I would like you to take as many pictures as possible this holiday season. These are precious moments that need to be captured on a digital camera. I know sometimes it is a pain to frame the moment, but it will be worth it when the holidays are long gone and you can sit by the fire enjoying a glass of red wine reminiscing over your photos and the special moments that were created.

I was listening to the radio, and the host was commenting on the most requested gift for 7-12 year olds this upcoming holiday season. The number one request is the ipad. I wonder if this gift is something that I should get Dak this year. I would like to keep Dak as young as I can for as long as I can, but society’s pressure almost makes this impossible. Just watch one episode of iCarly and you can hear and see all the adult overtones in this Nickelodeon theme show aimed at the children watching it.  If I get Dak an ipad, will it make him grow up any faster? I don’t know. The next generation will be more tech savvy than our generation and maybe this laptop will help Dak’s ability to learn; children are hardwired  for touch interfaces. I also like the fact that Dak will have to interact with the ipad instead of just watching TV shows. I have a feeling that much of our children’s future learning will be on touch devices. I know it is a hefty cost to shell out $500.  Furthermore, my son might not be responsible enough to take care of such an expensive device. I will let you know what decision that I make. It is never easy being a parent.

For kids holidays usually mean time off from school, on the other hand for parents it’s finding a way to spend time with their kids doing fun activities. Most parents enjoy the down time, and try to relax after finally having a little break from the busy school week schedule. On the other hand kids are always looking for something exciting to do. With the weather changing at a fast pace in New Jersey outdoor activities like going to the park become a thing of the past. When looking for a different activity where you could spend time with your kids, and stay warm bring your family to Color Me Mine, a paint-your-own ceramics studio in Toms River.  Color Me Mine welcomes all ages, and gives you the ability to do a family activity all while being creative. It’s a way for your children to express their imagination, and have fun doing it. This month’s feature activity is a Thanksgiving platter. The original creation can be used for the turkey holiday in a few weeks and then will become a treasured tradition in your family.

On November 19th at 6:00 pm, Color Me Mine will have a children’s turkey handprint plate painting party.  The studio’s friendly staff will help each child create their handprint to resemble little turkeys. All children must sign up for the event which costs $20 per child. There are only 30 spots available, so it’s a good idea to call the studio early to reserve your spots.

While family members create a wonderful keepsake for the holiday, Color Me Mine owner Irene says they’re also, enjoying spending time together, laughing, and creating memories. It’s a time to be creative, and relax.

“Creating a Thanksgiving platter together as a family will become a cherished memory,” says Irene. “Families can come to the studio and enjoy themselves. They can be relived from their usual hectic schedules, and express their inner creativity.”

“From experience people usually find that creating a piece seems intimidating, but there’s no need to worry about that ,” says Irene. With our staff who are always eager to help, and the tools we provide anyone can create a work of art in no time.

“What everyone needs to be aware of is that Color Me Mine is a place where everyone can get involved and have fun,” says Irene. “Most people don’t consider themselves artistic, and sometimes have a hard time coming up with an idea for their piece. We’ve got that covered with stencils, stamps, and plenty of ideas from our staff.”

Customers are more than welcome to bring items from home to help with the creative process. Customers come in all the time wanting to create a beautiful piece, but seem to be stumped on how to make that happen. “That’s where my staff comes in.” says Irene. The staff takes time to discuss what the customer is looking to create, and then helps with every step along the way to make sure the customer is happy. “Sometimes all it takes is a good idea from the staff, and the customer can add to the idea to make it personal,” says Irene.

“When doing an activity parents are always concerned when it comes to their children’s clothes, but there’s no need to worry about attire at Color Me Mine,” says Irene. All paints are washable, non-toxic and lead-free, so parents don’t have to be concerned about the kids inhaling harmful fumes. Color Me Mine’s paints and glazes are completely 100% friendly to the environment.

Color Me Mine isn’t only for the holidays. It’s a fun activity to do with your children any time of the year. You can come in and let your child create a piece to display in their room, or even a special gift for a loved one. A handmade gift from your child is always a great idea. Especially when your shopping for a person who is hard to buy for. And dads there is nothing your wife will love more then a gift made with love by your children for Mother’s Day, or even her birthday.

