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July - August 2012 .com

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July / August 2012

There are two things that make me feel really good. By good, I mean the warm-and-fuzzy inside kind of good as well as the physically-

and-mentally strong kind of good. The first is spending time with my family. The second is being outdoors and physically challenging myself. When I combine the two, the result is a deep-in-my-bones joyfulness that bubbles over into all aspects of my life. Happier me equals a happier marriage, happier kids, healthier body, healthier all around outlook on life. So, why not do more of it?

As my oldest child is reaching an age where she can do more and appreciate different types of experiences, we are increasingly looking for healthy, fun things to do as a family. For example, we recently ran our first 5k as a family. My husband pushed one kiddo in a jogging stroller, I pushed the other. (He won the race, but only because I had to ditch it into the port-a-potty … why do they set race time so close to coffee drinking hours?!)

We enjoyed ourselves so much that we began looking for other opportunities to spend time together while simultaneously modeling healthy lifestyles to our children.

The more I looked around for family adventures, the more I found. I hope you will appreciate the lists the

team at Lehigh Valley Family compiled for this issue. We asked around for the Valley’s best playgrounds, most loved locations to find adventure, and even some out of the box ideas for maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

It is easy to let the little details get in the way. Admittedly, it can be cumbersome to pack up the kids and all their gear in order to have an hour or two of fun. And, some of us may be guilty of neglecting opportunities for fun in order to do some sort of mundane chore like clean the bathrooms. But we must remind ourselves that the effort is an investment in a strong family and will surely pay dividends.

I hope this summer finds your family healthy and happy and enjoying a new adventure together each day!

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CONTENTS......................

On The Cover:

The Putt Family of allentown.Photo Courtesy of Kathryn Wurges.

www.diakon.org/hospice

Creative Approaches to Summer Jobs .................................... 6Family Adventures - Easier Than You Think ............................ 8Top Toys For Summer ............................................................ 12 Wuzzles .................................................................................. 12

Catch a Flick ......................................................................... 13The Valley Is Alive With Music .............................................. 14Improve Your Child’s Vocabulary ........................................... 166 Things To Pack For College .................................................18Creative Cover-Ups ................................................................ 20Things To Do in July and August ........................................... 22

� July / August 2012 • www.LehighValleyFamily.com

Creative Approaches to Summer JobsBy Denise Continenza, Family and Consumer Sciences Educator, Penn State Extension-Lehigh County

Summer jobs for teens used to be a classic no-brainer. School ended, kids filled out applications, got jobs, picked up their working papers, and made their entrance into the

working world. Jobs were bountiful, and employers looked forward to the temporary workforce that enabled regular employees to take vacation without too much interruption to production. Hard-to-fill, entry level jobs were available by the dozens, and the eager-to-earn group of teens latched on.

However, in recent years with the lagging economy and high unemployment rate, even Ph.D. credentialed folks are applying for positions that would have once gone to high school students or fresh out of college young adults. Add to that a teenager’s often full schedule of activities that limits availability for work, and an otherwise ambitious and employable teenager can find him or herself among the jobless in the current competitive market.

This is a good opportunity for parents to help their teens think through the process of setting priorities and goals. A good conversation starter might simply be, “Why do you want to work?” Helping young people explore the reasons they want to work can help shed light on what they value and see as their goals. The most common, almost unequivocal answer that is given to that question is “I want to earn money.” That being said, you can now explore with your teen what it is that they want money for. Is it to save for college? To purchase a special or big-ticket item? Do they simply want spending money so they can hang out with their friends?

Once this is clarified a parent or adult can ask the teen what he or she is willing to give up in order to reach the stated goal. This is a great time for a young person to

learn about life choices and the reality that you can’t have it all. So, the young person who is conflicted between the commitment of taking on part-time job and her desire to go to the beach with her friends needs to think about her priorities. If she chooses the vacation, she could end up with less money and perhaps the loss of her job. This, of course, would mean having some limits naturally set on doing things that require money. She may have to make some big sacrifices later on if she heads to the shore now.

Helping young people to think through these kinds of decisions is one of the best things that adults can do for teens. Adolescents in general are not good yet at considering consequences and brainstorming possible solutions. They need adults to teach them how to do that. Applying it to a real life situation makes the whole process even more meaningful.

So, here is how we addressed this issue in my house. My sixteen year-old decided that he wanted to play baseball

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on not only one but two teams this summer. As such, most evenings and weekends are tied up. All it takes is one thunderstorm, and open days can quickly become game make-up dates. Giving an employer a list of days he could work would be virtually impossible. He wanted desperately to earn spending money, but his love of baseball came first.

One day in late spring I was lamenting that I have a million projects around the house that need to be done but I simply cannot get to. As a working mom, the weekends are filled with the routine and ordinary tasks like cleaning, grocery shopping and scrubbing toilets. There is no time left for bigger undertakings like overhauling the garage, organizing photos or cleaning out cupboards. “I need a maid!” was my battle cry. Then I had an idea.

