I’m new to this. Parenting. Not blogging. I’ve got a two-month old boy.

Because I’m in advertising, I took it upon myself to brand him. He’s The Boy™. Everyone else calls him Ferris, and he is adorable. He grunts and squeaks, reels unsuspecting strangers in with gummy smiles, and sleeps so soundly that I wake him up just to make sure he’s still breathing.

My wife insisted we get a video monitor. Now we stare at it like a late-night soap opera. And wonder if he’s breathing. Every episode, new suspense. Was that a grunt? Is he choking? Was that a seizure? No. He’s pooping. Roll credits.

I’m also convinced that The Boy™ is the vortex of a wormhole in time; everything I do, all the seemingly simple things I took for granted – shaving, reading the paper or writing my insanely popular blog over at bthesite.com – take 300% longer to complete now. And they involve spit-up.

Everything is a production. Getting him ready to drop off at the grandparents’ house is like staging for some elaborate bank heist. What time is it? Do we have the diapers? What about the bottles? What about the lock pick and dynamite?

It’s an embarrassing learning curve. I’m not too proud to admit it. Despite the fact that I can orchestrate one handed football holds and 25–second diaper changes with pit crew precision, I’m acutely aware that, at any given time, I’m doing a half-dozen things wrong. But I’m coming to grips with that. Because there’s Mom. And she makes everything okay.

Posted by Kate Shatzkin at 6:24 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Father's Day Tuesday
        

Today's tips on buying toys come from the January issue of ShopSmart magazine, which points out that some of the new lead laws don't take effect until next year -- and that some toys on store shelves this season might still have "worrisome lead levels" even if they're not on recall lists. For more information and tips, see this story on the U.S. Public Interest Group's latest report on toys.

Here are the magazine's strategies for buying safe toys:

--"Know what toys to avoid. Steer clear of no-name toys and, regardless of your child’s age, don’t buy toys with small magnets, even if the magnets seem safely contained within the toy. Don’t buy metal jewelry, especially the cheap stuff, for young children or allow them to play with key chains or items with metal charms. If you have an infant or toddler who still puts almost everything in her mouth, don’t buy squeezable soft plastic toys or books. Unless it says “no phthalates” on the package, there’s no way of knowing if they contain the chemical or not.

--Buy according to a kid’s age. Look for manufacturer’s recommended age ranges on toy packaging. Age grading is more than a friendly hint. It can alert you to a possible choking hazard, the presence of small parts, and other dangers. And think twice before buying a toy with small parts for a child older than 3 who has a younger sibling. Keep all small round or oval objects, including coins, balls, and marbles, away from kids under 3.

--Check for recalls. Before shopping, go to cpsc.gov, a government Web site, to see whether the toys you plan to buy (and the toys already in your home) have been recalled. Also, sign up for free e-mail notices of recalls here. And if a product you buy comes with a registration card, fill it out and send it in so you will be notified directly by the manufacturer if the item is recalled. It’s up to retailers to take recalled toys off store shelves but, once a recalled toy is in your home, it’s up to you to keep it away from your family or return it ASAP.

--Watch where you shop. Be leery of drugstores, airports, and dollar stores. They’ve been known to carry flimsy plastic toys with dangerous sharp edges or small parts that can break off easily. Thrift stores, consignment shops, yard and garage sales, and eBay often have toys in excellent condition, but check to see that they’re well made and have no small magnets or parts. Wash the toys before giving them."

(Photo by Baltimore Sun photographer Barbara Haddock Taylor)

Posted by Kate Shatzkin at 12:21 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Tip Sheet Thursdays
        

Happy Thanksgiving!

What will you be doing this weekend, if not shopping? For one thing, the famous 34th Street lights go on at 5:45 p.m. Saturday in Hampden.

Other things to do, with help from interns Lindsey Citron and Raven Smith:

Thursday, Nov. 27:

Hopefully you'll be , watching the Macy's Thanksgiving Day parade, and playing Monopoly with the kids while the turkey roasts perfectly and the pies bake themselves.

Failing that, send the kids to the movies with somebody who doesn't have to cook. Or, for other ideas, see our story today on fun ways to enjoy your holiday weekend. If the weather's nice, we like to have the non-cooks rake leaves for the kids to jump in while my husband prepares the turkey on the Weber. (And I have the kitchen to myself for everything else.)

If you're really ambitious, there are Thanksgiving morning 2K or 5K Turkey Trots sponsored by the YMCA of Central Maryland. Towson: Starting Place: YMCA of Central Maryland, Towson, 600 W. Chesapeake Ave, Towson. Ending: YMCA of Central Maryland, Chesapeake Ave. entrance.Registration is at 7 a.m., Race kicks off at 9 a.m., Entry fee is $25 for online registration, $30 per mailed or in person entries, $35 race-day entries. Child Watch is from 8:30-10 a.m. Free for members; $5 per non-member child, $8 per non-member families. Bel Air: Starting Place: YMCA of Central Maryland, Bel Air, Ward Family Center, 314 W. Williams Street, Bel Air. Ending Place:YMCA of Central Maryland, Bel Air, Ward Family Center, 314 W. Williams Street, Bel Air. 8:30 a.m., $20 per person for 5K run, $15 per person for 5K walk.
 