Ceramic pieces range from $6.00 and up and the paint fee is $6.00 for children and $8.00 for adults. The prices include glazes and firing.  After all of your projects are completed, the staff of Color Me Mine will fire and glaze the items and then notify you when everything is ready for pick-up.

With the colder months ahead days off from school are also approaching and kids will be asking the same question, “What are wedoing today?” If you’re looking for something to entertain the kids, plan a creative day out at Color Me Mine ceramics studio in Toms River. Your kids will be proud of their creation. Were sure when your guests arrive on Thanksgiving the first thing your kids will do is show everyone the platter they made.

You can even get a head start on your shopping list for the December season. With so many pieces to choose from, there is something for everyone on your list. For more information, call (732) 864-9300 or visit the website at www.colormemine.com

New to the market this year is a different type of product that will remedy this challenging situation for kids and their parents.   KIDStrong Enterprises, an innovative provider of positive energy to kids worldwide, has developed KIDStrong Proactive Hydration™ Drink, a first-of-its-kind all natural hydration beverage for children.  Designed specifically for children ages 4-13, KIDStrong’s scientifically formulated products provide a healthful alternative to high glycemic index, sugar-based soft drinks that promote childhood obesity.  All of the products are 100% natural, low in sugar, packed with 20 vitamins and minerals and free of high-fructose corn syrup.  In addition, what sets KIDStrong apart from other products is that it’s the only drink formulated to retain as well as replace vital fluids and nutrients.  Although other hydration drinks may replace nutrients and fluids, they do not help the child’s body retain the vital fluids needed during sports, play, and other activities like KIDStrong does.

This new line of healthy products is the brainchild of Dr. George Murphy, a research scientist and avid sports enthusiast who works in genetics and molecular medicine at Harvard Medical School and the Children’s Hospital in Boston, MA.  The motivation for creating KIDStrong was inspired after observing the eating habits of his nieces and nephews.  While spending time with them, he noticed a lack of fresh fruits and vegetables and whole grains in their daily diets.  Murphy also found that whenever the kids would reach for a drink, it was always full of sugar and empty calories.  He decided that something needed to be done for his family members and for all kids to combat this problem and to promote healthy eating habits.   He approached his brother-in-law with the concept of creating a product that would taste great to children while also containing healthy ingredients.  The combination of Murphy’s scientific background and his brother-in-law’s experience in the business world has proven to be a successful formula.

“We are a family-run business, so we have very humble roots,” says Dr. Murphy.  “A lot of thought went into making KIDStrong.  We made numerous modifications over the past few years to get the flavor exactly right.  KIDStrong is something that can be imbibed throughout the day.”

The KIDStrong formula is based on sound nutritional principles, and contains all-natural ingredients with 20 vitamins, minerals, and nutrients essential for optimal growth.  Unlike other sports drinks or other hydration drinks on the market, KIDStrong is 100% natural, with no artificial sweeteners, preservatives, or stimulants.

KIDStrong also has a low glycemic index and is very low in natural sugar.  Each serving of KIDStrong contains only three grams of sugar.  Research has shown that a diet rich in low glycemic index carbohydrates results in many healthful benefits, including lowering blood glucose levels, increasing insulin sensitivity, maintaining healthy body weight, and most importantly, reducing the risks of cardiovascular disease and adult-onset diabetes.  Dr. Murphy believes KIDStrong’s low level of sugar is what makes his product unique.

“In contrast to how they are viewed by the public, products such as Gatorade and VitaminWater are high in sugar, low in vitamin content and not conducive to a healthful lifestyle,” says Dr. Murphy.  “We developed KIDStrong with growing kids in mind.  Whether playing sports, studying for an exam, or conversing with friends, we want kids to be armed with all the

vitamins, nutrients, and energy they need to be active, healthy, and filled with positive energy in order to be better prepared for life’s challenges.”

