ParentLife Blog

Safety Alert -- March Issue!

We apologize to our readers for not thinking through the implications of including balloons at parties. We do want to take this opportunity to get the word out to other readers so they will be aware.

Thank you for your comments! We always want to give the best health and safety information available to our readers.

 

Pump It Up -- Sensory Nights for Autistic Children

A group of children bouncing around on inflatable equipment might not be the typical picture of therapy, but parents across the country who have children with autism are touting the physical and social benefits of playtime at giant, indoor inflatable playgrounds. 
 

The environment at indoor inflatable playgrounds, featuring giant bounce houses and slides, can become an ideal place for children with autism to receive helpful sensations. This is the reasoning behind Sensory Nights hosted by the Autism Society, and Pump It Up, a national franchise of giant, indoor inflatable playgrounds. The private playtimes are designed exclusively for children with special needs and their families — the music is turned off and the bounce arenas are less crowded, so children aren’t as likely to be overstimulated as in other similar environments that might be noisier. But besides avoiding overstimulation, bouncing in this sort of environment also can provide therapeutic benefits for sensory challenges by creating a calming sensation called proprioceptive input.
 

For added bouncing benefit, children could wear firm-fitting clothing, especially if it has a stretchy quality, like dance clothing. The firm pressure along their skin provides calming information to the brain and keeps the brain organized as they play. It’s the perfect sensation for therapeutic benefit. 

In addition to Sensory Nights, Pump It Up locations across the country and the Autism Society are hosting “Bounce for Autism” events, a broader community fundraiser to raise support and awareness for autism during National Autism Awareness Month this April. More information is available at www.bounceforautism.org.

To find a Sensory Night in your area, check with your local Pump It Up. To learn more about autism, visit www.autism-society.org.

More Car Organization Tips

If you are like most parents, you spend a lot of time in your car ... taxiing kids from one activity to the next. Keeping your car clean and organized can be easier said than done. But in the March 2010 issue of ParentLife, Leigh Rollar Bethel provided some great tips for organizing your car. Be sure not to miss it. And if you need some more help, try the following ideas.

• The Glove Box. Keep your car manual with current insurance card and registration in the glove box, as well as a pack of peanut butter crackers in case of low blood sugar, extra straws, and napkins.
• An Under-the-Seat Drawer. This is a good place for a roll of tape, a small stapler, a flashlight, a screwdriver, a motion sickness bag, an extra toothbrush and toothpaste, an ice scraper, and zip-lock bags.
• A Coupon Holder. Keeping a coupon holder in your car can help you save money. Consider filing your coupons into categories: Fast Food Restaurants, Sit Down Restaurants, Stores, Beauty (hair and nail), and Entertainment. Go through the coupons regularly to discard the expired ones.

What tips and tricks have you found for keeping your car clean and organized? Leave a comment or e-mail us at parentlife@lifeway.com.

Fun Friday Photo -- March 26, 2010

Don't you just want to kiss little Elijah's sweet cheeks?

Thanks to Lorie K. for this great photo!

Photos wanted! Send us your funny, cute, or just plain fun pictures for our Fun Friday Photos. Each Friday we will post a new "Fun Friday Photo." E-mail your photo and a suggested caption describing the photo to parentlife@lifeway.com. Visit the blog each Friday to see if your photo was chosen!

Happy Haircuts

It is amazing how a haircut on a toddler can make a "baby" suddenly turn into a "big boy." I experienced this firsthand last week. My 20-month-old, Jack, has had a few haircuts here and there — short trims but nothing drastic. We tried to taking him to a salon once and it was not a pleasant experience, so the past few times, my husband has cut Jack's hair at home.

Last Monday we decided it was time to cut it again. We've kept it fairly long for quite some time, but warmer weather is just around the corner and it was starting to get in his eyes, so we decided to go for a shorter cut this time. I was nervous, but ulitmately, I knew it was time!

So we put Jack in the bathtub (without water of course, makes for easier cleanup), brought in his favorite snacks and toys, and broke out the clippers. This plan worked well the last time we trimmed Jack's hair, but this time was a different story. He was not at all interested in cooperating. He cried, screamed, and wiggled through the whole experience (which made this mommy want to cry right along with him). One of his wiggles caused Jason to take a fairly big chunk out of the side of his hair. We finished up as best we could, but Jack was making it difficult. So we gave up. (As a side note: I thought Jack would be mad at us for at least a little while afterward, but he bounced back quickly as if nothing had ever happend ... much to my relief!)