Friday, Nov. 28:

Turkey Skate: As Jill Rosen reports today in our You & Your Weekend section: Dominic "Mimi" DiPietro Family Skating Center, 200 S. Linwood Ave., is hosting Turkey Skate from noon-2 p.m. Entry is $3; skate rental is $2 (410-396-9392).

And there's more...

(Photo of last year's 34th Street display by Troy McCullough, Special to the Baltimore Sun)

Festival of Trees: Familes can enjoy live entertainment and treats while shopping for homemade crafts benefitting the Kennedy Krieger Institute at the Maryland State Fairgrounds, Timonium, from 10 a.m. - 9 p.m. Friday and Saturday and 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Sunday.  $10 adults, $5 for seniors and kids 5-12. Children 4 and under, free. Call 443-923-7300 or visit festivaloftrees.kennedykrieger.org for more information.

Holiday Festival of Trains: Kids can take train rides with Santa and purchase their own holiday gifts for friends and family while admiring special holiday toy trains and model railroading layouts. Free. All ages. 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Friday and Saturday and 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. Sunday at the B & O Railroad Museum in Baltimore. 410-725-2490 or borail.org for more information.

Holiday Festival of Trains with Thomas the Tank Engine: Kids can check out the famous train's G-scale model and a multi-level O-scale model train layout while learning what Santa dressed like in 1862 and 1848. Friday, Nov. 28th through Jan. 25th, 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. Free. All ages. B&O Railroad Museum's Ellicott City Station. 410-461-1945 or ecborail.org for more information.

Santa Claus Firetruck Visit: Kids can visit Santa as he rides into Mancester's Main Street area in a firetruck, with holiday shopping and carolers. Free. Santa will visit from 6-6:30 p.m. and carolers from 6-9 p.m. 410-977-5962 for more information.

Puppet show: Drop in on a free Black Cherry Puppet Theater production of "The Frog Prince," at Daedalus Books and Music, Belvedere Square, 518 E. Belvedere Ave., Baltimore, 12 p.m. and 2 p.m. Visit blackcherry.org.

Posted by Kate Shatzkin at 6:07 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Things to Do
        

Did your little ones head off to school for Thanksgiving feasts today with Native American-style headgear, or a pilgrim hat?

At one California school, there's a serious flap about whether such holiday dress is demeaning to Native Americans, instead of promoting the spirit of understanding that Thanksgiving is supposed to be about.

I must say that my son was very enthusiastic about the headdress he made yesterday. And in prior years he has made a seriously cute pilgrim.

What do you think?

(AP Photo/Bloomsburg Press Enterprise, Bill Hughes)

Posted by Kate Shatzkin at 10:28 AM | Permalink | Comments (3)
        

Once you've gotten through tomorrow's big feast, you can only make so many sandwiches out of the leftover turkey. This stir-fry from eatturkey.com caught my eye as a good leftovers alternative, even though it was originally designed to use fresh, not cooked, turkey.

And it has lots of fresh veggies to make you feel a little better about the gluttony that has come before...

(Photo by me)

My children would only eat the turkey parts of this, and not much of the vegetables, but that's something. Maybe a few broccoli florets or carrot bits got into them by accident.

By the way, remember the Sweet Potato-Turkey Hash? It would be great this weekend, too.

Ginger Turkey Stir-Fry

Serves 6

Posted by Kate Shatzkin at 5:43 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Dinner Together, Food and Recipes
        

As a mom of two boys, I sometimes struggle to understand how much machismo and rough-housing is a normal part of growing up and how much is too much. One minute they’ll be quietly watching TV or playing a game with their buddies, and the next they’re on top of each other imitating their favorite wrestling stars. I end up being the referee, stopping it before they break a lamp or someone gets hurt.

Too often, I’ve seen that good-natured teasing turns hurtful. That’s why I was interested to read a guide on education.com that helps parents recognize and deal with bullying.

New research shows that more than half of kids are directly involved in bullying—either as perpetrator, victim or both. Bullying isn’t just one kid beating another up on the playground. It extends to harassment on the computer, relentless teasing and exclusion. Not surprisingly, bullying usually takes place outside of the classroom – before and after school, during recess and on weekends. And sometimes the bullying at school is the result of bullying at home, researchers say (see here).  

While we parents can’t be there every second, there are things we can do to help. Here are some suggestions:

• Talk with and listen to your kids - every day.

• Spend time helping (and observing) at school and recess.

• Be a good example of kindness and leadership.

• Learn the signs of bullying.

• Establish household rules about bullying.

• Spread the word that bullying should not be a normal part of childhood.

 Read more here.

Do you have any other suggestions on how parents can prevent bullying, especially within the family?

