W HAT ’S UP FOR KIDS VOLUME 19- NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2014
KIDS CRAFT
EASY HOLIDAY NAPKIN RINGS
HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE GREAT GIFT IDEAS ENTER TO WIN!
STAY ORGANIZED
STREAMLINING MORNING MADNESS
Connecting Parents With Resources www.WhatsUpForKids.com
2 What’s Up For Kids
November/December 2014
www.WhatsUpForKids.com 3
In This Issue 8
Easy Holiday Kids Craft
14 Holiday Gift Guide 18 Teaching To The Whole Child 22 ABC’s Of Positive Parenting
In Every Issue 6
The Organized Family Streamlining Morning Madness
12 Healthy Families Gourmet Chicken Salad 20 Cookin’ Corner Caramelized Apple & Cocconut Pie 26 On Dad’s Watch Chicken Parmigiana 28 Calendar Find all the latest things to do around town! As events change be sure to call ahead!
COVER PHOTO COURTESY OF
Stylist: Christie Richards Photo: Cynthia Olkie, Fleur De Lis Photo www.fleurphoto.com
4 What’s Up For Kids
November/December 2014
Letter from the publisher Happy Thanksgiving, Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukah, Happy Kwanza and HAPPY NEW YEAR! (Hope I didn’t miss any!) Yes, it’s the holiday season and it’s time to join in the festivities! There are so many family fun holiday traditions here in the South Bay. From the tree and menorah lightings, to the Santa parade and the holiday lights neighborhood in Torrance.. and more… it’s a time to connect with family and friends! We have some great articles and holiday fun in this issue. Our 2014 Holiday Gift Guide has some fun ideas for the kids! Don’t miss our craft idea, special recipes and of course check out the daily calendar of activities. Speaking of the Holiday Gift Guide – we are gifting all the kids and teen items to lucky winners! All you need to do to qualify for the random drawing is enter your name and email address at www.whatsupforkids.com/giveaway Lastly – you may have noticed a little facelift going on with What’s Up For Kids! We strive to bring you the latest things going on around the South Bay with events and activities – as well as timely advice from our columnists. We are adding a few new things to serve you in 2015 and planning for it now – but want YOUR OPINION! So we have a special 2014 SURVEY – and just for taking it, you’ll be entered to WIN a $100 AMAZON GIFTCARD! Ready to win for helping us serve you better? Go to www.whatsupforkids.com/ survey, answer our short survey and be entered to win! Random Drawing will be December 1st. From our families to yours, Happy Holidays!!
www.WhatsUpForKids.com 5
The Organized Family Streamlining Morning Madness Getting the kids off to school can be chaotic to say the least! Here are some tips to help reduce stress for all. 1. Start the night before by planning: •
•
•
•
•
Homework (completed and in the backpack or at the exit door). Anything else that needs to leave with them. What will they wear to school? Lay it all out (clothes, underwear, socks, shoes, etc). Beats arguments in the morning rush. Have them bathe at night to eliminate the hassle in the morning. Then they just need to brush their teeth after breakfast. Pack lunches or be sure the lunch money is in the backpack. Saves you having to take it to school after they leave home. Plan breakfast and set the table. The kids can do this. Cereal? Put out the bowls, cereal, spoons, napkins, fruit, etc. The only thing left in the morning is the milk. If they are old enough, have them take turns doing this.
2. In the morning: • • • • •
While they are eating, listen to anything they want to share. Problems, dreams, concerns, plans for after school activities, etc. Use a timer to indicate when it’s time for breakfast, or to leave the house. Decide who sits where in the car on the way to school. No arguments in the morning. They can take turns sitting in the front seat. Roll call once they are seat buckled in: -Back pack & lunch or money -Any school projects to take along, etc. Once they arrive at school, be sure they have all their stuff with them as they exit the car.
6 What’s Up For Kids
November/December 2014
Now you can return home to enjoy your day…until pick up time. Of course Mommy carpools are another great idea. If you are a mom working away from home, many of these tips can apply to you also. Have a great day.
© Ann Gambrell October 2014 Editor’s Noter: Ann Gambrell is an organizational consultant and speaker available to inform and entertain audiences. She facilitates weekday and Saturday Clutter Support Groups and teaches organizing classes through the Torrance Adult School. To learn more, phone Ann at 310-212-0917 or request her for FREE monthly email tips email gambrellann@aol.com. You will be glad you did.
www.WhatsUpForKids.com 7
Kids Craft Easy Holiday Napkin Rings
1
2
3
4
5
6
8 What’s Up For Kids
November/December 2014
Instructions: 1. For this craft you will need red felt, green craft, gold glitter glue and the craft pattern. Download the full pattern on our website: www.whatsupforkids.com/crafts 2. Cut the pieces out of felt using the pattern. Tip: use tape to keep the pattern in place while you cut. Toddlers will need the pieces cut out for them. 3. Stack the cut pieces of felt in the following order: green leaves on bottom, then large red petals, then small red petals. Lastly, fold the long red piece in half. 4. Pull the long red piece through the bottom of the holes in the leaves. This will create the last two petals (on top) and the loop for the napkin to go through (on bottom). 5. Add a generous dollop of glitter glue to the center of your flower (kids love this part). 6. When the glue is dry, you’re done! Try out your festive new napkin ring at your next family gathering. Happy Holidays! Editors note: Alison Edwards is an entrepreneur and mom of two who loves crafting and baking with her two sons. Alison is the owner/creator of Pineapple Pete Kids, a small business which produces sensory friendly clothing for children with skin sensitivities. You can find more information online: www.pineapplepete.ca.