The haircut looked passable ... but Jason and I weren't happy with it ... especially with the super-short patch on the side. So Tuesday, much to my protest, we tried it again. This time, we brought the laptop into the bathroom and popped in one of Jack's favorite DVDs. He sat still and cooperated without a single tear this time. It was like he was a different child. Jason was able to shorten everything up and blend in the sides without any trouble.

The result ... my baby is now a big boy with a big-boy haircut. I was in mourning for a few days, but I got over it and realize now that it adds to his super-cuteness!

I don't have any deep insight or thoughts to share based on this experience. I'm just curious ... What was your child's first haricut like? What tips or tricks do you have that you could share with other ParentLife readers? Do you cut your child's hair or do you take him to a salon? We'd love to hear from you. Leave us a comment or e-mail us at parentlife@lifeway.com.

Mom, Can We Have a Dog?

Dr. Linda Mintle answers your questions each month in the Real Life Solutions department of ParentLife magazine. This month Dr. Linda answers questions about kids using cell phones and when kids lie. Each month we post an extra question on the blog. This month Dr. Mintle gives some advice about getting a pet.

Q: Our 10-year-old daughter is begging us for a pet. I have two younger children and adding a pet to the mix feels overwhelming. However, my daughter desperately wants a pet and I am an animal lover. I am not sure about the added responsibility right now. What should we consider in making this decision?

A: Most children will beg you for a pet some time in their young lives. The main issues to consider are the child’s developmental stage and your expectations for taking care of a pet. Obviously a cat or dog would require care and attention — feeding, grooming, exercise, clean up, and more. Other pets, such as fish and guinea pigs, are less time and care intensive and good choices for younger children. They offer you an opportunity to see how committed to taking care of a pet your child really is and how long interest will be sustained.

Go to the library and get a book about pet care. As a family, talk about the needs of a pet, what type of pet you may consider, and what the expectations would be. For example, certain dog breeds are more kid-friendly than others. Goldfish or hermit crab requires very little upkeep and expense. Visit a pet store and talk with a friend who has the kind of pet you are interested in to get a better idea of time and care issues.

Of course your child could lose interest in the pet after several weeks and you may end up with the responsibility. Schedule playdates with a friend who has a pet and see if the interest in the pet sustains over time. Decide what you can handle right now and do not be swayed by the begging.

Finally, consider the cost of owning a pet, family stability in terms of moves and housing, the demand of time and energy, and the possibility of the pet becoming a source of family conflict if people slack off on their responsibilities. The benefits of pet owning should be considered as well. Pets help teach a child structure, empathy, compassion, nurturing, loyalty, trust, and responsibility and provide companionship. Pets are also sources of unconditional love and dependability. Pets can improve mood and blood pressure, increase family exercise, and even reduce stress.

Send us your questions for Dr. Mintle!
 

"You're Invited!"

Are you planning a party using Abbey Land's awesome party-plannying tips In the March 2010 issue of ParentLife? Building excitiement and anticipation for your guests starts with the invitation. There are so many fun, easy resources online to help you personalize and create your own party invitations. Check out just a few of these options:

• Tiny Prints — This company guarantees 100% satisfaction with their photo cards, birth announcements, and party invitations.
• InvitationBox.com — Find adorable themes, cuts, characters, and colors — from wild and festive to sweet and silly.
• Shutterfly — Shutterfly allows you to upload your own photos and use them for photo books, photo cards and stationary, and much more. You can have your purchase mailed to you or you can choose to pick your order up at your local Target.
• Disney's Family Fun Printables — By clicking on "Printables" and and then "Cards and Invites," you will discover a variety of do-it-yourself invitation options.
• Vistaprint — Vistaprint delivers high-quality printed products (including inviations) in low volume for a great price.
• NickJr.com — Print invitations featuring your child's favorite Nick Jr. characters or create your very own printable invitation from scratch! Click on "Games & Activities" and "Preschool Printables" or "Custom Nick Jr. Printables."
• Evite.com — Thinking of going paperless? Check out Evite.com for free, fun electronic invitations.

Do you know of any other great invitation options? Share your ideas by leaving a comment or e-mailing us at parentlife@lifeway.com.

March Madness

March Madness has officially struck at our home! My boys went crazy over the annual college basketball tourney this year. And this time I had absolutely nothing to do with it.

So tell me: Is there basketball fever at your home? I want to know if there are other parents of sports crazed kids out there. How do you handle it all?

And who did you pick to win? : )

High Chair Recall

Manufacturer: Graco Children's Products Inc., of Atlanta, Ga.

