’s symptoms are severe, come back or worsen after the first dose, or don’t go away completely.
Ask your child’s pediatrician for an epinephrine prescription for your child. Make sure you feel comfortable giving it. Teach others who care for your child how to administer it.
Learn more at AllergyAsthmaNetwork.org.
—by Pam Moore
Hacks for Busy Parents and Hungry Kids Dinner Planning
If your family is like mine, they like eating dinner. And if you’re like me, though you enjoy cooking dinner, you secretly wish your family didn’t expect to eat a meal every single night. Unlike Tab and Garbage Pail Kids, however, dinner is not a passing trend. It is here to stay, which means we need to figure out some ways to deal with it. Here are some of my favorites.
1) HAVE A PLAN
“A failure to plan is a plan to fail.” When Benjamin Franklin said this, he probably wasn’t talking about dinner, but it is applicable, nonetheless. Waiting until the last minute to figure out what’s for dinner inevitably means, at best, stress, last-minute scrambling, and at worst, an expensive and unhealthy stop at the drivethrough window.
Before I shop for the week, I pull up my husband’s and my shared Google calendar to see what our week looks like, including nights I know one or both of us won’t be home for dinner, and nights when I will be pressed for time. I jot that info down on an envelope.
Next, I write down what we will have each night, whether it’s a “real” meal, leftovers, or something I’ve
already made and plan to defrost. Finally, I add any ingredients I need to buy to my shopping list (the back of another scrap envelope), organizing them in columns, according to where they are located in the grocery store.
On a typical week, I schedule three home-cooked meals, two nights of leftovers, one night for the kids to eat kid food with a sitter when my husband and I go out, and one night with a question mark, so I have the flexibility to move things around if needed. Somehow, this system always works out. Meanwhile, I have friends who swear by using a consistent 14-meal rotation every two weeks, to avoid the headache of selecting meals and creating a new shopping list every week.
It doesn’t matter what system you use, only that you find a system that works for you.
2) DON’T HAVE A PLAN
Some weeks, I don’t have the energy to create a detailed plan. One way to avoid meal planning, but still get something healthy on the table with minimal stress, is to shop with an awareness of roughly how much of each kind of food you need.
For example, on a “plan not to plan week,” when shopping for my family of
four, I fill my cart with about two-fifths fruits and vegetables, a fifth meat and fish, a fifth starches like rice, quinoa, bread, pasta, and sweet potatoes, and a fifth items from the middle aisles, including oats, crackers, dried fruit, and snack foods.
For dinners, you can mix and match whatever you have. Simple meals I might create with this method include:
• Stir fry with beef, onions, bell peppers, and any other miscellaneous vegetables, and rice
3) MAKE A LARGE BATCH OF SOMETHING FOR THE WEEK
There’s no need to reinvent the wheel every night. Of course, you can simply reheat leftovers if you have enough for another meal.
If you don’t have enough leftover food for an entire meal, or you’re adverse to eating leftovers (apparently such people exist—I am not among them), here are examples of ways to incorporate leftovers into another meal:
• Serve a vegetarian soup. The following night, add rice and pre-cooked chicken sausage when you re-heat it to add volume and variety.
• If you roast a whole chicken one night, dice up the leftovers to add to a salad or pasta with sauteed spinach or broccoli the following night.
• Roast a large amount of root vegetables as a side dish. The following night, use the leftover roast veggies in a frittata, or toss them into a bowl of quinoa along with some toasted nuts and goat cheese or Parmesan.
If you like the idea of a big salad that will keep for several days, here are a few tips to limit moisture and optimize freshness: continued on page 44
DINNER PLANNING
• Avoid “mushy” ingredients like cucumber, tomato, and mushroom.
• Run your greens through a salad spinner after washing.
4) TAKE ADVANTAGE OF YOUR FREEZER
If there is a dish your family loves, double the recipe and freeze half for a night when you’re too crazed to cook. Better yet, triple it, or even quadruple it. I can count the number of cookbooks I own on one hand, and one of them is Don’t Panic, Dinner’s in the Freezer. In addition to offering recipes that are perfect for freezing, it also explains exactly how to freeze food to save space and to prevent freezer burn. The book also makes it easy to double, triple, or even quadruple the recipe without a calculator, offering four versions of each recipe, depending on how much you plan to make.
5) PLAN AN EASY NIGHT ONCE A WEEK
Dinner doesn’t have to be Instagram-worthy every single night. Ideas for easy dinners that require minimal prep and limited clean-up include:
• Grilled cheese and tomato soup. (I have a friend who does makes this meal religiously once a week.)
• Leftovers
• Breakfast for dinner. You could do eggs and toast, french toast and bacon, pancakes and sausage, or even a hearty bowl of oatmeal with raisins, nuts, chia seeds, and berries.
• Sandwiches and carrot sticks, or whatever veggies you have.