www.WhatsUpForKids.com 9
10 What’s Up For Kids
November/December 2014
www.WhatsUpForKids.com 11
Healthy Families Gourmet Chicken Salad A few years ago I was attending a friend’s business event. She had it catered and one of the dishes was a gourmet chicken salad from a deli near her house. After one bite, my mouth was bursting with new flavors and I had to know where she got it from. Something intuitively told me that there was something in it not so good for me. After a few weeks I figured it out- they use the dark meat of the chicken! So I decided to make it myself with white meat only. Ingredients: 4-6 Organic, Free Range Chicken Breasts Mayo Garlic Powder Ground Pepper Crushed Raw Walnuts ( I actually ground them because I prefer it to be spread out evenly instead of chunks) Dried Cranberries Cilantro Instructions: I love “easy” so I used my crockpot. Place the chicken in the crockpot with a splash of water and set it for 4-6 hours. I was too excited so I pulled the chicken out at 4 hours but cooking it longer will make it easier to pull apart. If you want to do it while it’s hot, use 2 forks and pull the chicken apart. A much easier method is using your hands when the chicken is cool- I ended up doing both. Once the chicken is cool, add your mayo. I didn’t put an amount because some people love it swimming in mayo and some want as little as possible so eyeball it and taste it once you get in all your ingredients. I think it tastes best when it’s all chilled so put in back in the refrigerator and enjoy it an hour later with salad greens, on gluten free crackers or even in a sandwich or wrap if you like. JJ Flizanes is an Empowerment Strategist and Host of The Fit 2 Love Podcast Show on iTunes. She is the Director of Invisible Fitness, an Amazon best-selling author of Fit 2 Love: How to Get Physically, Emotionally, and Spiritually Fit to Attract the Love of Your Life, and author of Knack Absolute Abs: Routines for a Fit and Firm Core. She was named Best Personal Trainer in Los Angeles for 2007 by Elite Traveler Magazine. JJ vividly reminds us that the word ‘fitness’ is not just about the state of one’s physical body, but also the factors which determine a person’s overall well being. JJ has been featured in many national magazines, including Shape, Fitness, Muscle and Fitness HERS, Elegant Bride, and Women’s Health as well as appeared on NBC, CBS, Fox 11 and KTLA. She is also a video expert for About.com and regular contributor for The Daily Love.
12 What’s Up For Kids
November/December 2014
www.WhatsUpForKids.com 13
Holiday Gift Guide It’s that time of the year – the holidays. A time when we are looking for that perfect gift for that certain someone and the hottest toy for our children. We get 100’s of items to review and we are bringing you the best of what we like here! Read on for holiday gift ideas….
For the kids… My Little Pony Equestria Girls Rainbow Rocks Mane Event Stage Playset by Hasbro® (Kmart exclusive)
Set the stage for the battle of the bands with the Rainbow Rocks Mane Event Stage Playset! This rockin’ playset has a stage for big-time concerts that includes a set of drums and a special edition Pinkie Pie figure to play them and pump up the beat. With a rainbow backdrop and a main stage with room for a whole band of Equestria Girls rockers, the magic and music will never end! Ages 5 and up Price: $34.99 Kmart stores or www.kmart.com
My First Craftsman Workbench Kids will love pretending to build and repair things with the super cool My First Craftsman Work Bench. This deluxe tool bench comes complete with 2 battery operated tools—power drill and nailer— with light & sound features. This realistic work bench also includes almost every tool imaginable: from drill bits to hammers and saws.
LEGO Super Heroes Starblaster Showdown Help Star-Lord keep the priceless orb safe with the Starblaster! Launch into battle against the Sakaaran’s Necrocraft in the awesome Starblaster and help Star-Lord to escape with the orb! Includes: 3 minifigures (StarLord, the Sakaaran and a Nova officer), 3 space blasters, boot thrusters, handcuffs, and an invaluable orb. Ages 6 and up Price: $19.99 Kmart stores or www.kmart.com
Disney Olaf’s in Trouble Game Pop the bubble to save Olaf in this Disney version of the classic Trouble game! You can play this game as your favorite Frozen character, and your job is to travel around Arendelle to save Olaf. But watch out for the avalanche! Pop all around the board in the Olaf’s in Trouble game – it’s a game worth melting for! Includes gameboard, plastic game unit with Pop-O-Matic die roller, 16 pegs and label sheet. For 2-4 players. Adult assembly required. Ages 5 and up Price: $15.99 Kmart stores or www.kmart.com
Ages 3 and up Price: $59.99 Kmart stores or www.kmart.com
14 What’s Up For Kids
November/December 2014
Thomas and Friends: Tale of the Brave (video) Thomas and his friends face their fears in their boldest adventure yet! After a monstrous storm on the island of Sodor, a landslide unearths some very unusual footprints. Thomas and Percy are eater to find out what could have made these marks, but obstacles and danger seem to appear around every bend in the track. Available on DVD and Blu-Ray
We are Strawberry Shortcake: Berry Best Friends (video) It’s friends first for Strawberry Shortcake and her favorite gal pals in Berry Best Friends! When Orange Blossom’s general store overflows with a new line of fruits and veggies, she tries to handle all of the details without any help from others, and, as a result, she’s exhausted! Strawberry is excited to be building a new marketplace, but has a tough time learning how to graciously say, “no, thank you.” Both soon learn that talking about what you need is the berry best thing to do. When the BFFs form a new band called Strawberry and the Sweet Beats, they’re all jazzed to head out on the road...except for Orange, who is afraid to admit that she doesn’t want to leave home. Once she tells her friends how she feels, she’s ready to set out for a rockin’ good time!