Hazard: The screws holding the front legs of the high chair can loosen and fall out and/or the plastic bracket on the rear legs can crack causing the high chair to become unstable and tip over unexpectedly. This poses a fall hazard to children.

Incidents/Injuries: Graco has received 464 reports of screws loosening/falling out and/or plastic brackets cracking causing the high chair to tip over unexpectedly. These tip-over's resulted in 24 reports of injuries including bumps and bruises to the head, a hairline fracture to the arm, and cuts, bumps, bruises and scratches to the body.

Description: This recall involves all Harmony™ High Chairs. The Harmony™ high chair was manufactured from November 2003 through December 2009 and is no longer in production. The model number can be found on the label that is located on the underside of the foot rest.

Sold at: AAFES, Burlington Coat Factory, Babies "R" Us, Toys "R" Us, Sears, Target, Target.com, Walmart, WalMart.com, Shopko, USA Baby, and other retailers nationwide from December 2003 through March 2010 for between $70 and $120.

Manufactured in: United States

Remedy: Consumers should immediately stop using the Harmony™ high chair and contact Graco to receive a free repair kit.

Consumer Contact: To order a free repair kit, contact Graco toll-free at (877) 842-3206 or visit the firm's Web site at www.gracobaby.com. For additional information, contact Graco at (800) 345-4109 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET Monday through Friday.

To see the release, click here.

March 2010 Giveaway -- CentriKid Camp

There is still time to enter our March giveaway. Everyone* who posts a comment on our blog during the month of March will automatically be entered to win one free CentriKid camp registration this summer. A winner will be drawn randomly on March 31, 2010.

Last year's winner, Samuel, was able to attend CentriKid camp in Jonesboro, Arkansas. According to his mother, Julie, he had a great time. He liked the campus, the food, the dorms, and the worship.  Julie says, "I am so thankful for the opportunity Samuel was given. He made a couple of friends he has stayed in contact with."

And in Samuel's own words, "I loved the sports there and the teachers. The coaches really knew what they were talking about. I also loved the variety of sports to choose from. I loved the food and Bible study time."

Sound like something your child could enjoy? Be sure to leave us a comment today!

*LifeWay employees are not eligible for this giveaway. Multiple comments do not increase chances of winning. The child must go officially as part of his church or a parent must accompany the child as a chaperone. If a parent is accompanying the child, two spots will be provided. If the church isn't coming already, the camp location must be at one where there is space.

Bath Time Troubles?

When Jack was in the 6 month to 1 year phase, bath time was a constant struggle for us. My little mover and shaker did not want to sit still and wanted to stand up constantly (even though he was not very stable on his feet ... even out of the bath tub). My husband, Jason, and I dreaded every bath at that point and it always took both of us. But I'm happy to say that not long after his first birthday, bath time became fun for all of us! And now ... we look forward to it!

In her March 2010 Growth Spurt article "Fun in the Tub," Christi McGuire provides some great tips for making bath time safe and enjoyable. But what do you do if your baby hates bath time? Consider these possible bath-time troubles and simple solutions.

• My baby won’t sit down. Bathe your baby standing up! It’s easier to wash all the creases and crevices that way.
• My baby screams during bath time. Perhaps let your child sit in the bathtub with no water in it to get used to these surroundings. Gradually turn the water on so she can get used to the feel. Use only 1 inch of water for her bath instead of the typical 2 to 3 inches. Allow her to bathe in her swim suit or diaper if that gives her more security. Do not pour water over her, as this might scare her more. Rinse her with a wet cloth instead.
• My baby will take a bath, but is sensitive to water in her eyes. Refrain from pouring water over her head to rinse the soap. Instead, use a wet cloth. Allow her to wipe her eyes often with a dry towel.
• My baby always has a bowel movement in the bathtub. Bathe your baby in a baby tub placed inside the big tub. When she has a bowel movement, it is contained in the smaller tub, which is easier to clean and disinfect.
• My baby feels insecure in the big bathtub. Keep bathing her in the baby bath tub, or even the kitchen sink, until she feels secure in the big bathtub. Try using a bath ring; she may feel more secure.
• My baby gets active after a bath and not ready to go to sleep. You do not have to bathe your baby before bedtime. Choose a time that works for you. Bathe her in the morning when she is alert and ready to play. Or bathe her in the afternoon before the busy routines of the evening begin.

More Bath Time Fun
Everything is more fun with music! Try singing the following songs with your baby in the bathtub.

To the tune of “Row, Row, Row Your Boat,” sing these words:
Wash, wash, wash your hair; wash your hair all clean. Scrubba-dubba-rubba-bubba, wash your hair all clean. (Continue with face, hands, body, etc.)