• Rotisserie chicken and a green salad
• Frozen pizza and steamed broccoli
• Macaroni and cheese from a box with sliced hot dogs
• Pizza bagels
6) KEEP STAPLES ON HAND
Sometimes the day, or even the week, doesn’t unfold the way you anticipated. Your kid is sick, your car is in the shop, work is crazy, or your partner is traveling. When life interferes with your plans, you can avoid stressing about dinner if you have a few staples available. Items to keep in your pantry, freezer, or fridge include:
• Canned tuna fish
• Rice (including minute rice for those “oh crap” nights).
• Canned beans
• Frozen veggies
• Eggs
• Quinoa
• Pasta
• Frozen veggie, salmon, turkey, or beef burgers
• Frozen pizza
• Canned chicken soup
7) BATCH PROCESS
If you’re using one ingredient for multiple meals in a week, chop and store it all at once. This saves you washing your knife, cutting board, and work surface multiple times. Plus, it allows you a big sigh of relief, knowing you’ve got a head start on more than one dinner.
Take it a step further and prep everything you can at once, for the entire week. You can make it fun by turning on music, sipping a glass of wine and sharing the work with your partner. If your kids are old enough, get them to help. Young kids can pull a chair or a step stool up to the sink and rinse veggies. Older kids can use a paring knife or a peeler on vegetables or potatoes.
Use freezer bags to store your prepped ingredients and label them with a Sharpie to make sure the ingredients go into the correct meal. If you prefer to use Tupperware containers, label them with a post-it note.
Serving a nutritious meal before your family is too cranky and tired to enjoy it can be stressful—but it doesn’t have to be. Trust me, I’ve tried all of the strategies listed above. A little creativity and planning go a long way in lightening the daily burden commonly known as dinner.
This article was originally published on NuGlow.com
Pam Moore is an award-winning freelance writer, intuitive eating coach, and host of the Real Fit podcast. Get her free guide to improving your body image at pam-moore.com.
— Courtesy of the Niagara Frontier Veterinary Society
Veterinary technicians are the backbone of any animal hospital or clinic.
The Desperate Need for Veterinary Technicians and Assistants
Across the United States, the demand for veterinary technicians and assistants is rapidly increasing as pet ownership rates soar and the need for quality animal healthcare grows. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for veterinary technicians is projected to grow 20% from 2022 to 2032, much faster than the average for all occupations. Veterinary clinics and hospitals are struggling to fill positions, often resulting in overworked staff and longer wait times for care. This shortage not only affects pets and their owners but also impacts the overall well-being of veterinary professionals, who face high levels of stress and burnout.
Many factors contribute to this urgent need, including limited enrollment in training programs, low starting wages—often averaging under $20 per hour for new technicians—and a lack of public awareness about the vital role veterinary technicians and assistants play in animal health. The American Veterinary Medical Association has reported that nearly 40% of veterinary practices struggle to hire qualified support staff. Addressing these challenges is crucial to ensuring that animals receive the compassionate and timely care they deserve.
Becoming a veterinary technician requires specialized training, education, certification, and licensing. At a minimum, vet techs must complete an associate’s degree in veterinary technology. These two-year programs provide the education and training
necessary to perform the essential job duties for this career. Graduates of programs accredited by the AVMA Council on Education (COE) and Committee on Veterinary Technician Education and Activities (CVTEA) are eligible to sit for Veterinary Technician National Exam (VTNA). In all but 11 states, individuals must obtain a license to practice.
The amount of money that pet-owning households spend per year on their pets and pet health care has increased at a compounded rate of almost 3 percent per year over the last 40 years. The other two things that are happening are a larger proportion of pet-owning households are actually taking their pets to the veterinarian per year, and the proportion of households nationally that own pets has been increasing. The bottom line is that increased spending per pet, an increased proportion of pet-owning households going to the veterinarian, and an increased proportion and number of households owning pets are truly driving demand. The vet tech shortage will only worsen if we don’t expand our training capacity for veterinary nurses and technicians to meet it.
Veterinary technicians are the backbone of any animal hospital or clinic. They work directly with veterinarians to provide the best possible care for animals. If you love animals and are interested in a hands-on career in medicine, then becoming a vet tech could be a great fit for you.
The Niagara Frontier Veterinary Society is a 501(c)3 organization comprised of more than 75 small animal hospitals and more than 225 practitioners in Erie and Niagara Counties. It exists to advance public awareness and understanding of appropriate and compassionate pet health care, veterinary services and the veterinary profession.
Healthy Everyday Recipes for Real Life:
Nutritious, Energy-Boosting, Egg-Inspired Breakfasts That Save Time
(Family Features)
When planning meals, particularly breakfasts, there are a few critical factors many families consider: taste, simplicity and nutrition. Eating healthier doesn’t have to be complicated or out of reach. With the right inspiration, healthy food can be delicious, nutritious and convenient.