giving away all of the items for kids and teens!
win
Enter to in our holiday giveaway online! www.whatsupforkids.com/giveaway
Now available on DVD and Blu-Ray
www.WhatsUpForKids.com 15
For the teen… Flips Audio The first ever headphones/speakers hybrid that goes from Solo to Social with the flip of an ear piece. Flips Audio allows users to share their favorite tunes by simply flipping the ear piece of the headphones that convert into speakers! With one flip, go from solo jamming to your favorite tunes to singing out loud with friends and family. They are light weight, compact headphones that fold
up to fit into a small case, perfect for on the go! The headphones provide Hi def sound, light compact design, and padded ear cups. Once flipped, get amp’d up sound with the supercharged sound provided by powerful lithium ion battery, USB rechargeable, for hours of playtime! Available in black or white. Price: $120.00 www.flipsaudio.com
For mom… Nerium Are we all looking for that “agedefying” fix? I’d heard a lot about Nerium so when offered the chance to try it, I jumped on it. During advanced research on the uses of the Nerium oleander plant, an accidental discovery was made: the unique properties of Nerium oleander provided remarkable age-defying results when applied to the skin. This finding led to the formation of Nerium International
16 What’s Up For Kids
and the creation of the NeriumAD skincare line. Nerium International is the first company with the exclusive capability to harness the power of the Nerium oleander plant in its skincare products. The product line addresses multiple concerns at once, including: wrinkles, discoloration, and texture. Nerium controls this main active ingredient from seed to bottle, making the Nerium skincare line both highimpact and innovative. While I was given the samples to try, I have not had a full 30 days to use the product before our deadline for this review. But shoot me an email and I’ll let you know! Price: $120 www.mynerium.com
Erin Condren Life Planner Need a calendar? A paper calendar? I do. While I love my Google calendar and our whole family relies on it, I also have a paper calendar book – a life planner – courtesy of ErinCondren.com. She has awesome designs, lets you personalize it with photos, and it helps ME keep organized. I love the bright colors, the fun quotes and the month view or daily view. Price: starts at $50.00 www.erincondren.com
November/December 2014
www.WhatsUpForKids.com 17
What Does
“Teaching To The Whole Child” Mean? What makes up “whole child” curriculum and why is the concept important? Humans are complex creatures with multiple aspects of our beings. Basically we are mental, physical, social, and spiritual beings. That’s a broad description, but likely not broad enough. We are complicated indeed. American schools, however, have often acted as though the only aspect of a human being that needs education is the mental part. Through pressures beyond the classroom, educators have received marching orders stating “No Child Left Behind!” The mandate suggests that 100% of students be proficient in Reading and Math by 2014. Is there an educator anywhere who truly believes that this goal meets the needs of every complex individual? With diversity displayed in intellectual gifts, physical differences, creative talents, and basic motivation, can all children be given the same lesson, and come out of the classroom with their unique potential tapped? Can students begin to understand their uniqueness if the only expectation is proficiency in Math and Reading? How will those children ever discover their creative or social gifts if they are not introduced to more than Core Curriculum? Reading and Math are critical to a child’s education. At the end of formal education, individuals must be able read directions and balance a checkbook. It is a good thing to know which countries are part of which continents. The information children are required to master is valuable. But dependence on high standardized test scores to fund public schools creates enormous pressure to focus solely on the mental part of the child and can lead to the neglect of other valuable skills which may not be so easily measured by filling in bubbles on a paper form. This pressure for strong test scores has sometimes led to negativism aimed at the student who cannot perform at an expected level, and even corruption of administrators and teachers who feel the pressure to make sure their students excel. Until we understand that children are more than adding machines and interpreters of language, schools will not be as effective as they can be, and students will not be able to reach their unique potential. Schools must reexamine their goal of creating successful children. Other areas of intelligence exist, beyond the mathematical and linguistic. All of us are unique in our strengths and weaknesses; while one child may be able to recite the states and capitals in under ninety seconds because her memory is exceptionally strong, another child may ace the timed multiplication test because his inner calculator
18 What’s Up For Kids
November/December 2014
is in top-notch condition. A third child may play a piano solo that would move the most experienced musician, and a fourth child can solve complex social issues on the playground that promote a peaceful and loving environment. The students in the first and second examples might be able to bubble in the correct answers on a standardized test, but how can success be gauged for the other two? We must recognize each child’s unique gift, and give her greater tools to master it. This concept is known as addressing the whole child. Recognizing four basic areas of human development: Mental, Physical, Social, and Spiritual are critical to the educational process and a daily dose of this style of learning will stimulate each area to provide avenues of success for each child. Stressing academic achievements, physical coordination and fitness, social cognizance, and individual spiritual growth provides the overall educational framework. Intelligence is not a static number found in the culturally biased questions of an IQ test. All humans can be intelligent in many areas. People with strong Verbal-Linguistic Intelligence have well-developed verbal skills and sensitivity to the sounds, meanings and rhythms of words. Those with strong MathematicalLogical Intelligence have the ability to think conceptually and abstractly, and can decipher logical and/or numerical patterns. Individuals with strong Musical Intelligence enjoy the ability to produce and appreciate rhythm, pitch and timber. Those with strong Visual-Spatial Intelligence have the capacity to think in images and pictures, and to visualize accurately and abstractly. Those with strong Bodily-Kinesthetic Intelligence have the ability to control their body movements and to handle objects with dexterity. Fortunate people with strong Interpersonal Intelligence have the capacity to detect and respond appropriately to the moods, motivations and desires of others. Individuals who have strong Intrapersonal Intelligence have the capacity to be self-aware and in tune with inner feelings, values, beliefs and thinking processes. Those who have a strong Naturalistic Intelligence have the ability to recognize and categorize plants, animals and other objects in nature. And those with strong Existential Intelligence are sensitive, and have the capacity to tackle deep questions about human existence. How can we know what kind of “smart” we are if we are not given opportunities to discover our intelligences? For this reason, it is important, in addition to Reading, Math, Science and Social Studies, to be sure your children have a chance to study and be involved in Music, Art, Physical Education, Peacemaking and Peer Mediation, Religion, and Social and Character Education. When a student demonstrates a strength in one or more areas of intelligence, they are encouraged to expand these strengths. We also understand that one of the greatest predictors of success is the ability to get along with others—a skill not normally found on a standardized test. We believe it to be our duty, and our privilege to address the mental, physical, social and spiritual modules in the educational process in order to fully educate the young people in our care. We believe this complete model to be optimal path to helping a student have a complete education.