I asked my son if he would want to work for me. I could assign him a list of daily duties that would allow me to

have more time freed up on the weekend for the bigger jobs I wanted to take on. In turn, I would pay him, and he could have the best of both worlds- an income AND baseball!

Not only did this arrangement provide me with help in getting the household under control, it also taught him some very important skills that he will eventually need. Folding laundry, thorough vacuuming, cleaning bathrooms and even some meal preparation were tasks that he completed and learned more about. I found my weekends to be more enjoyable as I could spend less time on everyday chores and actually tackle my long-awaited projects.

I will miss my housekeeper when baseball season ends and he goes out to get himself a “real” job. But I am gratified to know that the summer of 2012, which started out as a major dilemma, ended up being productive, rewarding and educational for all!

Family Adventures – Easier than You ThinkBy Vicki Bezems, Lehigh Valley Family

Think back to your favorite memories of childhood. Did any of them involve being outdoors? I remember exploring the woods on Sunday afternoons with my mother,

picking wildflowers and identifying rocks that glistened in the sun. I remember my dad teaching me how to bait a hook and the best technique for casting the line. One of my fondest memories is of catching buckets and

buckets of crabs while we were on vacation at the beach, working hard alongside both my parents to clean them and cook them – and then enjoying the feast. Family adventures are a great way to create memories and bond with your kids. The benefits are immeasurable. Exercise and strengthening of the immune system are a few of the physical perks for children and adults.

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Spending time outdoors can also improve attention span and self-control in kids as well as boost academic performance.

Within the Lehigh Valley or just a short drive away, there are plenty of opportunities to get outside together. There are county parks, state parks, natural water parks, and hiking and biking trails which are all great places to explore with your family. Even your own backyard can potentially be a whole new world to explore.

Places to Go1. Little Lehigh Parkway

Take a picnic supper to the Little Lehigh Parkway in South Whitehall Township. That’s right -- something as simple as taking a meal outdoors can be an adventure and an opportunity for you to relax while the kids run in the grass or wade in the creek. Load up the bikes and explore the wide, flat gravel paths that line the Little Lehigh Creek on both sides. For the more advanced riders in the family, there are challenging, more technical offshoots. There’s a disc golf course if you’re up for some friendly family competition. Horses and dogs are welcome, too. You can take your fishing gear and catch your supper. (If you’re over 16, you’ll need a license.)

While you’re there you can visit the Little Lehigh Fish Hatchery, learn how fish develop and let the kids feed them. The Museum of Indian Culture is also located within the park. You can learn about the history of the Lenape Indians; plan your visit on August 18 and 19 and experience the Roasting Ears of Corn Festival.

2. Pick Your Own Farms

There’s nothing that will make you and your kids feel more connected to the earth than baking a homemade pie from fresh fruit that you pick yourself. Within the Lehigh Valley, or within a short drive, you can find many farms where you can pick your own fruits and veggies, or if you prefer, buy it already harvested.

Blueberries are ripe for the picking in late June and

early July. Pears will be ripe in late July, and apples in August and September. Of course, vegetables are readily available throughout the summer. You can find out what is in season and where farms are located by visiting www.PickYourOwn.org.

3. Dutch Springs

The Lehigh Valley is home to a different type of water amusement park -- a spring fed lake that is up to 100 feet deep in some spots. The water park offers inflated swimming platforms, scuba diving, watercraft, camping, picnicking and a 200-foot rock-climbing wall. Dutch Springs was formerly a limestone quarry owned by the Portland Cement Company. Nestled in the green hills near Bethlehem, the facility is now strictly recreational. The address is 4733 Hanoverville Road, Bethlehem. Go to www.dutchsprings.com for more information.

4. Crystal Cave Park

Explore the underground in Crystal Cave in Kutztown, PA. Crystal Cave was named after the shiny calcium formations that were carved by dripping water, making the walls of the cave resemble waterfalls. From one point in Crystal Cave, there is a view of two thirds of the cave. Use your imagination as you spot the “Upside-down Ice Cream Cone”, for the different-colored calcite deposits that look like vanilla and chocolate ice cream, along with moss and plant life that looks like mint ice cream. After you’ve toured the underground wonderland, you can mine for gemstones and fossils at the sluice outside. Or you can play a round of golf at the miniature golf course, which uses historic relics for obstacles, and enjoy some cool refreshment at the ice cream parlor. Crystal Cave is located at 953 Crystal Cave Road, Kutztown, 19530. You can plan your visit at www.crystalcave.com.

