livingston parent journal

Livingston Parent Journal

APRI

L 20

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2013 Innovative School-Age Summer Camps and Fall Preschool

Register Now!

(810) 632-2118 2100 Progressive Drive, Hartland, MI 48353 (1 mile east of US-23, south of M-59)

Come Grow in Our Garden

www.garden-gatemontessori.com

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that has:

Livingston Parent Journal 3

In every issue...Events......................................................................... 11-14Off the Wall .......................................................................... 20

Classifi eds ....................................................................... 22

Features...

Great Cloth

Diaper Change

Shyness

Grandparenting

16Chores

Anger

An Independent local publication.

MISSION STATEMENT: The mission of Livingston Parent Journal is to share

worthwhile information with area parents by listing

family-oriented events, educational opportunities for parents,

and by providing feature articles and tips on topics relevant

to raising children of all ages.

APRIL 2013

— EDITOR/ PUBLISHER —Rick & Terri McGarry

—WRITERS—Nellie Sowash

Dr. James G. WellbornDr. Peter Andrew Sacco

R.C. White

—CONTRIBUTING ORGANIZATIONS—Bradley Hospital

—COVER PHOTOGRAPHY—Angela Cox

— GRAPHIC DESIGN/LAYOUT —

Mindy Simon

The Livingston Parent Journal does not necessarily endorse

the views of the authors or the products of the advertisers.

Medical and health advice is not

intended to replace the care of a physician.

Member of

866.806.1680

© December 2012 All rights reserved.

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The

LPJ

April Happy Birthdays!1 Sophia Nowacki Alexandria Cruse Dakota Hanson-Meier

3 Myra Jane Barsegian

5 Olivia Mize

6 Sarah Schutz Cameron Zaske Katelyn Conner

7 Josh Graybill Nevaeh Rayne Hammack

8 Arlo Limbers Isaac Maddox Slawnyk Nick Hagen Bailey Thiesmeyer

9 Emma Schmidt

10 Elleca Cresmen Lola Smith Collin Cresmen Bree Dolan

12 Elliot Limbers

13 Henry Nitz

14 Jack Darrow Ani Gerrity Chelsea Comer Hailey Smith

16 Mason Steuber

18 Luke Kozak Haden Hebel Dani Lee Feig

20 Leo Habsen-Meier

21 Madison Gemmill Ellyana Watt Karson Lovejoy

22 Joshua Jewell Ashton VanBennekam Adam Cruse Jacob Counterman

23 Emma Turnbow

24 Aiden Pies Niklas Garner

28 Christian Nichols Garek Hund Kelsey Meinke

29 Emily Metcalf

30 Gavin Roller

4 Livingston Parent Journal

From Our

Family to

Yours.

We are always looking for more sponsors for the Birthday Club.Email [email protected] or call 866.806.1680 for details.

Kids! Join our Birthday Club and we’ll send you a special treat and let everyone know it’s your special day!Send your child’s date of birth to [email protected]

10006 Highland Rd. Hartland

810.632.6932

Homemade Chocolate

129 E. Grand River. Fowlerville

517.223.1322

Howell Big Boy

2222 E. Grand River. Howell

517.548.1800

Welcome to spring in Michigan, which we all hope, against all prior experience, won’t be too muddy, temperamental or unpredictable.

My nephew Zachary is spending a warm spring in Georgia, because he is in boot camp. He shipped out last month, fulfilling one of his life goals. His parents and his sisters were sad to see him go, and a little nervous, but of course very proud of him, and happyfor him. We wish him great success, and we thank him for his service to our country.

Zachary obviously won’t be able to attend the Natural Parenting Expo on April 20, but you are all invited. We are happy to have a chance to

meet some more of you in person. There is more information about that on page 21. The calendar of events this month has about 70 local events, many of which would probably be of great interest to Zachary if he did not have a prior commitment.

Finally, for those of you that missed the March issue with the Camp Guide, it is still available on our web site, LivingstonParentJournal.com.

As always, thanks for reading and responding.

Dear Friends SpareOne Emergency Phoneis the world’s only emergency mobile phone powered by a single AA battery that keeps its charge for years.

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ALL TRAILSLEAD TOADVENTURE

Everyone is welcome. Financial assistance is available. The YMCA of Metropolitan Detroit strengthens communities in Southeastern Michigan through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility.

learn more at miymcacamps.org

» Sunday April 21, 1-4 pm at Camp Ohiyesa, Holly

» Saturday April 27, 1-4 pm at Camp Ohiyesa, Holly

» Saturday May 18, 11 am-3 pm at Camp Ohiyesa, Holly

» Saturday May 18, 12-3 pm at Camp Nissokone

» Saturday June 8, 12-3 pm at Camp Nissokone

UpcomingFamily

Fun Days

Safe and orderly environment

Character education

AP classes & college dual enrollment

opportunities

Project-based & interdisciplinary learning

Academic planning & college advising

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Advanced art and foreign language

classes

Extracurriculars and athletics

No hassle transfer system

Fully accredited, state funded

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Kensington Woods High School offers students in grades 7-12 a small, personalized learning environment where they have the support to excel in school by exploring content in an engaging and innovative way.