KIDStrong is currently available in three flavors-Clearly Orange, Clearly Grape, and Clearly Fruit Punch, with a watermelon flavor soon to follow.   KIDStrong is available throughout the Northeast at select A&P, Foodtown, Giant Food Stores, Key Food, King Kullen, Pathmark, Stop & Shop, Super Fresh, and Waldbaum’s stores and more than 200 independent grocers.  It is also available in over 1800 schools across the Northeast.

Dr. Murphy strongly believes in the theory behind the KIDStrong products and that is why the company has created the KIDStrong Krew, a community outreach program which teaches children and parents about maintaining a healthy lifestyle.  Members of the       KIDStrong Krew speak in various locations in our area to hand out products and to talk about the importance of combating childhood obesity.

“Our goal is to continue to educate parents and children about alternative products which will resonate with kids

and their parents,” says Dr. Murphy.  “We’re marketing a philosophy, not a product.  We are here to promote vitality and optimism and to improve a child’s self image through education.”

As for the future of KIDStrong, the company is looking to expand its line of products in the upcoming months.  Each product will contain the same healthy ingredients and taste great for children.

“We are working on creating energy bars and frozen ice pops made with the same materials as in the hydrations drinks,” says Dr. Murphy.   “We’re also looking into a breakfast cereal which still tastes sweet to kids but is completely natural.”

Before you head out the door today for yet another hectic day with the kids and their multiple activities, reach for a new, healthier alternative to sugary drinks and snacks.

In addition to being purchased in stores throughout the area, KIDStrong can also be purchased online at www.Amazon.com and www.KIDStrong.com.  Or for additional information about KIDStrong, its    products and services, please call  888-302-0236.

The bracelets, which are made of colorful silicone molded in different shapes, return to the original shape when taken off the arm.  Usually, kids keep them in plastic baggies they can securely close so none of their precious commodities will get lost.  Half the fun is collecting the bracelets and the other half is trading them with friends, which helps keep the trend fresh and exciting.  These transactions can take place on the school bus, on the soccer field, at the lunchroom table, or anywhere else. Here’s how it works:  One kid will take a band off her wrist, hold it up, and ask what bands other kids will trade for it.  Then the transaction occurs.  According to one of my six-year-old daughters, once the trade is made, the deal is sealed.

“The person really has to make up their mind before they trade Silly Bandz, because when you trade it, you trade it and that’s it,” says Chloe.  “You’re never going to get that Silly Band back again.”

The fad, which hit stores about a year-and-a-half ago, is the brainchild of Toledo, Ohio businessman Robert Croak.  Many different suppliers sell virtually identical bands, all with different brand names, but most kids call them all “Silly Bandz.” BCP Imports has a trademark on that name. A spokesperson for the company says the number of employees at the main office shot from about 20 a year ago to almost 70 today.  At around $5 for a 24-pack, they’re a relatively cheap collectible.  This factor definitely contributes to their staying power and popularity.  Plus, they are sold pretty much everywhere moms and kids frequent on a regular basis like supermarkets or other local stores.  Pretty convenient, huh?

Penny Chandler, a Brick mother of four, fully understands the Silly Bandz craze.  Her girls actually look forward to going to the doctor because they know they can get Silly Bandz after the appointment.

“My four daughters, ages 5, 5, 3, and 2 receive Silly Bandz at our chiropractor’s office which we visit on a regular basis,” says Chandler.  “The girls really look forward to it!  They can exchange one if they have doubles, or just simply add to their collection!  They are crazy about displaying them at the dinner table and with friends wherever we go. My youngest daughter fell a few weeks ago, and it was then that I realized just how powerful these silly bands really are!  As she sat hysterically crying in my lap, a seven-year-old young man handed her a corn dog band which made her so happy.  It was like he gave her a million dollars!  It really helped dry up all of those tears!”

Wow!  Now they are a healing mechanism!  Being able to console a kid during a crying episode is quite significant.  So, just what does this fad have that drives kids over the edge and can wipe away the tears, too? My other six-year-old daughter, Chelsea, finds it exciting and fascinating to see which bands she’ll come across every day on the school bus.