Posted by Liz Atwood at 6:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)
        

Fellow Sun blogger Maryann James pointed me to this Parentdish list of iPhone apps for parents. Can't say I've tried any -- no, Virginia, I haven't bought an iPhone yet -- but I have opinions on a few, just by reading the list.

Could love: the Scribble app (for entertaining kids during an unexpected wait); the Diaper Tracker, which keeps track of the state of your baby's poops for the next pediatrician visit. (Gross, I know, but when you're a mom, you gotta go there.) And Grocery IQ would certainly keep my purse from being cluttered with umpteen lists.

Not so sure: Using your iPhone as a baby monitor on vacation, when you don't want to bring the real thing, sounds like a great idea. But do you really want your iPhone calling you (on another phone) every time the baby makes a noise? Happy holidays, indeed!

Posted by Kate Shatzkin at 2:51 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
        

Momof2 asked: "Now that toy catalogues are filling our mailbox and (ahem) Sunday Sun, how to deal with the gimme, gimme, gimmes? I don't think I can stand listening to all the things my kids want for the next 5-6 weeks until xmas!!!"

I asked Allison Pugh -- assistant professor of sociology at the University of Virginia and author of the soon-to-be-published book Longing and Belonging: Parents, Children and Consumer Culture -- to respond. Here's her post:

"There are different kinds of 'gimmes,' and each kind really takes a different kind of parenting strategy to handle successfully. For all of these, of course, a sustained "no" campaign will work. If parents found it that simple, then they would not be asking for advice, and we would not see polling reporting that 4 out of 5 parents think that America's materialistic society produces 'over-commercialized children.'

"Some 'gimmes' come from exposure to advertising, and it is not just the toy catalogues and Sunday papers that are targeting children. Television is a big conduit for ads -- kids spend more time watching TV annually than they spend in school. The Internet, cereal giveaways, marketing in schools -- these have all become commercial superhighways into children's brains. So the first step to handling this kind of "gimme" is to close down some of those highways, or at least bring them down to one lane. That means try to reduce kids' exposure to marketing techniques, enforce some of those house rules limiting television and Internet time, and try and get the catalogs into the recycling bin before the children get to them.

"Another kind of 'gimme' involves the things -- the toys, games, movies and the like -- that kids think they have to have to be 'normal' when they are with other kids. It is not that children are trying to be better than their peers -- more often they just want to belong to their social group. Kids want to be visible in their worlds, and to do so they have to be able to participate in the conversation at school or in the neighborhood, the conversation about what kind of lunchbox they have or have they seen the latest movie or played that Wii game. Many of the most urgent, persistent 'gimmes' stem from children's desire to be able to join in when a certain topic of conversation comes up, and parents seem to find these kind of requests -- for belonging, for social citizenship, for being "the same as my friends" -- the most difficult to withstand.

"In the short term, parents can try to ascertain what sort of goods carry the most social bang for the buck and restrict their purchases to just those items. They can also work with other parents to build little communities of agreement abstaining from certain purchases, or movies, or practices like party bags, so that "deprived" children do not feel different. But in the long term, parents' best shot is to try to head off some of these gimmes before they happen, by making difference not quite so scary. If parents take steps to celebrate difference, in themselves, in the family, among friends, in schools, children may see that they can belong in their social world even if they are different.

"Then they might not fall victim to what I came to see as the tyranny of sameness, stemming from their longing to belong."

Posted by Kate Shatzkin at 5:53 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Categories: The Monday Consult
        

Our Guest Dad today is Chad S. Ritchie, a local father of two girls -- one who's just broken into her teens, and one who's on the precipice. He's writing today about mascara politics.

Here's his post:

"Fatherhood. It's a beautiful thing. Unless you have teenage girls. Teenage daughters have the uncanny ability to instantly change a father's level of self-assuredness. I have two girls, one is 13 and the other is 12. In the span of six months I went from being the coolest man on the planet to the guy who is no longer allowed to answer his home phone.

Please don't misunderstand, I love my children dearly. In fact, as any good father, I would do anything for them. Which is why I sit idly by as they put on enough mascara to camouflage a parade of pigmy elephants before heading off to school each morning. My friends ask me why I let them put on make-up. I tell them if they don't get it, they're in for a rough ride.

You see, I became a father when I was 20 years old. I'm now 33. Most of my friends are just becoming parents. It's the upside to having children when you're entirely too young to know better. At a time when couples my age are only acquainting themselves with the idea of diapers, I'm a seasoned veteran. I can walk into a room full of crying babies and have them changed, fed and quoting Voltaire by snack time.

So when my friends lecture me on the fact I let my girls wear make-up to school, I politely listen to their point of view. Their hearts are in the right place, but they're missing the bigger picture. In 13 years of parenting I've learned a few things. One of the most important lessons is that a father should let his girls express themselves as they grow into young ladies. And regardless of whether or not my friends agree with me, they cannot argue with the results.