Small class sizes

College-prep curriculum

with high expectations

Accessible, supportive faculty

Strong relationships between

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www.kwoods.org . 517.545.0828 . On the Campus of Cleary University . 3700 Cleary Drive, Howell

Spring

DaysShadow

Friday, April 19Friday, April 26

Monday, April 29Friday, May 10

Want to learn more about the Kensington Woods Difference? Then come join us for a Spring Shadow Day! Students can shadow a student in their grade, learning about Kensington Woods first hand. To RSVP, call 517-545-0828.

Also join us for our Spring Open House on Thursday, June 13, 6-8pm. Meet with students and faculty, tour the school and view student work and presentations.


Like so many parental expectations and requirements, getting your kid in the habit of doing chores will help prepare them for the real world (if you can ever get them to move out).

Here are some of the benefi ts kids derive from assigned chores.

(or “I’m not your maid.”) When you make a mess you are obligated to clean it up. The most straightforward reason your kid needs to do chores is to drive the point home that he is responsible for his actions in the world (and the messes he makes). The minimum a child can be expected to do is to care for himself and clean up after himself, as much as he is able.

(or “You helped create this mess now get up and help clean it up!”) When you live with other people, you’re obliged to contribute to the general upkeep of common living areas. Chores help your kid learn to pull her own weight when it comes to keeping shared spaces clean (so she doesn’t end up moving back home because even her friends consider her a slob).

(or “You had plenty of time to get that room clean. You can just forget about going anywhere till it’s done!”) Chores are unpleasant for most kids. Unfortunately, life is fi lled with unpleasant but necessary tasks. Chores provide the chance for your kid to practice making time for necessary evils

JAMES G. WELLBORN, PhD

RAISING TEENSin the

21ST CENTURYA Practical Guide to Effective Parenting

COVER 3A

in their schedule of otherwise fun or meaningful activities. This helps them learn how to plan, organize, prioritize and suffer.

(or “Just because it doesn’t bother you to wallow in fi lth doesn’t mean I’m going to live in a pig sty!”) It isn’t crucial that things be straightened or cleaned. Exposure

What Kids Learn From Chores

to germs and disease can help build the immune system (if it doesn’t kill you fi rst). But, there are some things you do because it is important to someone else (like, say, a spouse or the health department). Chores provide your kids with a clear message that the world doesn’t revolve around them and they need to take the’ feelings and sensibilities of others into consideration.

(or “You call that done? Get back in there and fi nish cleaning that room.”) It is important to take pride in even the most insignifi cant tasks. Chores help your kids learn that every task, however base, is an opportunity to work their hardest and do their best. (The expression on their face when you feed them this line with a straight face is priceless.)

Like so many time-honored parental expectations, household chores have a value more signifi cant than the practical issue of household maintenance. That said, what is the most important reason kids should do chores?

Because you said so, of course.Dr. James G. Wellborn is a clinical psychologist with a private practice in Brentwood, Tenn., focusing on

adolescents and families. He is the author of the book Raising Teens in the 21st Century: A Practical Guide to Effective Parenting that includes a chapter on getting teens to do chores, along with strategies for addressing 78 other typical teenage issues. DrJamesWellborn.com.


by ‘concretizing’ a child’s worries. One way to do this is by exposing a child to the actual situation that he or she is afraid of. “If your child is invited to a party at a bowling alley, taking her to the bowling al-ley before the party will help to minimize some of her fears,” says Pazulinec.

For some kids, making friends or dealing with social situations can bring on anxi-ety and fearfulness. The best way to help a child with social anxiety is to normal-ize his or her fears according to child psy-chologist Robert Pazulinec, EdD, at Brad-ley Hospital, the nation’s fi rst psychiatric hospital for children.

“When a child is involved in the process of coping with anxiety, the process be-comes normal and approachable,” Pazu-linec says.

For example, if a child is nervous about going to a birthday party or a sleepover, parents can ask, “What do you think you can do at that party to make you feel bet-ter?” Parents play a huge role in helping their kids address social fears and the more parents can involve their shy child in a strategy to tackle his or her fears, the better the outcome.

“Simply telling kids what to do to get over their fears does not work; parents need to understand that most kids need to take baby steps in order to overcome shyness, and those steps need to be on his or her own terms,” says Pazulinec. “A strategy like walking up to someone new and start-ing a conversation might work for a shy adult, but won’t necessarily be something a shy child can manage.”

According to Pazulinec, many child fears and worries are based on non-concrete things. Shy kids oftentimes fear situations they have never been exposed to. It is important to minimize and address fears

Overcoming Shyness

“Simply telling kids what to do to get over their fears does not work...”

Another tactic he recommends is to tell a shy child to let go of his or her worries, because increased worrying triggers anxi-ety. “Parents should ask their child to do something little, something that is attain-able in their eyes. For example, if a child is worried about who to sit next to in the cafeteria, you can tell him to fi rst let go of the fear and then he can focus on just fi nding a seat.”