“I like Silly Bandz because you can trade them and you can get different ones,” says Chelsea who particularly likes the glow-in-the-dark bands.    “It’s cool to trade them, but it’s a little hard, too.  Some people aren’t good traders.  You have to be careful.  The people who have the most Silly Bandz usually have the best ones.  That’s who I like to trade with.”

True twins who even think alike, Chloe wholeheartedly agrees with her sister and fellow Silly Bandz buddy.

“I like Silly Bandz because they are so cool,” says Chloe who likes the princess Silly Bandz the best.  “I like to trade with the kids who have the best ones because they might have the one that you really want.  Then, once you get it, you don’t have to worry about it anymore.  I’m just so happy that I can trade Silly Bandz.”

As if the excitement wasn’t enough, now kids can trade the Silly Necklace which debuted in June.  At the moment, they are only available online at sillybandz.com.  It will be interesting to see if the Silly Necklace will enjoy as much popularity as the bracelets in the upcoming months.  There’s one thing I know for sure: the Silly Bandz bracelets are here to stay for a long time in my household.  My daughters are so obsessed with looking for new packs in the stores and then trading with their friends, that I can’t even imagine them losing interest in this new hobby anytime soon.  Just when I thought we had enough Silly Bandz to last us a lifetime, I’m hit with another desperate request:  “Mom, can we get the New York Yankees Silly Bandz?  Please?  I don’t have them and they are my favorite baseball team!  Pretty please with a cherry on top!”  How can I resist?  Guess where I’ll be tomorrow morning?

You have every book and magazine article on what to expect when your new baby arrives. A few relatives have provided some valuable words of wisdom regarding newborn care, too. However, you’re still very apprehensive about how you’re actually going to deliver this new life and what will really happen when your bundle of joy enters the world. Your questions are endless: How am I going to survive the birthing process? What are my options to help with the pain? Will I be able to successfully feed my baby? When is it reasonable for a baby to sleep through the night? What happens if my baby gets sick? Will I know how to soothe and console my crying infant? How will I be able to take care of baby and still do the laundry, cook dinner, and have a little time for myself? Will my husband and I ever be able to go out again?

If you would like these questions and others discussed and answered by someone who has years of experience with infants, sign up for Sung Star Academy’s newest program called, “Baby Basic Classes for Expecting Parents.” Kellie Schmitt, a registered nurse at Sung Star Academy in Toms River, will conduct the four-week session which begins on June 22. The brand-new class is geared for first-time moms and dads who are looking for some valuable information during this exciting time of parenthood. The classes are not formal, so expectant moms can come dressed in comfortable clothes or bring whatever else they may need (such as a support pillow) to make the class a more enjoyable and worthwhile experience.

Schmitt hopes to educate new parents during this program by showing them real-life techniques and strategies about caring for infants.
“Being a new parent is a very overwhelming experience,” says Schmitt. “You read all about it in a book, but you don’t know what to expect when it’s your own child; you feel helpless. Knowing as much as you can to help you and your child is beneficial.”

The first class, titled, “The Birthing Experience” will provide useful information about the labor and delivery process, including what to expect if a caesarian-section is required. Options for pain management will also be discussed. Questions will be answered regarding who is allowed in the delivery room, the father’s role and what is expected of him as his wife’s labor coach, and the recovery process after the birth. During this two-hour class, Schmitt will show a film called, “The Stages of Labor” to give both parents an idea of what exactly will take place in the delivery room.

The second class, called “Bringing Home Baby” will help parents learn about proper newborn care. Even with years training, Schmitt says everything changes when it’s your own child and you’re alone with an inconsolable, crying infant.

“I’m an experienced nurse, but when I first brought home my baby, I didn’t know the difference between a hunger cry or a cry that meant the baby was in pain,” says Schmitt. “It’s very scary and overwhelming at the beginning and this class will help parents learn how to care for their newborn. Some fathers have never even held a baby, so this is good, hands-on practice so they can be prepared. We’ll also discuss how to properly diaper and swaddle a baby, crib safety, and which products to buy.”