5. Bushkill Falls

Bushkill Falls offers an up-close look at a series of eight waterfalls, called the Niagara of Pennsylvania. This display begins with the headwaters of the Bushkill Creek. Here you can hike on natural paths beside the

10 July / August 2012 • www.LehighValleyFamily.com

stream and reach the falls at many different venues,. Trails vary and are identified by level of difficulty; you can see the main falls in a simple 15-minute walk with no climbing, or you can choose to see all eight falls on a two-hour, more advanced hike. You can participate in the Map Adventure program, which involves reaching 20 “control points”; when you have reached all twenty, you’ll be eligible for a drawing. Other popular activities at Bushkill Falls include renting paddle boats, fishing, mining for gemstones, bird watching, shopping and visiting the Pennsylvania Wildlife Exhibit, Native

American Exhibit and Story of Bushkill Falls Exhibit. Bushkill Falls is located about 60 miles from Allentown, an easy one-hour and 15-minute drive; if you want to make it an overnight stay, check out the Fernwood Hotel and Resort. For more information, go to www.visitbushkillfalls.com.

THINGS TO DO1. Metro-Wilderness Adventures

Explore the Lehigh River corridor in canoes and on bikes with Wildlands Conservancy’s Metro-Wilderness Adventures. All equipment is provided and all trips include beginner instruction and are led by our professional guides and special guests. Have a blast and learn about the unique ecosystem and the fascinating history that surrounds the Lehigh River. Minimum age is 10. Everyone must pre-register, as space is limited. Contact Wildlands Conservancy’s Outdoor Recreation Manager at 610-965-4397 ext. 135 or kfister@wildlandspa.org for more information about our programs, or to register for one of the 2012 Metro-Wilderness Bike & Boat Adventures.

2. Geocaching

Geocaching is a real-world, outdoor treasure hunting game using GPS-enabled devices. Participants navigate to a specific set of GPS coordinates and then attempt to find the geocache (container) hidden at that location. At its simplest level, geocaching requires these steps:• Register for a free Basic Membership at www.geocaching.com, or download a geocaching app (many are free, and available from Android and Iphone)• Search by your postal code• Choose any geocache from the list and click on its name.• Enter the coordinates of the geocache into your GPS Device.• Use your GPS device to assist you in finding the hidden geocache.• Sign the logbook and return the geocache to its

original location.

The only necessities are a GPS device or a GPS-enabled mobile phone so that you can navigate to the cache. Learn more at www.geocaching.com. It must be popular, because there are four within walking distance from my house!

3. Wellness Park

The Allentown Rose Gardens boasts a LifeTrail. This is simply a walking track and along the way you can find a series of ten Wellness Stations. Each station has an activity such as pull-ups, balance test, etc. Run or walk the trail and hit each wellness station for a complete workout that is fun for all ages!

4. Ironton Rail-Trail

If you aren’t familiar with the Rails-To-Trails organization, it is a non-profit dedicated to assisting local communities in converting unused railroad corridors into trails for many different uses.

The trail consists of a 6-mile loop and 3-mile spur. You can pick up the loop at Hokendauqua Park, a community park featuring parking, restrooms, a playground, baseball fields and basketball courts. This flat, paved section passes through wooded terrain and runs adjacent to Coplay Creek for a short section before turning north toward the town of Coplay, where it runs past the Thomas Iron Works Property. Just after this property the trail is unfinished, and the surface changes to dirt before the paved surface picks up again at Saylor Park in Coplay.

With its two rows of beautiful old cement kilns reaching toward the sky, the last ones standing in the U.S., Saylor Park is a must-see. Don’t miss the historical markers off the trail on the back side of the kilns that explains their relevance in American history. This small scenic park has a nice playground, open space for picnicking and a parking lot.

This trail is good for walking, jogging, biking, even for bikes with training wheels! Need another reason to visit?

It also has Geocaches located here. http://www.traillink.com/trail/ironton-rail-trail.aspx

5. Hit the Lake

Take a short drive to Beltzville State Park, which features a 949-acre Beltzville Lake. At this park you can hike on over 15 miles of trails. Or, head towards the water. You can rent (or bring your own) boats, paddle boats, and kayaks. There is also a sand beach to sunbathe and swim. If fishing is your passion, Beltzville Lake is stocked with warm-water and cold-water game fish and panfish. Common species are trout, striped bass, largemouth and smallmouth bass, walleye, muskellunge and perch. Below the dam, Pohopoco Creek is stocked with trout. Pack a picnic lunch and make a day of it! There is plenty to do and see at this little known State Park, which is so close to the Lehigh Valley.

These 10 family adventure ideas are just a few of those that are easily accessible from the Lehigh Valley. So pack up the car one clear summer day and go exploring with your kids.

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12 July / August 2012 • www.LehighValleyFamily.com

Best Toys of Summer!

Learn Something: Miracle-Gro Kids Root ViewerThis is an

educational kit with a clear front to allow kids to plant

and watch the growth process of three root vegetables; onion, carrot, and radish. The kit

comes with everything you need; instructions, Miracle-Gro soil, seeds, and planter. It even comes with an educational guide for kids to learn all about root systems and the parts of a root, making this an educational activity.

The kids had fun putting the kit together and kept a close eye on the developments. It wasn’t long before we saw signs of growth. This is a fun, educational activity for kids ages 5 and up.