Both of my daughters are on the honor roll, they do their homework without being asked, and they are respectful to adults and kind to their peers. So when my girls ask me to stay up a half an hour late on a week night, or to play on the computer for a few hours, or even to wear make-up to school, I let them do it. While it can be somewhat disconcerting to see my young ladies walk out of the house with a little too much eyeshadow on, I realize that their world is much different than my own. In the end, we teach our children to be kind and wise. Then we must give them the freedom to choose. Our fears should not dictate their path in life."

Posted by Kate Shatzkin at 6:03 AM | Permalink | Comments (5)
Categories: Father's Day Tuesday
        

Looking for some projects to help the kids look forward to and celebrate Thanksgiving? Here are a few tips:

--Get a whole roundup of ideas, including Thanksgiving printables, here.

--Make an easy turkey puppet from a paper lunch bag, courtesy of Jennwa at The Ramblings of a Crazy Woman (disregard the name -- anyone organized enough for craft projects can't be that crazy).

--Make a clothespin pilgrim!

--Have them design the Thanksgiving menu with you (if you dare), and write out the shopping list.

--Make Sweet Potato Casserole Cupcakes, as Cupcake Project did last year.

--Not so into this particular holiday, but need to keep kids quietly, earnestly busy while you or your hosts cook? Little Elephants has a list of 30 simple projects. Make your own Thank You cards might be particularly appropriate.

--In a pinch, most young kids still enjoy drawing the old turkey from a hand and decorating it. I was surprised to find my son earnestly doing that on our white board the other day.

(Photo by Baltimore Sun photographer Lloyd Fox)

Posted by Kate Shatzkin at 11:49 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Tip Sheet Thursdays
        

It's not quite Thanksgiving yet, but Baltimore's Thanksgiving parade is this weekend, along Pratt Street from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday. (I love the image of the cheery-yet-creepy giant gingerbread man taking over downtown from the 2006 parade, at left.) Afterwards, you'll be able to visit Santa at Harborplace.

It's also a big weekend for local holiday bazaars and more Santa visits. (If you know of some we haven't listed, please chime in with details, prices, and links in the comments section.)

Here's the list, with lots of help from interns Raven Smith and Lindsey Citron: 

Thursday, Nov. 20:

Turkey Day Thank Yous - Preschoolers can enjoy Thanksgiving-themed stories, music and crafts. Anne Arundel County Public Library, North County Branch. 10 a.m. 410-222-6270 or aacpl.net for more information.

Friday, Nov. 21:

Discovering Black Hawk -  Children learn about the cultures and traditions of Maryland's various Native American tribes through viewing a collection of Lakota Indian painted images. Ages 5-10. Carroll County Public Library, Eldersburg Branch. 1:30 p.m. 410-386-4460 or library.carr.org for more information.

If you don't want to see Santa downtown, on Friday he'll be at Towson Town Center...

(Photo of Baltimore's 2006 Thanksgiving parade by Baltimore Sun photographer Monica Lopossay)

..with the band Milkshake at the 10 a.m. Family Fun Day on the third level, outside Macy's.  

Saturday, Nov. 22:

Improv at the Library - Tweens and Teens can learn about the basics of improvisational comedy theatre. Baltimore County Public Library, Lansdowne Branch. Ages 11 - 17. 2 p.m. 410-887-5602 for more information.

Gingerbread Baby - Kids can hear the classic story of The Gingerbread Man, and decorate their own gingerbread cookies. Carroll County Public Library, North Carroll Branch. Ages 3 - 10. 11 a.m. 410-386-4488 or library.carr.org for more information.

Christmas Bazaar: Shop for gently used children's toys and books, along with other holiday items, from 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. at St. David's Church, 4700 Roland Ave. Kids' activities, refreshments, and a visit from Santa around 11 a.m. For more information, call 410-467-0476.

Cross Keys children's Christmas celebration: Enjoy an afternoon of games, activities, music, a holiday market and a Santa photo-op at the Village of Cross Keys, 5100 Falls Road. Noon-2 p.m., Kids of all ages. Free. Contact Amanda Littles, 410-323-1000, villageofcrosskeys.com.

Borders party: Celebrate Thanksgiving with a Turkey Day Kids Party featuring games, stories, arts and crafts and more at Borders Bookstore, 170 W. Ridgely Road, Lutherville. 2 p.m. Ages 2-10. Free. 410-453-0727 or borders.com.

Tellabration!: This Baltimore Folk Music Society will present an evening of favorite tales featuring great storytellers from the Baltimore area at Woodbrook Baptist Church, 25 Stevenson Lane, Towson. Family stories, for the younger set, will be told from 7 p.m.-8:30 p.m., with more grown-up stories to follow until 11 p.m. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. Tickets are $5 for children, $7-$9 for adults, and $16-$20 for families. Call 410-366-0808 or visit bfms.org.

Sunday, Nov. 23:

Book swap: GBMC Moms holds a swap of gently used books, toys, and household items at the Cockeysville Library meeting room, 2 p.m.-4 p.m. Each participant can take a few items home; the rest are donated to Baltimore Reads, the library branch, and the New Parents Center in Essex. For more information, email mtalalay@gmail.com. 