In the third class, Schmitt will discuss how to bond with baby and the importance of developing a strong and reliable support system of caregivers. The first few weeks and months can be extremely overwhelming, so it’s important for parents to enlist the help of loved ones whom they trust to help out whenever needed. For example, maybe a grandparent or caregiver can take care of baby while mom or dad takes a much needed nap. Or maybe someone could go shopping or run a few errands for the family. It’s critical for the parents to receive assistance during this period of adjustment. Schmitt will also discuss how to combat the “baby blues” which many new moms experience during the first few weeks of parenthood. In addition, survival strategies will be discussed such as sleeping when the baby sleeps or making easy, stress-free dinners in the crock pot. The main goals of this class are to make the parents’ lives easier by devising coping mechanisms and developing a loving and trustworthy support system of caregivers.

The last class will discuss when it’s necessary to contact the doctor with medical concerns and issues. Schmitt will go over the symptoms of reflux, which affects many newborns and how to help infants overcome colic.

“Acid Reflux is a common problem with babies,” says Schmitt. “We will go over what parents can do to help their babies to relieve some of the symptoms such as elevating the crib or keeping baby upright for thirty minutes after a feeding.”

However, even with all of the ideas and tips to help make baby feel better, Schmitt will tell parents that they should always feel comfortable to call the child’s pediatrician with any concerns or questions.

“I always tell parents not to hesitate to call the doctor, even if it’s in the middle of the night,” says Schmitt. “That’s what they are there for. Parents should never feel embarrassed about calling the doctor.”

At the end of the four-week program, parents will receive a basket of baby goodies to use upon baby’s arrival. Also, if a family decides to register a child for any of Sung Star Academy’s future classes, the school will automatically waive the registration fee. If this program sounds like something you and your spouse would find beneficial, contact the school at 732-341-7500, or visit sungstaracademy.com for more information.

]]> http://www.yourchildtoday.com/2010/05/shore-ballet-birthday-party/feed/ 0 http://www.yourchildtoday.com/2010/05/about-the-cover/ http://www.yourchildtoday.com/2010/05/about-the-cover/#comments Thu, 27 May 2010 13:59:35 +0000 admin http://www.yourchildtoday.com/?p=227 We shot at Forge Pond just off Rt. 70 in Brick this month featuring Jersey Paddlers’ very own kids Adam, Megan & Katie. It wasn’t the warmest day, and they were good sports about wearing summer clothing for the shoot. The biggest challenge was to get them all together in their kayaks so we could fit the image on the cover! They were very good paddlers though.

Well, believe it or not, the summer is upon us! School will be out soon and now I get to do what I love most – family portraits on the BEACH! My calendar is already buzzing so don’t delay in calling to book something. The best time is in June and July to avoid the crazy rush in late summer and early fall.

Think about getting the whole extended family together this year… from babies to grandparents. I do many large groups like this and along with the group shots, you can get your own family done at the same time. This is a great gift for parents or grandparents wedding anniversaries and birthdays!

My job is social, fun, artistic, creative, challenging and rewarding. It’s wonderful to be able to do what you love and have others love what you do! Take time from your busy lives this summer to celebrate the love of family in portraiture. Preserve those memories for a lifetime and call Sue’s Point of View to capture timeless memories that you can cherish forever. Can’t wait to hear from you!

Sue Gerard
Sue’s Point of View
Children & Family Portraits
www.suespointofview.com
732-899-3049

Owners Rob “Captain Scurvy” Corring and his wife Jessica, have prior experience with boating and buccaneers and have created a true-to-life pirate ship adventure. Families across the New Jersey Shore area are enjoying this unique form of family entertainment.

“The public has had a tremendous response to our Pirate Adventures,” says Rob Corring. “Last year we had a rough start with the inclement weather early in the season but as soon as the weather improved, we really started to see the “word-of-mouth” advertising that is so important to us. Friends told other friends and mothers who sailed with their families returned for birthday parties. It was really great to see the return Pirates. We had some mates sail with us three and four times throughout the season. Our crew puts their heart and soul into every trip and we believe it really shows when you see families coming back for another sail.”