If a child is having diffi culty making friends, have her focus on one thing she likes about each person in her class, and using that thing as a building block to start a conversation. “Even in people we don’t think we like, there is always something we can admire, and a great way to break the ice is by complimenting another per-

son.” Pazulinec says. “Making friends is really a series of a bunch of little social contacts that build on each other.”

In addition, parents can help allay chil-dren’s anxiety by putting encouraging notes where they will fi nd them during the day, like in their lunchboxes or notebook.

In some cases, shyness may be an indica-tive of other serious problems. Since avoid-ance is a cornerstone of anxiety, when people start avoiding things to their detri-ment. (school, sleepovers, little league or soccer) it’s a clinical problem according to Pazulinec.

Founded in 1931, Bradley Hospital was the nation’s fi rst psychiatric hospital exclusive-ly for children. Today, it remains a premier medical institution devoted to the research and treatment of childhood psychiatric ill-nesses such as autism, colic, childhood sleep patterns, HIV prevention, infant develop-ment, obesity, eating disorders, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and juvenile fi resetting. www.bradleyhospital.org

Call to learn about our qualityMontessori education and arrange

an individualized tour.

5291 EthelBrighton, MI 48116

www.brightonmontessori.com

810-229-8660

Scan with your smartphoneto view our website

BrightonMontessori

Celebrating25

Years

Open HouseSunday

April 28th1 to 3pm

Year- round Montessori Education,Summer Enrichment & Childca re

Mom to MOM SaleSaturday, April 20th 9am - 2pm

Featuring the Scholastic Book Fair!

Can you believe it? We’re ten years old! I am Sam Larioza, the owner of Ohana Karate. It seems like just yesterday when we opened Ohana Karate with a hope and a dream in April of 2003 in Fowlerville. I sensed our community and parents needed a place or community where they could come together with other awesome parents and raise great kids. My hunch was right, it really does take a village to raise a child! We are now bigger than ever and still growing as we serve and develop hundreds of children and parents at our new, 4,300 sqft state of the art facility in Howell.

The Secret to Our Success1.) Giving – Our guiding goal is to give back to the community.

2.) Successful Kids – We know how to develop successful and happy children with positive thinking, behavior, habits, attitude, and character.

3.) Change – Change, or the fear or inability to change, is really the only thing that holds all of us back from our full potential in life. We use Karate to help kids change and learn.

Why Parents Bring Us Their Kids

1.) Their child is shy, lacks self confidence, or fears trying new things or making mistakes.

2.) They have difficulty listening, focusing, following directions, controlling themselves, or other behavioral/social issues.

3.) They are bullies or being bullied.

A Brief Summary of Our ProgramBetween the ages of 3-5 our objective is getting children ahead of their peers for kindergarten. How a child starts kindergarten is huge. Kids that start behind almost never catch up. Most of who a child will be is developed before age 8. We develop awesome kids now instead of fixing them later. Starting strong pays off!

Between the ages of 6-9 we help parents develop the skills, habits and character traits of highly successful children.

Thank You Livingston County!It’s our birthday, find out why we are celebrating . . .

Things like respect, never giving up, trying your best, doing things well even if you do not want to do them, andthe habit of exceling at school, sports and home.

10-14 year olds learn good attitudes and social skills at Ohana. I have seen far too many parents whose teens are their worst nightmare – disrespectful, rebellious and failing at school and life. We try to prevent or help with that, as well as developing healthy social skills.

Finally, for ages 15 to adults we concentrate on higher level success and leadership skills. Karate is ever better for adults than it is for kids (we are just kids that are more messed up). We help you apply the secret to success that successful people know – copy what successful people do! We teach you how to copy success and surround yourself with the right people.

To celebrate our tenth birthday I wanted to help more people discover and experience what we have created here.

2 First Time Offers during our birthday month of April.

• Four Week Introductory Program includes one private beginner session with me and an official karate uniform – for just $99.

• If you decide to continue the program you get a 15% discount off our regular tuition rates for as long as you are with us!

We have never done this before and it may be another ten years before we do it again. If you are interested in taking me up on my offer:

Call (517) 586-1001 or visit www.ohanakarate.com

“There is no lack of opportunity in this world, just a lack of people to take them!”

To your success,

Sam LariozaOhana Karate – “Where Attitude and Character Matters!”



Can anger be addictive? After work-ing with individuals one on one in counseling and in groups, I would

definitely have to say yes. Furthermore, anger can persist to the point that some parents just can’t seem to let it go, con-stantly directing it either at their spouse or at their kids. This is not only damaging to their spouse and children, but as their chil-dren learn dysfunctional angry patterns of behavior, generation after generation can be harmed by one angry parent.

Conflict releases adrenaline. This hor-mone provides a rush almost like a stimulant or “upper”. After a while,

some people get aroused by this feeling so much, they feel like they need it. It’s their anger which moves them toward ac-tion. Many parents with anger manage-ment problems not only learn that anger works for intimidating their children, they become addicted to the powerful high that this feeling of control brings them.

When they feel situations getting out of hand, or people aren’t lis-tening to them, anger seems to

them like the best or only solution. Parents with anger management problems use an-ger to manage their kids. Anger is a healthy and normal emotion. However when it is used to control, manipulate or create fear in children, they grow up one day to be angry parents themselves, and it also fos-ters resentment toward their own parents in the present. Using anger as a means to communicate with your children or control them is just not good parenting.