Lenape Turkey Raffle - Children and adults can make replicas of ceremonial Turkey Rattles used by the Lenape Indian tribe of Delaware. Ages 8 to adult, and 8-10 with an adult. 2-3:30 p.m. Admission $ 4. Anita C. Leight Estuary Center, 700 Otter Point Rd., Abingdon. 410-612-1688 or otterpointcreek.org for more information.

High-Tech Hide and Seek - Use a GPS to track down a hidden treasure's location and explore the woods in a update on this classic game. All ages. 2 - 4 p.m.; show up promptly at 2 p.m. $4 for non-members and $2 for members. Marshy Point Nature Center, 7130 Marshy Point Rd., Baltimore. Pre-registration recommended; call 410-887-2817 or visit marshypoint.org for more information.

Temple Emanuel Klezmer Meets Bluegrass Concert - Introduce children and teens to traditional Yiddish music with an all-American twist. Free refreshments. 4 - 6 p.m. Ages 5 - teens. Admission: $15 for students and youth under 21, $36 for general admission. Temple Emanuel, 909 Berrymans Ln., Reisterstown. Call 410-526-3676 or visit templeemanuelofbaltimore.org for more information.   

Posted by Kate Shatzkin at 5:54 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Categories: Things to Do
        

Well, this mom has joined the tweeting ranks. Follow me at twitter.com/charmcitymoms (look for the cupcake.)

I actually signed up a while ago, but for a while I resisted tweeting very often. I had started to read that moms were finding the micro-blogathon of Twitter just sucked up too much of the little life that remained to them after they took care of their kids, husbands, bosses' needs, volunteer duties, etc., etc. I still remember when Mary Beth at Supafine said Sayonara to Twitter. But then she went back a couple months later.

Guess I can't avoid it, huh?

Do you tweet?

Posted by Kate Shatzkin at 1:18 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Categories: Parent bloggers
        

Remember Halloween week, when I said I was trying out souffles in mini pumpkins? Here they are, as the perfect kiddie meal, vegetarian alternative, or fun appetizer for Thanksgiving.

Truth be told, we did not all eat these together on Halloween night. (Yes, I know this is supposed to be Dinner Together, but all parents know that sometimes it just doesn't happen. Particularly on Halloween....)

Anyway, I got the prep work done before trick-or-treating. You steam the pumpkins so that the flesh is cooked, then you scoop that out and mix it with eggs, a bit of flour, baking powder, and cheese. You add egg whites to help the souffle rise, and then bake it again...

(Photo by Glenn Moody photography courtesy of Cabot Cheese)

They’d be a festive Thanksgiving appetizer, or a main dish (serve 2 to each person) for vegetarians or kids who don’t want turkey, or a fun morning-after brunch dish. Serve with steamed green beans.

My kids stopped, though, when they tasted the pumpkin in the souffle.

Pumpkin and White Cheddar Souffles

Serves 4 as an entree, 8 as an appetizer

8 mini pumpkins
4 large eggs
4 teaspoons all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon baking powder
3 ounces sharp white cheddar, such as Cabot, diced
Salt and ground black pepper to taste


Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Place uncut pumpkins in large shallow dish and add 1/4 inch of water; cover tightly with foil and bake for 40 minutes, or until tender. Let cool. Reheat oven to 375 degrees.

With paring knife, remove tops from pumpkins. Remove and discard seeds, then scoop out flesh, leaving 1/4-inch-thick shell.

Place 4 cups of pumpkin flesh in mixing bowl. Separate eggs, stirring yolks into pumpkin flesh and placing whites in separate bowl.

Stir flour and baking powder into pumpkin mixture, then stir in cheese.
Season with salt and pepper. Whip egg whites into stiff peaks. Fold into pumpkin mixture. Spoon souffle mixture into pumpkin shells. Place on baking sheet and bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until puffed and set.

Adapted from a recipe developed for Cabot Cheese by Chef Jeffrey Weiss.

Per serving: 227 calories, 14 grams protein, 12 grams fat, 6 grams saturated fat, 18 grams carbohydrate, 1 gram fiber, 234 milligrams cholesterol, 238 milligrams sodium. Analysis by registered dietitian Jodie Shield.

Posted by Kate Shatzkin at 6:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (2)
        

For the past several months, when I’ve reprimanded my 12-year-old for some particularly irrational behavior or disrespectful comment, he comes up with one reply: “It’s puberty.”

While I’m not inclined to blame hormones for everything he does, there’s no doubt his body is changing. I’m amazed to see his shoulders becoming broader and his voice a little deeper.

Some companies and small entrepreneurs have discovered that there’s a market to be had in helping parents deal with kids going through puberty. They’ve come up with puberty kits for boys and girls like this and this. The contents vary, but all of them have pamphlets explaining to kids and their parents what to expect about this important time of their lives.