Fun For All Ages: Playskool Poppin Park Elefun Busy Ball PopperThis cute little toy was great for its intended purpose: As an infant toy. But, it was so much more to our family. Hit the start button and the power of air pushes lightweight balls out of the elephant’s trunk. It is great entertainment for infants and helps develop their hand-eye coordination. It also teaches cause and effect. The balls are a perfect size for chubby little baby hands to grasp.

For their older siblings, they too enjoy the toy for use as it

is indended. Furthermore, this toy was very stimulating to little imaginations. Soon after the awe of ball popping and catching wore off, it became a hair dryer in the elephant beauty shop, and many more clever props. For kids 9 months+.

Be Crafty: Gelarti - the stickers with a unique twist!Create, decorate and accessorise your own stickers, then peel and place the reusable stickers anywhere you like.

The package states that this activity is for ages 5 and over, but our 3-year old tester had a blast making her own stickers and decorating things with them. They are similar to faux-stained glass, as the stickers are clear but have guides to form a picture and show where to place the paint.

It was easy to use and fun for all. It really is a perfect rainy-day activity, especially for kids who love to craft.

Get Active: Nerf SpeedSwarm BlasterYou know a product is a success when it is intended for kids, but his parents began playing with it first and were reluctant to hand it over to the intended user.

This new dart tag blaster is a ton of fun! It includes 10 super-sticky darts that can be sent flying rapidly one by one, or as a group. The blaster sends them upwards of 50 feet, with precision.

This was, without a doubt, a fun toy for both kids and adults. Our tester mama wanted to make two things very clear; 1: This toy let to an extremely fun evening as a family. 2: These blasters are very powerful, please make certain your kids wear protective eyewear. For Ages 8 and up.

Looking for some new toys to try out over the summer months? We’ve tested a slew of new toys on the market, and here are our top recommendations:

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Catch a Flick...There are lots of options available to see free, or extremely inexpensive, movies this summer. Indoors or out!

Allentown City Parks:The Muppets, July 20, Union Terrace; Dolphin Tale, Aug. 3, Cedar Beach Pool ($2 to enter pool); Captain America, Aug. 18, West Park. Movies begin at dusk.

Bear Creek Resort: Independence Day, June 29; Ferris Bueller’s Day Off, July 27; Top Gun, Aug. 24. Movies begin at dusk.

Bethlehem City Parks: Shark Tale, June 29 at Me-morial Pool; Smurfs, July 10 at Elmwood Park; Planet 51, July 17 at Payrow Plaza; The Muppets, July 25 at Fritz Park. Movies begin at dusk.

Carmike 1�: Catasauqua Road, Allentown has a Summer Kids Series for $2 for movie, drink and pop-corn. 10 a.m. Thursdays. Shark Tale, July 5; How To Train Your Dragon, July 12; Madagascar 2, July 19; Bee Movie, July 26; Monsters vs. Aliens, August 2; Megamind, August 9.

Easton City Parks: Zookeeper, July 10 at South-side; The Perfect Game, July 11 at Nevin Park; The Vow, July 14 at Scott Park; Journey 2: The Mysterious Island, July 25 at Nevin Park; Mamma Mia! July 28 at Scott Park; A Smile as Big as the Moon, August 7 at Easton Area Neighborhood Center, and August 9 at 9th and Washington streets; Big Miracle, August 21 at Easton Area Neighborhood Center and also August 22 at Nevin Park and August 23 at 9th and Washing-ton steets. Movies begin at dusk.

The Rave: Theater at the Promenade Shops at Saucon Valley shows free kids movies Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Doors open at 9:30 a.m.; show time is 10. Happy Feet Two, July 10 & 11; Journey 2: The Mysterious Island, July 17 & 18; Dolphin Tale, July 24 & 25; Shorts, July 31 & August 1; Inkheart, August 7 & 8; Happy Feet, August 14 & 15.

SteelStacks: Free family movies under the stars at Levitt Pavilion in south Bethlehem. Start at 8 p.m. Despicable Me, July 11; The Never Ending Story, July 18; The Incredibles, July 25; Toy Story, Aug. 1.

14 July / August 2012 • www.LehighValleyFamily.com

During the summer months, the Lehigh Valley is brimming with opportunities to experience live music. You can find many different genres, indoors or out, free or

for a fee. The most notable is Musikfest.

Each August the streets and parks of Bethlehem come alive with some of the biggest names in music during the annual musical extravaganza, Musikfest®! A tradition for nearly three decades, the festival has grown into one of the largest music events in the nation, attracting up to one million people each year. And while many of these guests come to see the stars, it’s the many musical surprises they discover at the festival that keep them coming back year after year.