To the tune of “Rubber Duckie, You’re the One,” sing these words:
Baby Emma, you’re the one,
You make bathtime lots of fun,
Baby Emma, I’m awfully fond of you;
Woo woo be doo
Baby Emma, joy of joys,
When I kiss you, you giggle with noise!
Baby Emma, you’re the best baby in the world, it’s true!
Doo doo doo doo, doo doo

To the tune of “Here We Go Round the Mulberry Bush,” sing these words:
This is the way we wash our hair, wash our hair, wash our hair. This is the way we wash our hair, so early in the morning. (Continue with face, hands, baby, etc.)

To the tune of “The Wheels on the Bus,” sing these words:
The soap in the tub goes wash, wash, wash; wash, wash, wash; wash, wash, wash.
The soap in the tub goes wash, wash, wash; all over your body!
The wash cloth on your belly goes swish, swish, swish; swish, swish, swish; swish, swish, swish.
The wash cloth on your belly goes swish, swish, swish; all over your belly!

Tell us your favorite bath-time tips! We'd love to hear from you!

National Poison Prevention Week

Each year, approximately 2.4 million people — more than half under age 6 — swallow or have contact with a poisonous substance. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) has some important tips to prevent and to treat exposures to poison.

To poison proof your home:
Most poisonings occur when parents or caregivers are home but not paying attention. The most dangerous potential poisons are medicines, cleaning products, antifreeze, windshield wiper fluid, pesticides, furniture polish, gasoline, kerosene, and lamp oil. Be especially vigilant when there is a change in routine. Holidays, visits to and from grandparents’ homes, and other special events may bring greater risk of poisoning if the usual safeguards are defeated or not in place.

• Store medicine, cleaners, paints/varnishes, and pesticides in their original packaging in locked cabinets or containers, out of sight and reach of children.
• Install a safety latch — that locks when you close the door — on child-accessible cabinets containing harmful products.
• Purchase and keep all medicines in containers with safety caps. Discard unused medication.
• Never refer to medicine as “candy” or another appealing name.
• Check the label each time you give a child medicine to ensure proper dosage.
• Never place poisonous products in food or drink containers.
• Keep coal, wood, or kerosene stoves in safe working order.
• Maintain working smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.

Treatment
If your child is unconscious, not breathing, or having convulsions or seizures due to poison contact or ingestion, call 911 or your local emergency number immediately. If your child has come in contact with poison, and has mild or no symptoms, call your poison control center at 1(800) 222-1222.

Different types and methods of poisoning require different, immediate treatment:

• Swallowed poison – Remove the item from the child, and have the child spit out any remaining substance. Do not make your child vomit. Do not use syrup of ipecac.
• Skin poison — Remove the child’s clothes and rinse the skin with lukewarm water for at least 15 minutes.
• Eye poison — Flush the child’s eye by holding the eyelid open and pouring a steady stream of room temperature water into the inner corner.
• Poisonous fumes – Take the child outside or into fresh air immediately. If the child has stopped breathing, start cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and do not stop until the child breathes on his or her own or until someone can take over.

Excerpted with permission of the American Academy of Pediatrics, February 2010.

Stroller Envy Insight

I have a fantastic stroller! In fact, it has served us very well over the past 20 months and has plenty of life still in it. It is sturdy, dependable, not too heavy, and easy to use. But I must confess ... I have defintely been guilty of stroller envy every now and then.

You see ... the travel system (car seat and stroller) we chose comes in a variety of colors. Before Jack was born, I had my heart set on the green and grey color scheme. But when Jack decided to make his arrival into the world one month earlier than expected, we had to quickly purchase our car seat separately rather than taking the time to find the whole travel system. The only car seat available near us came in orange and grey.  A few weeks later we were able to find the stroller in the matching orange and grey and our travel system was complete!

Every once in a while, we will be out shopping and see a family pushing around my favorite green and grey travel system and I experience a small twinge of stroller envy. Sad ... but true!

Just this weekend, my husband and I were discussing how funny it was that when I was pregnant, I spent so much time and effort choosing all of the baby gear and hunting for my favorite styles and patterns. I would spend hours online and in the stores trying to decide which ones I like the best and trying to predict what our little one would like the most. But when all is said and done, baby gear is used for such a short period of time that the style and pattern don't matter. What matters is the safety, durability, and practicality of the gear. I am reminded of this fact every time I go down into our basement at home and see the exersaucer, swing, and bouncy seat (among other gear) packed away where styles and patterns don't matter at all! We loved these things while we used them, but before we knew it, Jack had grown out of them.