Many people who use anger to con-trol others possess low self-esteem. Low self-esteem undermines the

ability to communicate effectively, ratio-nally and assertively. When you are a par-ent who communicates from a position of low self-esteem, using anger to mask your own inferiorities, you are acting out your own perceived short-comings as a person/parent and instilling qualities that will in-still low self-esteem in your children.

To some degree, we all go through bouts of doubt in ourselves and low self-esteem. Most of us find ways to

adapt so we can feel good again. Unfortu-nately, there are some people whose self-

concept is so low they become depressed and stay depressed. Some experts assert that depression is actually anger turned inward. I would agree with this when an individual demonstrates masochistic traits and self-destructive tendencies. Just as some people use drugs and alcohol to cope, some people use anger.

As a parent, it is important to re-member three things; 1) Everyone gets angry, 2) Anger is a normal

and healthy emotion, and 3) You are not nuts or insane when you get angry. It is how you deal with your anger which is the most important factor. Effective, open, as-sertive communication with your children is important for not only the relationship you have with your kids, but also for the future of your child’s psychological health. Speaking with your kids, trying to under-stand them and their emotions, and en-couraging your children to come to you to discuss anything, minimizes destructive anger and dysfunctional conflict from fa-milial relationships. Moreover it creates mutual respect and empathy, while foster-ing a healthy family environment. Interest-ingly, when you engage your children as-sertively and empathetically, you not only remove anger from your relationship with your children, you also learn to manage your own.

DESTRUCTIVE PARENTALANGER

Dr. Andrew Peter Sacco is the author of Right Now Enough is Enough, and host of the weekly radio show Mental Health Mat-ters streamed on-line around the world. Learn more about Peter’s book at rightnowenoughisenough.com or petersacco.com.

APRILList your event for free at

LivingstonParentJournal.com

Mon- Fri 1-5

Spring Break Camp Lots of choices in our article at LivingstonParentJournal.com

Mon & Tue 1 & 2

Make a Movie Use Xtranormal software to make a short animated movie of Edgar Allan Poe’s life or work. Grades 4 and up. Please plan on attending both days. Register - Village. 9am Cromaine Library 9am FREE 810.632.5200 Cromaine.org

Monday 1

Lego Building Bring 2 gallon ziplock bags full with your choice of Lego bricks, especially scary pieces. The theme will be announced and you will have 30 minutes to build. Ages 5 and up. Cromaine Library 2pm FREE 810.632.5200 Cromaine.org

Victorian Dress, Duct Tape Edition Design an outfi t that refl ects something from the Victorian Age. The fi rst 20 people coming in to pick up their bag of goodies and the rules will be entered into the contest. The results will be displayed at the fashion show April 20 at 10am. Cromaine Library FREE 810.632.5200 Cromaine.org

Tuesday 2

Cupcake Wars Bring creative, but spooky, ideas. All other ingredients provided. Cromaine Library 2pm FREE 810.632.5200 Cromaine.org

Early Childhood Mental Health Julie Swanson, First Steps/Early On coordinator for Dexter Schools will be hosted by the National Alliance on Mental Health. 400 E. Grand River Ave., Brighton 7pm 517.546.7449

Family Tae Kwon Do Tuesdays and Thursdays through 4/25. Kils Tae Kwon Do 6:30-7:30pm or 7:30-8:30pm $100 517.546.0693 howellrecreation.org

Spinning Indoor Group Cycling. 11 bikes available. Howell Aquatic Center 4:30pm FREE 517.546.0693 [email protected]

Wednesday 3

Crows and Night Birds Howell Nature Center program at Cromaine Library. 10am FREE 810.632.5200 Cromaine.org

Zip Line and Climbing Tower 500’ zip line over a pond. Tallest outdoor tower in Michigan. Reservations are required. Howell Nature Center $15 517.546.0249 howellnaturecenter.org

Thursday 4

39 Clues Have fun with clues and mysteries. Ages 6 and up. Cromaine Library 10am FREE 810.632.5200 Cromaine.org

Friday 5

Magician Eugene Clark will perform an interactive show fi lled with audience participation, fun magic and mystery. Cromaine Library 10am FREE 810.632.5200

Cromaine.org

Poe-Inspired Rebus Make a rebus picture and take it home. Supplies provided. Cromaine Library 9:30am-5:00pm FREE 810.632.5200 Cromaine.org

Sat & Sun 6 & 7

Zip Line and Climbing Tower see April 3

Wildwing Watch Interpreters will have spotting scopes out on the boardwalk so that you can get a better look at the herons on the rookery. Kensington 2-4pm 810.227.8910 metroparks.com

Saturday 6

Build a Bird Feeder Hands-on workshop for children ages 5-12. Free workshop apron, commemorative pin and certifi cate of achievement. Home Depot 9am-Noon 517.548.3742

Farmer for a Day allows kids ages 8 to 15 years old the chance to work alongside farmers taking care of animals. Kensington 10am-3pm $35 248.684.8632 metroparks.com