Guest Writer: Susan Vlach, Principal, South Bay Junior Academy, Torrance, CA To learn more about SBJA, visit www.sbja.com.
www.WhatsUpForKids.com 19
Cookin’ Corner Caramelized Apple And Coconut Pie This is not your usual pie, It is a little work and not your most inexpensive pie, but very well worth it. Yield: 12 Servings Ingredients: 2 cups rice flour 1 cup tapioca flour 1 cup potato starch 1 cup sorghum flour 2 teaspoons xanthan gum
Gluten Free, Pie Dough-this will make more that you need. 2-1/2 cups flour mix 1/2 teaspoon Salt 1-1/4 cups (250 Gr.) butter (very Cold) 3 tablespoons coconut butter- not oil * (very cold) 1/4-1/2 cups water, enough to form a dough
Filling 5 Pounds Granny Smith apples, peeled and sliced 5 ounces coconut oil or butter, save some for brushing the crust. 2 teaspoons cinnamon 1 pound xylitol 1 cup bourbon whiskey 1/2 cup orange liqueur 1 cup coconut milk 1 pound pie dough from above, approximately *NOTE: if coconut butter is not available, add 3 additional tablespoons of butter instead.
20 What’s Up For Kids
November/December 2014
Preparation: Dough 1. Mix flours and Xanthan gum together, add salt 2. Add cold butter and coconut butter and pinch to hazelnut size pieces, add enough ice water until the dough comes together. 3. Wrap in plastic, chill for 1 hour 4. Roll out between two parchment papers and line a 9” or 10” pie dish with the dough, refrigerate. Filling... 1. Peel, core, and cut apples into 1/4” slices. In batches, using a large sauté pan, melt coconut oil, add apples and cook on medium heat for about 3 minutes. 2. Mix cinnamon and Xylitol and add some to each batch of apples, cook until apples caramelize. (It is important not to have more than one layer of apples to insure proper Caramelization) 3. Add orange liqueur, whiskey and flambe ( stand back as you light the alcohol) once all the alcohol burns off add the coconut milk and reduce again. 4. Strain the apples, save the sauce and repeat until all apples have been used. 5. Brush the pie crust with melted coconut oil and mount with the apples and some of the sauce, use ALL the apples. 6. Cover with the layer of pie dough and brush with coconut oil. 7. Place your pie pan on a baking sheet and bake at 375F for 1 hour. 8. Reduce the left over cooking sauce and serve with the pie. Editors note: Are you or someone in your family gluten free? Maybe diabetes runs in the family? Or are you just trying to prepare a holiday meal with more “healthy” ingredients. Chef Varouj’s recipe takes healthy to a holiday level. Chef has a full recipe and video series for your holiday dinner. Learn the tips, tricks and techniques to make your holiday meal healthier. Get all the details at: http://culinarycreator.com/ gfholidaymenu/ Chef Varouj is an expert in the Gluten-free lifestyle. He is a professionally trained chef with 20 years of experience and a Certified Gluten Practitioner. His mission is to provide you with culinary and nutritional support to repair damages caused by unhealthy eating habits. He develops individualized healthy meal plans and offers menu recommendations to support wellness, weight management, increased energy and self confidence.
www.WhatsUpForKids.com 21
ABC’s
Of Positive Parenting Becoming a Positive MOM starts with getting acquainted with positive parenting attributes we can consciously choose and intentionally practice moment to moment, day to day. I decided to put together the ABC’s of Positive Parenting so we can explore these characteristics together in order to set you up for success on your journey.
A
Affection ~ Provide daily verbal and non-verbal affection: hugs, kisses, smiles, gentle touch, eye contact, encouragement, compliments, affirmation, and praise, even in the form of thumbs up. You cannot possibly say “I love you” too much!
B
Beliefs ~ Training up a child is like painting on a blank canvas. You will greatly influence what it looks like. The beliefs you choose to adopt will impact your child forever. Make sure you practice healthy beliefs that serve both of you and the greater good.
C D
Consistency ~ Be constant, have a routine or tradition, and keep your promises. Let your YES be your YES and your NO be your NO. Children need stability in their lives.
Discipline ~ Set clear and fair rules, limits, boundaries, standards, and expectations, then teach them natural consequences. Show them we are “punished by our sins” and not for them. Pick your battles and go easy on honest mistakes!