The insight I'm trying to take away from this is that it doesn't matter what color your stroller is or if your swing and bouncy seat match the nursery decor. What matters is the time spent soaking in life with a baby, because before you know it ...

... your baby ... 

... becomes a little boy!

In the March 2010 issue of ParentLife, our "On the Way" department for expectant provides helpful tips for narrowing down what kind of baby gear you really need — the essentials! If you are an expectant parent (or if you know someone who is expecting a baby), be sure to check it out!

Mommy Time-Outs by Jennifer Holt

My little boy, Jack, will be turning 2 in only four months, and I have a feeling that I'll be putting Jennifer Holt's tips for reclaiming 2s from tantrums (in the March 2010 issue of ParentLife) to good use! But sometimes it is not just your child that needs a time-out. Parents need time-outs too.  Consider the following extra tips from Jennifer!

Mommy Time-Outs

Sometimes despite all our best efforts, toddlers can get the upper hand. If you feel your blood pressure rising, it might be a good idea to take a time out of your own.  Here are some ideas.

1. Walk away to a quiet place. If you are in your own home, be sure your toddler is in a safe place and take a moment for yourself. You may even need to go outdoors.
2. Get distracted. Turn on your favorite TV brain drain or put your mp3 player headphones in. It’s OK to take a moment for yourself before you lose your temper.
3. Get a drink of water if you can’t physically walk away. It will cool your body down and hopefully your emotions.
4. Make a phone call to a friend. I’m sure you know someone else who has children who can sympathize!
5. Just breathe. If you know any deep breathing techniques, they can be helpful. If not, just take a series of five deep breaths, filling your entire stomach with air from your nose, then pushing the air out through your mouth.

Damage Control
Many times you can see the writing on the wall just before your toddler explodes. When you see your child escalating, try some of these tips. Eventually, your child may learn to self-soothe with these same techniques.

1. Pretend Play. Ask your child to pretend he is someone else. What would Thomas the Train or Spiderman be doing right now? What would they say?
2. Start the Music. Singing a happy song (with hand motions!) often helps. I love to use “If You’re Happy and You Know It,” even when you’re not so happy.
3. Physical Touch. If you have a sensory kid, she may respond to a tight hug, a back scratch, or a rocking motion.
4. Distraction. Carry a favorite toy or snack in your purse as a distraction. Sometimes a “stress ball” or squeezable toy will help children to self-calm.

What are your favorite (and effective) ways for dealing with tantrums? 

Let's Party!

In the March 2010 issue of ParentLife, Abbey Land, gives lots of creative, inexpensive ideas for throwing a party ... from the invitations ... all the way to the party favors! She had so many great ideas, we were not able to fit them all in the article. So here is another fantastic party idea!

Carnival Craze
The smell of popcorn is enough to make anyone hungry. Why not celebrate a birthday with a time full of games, food, and fun?

• Invitations. Kids will love receiving a ticket in the mail for your child’s carnival. You can purchase tickets used for drawings at your local office supply store and write the info on them or easily design a ticket on the computer.
• Decorations. Balloons are an easy and appropriate decoration for this celebration. Involve your kids in creating banners to hang around the party. The games will provide plenty of decoration.
• Activities. Set up a candy walk (similar to a cake walk), ring toss, an area for flour sack and three-legged races, and a jar for children to guess the number of items inside it. The closest guesser walks away with the goodies inside. Come up with clever names for the games that incorporate information about your child and his interests and let him make the game signs.
• Food. Secure a popcorn machine to use to keep popcorn popping, and you can purchase popcorn bags at discount stores for serving. Everyone knows the food at a carnival is the best, including corn dogs, nachos, and candy apples! You could also serve cotton candy you purchase at a store or opt for renting a cotton candy machine for a relatively low cost.
• Party Favors. What carnival is not complete without a goldfish to take home? However, if you want the moms to still like you, you might want to fill a blue cellophane bag with some goldfish-shaped crackers or goldfish-shaped marshmallow treats!

In Abbey's article, she talked about her son, Reed's, second birthday party with a theme based on Reed's favorite things — bubbles, balloons, and balls. Check out these adorable photos from Reed's birthday party!

A hot-air balloon cake

A personalized shirt, just for Reed

Abbey and her husband, Jeff, really know how to throw a party! Reed recently turned 3. Check out their blog for another great creative party theme!
 
Do you have any creative party ideas to share with other ParentLife readers? Tell us about them by leaving a comment!