Sunday 7

Build a Nest Box Many birds can be attracted to back-yards if a nest box is provided. Harris Nature in Okemos 3pm $18 517.349.3866 [email protected]

Mon-Sat 8-13

Got Art is an exhibition of art created by students in grades K-5. In 2012, approximately 900 pieces of art were received from 36 teachers. Howell Opera House 4-8pm; except Saturday, Noon-5pm FREE 517.540.0065 howelloperahouse.com

Tuesday 9

History of Shakespeare This program covers his boy-hood in Stratford to his later work as a poet and play-wright. Brighton Library 7-8pm FREE 810.229.6571 brightonlibrary.info

Sanchin-Ryu Family Karate Physical techniques, drills and exercises. Tuesdays through 5/28 Barnard Community Center 7-8pm $104/family 517.546.0693

howellrecreation.org

Wednesday 10

Graphic Classics of Edgar Allan Poe Get your free graphic novel and then discuss his horror writings with our Teen Librarian. Cromaine Library 5pm FREE 810.632.5200 Cromaine.org

Origami David Larwa will present an introduction to the history of Origami, followed by a viewing of Between the Folds, an award winning PBS fi lm. Hamburg Library 6:30pm 810.231.1771 hamburglibrary.org

Thur-Sat 11-13

Cinderella’s Closet Gently used prom dresses are just $25. Snedicor’s Green Earth Cleaners, Thur & Fri 3-8pm Sat Noon-5pm 517.548.1350 lacasacenter.org/cinderellas-closet

Thursday 11

Sanchin-Ryu Family Karate Thursdays through 5/30 see April 9

Edgar Allan Poe is the featured Big Readauthor at Heartland Library

Climbing tower at Howell Nature Center.


Fund-raiser for Kids Summer Camp at The Well. 7pm Glue sticks, stickers, paper plates, juice boxes, brown paper lunch sacks, dollar store toys and cash donations will be accepted for ad-mission. [email protected]

Bring a dish to pass, then participate in a mystery where you will solve the crime. Cromaine Library 6pm FREE 810.632.5200

Cromaine.org

Poetry, comedy, singing, dancing, and other performance art. Bennett Recreation Center 7-9pm $2 517.546.0693 howellrecreation.org

Gently used baby and children items. No strollers please. Shepherd of the Lakes 8-9am early bird, $2; 9am-1pm, $1 [email protected]

Lowe’s Build and Grow Clinic 10am 517.548.3475 lowesbuildandgrow.com

members come to dem-onstrate this sport of grace that is more than 200 years old. Cromaine Library 6:30pm FREE 810.632.5200 Cromaine.org

Howell Aquatic Center 1-3pm $9 517.546.0693 howellrecreation.org

Sample sum-mer camp activities, Staff will be on hand to answer questions and help you select activities. 2-5pm FREE campcopneconic.org

This year’s theme will be robotics. Entries will remain on display until 4/27. All entries will receive a prize. Brighton Library FREE 810.229.6571 brightonlibrary.info

Classic murder mystery set in 1920s London with lots of laughter and fun. Fowlerville Performing Arts Center Thur-Sat 7pm Sun 2pm $8 [email protected]

see April 11-13

see April 10

Paint class for ages 6-adult. Studio West Gallery 6-8pm $10 810.534.6200 studiowestgallery.org

Pony rides, arts and crafts, archery, climbing tower, high ropes, pontoon ride. 1-4pm FREE 517.536.8607

Starring Tony Award nominee Cathy Rig-by in an all new production of this two time Emmy award winning and two time Tony award nominated production. Olyent.com

Wild Swan Theater presents the story of a girl named Fern, a pig named Wilbur, and a spider named Charlotte. wildswantheater.org

For three back-to-back weekends, little engineers and their families are in-vited to take a 25 minute ride around Greenfi eld Village on their favorite engine, meet Sir Topham Hatt®, Controller of the Railway and enjoy a day of Thomas & Friends themed activities including arts & crafts and storytelling. Ages 1-4, $11.75; ages 5-12, $27.75; ages 13-61, $33.75; ages 62 and up, $32.75. 313.982.6001 thehenryford.org

(Continued on page 14)

On April 14th, the Globetrotters appear at the Palace of Auburn Hills at 2pm. $17 palacenet.com


Sloan Museum – 1221 E. Kearsley Street, Flint, MI 48503 * 810.237.3427 * SloanLongway.org

SESAME STREET THEMED BIRTHDAY PARTIES!