At Musikfest, you’ll find every musical style imaginable – everything from Bach to bluegrass and rock to reggae - with more than 500 performances on 15 stages over 10 days. Two-hundred year old churches, historic parks, performing arts centers and even the town’s former Bethlehem Steel plant all host performances that attract people from near and far. Walk the historic district, beautiful Johnston Park or the brand-new SteelStacks™ arts campus and you’ll find stage after stage teeming with singer-songwriters, bands and even orchestras. The best part? It’s all available at everybody’s favorite price – FREE! That’s right, while main stage concerts require a ticket, there’s no charge to enjoy more than 500 other performances!

If nonstop live music isn’t enough to entice you to visit this slice of musical heaven, consider this - Musikfest also features 60 different vendors showcasing a world of great eats, from mouth-watering wursts and delicious, local ethnic dishes to decadent desserts like bread pudding in bourbon crème sauce and luscious Belgian waffles piled high with your favorite toppings. There are also demonstrating artists, art exhibitions and children’s activities galore, plus shopping on historic Main Street, where you’ll find quaint shops, five-star restaurants and plenty of smiling faces.

Outside of Musikfest, there are plenty of other opportunties to experience music. Check out our guide to find something in your neighborhood.

Important note: Please verify the times and dates beforeattending. Schedules change.

AlburtisConcerts are 3-8 p.m. in Alburtis Park unless otherwisenoted.July 1Moore Brothers, Happy Jack with WALNJuly 7 South BoundJuly 8 Bill MurrayJuly 14 Wallace BrothersJuly 15 One Night StandJuly 21 New Country Rhythm BandJuly 22 Majestics, Christmas in July, Happy Jack from WALNJuly 28 Country Jade

The Valley Is Alive With Music

July 29 “Outlaw Country Day”, Biker Run with Motorcycles,Scott Marshall Band playing Hillbilly & Southern Rock

AllentownConcerts are 8 p.m. in West Park, 16th and Linden streets,Allentown, unless otherwise noted.July 2 -- Allentown Band (Sousa concert)July 4 -- Marine Band, 7 p.m., J. Birney Crum StadiumJuly 6 -- Allentown BandJuly 7 -- Municipal BandJuly 9 -- Pioneer BandJuly 11 -- Allentown BandJuly 13 -- Municipal BandJuly 14 -- Marine Band, 7 p.m., Phoebe HomeJuly 15 -- MunopcoJuly 16 -- Royalaires, Jordan ParkJuly 18 -- Marine BandJuly 20 -- Blue GrassJuly 25 -- Municipal BandJuly 27 -- Pioneer BandJuly 30 -- Allentown Band/USMA Band

BethlehemAll concerts begin at 7:30 p.m. in the Rose Garden unlessotherwise noted.July 2 -- American Legion BandJuly 4 -- Bethlehem Municipal Band, City CenterJuly 9 -- Dave Neith OrchestraJuly 11 -- American Legion BandJuly 16 -- Vince Pettinelli OrchestraJuly 18 -- Bethlehem Municipal BandJuly 23 -- High Society Ragtime Band, 8 p.m.July 25 -- Dave Neith OrchestraJuly 30 -- Bethlehem Municipal Band

CATASAUQUAConcerts are at locations and times listed. Bring lawn chairs.July 4 -- 1:30 p.m., Catasauqua PlaygroundJuly 15 -- 7 p.m., North Catasauqua

PlaygroundJuly 29 -- 7 p.m., Catasauqua Hi-Rise (outside)Aug. 5 -- 7 p.m., North Catasauqua PlaygroundNov. 18 -- 7 p.m., Catasauqua Hi-Rise (inside)

EmmausConcerts are 6 p.m. at the Performing Arts Pavilion atCommunity Park unless otherwise noted.July 4 -- Walt Groller OrchestraJuly 11 -- RoyalairesJuly 18 -- Midnight Special

Levitt Pavilion at SteelStacksBring a chair or blanket to sit on Levitt Pavilion’s lawn and watch some great free acts. Shows are at 7 p.m. Info: http://www.artsquest.org.Here are some highlights of the 50-plus free summer concerts:•Masters of Motown, a tribute act, July 6.•The Soul Rebels, a New Orleans horns band, July 8.•The Tom Chapin Band, Grammy-winning folk group, July 12.•Duke Ellington Legacy Band, July 14.•Orleans, ‘70s soft rockers (“Dance with Me,” “Still the One”), July 28.•Doo Wop Project, featuring members of “The Jersey Boys,” Aug. 16.•Firefall, ‘70s soft-rock band (“You Are the Woman,” “Just Remember I Love You”), Aug. 18.•The Prodigals, Irish rock, Aug. 24.In addition, ArtsQuest offers free nationally known children’s performers at 11 a.m. every Saturday through July and some Wednesdays. The Peas and Q’s shows are at Levitt Pavilion during the summer, or inside the ArtsQuest Center if it rains. Info: http://www.artsquest.org/family.Highlights:•Stacey Peasley Band, kids group from Boston, June 30.