March Events & Happenings

Life feels so busy! Sometimes you just have to make time to slow down and get away to gain a new perspective on life, marriage, and parenting. Check out the following great options for the month of March.

Fireproof My Marriage

Friday, March 19-Saturday, March 20
First Baptist Church North Mobile in Saraland, AL

Friday, March 26-Saturday, March 27
Idlewild Baptist Church in Lutz, FL
 

Living Proof Live with Beth Moore

Friday, March 26-Saturday, March 27
Tucson Convention Center in Tucson, AZ

You and Your Girl with Vicki Courtney
Saturday, March 27, 2010
Longview Heights Baptist Church in Olive Branch, MS

And check out these fun ideas for you and your preteen to spend time together!

The Awake Tonight Tour with Skillet & TobyMac

Sure to be an evening of pure adrenaline and energy, the tour will hit over 20 cities throughout March and April, kicking off tonight in Indiana. TobyMac & Skillet pairing has created the ultimate concert EXPERIENCE. With two headliners on the same stage, that have this much energy to offer night after night, all I can say is go get a ticket. You don't want to be the unlucky person that spends the rest of his life wishing you were there.

The 2nd Annual Rock and Worship Roadshow

The stellar cast includes the talents of MercyMe, David Crowder Band, Family Force 5, Francesca Battistelli, Fee, Remedy Drive and Sidewalk Prophets. Last year, the Rock and Worship Roadshow drew more than 170k fans to major cities across the U.S. This year it hopes to continue to attract people by the thousands providing them the best entertainment along with a meaningful message. The 25-city tour will kick off March 18 in Indianapolis and will carry through to April 25 in Columbia, SC.

The Ultimate Summer Field Trip Contest

Discovery Student Adventures launches the "Ultimate Summer Field Trip" online sweepstakes on its Facebook Fan Page for a trip to Italy and Greece this summer: July 5-19, 2010.  Students ages 10-18 and teachers of grades K-12 are eligible to enter.  Winners will go beyond typical tourist places to experience climbing and camping on Italy's Mt. Etna, tour through the Vatican and watch a Greek tragedy in Athens. The contest ends on April 15, 2010.

And what do Beth Moore, TobyMac, and Skillet have in common? Besides having great events you can attend in March, they have all been featured in ParentLife of course! Don't miss Skillet's John and Korey Cooper on the April 2010 cover of ParentLife!

 

 

 

Spring Is Almost Here!

I do not know about you, but I am always happy to turn my calendar to the month of March. Typically by mid-January, I am tired of winter. The holidays are over, the days are cold, and the daylight is in short supply. In Middle Tenessee (where we live), it does not snow much at all (although this winter we've had more than enough). But a typical winter day is often cold, rainy, and dreary.

This year, I am afraid our family also has cabin fever. My little boy, Jack, is almost 20 months old and he loves to be outside. It has been a long winter spent mainly in the house. We are anxious to get outside and enjoy the outdoors comfortably again. Thank goodness there have been a few spring-like days just recently where we've been able to get outside!

One of the DVDs we like to watch with Jack walks through the four seasons and highlights the things that make each season unique. It has made me stop and think recently about how amazing our Creator is. Each season is special in its own way. Each season provides something to get excited about and yet there is always something that makes you look forward to the next season as well.

• Summer is warm and a great time to spend outside enjoying God’s creation.
• Fall brings relief from the summer’s heat, and the leaves are bright and beautiful as they change colors.
• In the winter, everyone looks forward to (or wishes for) the beauty of falling snow. Winter also is the time we celebrate the birth of Jesus.
• And in the spring, we begin to see God’s creation come alive again, a perfect reminder of Easter and Jesus’ resurrection. It is a time of joy!

So in keeping with the spirit of spring, the March 2010 issue of ParentLife is packed with joy! You won't want to miss it!

• Spring is a time to celebrate. Get creative, budget-friendly party ideas in the article “Let’s Have a Party!”
• Take time to slow down and enjoy the beauty of God’s creation through the eyes of your child in “Do You See What I See?” 
• Start making plans now to implement some new Easter family traditions with “Favorite Easter Traditions” from readers just like you.
• And don’t miss “Bonnie St. John: Make Time for Joy” to find out how this single mother has found joy in every aspect of life.

So even though it was snowing on my way in to work this morning, I'm encouraged by the fact that Spring is just around the corner! Have a great Spring!

Don't forget to let us know what you think about our March 2010 issue! We love feedback from our readers.