Celebrate a birthday at Sloan Museum. Book now for a birthday party February 16 – May 26, 2013, and

you could have Elmo attend! Limited Dates Available. Call 810.237.3427 or visit SloanLongway.org. for more details.

www.gigglegangdaycare.com

· Nutritious meals and snacks included in tuition · Infant formula and baby food included in tuition· Serving children ages birth through 12 years old

···

· 10% sibling discount on oldest child·

·

5202 E.Highland Rd. Howell [email protected]

Enroll NOW and recieve one month FREE!(517)-552-2713www.mapletreemontessori.com

2013

Montessori Classes, Camp and Enrichment Programs

Half Day and Full Day Optionsfor All Children Aged 2 1/2 to 12

www.mapletreemontessori.com

2944 S. Old US 23, Brighton | (810) 225-8321For Enrollment

Info Call or Go Online

Enrichment Classes Offered Include

ComputersSpanish ChineseSewing

ArtViolin

Experimental Science


Stories and po-ems of Poe’s most famous works read by the Hartland Players. Donations will be accepted. Hartland Music Hall 7pm FREE 810.632.5200 Cromaine.org

Hardcovers and audio-visuals, $1; softcov-ers, 25¢; fill a grocery bag for $3. 810.231.1771 hamburglibrary.org

Fashion Show. Cromaine Library 10am FREE 810.632.5200 Cromaine.org

Local natural family-oriented businesses, allergy-conscious food vendors, doulas, chiropractors, organic skin care and cloth diapers. Re-stored Life Health Center 9am-1pm FREE 517.468.3879 [email protected]

The Great Lakes As-tronomy Club will set up solar scopes for safe viewing of the sun. Telescope displays and sky charts will be avail-able. Kensington 10am-4pm 810.227.8910 metroparks.com

is a Girl Scout camp for grades 2-12. Tour the facility, meet and interview the staff, win prizes, play games, meet other campers, and eat hot dogs. 1-4pm 800.482.6734

Hartland Music Hall 7:30pm $12 248.684.9234 celtickettlecoffeehouse.org

The entire globe will count the most cloth diapers changed in one 24 hour period for the Guinness Book of World Records. Bloom Baby and Kids 11am FREE 810.844.1031 [email protected]

Our Savior Lutheran School 8:30am-1:00pm $1 248.887.3836 oursaviorhartland.org

Livingston Christian School 8:00-8:30am early bird, $2; 8:30am-12:30pm, $1 734.709.0159 [email protected]

Fenton Community & Cultural Center 9am-1pm $1 810.714.2011 slpr.net

Wagon ride, games, obstacle course, archery, petting zoo and craft. Northfork Farms Noon-4pm $10 517.881.9142 northforkoutback.com

See April 6

Tour the Camp, meet the staff, and try camp activities. 1-4pm FREE 248.887.4533 [email protected]

see April 3

see April 11-13

presented by Brighton High School at the Brighton Center for the Performing Arts Fri & Sat 7:30pm Sun 4:30pm $16 810.923.5008

Cromaine Library Fri 9am-6pm Sat (Bag Sale) 9am-4pm 810.632.5200 cromaine.org

Celebration of the 25th anniversary of How-ell being named tree city USA. Bennett Recreation Cen-ter 7-9pm FREE 517.546.0693 howellrecreation.org

Share stories, music and fun activities with your favorite book character Spot the dog. Bring your camera for lots of photo opportunities. Parent par-ticipation required Brighton Library 10:15-11:30am FREE 810.229.6571 brightonlibrary.info

Hosted by Livingston County Chorale at Chilson Hills Baptist Church Sat 7:30pm Sun 3:30pm livingstoncountychorale.org

centers on shearing the sheep. Tour the farm and see spring babies. Take a hayride. Be entertained by Rosco the Clown. Kensing-ton Noon-4pm 248.684.8632

metroparks.com

see April 3

How to supervise children and infants, performing basic child-care skills. Bring paper, pencil, and snack. American Red Cross 8:30am-3:30pm $95 517.546.0693 howellrecreation.org

see April 20

see April 21

8am-2pm Volunteers can call 810.231.1000 x212 or e-mail [email protected]

Howell Nature Center will bring live hawks, owls, falcons, vultures and a bald eagle. Hudson Mills Metropark 11am $5 734.426.8211

First United Methodist Church in Howell 8-9am early bird entry, $2; 9am-1pm, $1 248.343.1573

gently-used youth items, including clothing, toys and books. Strollers are welcome. Chal-lenger Elementary 8-9am early bird entry, $2; 9am-1pm, $1 [email protected]

Poetry slam. Cre-ate and read a poem on an assigned theme. Ages 10 & up CoBACH Center 2:00-4:30pm $2 810.220.9827 LivPlayers.org

competition for boys and girls age 7-14. 1pm FREE 517.546.0693 howellrec-

reation.org

Hartland Music Hall FREE 810.632.5200 Cromaine.org


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On April 20, families all around the globe will gather together to change diapers. Even though people change diapers every

day, these diaper changes are not typical. In fact, they are quite significant. Because these families are changing cloth diapers at the Great Cloth Diaper Change. The Great Cloth Diaper Change is an international event organized with the help of the nonprofit Real Diaper Association designed to show the world that cloth diapers are a real option for today’s families. Simply put, on April 20th, parents attend host locations all across the world to change their babies into a cloth diaper and to contribute to the Guinness World Record™. In its third year with currently over 100 sites in 8 countries, The Great Cloth Diaper Change event will attempt to break last year’s Guinness World Record™ of 8,251 cloth diapers changed simultaneously.

The truth is, according to the Real Diaper Association, only 5-10% of American parents use modern cloth diapers. But those who do are typically personal cloth evangelists. They love to share and show off their baby’s cloth diapers. There are thousands of families who use and love modern cloth diapers. Even so, often new parents may be too overwhelmed to figure them out, or might have been discouraged by family. This event is meant to bring cloth diapering and the families who use them into the spotlight. To show people that it can, and is, being done.