Wuzzles! Answers on

Page 19

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•Seona McDowell, folk rock singer from Australia, July 7.•Big Bang Boom, power pop trio that includes Chuck Folds, younger brother of piano rocker Ben Folds, July 11.•Moona Luna, second project of New York-based Sandra Velasquez and her critically acclaimed Latin band Pistolera, July 18.•Princess Katie and Racer Steve, New York City-based rock band for kids, July 21.•The Anna Banana Band, featuring singer/songwriter/multi-instrumentalist from Brooklyn, July 28.

This is just a listing of concerts for July! Visit www.LehighValleyFamily.com for a listing of August music events

1� July / August 2012 • www.LehighValleyFamily.com

While a fondness for reading can come naturally, for some children, it can be difficult to get started, especially with competition from various electronics and toys. But you

can encourage a love of reading and help expand your child’s vocabulary as they grow using these simple tips.

For Young Children

Even very young children can begin to learn new words. Be mindful of talking to them and teaching them the names of objects you encounter each day. Whether you’re running errands, or making dinner, explain to them what you’re doing and they’re sure to pick up on new vocabulary words.

Read often. Simply the act of reading to your child on a regular basis – such as prior to bedtime – can really help to encourage a fondness for reading, as well as improve their vocabulary. Don’t be afraid to stop and explain difficult words to them. Keep your child engaged by asking them to describe different words as you go along.

Draw and describe. Ask your child to draw a photo of events that happened throughout their day and to describe each part of the picture. Even very young children will be able to put together a narrative of their daily activities. Storytelling will challenge them to remember the names of certain objects, people and places.

Engage on the go. When you’re out running errands, ask your child to describe different objects they can see from the car, such as people, animals, buildings, parks, etc. In this way, you can help them recognize colors, as well as build upon their vocabulary.

For Older Children

Once your child is learning their letters and beginning to read full sentences, you can really begin to encourage their vocabulary.

Label it. As your child begins to learn to read on their own you can look to items around the house to help support their education. Use index cards or sticky notes to label household

Improve Your Child’s VocabularyBy Family Features Photo courtesy of Getty Images

www.LehighValleyFamily.com • Lehigh Valley Family 1�

items such as “bath tub,” “door” and “floor.”

Make it fun. One great way to encourage reading is to get your child involved in vocabulary building and letter recognition. Give your child vocabulary

games such as flash cards and word searches that will further

encourage your child to read. Find activities and ideas via “Kidsville News!” and a new word

search at www.kidsvillenews.com each month.

Visit the library. Enroll your child in a reading program at your local library. Make sure they are exposed to new books, which will help them continue to develop an extensive vocabulary.

Research books. To make sure you know what your child is reading, look to sites that offer suggested book listings for children of various ages such as www.ReadKiddoRead.com and www.teachersfirst.com.

Ask for a story. Just as a drawing can help encourage your child to build storytelling abilities so too can writing their very own stories. Start by asking them to write a few sentences about their favorite pet, a neighbor, or a family member. You can also encourage them to write letters to grandparents, aunts, uncles and friends as well.

For more educational activities and book recommendations to help expand your child’s vocabulary, check out “Kidsville News!” in your area or online at www.kidsvillenews.com.

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18 July / August 2012 • www.LehighValleyFamily.com

Dorothy had it right when she said, “There’s no place like home.” Soon high school graduates will be embarking on their next adventure…college. They will be eager to

live on their own and will soon realize what they had taken for granted in the home their parents provided. Here are six inexpensive things young adults can bring to college that may help make it feel more like the house they left than the stark community living that is their future.

1. Lamp — Most dorms do not provide them, and usually there is only one light source for the entire room. When we enter someone’s home we don’t traditionally see overhead lighting as the sole source of artificial light. Many rooms in our homes have shaded lamps that create a softer, inviting environment. Lamps also allow students who share quarters the flexibility to limit light to a study area with minimal disruption to one another.

2. Dish Set — Even though students purchase meal packages, it is rare that the cafeteria is the only place a student eats. Students will frequently snack, order take-out, or pop something in the microwave in the dorms from time to time. Parents can make a student feel more like home by providing one place setting from the dish set that the family eats on every night. That might include a dinner dish, lunch plate, and bowl and even possibly a glass, fork, knife, and spoon.

3. Wall-to-wall Carpet — For cleaning purposes, most dorm rooms are outfitted with ugly, cold tile floors.

Buying a large remnant of carpeting from your local carpet store or outlet proves to be quite affordable. It can be tailored to a dorm room with only a utility knife and minimal effort. Not only is carpeting soft and attractive, students will appreciate the warmth it can add to the room and their feet when they first get out of bed. The only drawback is the need to have and store a vacuum.

4. Plant — Dorm rooms can be stuffy and not have a whole lot of air circulation. Plants are a natural way to get fresh oxygen into the room, and the greenery adds a homey touch. Note: Give student specific instructions on how to take care of this living thing; otherwise, there is no guarantee of survival.

5. Family Photo — We all have that favorite photo of our family or with our brother or sister. A great going away gift is a framed copy of this to remind them of the love and support at home.