When my son was in fifth grade, he received one of these kits in school. He thought the stick of deodorant was pretty cool. For the most part, I feel pretty comfortable talking with my boys, but every now and then, they come up with some questions I’d prefer they ask their father.

What about you? Is it hard to talk with your tween about puberty? Have you tried any of these kits that are on the market, and do you think they make it easier?

Posted by Liz Atwood at 6:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (2)
        

Motrin learned the hard way this weekend that while mothers are an attractive and powerful demographic for purchasing power, an ad that comes off the wrong way can be a really unfortunate thing.

It all started when the company ran a spot promoting Motrin as an antidote to parenting back pain. Now that's something lots of parents experience; I wrote about it several years ago. But this particular ad said the problem lay with "the fashion" of wearing your baby in a sling, pouch, Baby Bjorn, etc. To lots of moms who twittered furiously about it and got in touch with the company, this was an insult -- they wear their babies to keep them close, not just to look like "official moms" (the ad's language).

There's a good summary of what's been happening on the New York Times' Motherlode blog. Here's one blogger's response. And you can follow the Twitter discussion here.

And the Motrin web site? I couldn't even call it up just now. But here's the ad in question, still alive on YouTube:

Posted by Kate Shatzkin at 12:02 PM | Permalink | Comments (7)
Categories: Health
        

Families all over are talking about the quest to pick the right dog for president-elect Barack Obama’s family. Because daughter Malia is allergic, there’s a lot of talk about the Obamas getting a “hypoallergenic” dog.

But one local allergy expert preaches caution.

“The current talk about ‘hypoallergenic’ dogs . . . can lead to negative outcomes if they perpetuate a myth and create unfounded expectations,” Dr. Alvin Sanico, medical director of the Asthma Sinus Allergy Program at Greater Baltimore Medical Center, wrote to me.

“The fact is that all dogs and cats produce allergens that can be found in their dander and saliva, regardless of their breed and the length of their hair, or lack thereof,” wrote Sanico, who is also an assistant professor of medicine at the Johns Hopkins Division of Allergy and Clinical Immunology. “Some may produce more - or less - allergens than others simply because of their individual nature. Based on this premise, it wouldn't really matter if the Obamas choose a "mutt" over the various breeds that pet pundits now suggest.”

For example, voters in an American Kennel Club poll suggested a poodle would be the best breed for the Obamas. But Sanico cites a study published in the journal Allergy that found levels of an allergenic protein can vary widely within the same breed, and that poodles, for example, can shed relatively high amounts of it. The study concluded there was really no such thing as a hypoallergenic breed.

So how is a family – “first” or otherwise – to choose a pet, if avoiding pets isn't an option? “Before the choice of a dog is finalized, a trial period would be advisable to test whether exposure (to the chosen dog) triggers significant symptoms,” Sanico writes. “Control of allergy and asthma need to be optimized and maintained with appropriate medications. Allergen immunotherapy may be considered, with the understanding that it would take several months before desensitization can be achieved. With the right strategy, the pet can provide joyful companionship instead of consternation.”

Posted by Kate Shatzkin at 6:07 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Categories: The Monday Consult
        

Here's an addition to Thursday's events post. It will be of particular interest as the holidays start, I think:

Lecture for Grandparents with Interfaith grandchildren: Members of the Jewish Community Center of Greater Baltimore will be on hand to discuss issues and concerns of grandparents with grandchildren born into Interfaith families. With a special appearance by Rabbi Kerry Olitzky to talk about his new book, "Twenty Things For Grandparents of Interfaith Grandchildren To Do." Gordon Center For Performing Arts, 1 p.m. - 3 p.m. $10 per person. Contact Sharon Seigel, 410-356-5200 (x347) or parenting@jcc.org for more information.

Posted by Kate Shatzkin at 12:52 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
        

Guest Dad Howard Libit, who last wrote on the blog about balancing long hours and little ones, is back with a little anecdote about his family's visit to our house. We've been laughing about how the sheer will of a 2-year-old can bring a parent to his knees.

Here's his post:

"When we're out in public, it feels like my wife and I are often caught in the dilemma of how to deal with our 2-1/2-year-old's behavior -- do we hold Elliot to the strict rules that we try to enforce at home (and risk a crying meltdown), or let some of the little things slide?  Last weekend was no exception.

"While at another family's house, it became time to sit down for dinner.  (Full disclosure -- we were at the home of the host of this blog, Kate).  Kate's son and daughter (who are elementary-school age) came over to sit down for dinner, but Elliot didn't want to immediately join us.  Not surprisingly, he was enthralled with the cars and trucks that belong to Kate's son.

"After a few minutes, Elliot walked over to the table, and he was lugging a huge garbage truck.  I tried to gently persuade him that he needed to "park" the garbage truck on the floor behind his chair, or under the dining room table. (Yes, I know persuasion doesn't work with 2-1/2-year-olds, but I try anyway).  Elliot refused and insisted on pushing the truck up onto the table, next to his plate.