One is Bloom Baby and Kid, a new natural parenting shop and parenting resource center located in Brighton. Each participant at this event will receive a free copy of the award winning book, Changing Diapers, by leading cloth diaper expert Kelly Wels. There will be swag bags and a cloth diaper baby photo booth op provided

by Janel Moon Photography of Howell. In addition, there are some family games, activities for toddlers, and food for the event. It is a chance for families to get together and enjoy their babies. The shop is located at 222 W. Grand River Avenue. The event runs from 10am-Noon. If you would like to take part in the event and have a baby in diapers who is 39” or shorter, just register for your free ticket at livingstongreatclothdiaperchange.eventbrite.com or email [email protected]. If needed, a cloth diaper can be provided to use for the day of the event.

The second location is in Howell at Restored Life Health Center (www.myrlhc.com), 4343 East Grand River. They are featuring the Great Cloth Diaper Change as part of the Natural Parenting Expo, which runs from 9am-1pm, and will feature businesses

Great Cloth Diaper Changelike Natural View Market, Arbonne, and Where The Wild Things Grow. Participants will receive free massages, henna, glitter body art, and face painting. They can sample allergen-free foods and organic skin care. There will be a raffle for local gift baskets, free grab bags, and a grand prize drawing. The event will also feature a Diaper Drive where residents can donate their old cloth diapers to help families in need.

About the author: Nellie Sowash is a mother of three, avid cloth diaper user, and owner of Bloom Baby and Kids. Bloombabyandkids.com

Learn more about the Great Cloth Diaper Change at our web site, LivingstonParentJournal.com


April 27-28, May 4-5 & 11-12

April 8

April 27

™


Grandparenting: Providing Positive Winds and Currents

Family relationships are certainly not the only infl uence on our children, but they may well be, and probably should be, the most important. Family mem-bers are typically the closest relation-ships in our early years, reinforced by constant interaction; thus, they infl u-ence our actions more than any other. Parents usually fi ll that role, but other family members, such as grandparents and siblings, also help.

Children are like sponges. From the ear-liest moments of life, they pick up what they see and hear, more so in their early years because they don't go through the fi ltering process of deciding what to learn and what to discard. They just absorb everything. That's when those closest to the children have the greatest infl uence. The child's value system be-gins to refl ect that environment, wheth-er positive or negative.

Nana and I have always tried to spend quality time with the grandchildren, even if it's as simple as getting together on a fairly routine basis. With our "ex-tended family," we have lunch together after church on Sundays and include occasional nights with the kids sleep-ing over. It always takes a lot of work on our part to keep our grandchildren entertained, but the priceless memories always make it worth it. Gaining insight into their growing personalities is our greatest priority as grandparents.

It's that time together that gives us the opportunity to really observe our grand-children's unique qualities. We must see the trends to identify what charac-teristics they are developing. Of course, all children have their tumultuous mo-ments; or as we call them, "bloody melt-downs." But it is important to look be-yond those occurrences and focus on

the underlying character. Angels can still be precious even if they are not per-fect. They just need the positive winds and currents to infl uence their ship in the right direction.

I make it a point to praise the positive attributes, such as Amanda's unselfi sh-ness, concern for others and even out-going personality. My efforts certainly aren't perfect, but the more I work at it, the easier it becomes. Of course, I'm not alone in those efforts; her parents are clearly on the front line. But sometimes, for a brief moment, a non-parent can carry just as much weight, if not more, than a parent.

It’s all too easy to criticize bad behav-ior and ignore good behavior. But both are negative reinforcements to children. Their greatest gains and most lasting impressions are from our positive re-actions to their behavior. That’s their best learning experiences. It’s our job to seize those opportunities, become life’s teachers; and invest in their future.

Unfortunately, being an “instructional” grandparent doesn't come naturally, but there is nothing more exciting to me now than seeing my grandchild grow into an admirable young girl and think-ing I might have played a small part in that development.

R.C. White resides in Houston with his wife, two daughters, son-in-law, and two grand-daughters. White holds an engineering and business degree,

and was at one time CEO in a multi-million dollar corporation His book, Amanda: Papa’s Story, high-lights the important infl uence family has on a young child’s life. More information can be found at bookstore.inspiringvoices.com


PALACENET.COM / / 1-800-745-3000

T I C K E T S S T A R T A T $ 1 7


Jennifer Ellsworth HarperAfter a month of sleeping on an air

mattress and in a tent (in his room) I

fi nally made it to Ikea to buy little man

a big boy bed.

Dawn Deedee Ayla and Patrick were having an

argument over who should turn the bathroom light

on because Patrick had to pee. They were both

afraid of monsters. I explained monsters are not

real. Then, Alya said she thinks she could do it. She

she walked slowly, peeked in, saw no monsters and

said, “Hey! You’re right! There’s no monsters!” Then

she turned the light on. Then she was so proud of

herself. She said she was brave!