E
Example ~ Do what you want them to do and explain what you are doing. Become an empowering role model by finding teaching moments, and providing guidance focusing on the positive. I always say “BE the change you want to see in your child!”
F G
Flexibility ~ Start with a structured plan and a family mission statement, but enjoy the unexpected and the spontaneous. Extend patience, compassion, and forgiveness as needed, and grant second chances! Gratitude ~ Thank your children. Thank other people. Be beyond polite and really mean it. Tell them they did a great job giving or helping and they will want to help and give again. Accept their gifts with love, and makes sure they see you use/wear them, for that is the only way they will know you appreciate it.
22 What’s Up For Kids
November/December 2014
H
Healthy Habits ~ If you want your children to do or be something, do it or be it first…and consistently. Our actions are so loud, we make it hard for them to hear our words. When you have the habits of a person with a healthy attitude, healthy mind, and healthy body, they will learn to be that way.
I
I-messages ~ Entitlement is learned (and taught). We must practice the art of personal responsibility and own up to our feelings, beliefs, thoughts, and actions so that our children can learn to do the same. Accepting negative feedback gratefully and gracefully is harder said than done, but nonetheless an opportunity for growth as a parent and human being.
J
Joy ~ The best gift you can ever give the ones you love is a happier you. Laugh, have fun, and enjoy the ride! Life is a journey, not a destination… and it’s a short one, too. Make today your someday so you can share happiness from a place of generosity and not of scarcity, guilt, and resentment.
K
Kindness ~ Kindness is the essence of love. It is love in action. A positive parent is supportive and makes others feel important, cared for, and appreciated. Giving, volunteering, and sharing are great practices, but HOW you give makes all the difference. Whenever possible, use the power of gentle positive words, the power of a smile, the power of understanding to reverse the tone of any situation or to make someone’s day… and let your children watch.
L
Letting Go ~ Sing it with me “Let it go, let it go…That perfect girl is gone!” Let go of aspiring for perfection, in both yourself and others. Let go and let God. Let go and laugh. Let go of the past and fill today with love and gratitude for second chances.
M
Mindfulness ~ Being mindful is one of the most essential positive parenting qualities. Mindfulness is achieved by living in the present moment, and loving what is, without judgement. Being aware of our surroundings, where we are at, and the everyday miracles we see, gives us a different perspective to be kind to ourselves, find acceptance in adversity, and focus forward. Don’t look back, you’re not going there!
N
Nurturing ~ Our children are born with gifts and talents. Learn about them as people, learn what they love, learn what they are passionate about, and nurture who they are. They are separate individuals who make their own choices… you just do your part.
O
Openness ~ Open and honest two-way communication is a great way to show love and care. Be a conversation facilitator. Ask, don’t tell. Give your children the freedom to express themselves and listen without judgment, listen actively, listen to learn and to understand. Don’t interrupt!
P
Partnership ~ I see a partnership as a relationship based on agreements that are mutually beneficial. Partnerships foster a spirit of respect, trust, common values, defined roles, clear expectations, and impeccable communication. When you treat your children as partners, you will live in a win-win environment.
www.WhatsUpForKids.com 23
Q
Quiet Time ~ Positive parenting requires a lot of patience, being cool, calm, and collected. Carve out any possible quiet time and rest as much as you can, so you can replenish your patience reserve and contribute to a harmonious home. You cannot share what you don’t have!
R
Resilience ~ Teaching life skills is one of the most sacred duties of positive parenting. When you get back up every time you fall down, you send your children a message that brings reassurance, peace of mind, and an expanded capacity to deal with the difficulties of life. Tough times don’t last, but tough people do!
S
Safety ~ In order to thrive, children need a safe, comfortable home environment and to feel free from fear. A positive parent learns effective ways to help their children feel safe physically, mentally, and emotionally, while being careful to not become overprotective.
T
Togetherness ~ To a child, love spells T-I-M-E. Presence is better than presents. Schedule opportunities to give them your undivided one-on-one focus and attention: pray, learn, laugh, and play together. Parents spend an average of 3.5 minutes of meaningful conversation with their children a week. Don’t be a statistic!
U
Uncritical ~ How does a positive parent exactly help children grow and become better without complaining, being critical, and damaging the child’s self-esteem? 1. Focus on the “problem,” not the person. 2. Focus on progress, not results. 3. Focus forward, not backwards, while acknowledging their presence, their gifts, and their value.
V
Vulnerable ~ It takes a village to raise a child, so don’t be hard on yourself if you are feeling overwhelmed. I’ve learned that it is okay to cry, to admit you don’t have it all together, and to seek guidance or ask for help. As your children experience your courage, you are giving them permission to be courageous in their own way.
W
Wings ~ A positive parent tells children who they COULD be, instead of who they should be, with the freedom to choose on their own. Teach them the principles to help them thrive, find joy and success, and let them set their own terms.
X
XO ~ Being a positive mom requires you to be eXtraOrdinary. Ex·traor·di·nary\ is an adjective that means “very unusual : very different from what is normal or ordinary.” Your children’s self-acceptance will be sourced from yours. Do not conform to what others think, feel, or believe you ought to do… Be unapologetically YOU!
Y
Yes! ~ Say YES more often (without becoming a yes-person). Take more risks. Embrace more opportunities. Focus on the “cans” and not the “can’ts.” Encourage critical thinking, creativity, and dreaming big. Say yes to their dreams, and carpe diem … they’ll only have one childhood.