Preteens & Porn: What I Wish I Had Known by Teresa Cook

In the October 2009 issue of ParentLife, Teresa Cook dealt with the difficult topic of preteens and pornography. She opened up about her family's personal struggle with pornography and provided tips to help other families prevent porn addiction in their homes. Pornography is no longer just a problem that grown men or even older teenagers struggle with. Exposure to porn is happening younger and younger. Do you know how to keep your preteen safe? 

Because this is such an important issue, we want to be sure everyone has a chance to see the article, even if you missed the October 2009 issue of ParentLife.

Ten years ago, I seldom gave a thought to pornography. Sure, I knew about “adult” bookstores and backroom video rentals, but porn belonged to another world. I was certain it would never affect my family. That is until one day when our teenage son, Brandon, came to us in tears and confessed that he was addicted to pornography. He told us about stumbling across a partially scrambled cable channel where he saw enough to become hooked. For 18 months, he snuck from his room in the middle of the night to watch flickering images that buried themselves deep into his mind.
“I’ve tried over and over to stop, but I can’t,” Brandon sobbed as we hugged him. “I need help!”

Presence of Porn

Since that day, I have learned more about pornography than I ever wanted to know. More children are being exposed to porn and at younger ages than ever before. A recent survey published by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) revealed that 42 percent of children ages 10 to 17 had seen online pornography in the previous year. When I first began investigating, statistics showed the average age of first exposure as 11 to 13. Due to the proliferation of pornography on the Internet, some experts say that age has dropped to 8. In fact, counselors report seeing more preteens, including girls, who compulsively view pornography. This is frightening since the earlier the exposure, the more ingrained an addiction may become.

Power of Porn
Having never experienced an addiction, I had difficulty understanding why Brandon could not stop looking at it. Surely he was not physically addicted to pornography since he did not ingest anything as alcoholics or drug addicts do. Yet even after we located a counselor for our son and helped him set up protection and accountability practices, he continued seeking ways to access sexually explicit material.
I later discovered that viewing pornography does indeed cause a powerful, mood-altering addiction. Researchers believe natural endorphins many times stronger than heroin flood an addict’s body causing him to literally get high on his own brain chemicals. Resulting sexual arousal stimulates the adrenal glands to release the hormone epinephrine, which burns the images into the viewer’s mind. These memories are difficult, sometimes impossible, to erase and can play back at will or even against the addict’s will. Our son battled a relentless foe.

Preventing Porn Addiction
Looking back, I see many things my husband and I could have done differently to prevent Brandon from falling prey to this addiction. While no plan guarantees a porn-proof child, taking the following steps will help insulate your child against its temptation.

• Protect. With today’s technology explosion, pornography is not only easily accessible but difficult to avoid. Institute a protection plan to make your home a safe haven. Connect with like-minded parents who also guard their homes. Model self-protection procedures in the movies and shows you watch and the material you read.
• Prepare. Even if you plug all the gaps through which obscenity can enter your home, your children may still encounter it at a friend’s house, the local library, or school. Prepare your child’s heart and mind to resist in three ways.
  
  1. Teach godly sexuality. After my husband and I had the “birds and bees” talk with Brandon, we told him to come to us if he ever had questions. Then we breathed a sigh of relief and said, “Whew! Glad that’s over.” How I wish I had known that developing a healthy sense of sexuality in children involves more. While we never modeled unhealthy sexuality for our son, we failed to intentionally teach him God’s plan for sex. You have the opportunity to do better. By discussing sex in an appropriate and God-honoring way, you can make great strides in heading off a fascination with pornography.
  2. Initiate the porn talk. You may worry, as I did, that warning children about pornography will trigger an unwholesome curiosity. Counselors say the opposite is true. The more children know about the dangers, the less likely they will want to see it. Age-geared discussions can start as early as preschool, as a natural extension of warning children about strangers and inappropriate touch.
  3. Keep communication open. Even when children accidentally stumble upon pornography, they often feel intense shame and are reluctant to talk about it. Prepare your children by keeping communication open and assuring them of your unconditional love.
• Pray. A mother of 12 once gave me a parents’ list of prayers which included “pray your children will get caught when they are guilty.” Pray they admit their wrongdoings, maybe, but get caught? I found it difficult to send that request heavenward. Months after Brandon’s confession, we learned the cable programs were not his first exposure to pornography. One brief incident took place on a youth trip. His getting caught at that time would have been embarrassing, but it might have forced us to take a closer look and given us a chance to intervene. Pray specifically not only for God to protect your children but to reveal to you any secrets they may harbor.
   