Gianna Jessen, the inspiration for the hit movie October Baby will headline the

For tickets visit pregnancyhelpclinic.com or call 810.494.5433

Tickets just $20!Includes

appetizer and dessert buffet.

APRIL 18, 2013 6:30 p.m.

at the Brighton Church of the Nazarene. 7669 Brighton Rd., Brighton

CELEBRATION OF LIFE!

Nicole Beauregard SmithWhile I was in the shower, one of

the big kids left the upstairs bath-

room door open and Jimmy went

swimming in the toilet and fl ushed a

large bar of soap. How long do you

think it takes for a bar of soap to

disintegrate?

Jimmy's tower O tuna


A Moment 2 Remember PhotographyHave you ever been out to dinner with your 18

month old in tow where she goes from totally fi ne

to screaming, yelling “NO!” at the top of her lungs

in total meltdown mode and when you try to get her

under control she slaps you in the face 3 times be-

fore you even knew what hit you all while on lookers

stare at you like you must be the worst mother in the

world to have such a rotten child? Yeah, me neither.

Christopher ChristensenNew bath towel = 1 straight

hour of monkey noises.

Carrie Tennant ShumakerThere’s nothing sweeter than overhearing my kids

wake up and start chatting with each other about

their plans for the day. I just heard Sam declare

it a jammie day, so if you see him today, he’ll be

wearing Super Mario PJs on backwards.?

Laura Cronenwett Webber Boaz: “Hey Mommy, can you get me

a fi sh from the fi sh store because I

really want a fi sh!!!”

Mommy: “Well, who is going to clean

the fi sh bowl?”

Boaz: “Well, when Daddy isn’t home,

you can clean it... and when you

aren’t home Daddy can clean it!”

Natural Parent Expo - April 20 9am-1pmRestored Life Health Center, 4343 E. Grand River Ave., Howell

Visit with local natural family-oriented businesses, allergy-conscious food vendors, doulas, chiropractors,

organic skin care, cloth diapers, and more!

Expo Featuring:Organic Skincare

Sampling

Gluten-Free SnacksHenna & Glitter

Body Art

Face Painting

Massages

Cloth Diaper Donation Collection

Grand PrizeAnnounced at 1pm

Gift Basket Raffle Grab Bags

Register for GCDCInfo@mybabyfi rst.com

517-468-3879

Featuring The Great Cloth Diaper Changeat 11 AM Sharp

Counting Toward Guinness World Record!


TheLPJ Family ClassifiedsLIVINGSTONBANKRUPTCY.com

211 E. Grand River, Downtown Howell810.333.6006

Top Dollar for your Coins

Howell collector [email protected]

Beginning Violin Lessons

Call 248-891-0850

Stress Management

Couples Counseling/Anger and Stress Management

810-227-0361 www.brightoncounselor.com

Home School Used Curriculum

United Home SchoolUsed Book and Curriculum SaleApril 12 St. Pat’s 9am-1:30pm $1

[email protected]

Sport Equipment Sanitizing

AND DEODORIZING.We pick up and drop off at your home248-722-9950 or [email protected]

Tighten, Tone, and Firm!

Tummy, face, neck, and love handles.Wrap for $25 OR wrap for free

when you gather with 4 friends.517 -376-2126

Kandiskubiak.myitworks.com

Music Classes - Private Lessons

Early Childhood Music & MovementAges 4 months - 4 years.

Come sing, move, and play with us!Private vocal & piano lessonsKindergarten - Adult learners

Register now!Kaciewoosterstudio.weebly.com

ARTS SCHOLARSHIP DEADLINE

Brighton Art GuildNorma Gray College Scholarship

Undergrad and graduate students ages 17-25Applications and artwork sample must

be submitted on or before April 14www.facebook/brightonartguild


Northfork FarmsWild West Adventure & Native American Village

April 20 and 27. Noon to 4:00$10.00 per child $5.00 per adult

517-881-91423637 Morrice Rd. Webberville,

www.nor thforkoutback .com

ModTot™ High Chair

foam seat pad

Available at Target 99.99

* See article on page 16

LeapFrog: The Magnificent Museum of Opposite Words

Scout, Violet, Eli, Penny and Axle have all kind of learning adventures

Sing-alongs.

$11.95 at lionsgateshop.com

POWER RANGERS SUPER SAMURAI: Rise of the BullzookaPower Rangers, Nighlok monsters, and the new Bullzooka weapon.

$11.98 at lionsgateshop.com

Dry Erase Helmet!Creativity meets SafetyCustomize with

5 Markers

8 Stencils

Ages 3-11

$29.99 at iwipeout.com

Mad Adder Design

Advertising Design, Copywriting, Graphic Design, Brand Identities.

[email protected]

Mom to Mom SaleOctober 13 8am-1pm• Staff Trained in CPR and First Aid

• Certified Teachers• Reading Readiness

• Low Tuition

LOW TUITION

Classified ads, $5/line. Call 866.806.1680 or email:

[email protected] Deadline for April issue is March 15.

Proven Results

ACT, Study Skills - all grades810.229.2830

[email protected]

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THURSDAY, MAY 95PM – 9PMJoin us for food, prizes and specialsales at participating retailers.

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