24 What’s Up For Kids
November/December 2014
Z
Zeal~ Learn to radiate passion, power, and positivity by developing a millionaire mom mindset, so you can help inspire, lift, and motivate your family and everyone around you. Be a source of love and light… and leave a legacy!
What is your favorite letter? What would you add to my list? Who will you share this with today?
Be positive and you’ll be powerful. Guest Writer: Elayna Fernandez ~ The Positive MOM Editors note: Elayna Fernandez, The Positive MOM, is a Bestselling Author, International Keynote Speaker, and award-winning guide, advocate, and mentor to MOMpreneurs worldwide. A former desolate, homeless, penniless single mom, Elayna Empowers, Equips, and Encourages moms of all ages and stages to BE POSITIVE and Discover, Live, Balance, Monetize, and Radiate their Passions so they can enjoy Success on their own terms without mommy guilt, stress, burnout, inertia, or overwhelm. Elayna is often featured prominently on national and international media, sharing her expertise about #Motherhood #Mompreneurship and #Motivation. Elayna is passionate about Positive Parenting, Work-Life Integration, and Family Togetherness.
Like purple?
www.SillyGoosePlayground.com
www.WhatsUpForKids.com 25
On Dad’s Watch Chicken Parmigiana by Michael Malgeri If I had to play the “what’s your favorite” game, in the food category I’d place pizza at the top followed by meatball sandwiches. Making a strong run at second place would be Chicken Parmigiana. See any ethnic pattern here? YUM! Former collegians would agree that any of those tastes just as good cold, even when peeled off the top of a cardboard box the morning after a hangover. It is in this context that I disclose the ultimate transgression in the Malgeri household. Last Sunday, upon returning from Grandma’s, we stopped at “Paisano’s,” in Hermosa Beach, where for $5.99 you get a sandwich that can feed a peewee soccer team. On this occasion, after stuffing myself with HALF of a Chicken Parmigiana sandwich, I immersed myself in the fantasy of Monday night dinner...just me, cable news and the right side of a loaf of bread stuffed with chicken, tomato sauce and mozzarella cheese. When you have children, certain dreams were meant to be shattered. After an extremely hectic Monday, I bounded up the steps from the garage, swung open the refrigerator door and ... “WHAT DA!!!!????” The white bag with the red sauce stain was GONE!!! I searched frantically behind the milk gallons and jelly jars to no avail. To my right, sitting at the kitchen table and mesmerized by the Disney Channel, was a 14 year old who apparently hadn’t gotten around to wiping her mouth. Years ago I wrote the definition of “sharing” in a story titled, “Dad’s Glossary.” Sharing - the last bite of anything tastes better when you give it to your kid... you’ll just have to trust me on that one. I remembered it on this occasion, to remind myself of the simple joys of being a parent. I retired to the man cave with a peanut butter and jelly sandwich, and said to myself, “IT SAYS THE LAST BITE, NOT THE WHOLE SANDWICH!!!!” Oh, by the way. Mikey passed his permit test! STAY OFF THE ROAD!!!! Editor’s Note: Along with “On Dad’s Watch” Michael has also writtten a series of books he calls “Bedtime Stories about Capitalism,” which teaches kids about honest profit making. Visit http://www.kids4biz.com. You can write to him at mmalgeri@kids4biz.com
26 What’s Up For Kids
November/December 2014
Ongoing Weekly Activities As Events Details May Change, Please Call Ahead.
MONDAY
Little Fawn, a parent participating nature program for children ages 2-5, takes place every Friday at Deane Dana Friendship Park, 1805 W. 9th St., San Pedro. 10-12noon. $5. (310) 519-6115. Malaga Cove Library, 2400 Via Campesina, PVE., hosts Babies in the Library, a storytime designed just for 6-23 month olds. No registration necessary. 10:30am. 310-377-9584, ext. 551. Madrona Marsh, 3201 Plaza Del Amo, Torrance, hosts Friday fun (all Fridays in September/October)! Learn about nature through crafts, stories and hands-on fun! 10-12noon. $5 donation. (310) 782-3989.
Peninsula Center Library, 701 Silver Spur Rd., R.H.E., hosts Babies in the Library, a storytime designed just for 6-23 month olds. No registration necessary. 10:15 & 11am. 310-377-9584, ext. 601. Malaga Cove Library, 2400 Via Campesina, PVE., hosts a storytime for ages 2-5 year olds. 10:30am. 310-3779584, ext. 551.
TUESDAY
Peninsula Center Library, 701 Silver Spur Rd., RHE, hosts storytime Ages 2-5. No registration necessary. 10:15 & 11am. 377-9584, ext. 601. Miraleste Library, 29089 Palos Verdes Drive East, R.P.V., hosts storytime for ages 6-24months. Free. 11:30am. 377-9584. Kids Music N Motion hosts classes for various age levels at 4 South Bay locations. Call for the details. 373-0280.
WEDNESDAY
Miraleste Library, 29089 Palos Verdes Drive East, R.P.V., hosts storytime for ages 2-5. Free. 11:30am 377-9584. Lomita Library, 24200 Narbonne Ave., Lomita, hosts preschool storytime at 10am. 539-4515. Peninsula Center Library, 701 Silver Spur Rd., RHE, hosts storytime for ages 2-5. 10:15 & 11am. 377-9584, ext. 601.