6. Bible — “Bring up a child by teaching him the way he should go, and when he is old he will not turn away from it” (Proverbs 22:5-7). For some, a Bible will be on their list of items to bring with them. For others, it might be an oversight. It also may seem like a waste of time to ask a student, now an adult, to bring it. How-ever, as a parent, you can respectfully ask your student to possess a copy at all times. There’s no guarantee they’ll use it, but you never know when it will come in handy — just like at home.

There’s No Place Like Home -- 6 Things to Bring to College That Can Make a Dorm Room Feel More Like HomeBy Samantha Sontag

Our life. Yeeray played piano at age four and violin at age six. Yeerem began playing both piano and violin at age three. So music, obviously, is the driving force in our life. It’s made finding a well-rounded education difficult—how many public schools can really handle child prodigies?

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Our school. PA Cyber. It gave them the opportunity and the flexibility to pursue music at that level without sacrificing education. Without PA Cyber, we don’t think it would be possible. Believe me, with all they have to offer, it’s very hard not to fall in love with PA Cyber.

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For The Lows Brothers,Someday Is Today.

Wuzzle B Answers1. Foreign Policy2. Party line3. Covered Wagon4. Back to the Future5. Midwife6. Off Sides

Wuzzle A Answers1. Working Overtime2. Do Without3. Teddy Bear4. Shot in the Dark5. Eiffel Tower6. Long Island

Wuzzle C Answers1. Tulips2. Back in five minutes3. One Life to Live4. First Thing in the Morning5. Go Through the Motion6. The Coast is Clear

20 July / August 2012 • www.LehighValleyFamily.com

It seems that high fashion has hit the sand in the form of cleverly chic bathing suit cover-ups. Once upon a time, a bathing suit cover-up meant, at least to me and my once primitive

fashion sense, an over-sized T-shirt or worse yet, a tie-dyed racer-back romper complete with matching scrunchy (I promise you don’t have to admit to wearing one of those!).

Thankfully, the tie-dyed rompers have gone out with the tides. Way, way out. In their place are many more fashionable options to hide those itsy-bitsy, teeny weeny, yellow polka dot bikinis and their underappreciated one-piece counterparts. Best of all, these very wearable items can take you from the boardwalk to brunch and from the pool-side to party time with little or no time to change in between.

Sheer dress. Sheer fabric is the hot trend of the sum-mer, but its wearableness in real life is, well, hit or miss. This lightweight fabric is great for the beach or pool. Just choose a heavily embroidered sheer dress with a floaty skirt. The embroidery, along with extra layers and folds, will give you just a hint of skin. For party time, layer this feminine dress over top of a contrasting or nude sheath dress.

C r e at i v e C o v e r - u p s : From Poolside to Party and From Beach to BrunchBy Amanda Furbeck, Lehigh Valley Family Stylista

White button down with maxi skirt or denim shorts. There is something utterly casual about a relaxed white button down with the sleeves rolled up to the elbow. A thick white shirt will give you a good bit of sun protection and makes the perfect swimsuit cover. Pack a rolled up, knit maxi skirt or a pair of comfy denim shorts into your beach bag to take you right from the boardwalk to brunch and shopping. For the latest trend, tie the shirt tails in the front rather than tucking them in. High heeled sandals and flip-flops both work great with this look, so choose whichever pair you love the most.

Tunic. A tunic is a traditional cover-up; I chose mine in black, although I may come to regret this in the searing summer sun. A tunic keeps your shoulders and tummy well covered, but shows off a little leg. Pair them up with some denim cutoffs and wedge sandals for a relaxed lunch; throw on a pair of leggings and ballet flats if the weather suddenly turns cool. Add a belt to increase the coolness factor of this ensemble.

Maxi dress. The maxi dress is the go-to summer staple this year. It’s easy to wear, and keeps you nicely covered, too. It’s free- floating nature makes it just right for pool-

www.LehighValleyFamily.com • Lehigh Valley Family 21

side breezes. This rather conservative dress is a perfect fit for almost any party or dinner. Wear your maxi dress with flip-flops on the beach, but trade them in for a pair of espadrilles when you leave the boardwalk.

Sarong. The sarong is a great choice of cover-up be-cause of its versatility. Simply wrap it around your waist to wear as a skirt. Tie the ends to keep it in place. The right bathing suit, such as an asymmetrical or halter top one piece, will look like a tucked in top with a flowing skirt. If you’re wearing a two piece bathing suit, wear the sarong as a strapless or halter dress. For a simple and sophisticated style, choose a sarong with built in loops that serve as spaghetti straps. Everything from flip-flops to strappy sandals will work with this style.