My Plea
Thanks to God’s mercy, Brandon no longer seeks out pornography as he once did, but he probably will battle its lure for the rest of his life. I cannot change that. But armed with the facts I wish I had known, you can take action to prevent our family’s story from becoming your family’s story.

The Preteen Porn Talk
Are you struggling to know how to talk to your preteen about pornography? Click here for discussion points to help you get the conversation started.

Protection Plan

• 
Insist that your cable company completely block all channels you do not subscribe to. (See FCC Consumer Facts about signal bleed at www.fcc.gov/cgb/consumerfacts/objectionabletv.pdf.)
• 

Activate any parental controls available on cable, satellite, or the Internet.
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Install a high-quality filter on all home computers and update regularly. Go to www.internet-filter-review.toptenreviews.com and www.filterreview.com/products/launch.htm to comparison shop.
• 
Keep all computers and TVs in open family areas, easily visible by all.
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Call your cell phone provider to deactivate Internet access on your child’s cell phone.
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Monitor your child’s media exposure (TV shows, movies, magazines, books, video or online games, and music).
• 
Visit www.pluggedinonline.com for movie reviews, www.parentstv.org for TV show reviews, and http://guide2games.org for video game reviews.
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Keep abreast of technology. Even as you read this, pornographers are finding new ways to deliver their product.

Teresa Cook writes and speaks on a number of parenting topics, including pornography addiction in children. Be sure to check out her Web site www.pornproofyourchild.com for more information.

March 2010 Blog Giveaway

I think it's safe to say that everyone is looking forward to Spring and Summer which are just around the corner! But if you are planning to send your child to summer camp this year, now is the time to start preparing and planning ... and even making reservations! And maybe we can help!

Everyone* who posts a comment on our blog in March will automatically be entered to win one free CentriKid camp registration this summer. A winner will be drawn randomly on March 31, 2010. So let us hear from you!

CentriKid is a five-day, four-night camp for 3rd through 6th graders to experience the time of their lives and learn more about the message of Jesus Christ! From the future sports star to the young scientist to the rising chef, every kid gets to participate in exciting activities of their choice. Church groups bring kids to camp where they will take part in Bible study, recreation, track times, and worship. Camps are staffed by college and seminary students who can’t wait to hang out with your kids and love to share Christ through every aspect of camp! Visit the CentriKid Web site for more information.

*LifeWay employees are not eligible for this giveaway. Multiple comments do not increase chances of winning. The child must go officially as part of his church or a parent must accompany the child as a chaperone. If a parent is accompanying the child, two spots will be provided. If the church isn't coming already, the camp location must be at one where there is space.
 

February Giveaway Winners

Congratulations to the 10 winners of the February Blog Giveaway!! The ParentLife staff will be in touch with the 10 winners as soon as possible!

Five blog readers/commenters will win the book Closer: Devotions to Draw Couples Together by Jim & Cathy Burns (Bethany House, 2009). This is a collection of 52 devotions to help couples draw closer through faith conversations even in the midst of today's busy schedules.

And five more blog readers/commenters will win the book The Smart Stepmom: Practical Steps to Help You Thrive! by Ron L. Deal and Laura Petherbridge (Bethany House, 2009), which offers hope, encouragement, and practical information for the stepmom journey.

Be sure not miss our March Blog Giveaway ... coming soon!

Fun Friday Photo -- March 19, 2010

This is how brothers Camden and Evan get closer together when Mom tells them she is taking their picture! 

Thanks to Jennifer C. for this great photo!

Photos wanted! Send us your funny, cute, or just plain fun pictures for our Fun Friday Photos. Each Friday we will post a new "Fun Friday Photo." E-mail your photo and a suggested caption describing the photo to parentlife@lifeway.com. Visit the blog each Friday to see if your photo was chosen!

Fun Friday Photo -- March 12, 2010

Thanks to Velvet K. for this great photo!

Photos wanted! Send us your funny, cute, or just plain fun pictures for our Fun Friday Photos. Each Friday we will post a new "Fun Friday Photo." E-mail your photo and a suggested caption describing the photo to parentlife@lifeway.com. Visit the blog each Friday to see if your photo was chosen!

Fun Friday Photo -- March 5, 2010

"Who wants to go huntin' wiff me?" says 6-month-old Aiden!

 Thanks to Sheila G. for this great photo!

Photos wanted! Send us your funny, cute, or just plain fun pictures for our Fun Friday Photos. Each Friday we will post a new "Fun Friday Photo." E-mail your photo and a suggested caption describing the photo to parentlife@lifeway.com. Visit the blog each Friday to see if your photo was chosen!