THURSDAY
Peninsula Center Library, 701 Silver Spur Rd., RHE, hosts storytime for ages 2-5. 10:15 & 11am. 377-9584, ext. 601. Redondo Beach Library North branch, 2000 Artesia Blvd., hosts storytime for 1-5 year olds. 1pm. 318-0675 . Redondo Beach Main Library, 303 NO. Pacific Coast Hwy., hosts Pajama story time. All ages. 6:45pm. 318-0675
FRIDAY
SATURDAY
Barnes & Noble, 1800 W. Rosecrans Ave., Manhattan Beach, hosts Children’s Storytime. 11am. 310-725-7025.
SUNDAY
Roundhouse Aquarium at the end of the Manhattan Beach Pier offers storytime every Sunday at 11:30am. 379-8117. Southern California Live Steamers offers free train rides the first Sunday of every month from 11am—3pm at the East end of Wilson Park in Torrance.
Visit the website for more exciting things to do with your family! www.whatsupforkids.com
Submit your event on our website!
Print deadline for the January/Febraury 2015 issue is December 1, 2014.
www.WhatsUpForKids.com 2 7
Calendar November
SATURDAY NOVEMBER 1 Barnes & Noble, 21500 Hawthorne Blvd., Torrance, hosts Storytime 11am. 310-3705552. SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 2 Bower’s Museum, 2002 N Main St. ,Santa Ana, on the first Sunday of every month, invites you to bring your family for a fun and entertaining afternoon of cultural engagements. Each month highlights a different cultural theme including music, dance, arts, and food. Sponsored by the Nicholas Endowment. Great fun for all ages. 714-567-3677 MONDAY, NOVEMBER 3 Providence Little Company of Mary hosts CPR for Family & Friends (infant/ child CPR). 6PM—9PM. Register at www. providenceclasses.org or call (800) 618-6659. TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 4 South Bay Galleria, 1815 Hawthorne Blvd., Redondo Beach, hosts Kids Club in the Kids Club Food Court Stage, Level 3. 6:30pm. 310-371-7546. THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 6 Madrona Marsh, 3201 Plaza Del Amo, Torrance, hosts a tyke hike. 10am. $5 donation. 782-3989. SATURDAY NOVEMBER 8 Barnes & Noble, 21500 Hawthorne Blvd., Torrance, hosts Storytime featuring Paddington Bear. 11am. 310-370-5552. Cabrillo Marine Aquarium 3720 Stephen White Dr, San Pedro, hosts a tidepool walk. 2:30 – 4pm. Free. 310-548-7562.
28 What’s Up For Kids
Providence Little Company of Mary hosts CPR/Heartsaver. 9am-3pm. Register at www. providenceclasses.org or call (800) 618-6659. SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 9 Madrona Marsh, 3201 Plaza Del Amo, Torrance, hosts 2nd Sunday Science. 2-4pm. $5 per person. (310) 782-3989. TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 11 MOMS Club of Hermosa Beach hosts a meeting the 2nd Tuesday of every month. For information, email hbmoms@yahoo.com WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 12 MOMS Club of San Pedro meets the second Wednesday of every month at Peck Park Recreational Center, meeting room ABC, San Pedro. 10:30am. Call Marcia at 310-514-9825 or sanpedromomsclub@yahoo.com. FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 14 Barnes and Noble, 1800 Rosecrans Ave., Manhattan Beach, hosts French story time with Arlette. 3:30pm. 310-725-7025. SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 15 South Bay Galleria, 1815 Hawthorne Blvd., Redondo Beach, welcomes Santa! Free entertainment, breakfast and fun with Santa. 9am – 11am. Free. 310-371-7546. Barnes and Noble, 1800 Rosecrans Ave., Manhattah Beach, hosts a Thanksgiving Storytime! 11am. 310-725-7025 SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 16 Cabrillo Marine Aquarium, 3720 Stephen White Dr., San Pedro, hosts the Salt Marsh Open House. 11am-1pm. FREE. (310) 548-7562.
November/December 2014
of events MONDAY, NOVEMBER 17 The South Bay evening group of LaLeche meets the 3rd Monday of each month at the Beach Cities Health District. 7:00pm. Free. krislaleche@yahoo.com
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 26 South Bay Galleria, 1815 Hawthorne Blvd., Redondo Beach, hosts Kids Club in the Kids Club Food Court Stage, Level 3. 10:30Am. 310-371-7546.
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 20 Providence Little Company of Mary hosts CPR for Family & Friends (infant/child CPR). 6PM— 9PM. Register at www.providenceclasses.org or call (800) 618-6659.
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 29 Madrona Marsh, 3201 Plaza Del Amo, Torrance, hosts a Star Party! Come join the fun! 6:30-8:30pm. Free. 310-782-3989.
Plaza El Segundo on Sepulveda, North of Rosecrans has Mommy & Me and Daddy Kids Club the third Thursday of the month from 10am to noon beginning April 17th through December. Meet in front of The Counter restaurant. www.plazaelsegundo.com FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 21 Plaza El Segundo, on Sepulveda, North of Rosecrans hosts the annual tree lighting ceremony Santa photos, hay rides, entertainment and more. 5-9pm. www.plazaelsegundo.com
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 22 Madrona Marsh, 3201 Plaza Del Amo, Torrance, hosts a nature walk 10am. Free. 310-782-3989.
Providence Little Company of Mary hosts
a Supersitter Class for kids ages 11-15. This 2 session class is $30. To register, go to www. providenceclasses.org or call (800) 618-6659. SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 23 Madrona Marsh, 3201 Plaza Del Amo, Torrance, hosts a nature walk 10am. Free. 310-782-3989. Cabrillo Marine Aquarium, 3720 Stephen White Dr, San Pedro, hosts a tidepool walk. 2:30 – 4pm. Free. 310-548-7562.