White lace sundress. White lace looks fresh this season in the form of a soft, simple sundress with just a hint of skin peeking through. Throw it over your swimsuit for an easy cover-up, and then pair it up with a

sky high pair of espa-drilles or flat sandals for a delicious din-ner out. Hopefully, these great bathing suit cover-up ideas will get your cre-ative juices flow-ing. Shop your closet, consign-ment shop, or favorite cloth-ing store for a gorgeous and fashionable outfit that will take you from the beach to brunch and from poolside to party. Mix and match accessories and shoes to liven up your style, and please, remember to bring the sunscreen!

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July - August ‘12

July 3“Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs”, presented by the

Pennsylvania Shakespeare Festival, 2755 Station Ave, Center Valley. 10:00 am – 11:00 am.

Thru July 8Kutztown Folk Festival. A

funfilled family event and an introduction to the Pennsylvania

Dutch culture found in our area. Daily 9:00 am to 6:00 pm. Kutztown Fairgrounds.

Friday Evenings in July Live, Outdoor Concerts in Town Square (near Starbucks)at The Promenade Shops at Saucon Valley. Every Friday at 7pm.

July 13Chick-Fil-A’s Cow Appreciation Day

Dress like a cow, get a free sandwhich!

July 7 Cherry Pit Spitting Day

July 21 Easton Farmers’ Market’s Zucchini 500 Race in Centre Square, Easton. Special events today include some ‘Fast Food! For a 5$ entry fee, you get your choice of zucchini, 2 sets of wheels and axels as well as access to carving tools and assistance from the official Zucchini 500 Pit Crew. Prizes awarded. In addition, 45 vendors will be offering locally grown produce, plants, meats, cheeses, baked goods, breads, specialty foods, arts and crafts. Featuring live music as well as weekly kid’s crafts. Visit www.eastonfarmersmarket.com.

July 18 Family Crafts: Nature Crayon Rubbings. Create fun and colorful pictures, wrapping paper, or cards by creating impressions of the unique textures of nature using leaves, bark, rocks, and other natural objects! (appropriate for ages 4-12). The cost is $5.00 per child and we ask that you please register by calling (610) 253-4432. 518 Northampton Street. 1 pm - 2:30 pm.

July - August ‘12

July 27 - 29Pa Blues Festival. Come for one day or for all three. The festival kicks off Friday pre-fest late-night jam hosted by Mikey Junior & The Stone Cold Blues Band, and ends Sunday. Noon - 10 pm. Blue Mountain Ski Area. 1660 Blue Mountain Dr.

Every SundayThe Emmaus Farmers market offerings tend to really expand in variety and scope as the summer months begin. Come on out to get the first of the heartier vegetables and fruits, starting with strawberries, beets, carrots, snap peas and so much more.10 am - 2 pm.

August 1 & 15Summer Family Movies Series at SteelStacks. This summer, children of all ages are invited to enjoy family movie classics under the stars. Aug. 1: Toy StoryAug. 15: E.T. 789 E. First St., Bethlehem.

August 3 & 4Das Awkscht Fescht has been a summer tradition for all ages. Offering three fun-packed days in the great outdoors, it’s a perfect way for families to celebrate summer. This year, come cruisin’ through 42 acres of fun at the Fescht – and enjoy the great things classic

summers are made of. Admission Includes all events, shows, and entertainment. 7:30 am - 10 pm.

August 3-12 Musikfest. Each year, thousands of visitors and residents of Pennsylvania make the trip to Bethlehem to participate in a celebration that weaves through a Moravian community that dates back to 1741. Festival visitors are treated to hundreds of free shows over the course of the event. Each night, the festival’s premium stage, Steel Stage, hosts a nationally-known recording artist. These premium concerts, along with select shows at other stages, require paid tickets to gain admission. www.artsquest.org.

August 10The World Series of Bicycling will bring Olympic action to the Valley Preferred Cycling Center every Friday night this summer. We are pleased to announce the schedule of events for our acclaimed pro race series, now in it’s 37th year. 1151 Mosser Rd, Trexlertown. 7:30 pm.

August 18 & 19Roasting Ears of Corn Festival. Aztec Fire Dancers, singing, drumming , crafts, food and fun. Museum of Indian Culture, 2825 Fish Hatchery Rd, Allentown. 10 am - 6 pm.

August 24Join us for Movies Under The Stars, a FREE community movie night! Movie will be shown on our outdoor backyard movie screen beginning at dusk. Outdoor dining and specials will be available from The Grille and the tiki bar. Bear Creek, 101 Doe Mountain Lane. 8:30 pm - 11 pm.

Thru July 28 Harold and the Purple Crayon, accounts for both the “borrowed” and the purple. The play is a movement theater adaptation of Crockett Johnson’s beloved children’s book, created by Enchantment Theatre Company. “Harold” plays thru July 28. Check website for exact times. www.muhlenberg.edu/main/newsevents/press/051612_summer-music- theatre.html

August 8Sneak Some Zuchinni Onto Your Neighbor’s Porch Day

July 27Take Your Houseplant on a Walk Day

August 15Best Friends Day

July 15National Be a Dork Day

August 30Toasted Marshmallow Day

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