"My wife and I quickly looked at each other, and we both were uncertain what to do.  Of course it's against the rules at our home to bring toys to dinner.  And Kate doesn't let her children do it, either.  Since I was sitting next to Elliot, it was going to be up to me to take the truck away.  And I just didn't have the energy or strength to do it.  Elliot seemed happy, everyone else at the table was happy, our 4-month-old baby girl was calm -- I just didn't want to ruin everything by demanding that the truck be put away.  I didn't want the tears and the yelling.

"Hopefully, Kate's children aren't trying to bring toys to the table after we let Elliot do it.  And Elliot hasn't started trying to bring toys to dinner at home.  So maybe kids are smart enough to realize they can get away with a lot more when we're outside of the house.'

Posted by Kate Shatzkin at 6:01 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Categories: Father's Day Tuesday
        

When the holidays arrive, so will the college students some of you tearfully sent off a few months ago. Now they're coming back with their own schedules and ways of doing things, expecting turkey and, perhaps, some clean laundry.

STA Travel, the youth and student travel company, has tips on how to ease your returning student back into life at home for the holidays:

-- Talk about changes in advance. "If you’ve transformed your student’s bedroom into an office or media room, let them know in advance. They will appreciate the heads-up and you will avoid any arguments when they find out for themselves."

--"Expect them to rest. What you might see as lazy is just your student catching up on some much-needed rest. Remember that students are coming off a very stressful time of studying and final exams, so they probably didn’t get much sleep. Don’t worry if they sleep in the first few days they are back home. They need to be rested and rejuvenated for the next semester."

--Plan ahead. "Work out a schedule ahead of time for the visit home. Set aside time for (students) to visit with family, but make sure they have time to visit with their old friends as well. If you show some consideration to their plans, they will likely return the favor."

--"Set some ground rules. Set some basic rules with your student before they return home, but allow for some flexibility in certain areas. You may not be able to enforce a curfew, but ask them to let you know of their plans and when they expect to be home."

--"Plan for shared resources. Set a schedule or some rules for bathroom use and another other shared resources. If your student has to share a bedroom or bathroom, or sleep in a guest room, make sure they have their space. You don’t want them to feel like they’ve been left out of the family."

Do those of you who've been through this have anything to add? 

Posted by Kate Shatzkin at 10:50 AM | Permalink | Comments (2)
Categories: Tip Sheet Thursdays
        

Can it really be time already to sit on Santa's lap? He'll be coming to some of our local malls starting...today.

You can also visit with the Grinch today. And if it's too early for Christmas for you, there are other things to do: 

Thursday, Nov. 13:

Santa’s Arrival at Marley Station Mall: Come visit with Santa; first 500 children to arrive receive a holiday gift. Marley Station Mall, 7900 Ritchie Highway, Glen Burnie, 7 p.m. Children of all ages. 410-760-5990, shopmarleystation.com.

The Grinch Visits the Enoch Pratt Library: Listen to a story read by the Grinch himself and get the chance to meet him at 3 p.m. at the Northwood branch of the Enoch Pratt Library, 4420 Loch Raven Blvd.  Ages 6-12. Free. Call 410-396-6076 to register, prattlibrary.org.

Little Stars: "Bricks and Boards": Learn about architecture of the 1800s through hands-on activities, readings, and crafts today and Saturday at the Star Spangled Banner Flag House, 844 E. Pratt Street, Baltimore. 11 a.m.-noon. Ages 3-5 with adult. Free. Reservation required, 410-837-1793, flaghouse.org

Nature Storytime: Enjoy a nature-themed story and a related craft at 11 a.m. at Eden Mill Nature Center, 1617 Eden Mill Road, Pylesville. Free. Reservation required, 410-836-3050, edenmill.org.

On Friday, you can see Goldilocks and the Three Bears...

(AP Photo/The Jackson Sun, Devin Wagner)

Friday, Nov. 14: 

"Goldilocks and the Three Bears" and "Nursery Rhyme and Rhythm" will be presented by the Kaydee Puppets Company at 10 a.m. at Slayton House Rainbow Theater, Wilde Lake Community Association, Columbia Ages 2-5. $5 in advance, $6 at the door. Call 410-730-3987 ext. 17, or visit www.columbiavillages.org/wildelake.

Teen Friday Afterhours: Take part in activities from watching anime to discussing books at the Whiteford branch of the Harford County Public Library, 6:30-8 p.m. Ages 10+. Free. 410-638-3608, hcplonline.info.

Twilight Party: Attend a party in celebration of the vampire-themed book and anticipation of upcoming movie, including games, music, and snacks, at 7 p.m. at the Carroll County Public Library in Eldersburg. Ages 11-17. Free. 410-386-4488, library.carr.org.

Saturday, Nov. 15:

Money for college: Learn the basics of financing a college education with scholarships, loans, and grants with financial aid counselor Roger Lettie, from 1-2:30 p.m. at the West County branch of the Anne Arundel County Public Library. Ages 13+. Free, 410-222-6277, aacpl.net.