“Captain Scurvy,” is part of the energetic and enthusiastic crew, along with 18-year-old Christopher Hendershot, otherwise known onboard as “Pirate Smee.” While on board, both men lead kids on an interactive treasure hunt and teach the little sailors how to properly read a treasure map. Before they set sail, the kids always listen to a few rules about water safety, which is of utmost importance to the Jersey Shore Pirates staff. The kids will then hoist the ship’s flag and begin their journey. Together, the kids on the ship will work as a team to defeat “Pirate Pete,” who has stolen the keys to their treasure. They will collectively use the ship’s water cannons to defeat the enemy and secure the treasure! At the conclusion of the ride, children will be treated to authentic pirate “loot” as a souvenir of their journey.

For Corring and the rest of his crew, the best part of each trip is watching the kids have tons of fun on this high seas adventure.

“What we enjoy the most is the reaction of the kids on The Sea Gypsy 2,” says Corring. “Nothing is better than watching the mates’ faces when they haul their hard earned treasure from the waters, or when they battle the dreaded “Pirate Pete” with the water cannons. Although we offer several sailings a day, every trip ends up having something new and exciting. The reaction of the kids is always the best part.”

For two consecutive seasons, Corring and his crew have enjoyed watching the reaction of little Jake Vowteras. His maiden voyage last year made such an impression on the young sailor that his mom felt compelled to have his birthday party with the family-owned and operated business.

“I have been listening to him talk about Jersey Shore Pirates ever since we sailed on the ship early last summer,” says Jake’s mom, Kimberly. “For nearly a year, Jake has asked when his pirate party was going to be. There wasn’t even a question of what should we do for his fifth birthday! The party was amazing and everyone had the best time. It’s hard to even say who had more fun. And although it’s a cruise for kids, it’s a really nice time for parents too. You’re out on the water, it’s scenic, and it’s relaxing and so enjoyable, even though 22 kids are screaming “Argh!” the whole time!”

Since preparing for the adventure is a major part of this event, Corring and his staff made a few changes during the off-season to further enhance the customer’s overall experience.

“This season we have expanded our offices so that we can present more of an experience for our families and groups when they arrive at the dock,” says Corring. “We have a larger shop where we offer more retail options. It was really important to us, that when you enter our office, you know that we are trying to improve on what we do, and what our guests experience. It took a lot of work over the winter, but we believe it will improve on the overall experience which is what we want. We will always try to exceed our customers’ expectations.”
Customer satisfaction is one of Jersey Shore Pirates’ top priorities. The crew will go to great lengths to make sure that all of their guests have had a pleasant and enjoyable experience aboard the Sea Gypsy 2.

“One of my favorite parts of the business is when we get someone who is slightly skeptical about what we do and then they approach us at the end of the Pirate Adventure to let us know they had a great time,” says Corring. “They admit that they weren’t sure what to expect when they arrived, but as they watched their mini-mates turn into Pirates right in front of their eyes they became believers. Our PirateAdventure is designed to keep the kids’ attention from start to finish. To anyone who has every tried to keep a 4- year-old occupied for almost two hours, you would be amazed how our crew does it for multiple kids at one time, six times a day.”

The Jersey Shore Pirates adventure is geared toward children ages 3 to 10. They sail from May-October and are available for birthday parties, class trips, and families. During October, they sail on Saturdays and Sundays only, with six different sailing times to choose from.

Before the children enjoy this exhilarating adventure, they first must be transformed into swashbuckling pirates. Upon arrival, kids will be welcomed by enthusiastic staff members who will assist the children in selecting a perfect pirate costume. The little mates will then receive their very own pirate names, learn some valuable pirate lingo, and also have the opportunity to get their faces painted with pirate “tattoos.” Before the kids head down to the dock for their trip, the staff will remind the children to keep a look out for “enemy pirates” in the area.

Prior to sailing times for check-in, face painting, and dress-up. For more information, check out their website at www.jerseyshorepirates.com or call 732-899-6100. Reservations are highly recommended and it’s suggested to that you arrive 30 minutes prior to sailing times for check-in, face painting, and dress-up.