December MONDAY, DECEMBER 1 Providence Little Company of Mary hosts CPR for Family & Friends (infant/child CPR). 6PM— 9PM. Register at www.providenceclasses.org or call (800) 618-6659. TUESDAY, DECEMBER 2 South Bay Galleria, 1815 Hawthorne Blvd., Redondo Beach, hosts Kids Club in the Kids Club Food Court Stage, Level 3. 6:30pm. 310-371-7546. THURSDAY, DECEMBER 4 Madrona Marsh, 3201 Plaza Del Amo, Torrance, hosts a tyke hike. 10am. $5 donation. 310-782-3989. SATURDAY, DECEMBER 6 Cabrillo Marine Aquarium, 3720 Stephen White Dr., San Pedro, hosts a weekend tidepool walk. 2-3:30pm. Free. 310-548-7562. TUESDAY, DECEMBER 9 MOMS Club of Hermosa Beach hosts a meeting the 2nd Tuesday of every month. For information, email hbmoms@yahoo.com
www.WhatsUpForKids.com 29
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 12 La Leche League of Redondo Beach hosts a breastfeeding support group the 2nd Friday of every month at Beach Cities Health District. 10am. krislaleche@yahoo.com SATURDAY, DECEMBER 13 Hesse Park, Rancho Palos Verdes, City of RPV presents Breakfast with Santa. Entertainment, breakfast, crafts, carols & photos with Santa (bring your own camera please). 9am - 10:3am. $15. (310) 544-5260. Centinela Valley Center for the Arts, 14901 South Inglewood Avenue, Lawndale. Experience the magic and the beauty of Pacific Dance Center’s production of The Nutcracker. 2pm, Tickets $18-22. www.pacificdancecenter.com. Madrona Marsh, 3201 Plaza Del Amo, Torrance, hosts a nature origami class. Ages 9+. Free. 1-3pm. 310-782-3989. Providence Little Company of Mary hosts CPR/Heartsaver. 9am-3pm. Register at www. providenceclasses.org or call (800) 618-6659. SUNDAY, DECEMBER 14 Centinela Valley Center for the Arts, 14901 South Inglewood Avenue, Lawndale. Experience the magic and the beauty of Pacific Dance Center’s production of The Nutcracker. 2pm, Tickets $18-22. www.pacificdancecenter.com. TUESDAY, DECEMBER 16 La Leche League of Redondo Beach hosts a breastfeeding support group the 3rd Tuesday of every month at Beach Cities Health District. 7pm. (424) 634-2660. THURSDAY, DECEMBER 18 Plaza El Segundo on Sepulveda, North of Rosecrans has Mommy & Me and Daddy Kids Club the third Thursday of the month from 10am to noon beginning April 17th through December. Meet in front of The Counter restaurant. www.plazaelsegundo.com
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 20 Cabrillo Marine Aquarium, 3720 Stephen White Dr., San Pedro, hosts the Salt Marsh Open House. 10am-12pm. FREE. (310) 548-7562. Marsee Auditorium El Camino College Center for the Performing Arts 16007 Crenshaw Boulevard, Torrance. South Bay Ballet presents its world-class Christmas tradition, The Nutcracker. $30 General seating. $20 Children 12 and under. 2pm. www.southbayballet.org, 310.329.5345. SUNDAY, DECEMBER 21 Cabrillo Marine Aquarium, 3720 Stephen White Dr., San Pedro, hosts a weekend tidepool walk. 1:30 - 3pm. Free. 310-548-7562. Marsee Auditorium El Camino College Center for the Performing Arts 16007 Crenshaw Boulevard, Torrance. South Bay Ballet presents its world-class Christmas tradition, The Nutcracker. $30 General seating. $20 Children 12 and under. 2pm. www.southbayballet.org, 310-329-5345. MONDAY, DECEMBER 22 The South Bay evening group of La Leche meets the 3rd Monday of each month at the Beach Cities Health District. 7:00pm. Free. krislaleche@yahoo.com. SATURDAY, DECEMBER 27 Madrona Marsh, 3201 Plaza Del Amo, Torrance, hosts a nature walk 10am. Free. 310-782-3989. Barnes & Noble, 21500 Hawthorne Blvd., Torrance, hosts Corduroy Bear during this week’s Storytime. 11am. This is a memorable photo opportunity, so don’t forget your cameras. 310-370-5552. SUNDAY, DECEMBER 28 Madrona Marsh, 3201 Plaza Del Amo, Torrance, hosts a nature walk 10am. Free. 310-782-3989.
LOOKING FOR MORE THINGS TO DO? Visit our website and click on calendar
www.WhatsUpForKids.com
30 What’s Up For Kids
November/December 2014
Family Resource
DIRECTORY CLASSES The Dance Factory School of Performing Arts Where kids grow up and make memories to last a lifetime. Ages 2 and up. University trained teachers, limited class size. (310) 519-3600, 28901 S. Western Ave. #113, Rancho Palos Verdes, CA www.Dance-Factory.com
 Peninsula School of Performing Arts Ballet, Tap, Hip Hop, Jazz and More! Tita Boulger, director. Please check our website: www.pspadance.com, for class information, teacher bios, calendar and fees. (310) 375-1398 2325 Palos Verdes Drive West, Palos Verdes Estates, CA 700 Silver Spur Rd, Rolling Hills Estates, CA Â
Do you offer classes or services to South Bay families? Listings start at only $75/issue. Call us today!