By choosing ingredients like eggs, which are easy to use and versatile, you can make healthy living fit into your life at the breakfast table as part of a balanced diet. For example, these egginspired recipes are part of the American Heart Association’s Healthy for Good Eat Smart initiative, nationally supported by Eggland’s Best.
In addition to the social and emotional benefits of dining together, shared family meals can help promote healthier choices at the table. Backed by expert nutrition guidance, recipes such as Turkey Bacon and Spinach Quiche with Sweet Potato Crust are wholesome, flavorful and fast, perfect for busy weekdays or anytime you need a nutritious boost. The sweet potato crust offers a better-for-you twist on ready-made or traditional crusts made with butter, and it can be served with slices of honeydew or berries for an added touch of sweetness.
For a protein-rich dish any day of the week, Broccoli and Cheese Egg White Scramble on Whole-Wheat English Muffins can help you solve the morning
rush. Or for a true timesaver, these Egg “Muffin” Cups with Turkey Sausage and Mushrooms can be made over the weekend and frozen or refrigerated for quick, go-to meals throughout the week.
Remember, healthy eating isn’t just about one food—it’s about a combination of wholesome ingredients to make wellrounded meals. For example, eggs can be included as part of a heart-healthy diet that emphasizes vegetables, fruits, beans, nuts and seeds, whole grains, lean protein and fish, according to the American Heart Association. Eating eggs alongside foods high in saturated fat—like
Turkey Bacon and Spinach Quiche with Sweet Potato Crust
Recipe courtesy of the American Heart Association with support from Eggland’s Best
Preheat oven to 400º F. Lightly spray 9-inch pie pan with nonstick cooking spray.
Turkey Bacon and Spinach Quiche with Sweet Potato Crust
bacon—is different than eggs eaten with steamed veggies, whole grains or a side of fruit.
To find more healthy eating tips and recipes that help you eat smart, move more and live healthier, visit Heart.org.
In medium bowl, using box grater, grate sweet potato. Measure out 2 cups. Gently press sweet potato on bottom and up sides of pan, forming crust. Sweet potato will be loose but will hold together once cooked.
Bake 20 minutes, or until crust is cooked. Remove from oven. Let stand to cool. Reduce oven temperature to 350º F.
In medium skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat, swirling to coat bottom. Cook onion 6 minutes, or until almost translucent, stirring frequently. Add turkey bacon. Cook 3-4 minutes, or until onion and bacon begin to brown, stirring frequently. Add spinach, dillweed, salt and pepper. Cook 1-2 minutes, or until water from spinach is released. Remove from heat. Transfer mixture into sweet potato crust.
In medium bowl, whisk egg whites, eggs and milk. Pour over mixture in crust. Sprinkle feta over top.
Bake 35-40 minutes, or until knife inserted into center comes out clean. Transfer to cooling rack. Let cool 10 minutes before cutting into wedges.
cheddar cheese
2 whole-wheat, low-sodium English muffins
Lightly spray large skillet with nonstick cooking spray. Heat over mediumhigh heat. Cook broccoli and water 4-5 minutes, or until broccoli is tender. Remove from heat. Transfer broccoli to dish. Using paper towels, wipe skillet clean.
In large bowl, whisk egg whites, milk and pepper until combined.
Lightly spray skillet with cooking spray. Heat over medium-high heat. Pour in egg white mixture. Cook 2-3 minutes, or until almost firm, stirring constantly with spatula. Stir in broccoli and cheddar cheese. Remove from heat.
Just before serving, split and toast English muffins. Transfer to plates. Spoon egg mixture onto muffins.
Broccoli and Cheese Egg White
Scramble on Whole-Wheat
English Muffins
Broccoli and Cheese Egg
White
Scramble
on WholeWheat English Muffins
Recipe courtesy of the American Heart Association with support from Eggland’s Best
Servings: 4
Nonstick cooking spray
1 1/2 cups finely chopped fresh or frozen broccoli florets, thawed if frozen
1/4 cup water
8 extra-large egg whites
1/2 cup fat-free milk
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
1/4 cup shredded fat-free
Egg “Muffin” Cups with Turkey Sausage and Mushrooms
Recipe courtesy of the American Heart Association with support from Eggland’s Best
Egg “Muffin” Cups with Turkey Sausage and Mushrooms
7 large eggs
1/4 cup fat-free milk
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1 cup shredded fat-free cheddar cheese
Preheat oven to 350º F. Lightly spray 12-cup muffin pan with nonstick cooking spray.
In medium nonstick pan, heat oil over medium-high heat. Cook onions and mushrooms 10 minutes, or until soft, stirring occasionally.
Warm turkey sausage according to package directions. Chop turkey sausage into bite-size pieces. Stir into onion mixture until well blended. Spoon into muffin cups.
In small bowl, whisk eggs, milk and pepper. Pour egg mixture into muffin cups. Top with cheddar cheese. Bake 25 minutes, or until eggs are set. Remove from oven. Let cool slightly. To easily remove muffins from pan, run knife around edges of each muffin.