How to Survive a Black Hole: Create-your-own neuron star, lessons on the galaxy, and solar observation presented by Westminster Astronomical Society, Carroll County Public Library, Eldersburg, 2 p.m. Ages 6+. Free. 410-386-4488, library.carr.org.

Dino Day at the Maryland Science Center: Watch a live reptile show, search for fossils, excavate, and make dino-themed crafts from noon-4 p.m. at the Maryland Science Center, 601 Light Street, Baltimore, 12-4 p.m., Kids of all ages. Free with regular admissions prices. 410-685-5225, marylandsciencecenter.org.

Sunday, Nov. 16:

Free Family Sunday: Sit Yourself Down: Construct a chair at The Baltimore Museum of Art, N. 10 Art Museum Drive, Baltimore, 2 p.m., Family fun, Free, Registration not required, 443-573-1700.

Silver Turtles: Learn to make easy and nutritious meals by cooking in foil on coals at the Anita C. Leight Estuary Center, 700 Otter Point Road, Abingdon, 10:30-11:30 a.m., Ages 8-adult (8-10 with adult). $5, Registration required. 410-612-1688, otterpointcreek.org.

Posted by Kate Shatzkin at 5:52 AM | Permalink | Comments (2)
Categories: Things to Do
        

Everybody needs a good roast chicken recipe. This one, from the new Bon Appetit Fast Easy Fresh Cookbook, is my new favorite because a) it's roasted in pieces, so it cooks reasonably quickly and is easier to serve, and b) the side dish cooks right along with it. And, while it's cooking, your house smells great.

A funny story happened when I made this for dinner on the day of the Michael Phelps homecoming parade...

(Photo from "The Bon Appetit Fast Easy Fresh Cookbook," by Barbara Fairchild)

We skipped the parade, figuring it would be too crowded, and we were having a quiet afternoon. Then my alert husband spotted a police officer directing traffic at the nearby intersection, and he had the bright idea that maybe Phelps was going to pass by. He took the kids down to the corner to investigate.

I was just starting the chicken dish, so I quickly seasoned it and the potatoes, tossed them with oil and lemon juice and threw them in the oven in time to see Phelps' Hummer blaze by with a phalanx of motorcycle officers in front. My kids -- the only ones on that particular corner -- got a nice salute from the Olympian through the window of the car, and by the time we got back to the house, that fragrant dinner was well on its way.

The children, probably in an extra-good mood after the excitement, ate well and pronounced this a winner. 

Lemon-oregano Roast Chicken and Potatoes

Serves 4

6 tablespoons olive oil, divided

3 large garlic cloves, minced

3 teaspoons dried oregano, divided use

2 1/4 pounds red-skinned potatoes, each cut lengthwise into 6 wedges

Salt and pepper to taste

1 4-pound chicken, cut into 8 pieces

3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees. Brush large rimmed baking sheet with 2 tablespoons oil. Combine remaining 4 tablespoons oil, garlic, and 1 1/2 teaspoons oregano in a bowl. Add potatoes and toss to coat. Sprinkle potatoes with salt and pepper. Sprinkle chicken with remaining oregano, then salt and pepper. Arrange chicken, skin side up, in single layer in center of prepared baking sheet. Arrange potatoes around chicken. Drizzle chicken with lemon juice and any remaining oil mixture from bowl of potatoes.

Roast chicken and potatoes until chicken is cooked through and potatoes are tender, about 1 hour 10 minutes.

--From The Bon Appetit Fast Easy Fresh Cookbook, by Barbara Fairchild

Per serving (with skin): 923 calories, 63 grams protein, 52 grams fat, 12 grams saturated fat, 48 grams carbohydrate, 4 grams fiber, 179 milligrams cholesterol, 188 milligrams sodium. Analysis by registered dietitian Jodie Shield.

Posted by Kate Shatzkin at 5:59 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Dinner Together, Food and Recipes
        

We need more parenting questions for the Monday Consult. Please post them below, or we'll all just be stuck with the questions I come up with. Yours are more interesting.

By the way, I'm hearing reports that readers are having problems commenting. If you're getting a message that you've posted too many comments -- and you're a real person with a real comment, not a spammer -- please ignore that and keep trying. It's not you; it's us, and a glitch in our system.

Posted by Kate Shatzkin at 1:20 PM | Permalink | Comments (3)
Categories: The Monday Consult
        

The school year is well under way and the first report cards are due soon. As the kids get older, I find it harder to keep up with their academic progress. This is especially true of my son in middle school, where the students are expected to be more responsible for their own learning. While I keep in regular contact with my second grader’s teacher and so find few surprises when the report card comes home, I am never sure what surprises (good or bad) await in the middle schooler’s report card. How many telling papers are stuffed far in the locker?

Well, soon the truth will be told, but then what? I always wonder whether I should reward good grades with a monetary payment. Last year, my husband made our son an all or nothing offer: All "A"s would yield $100. Anything less would be $0. I made a different offer: $10 for every A, $5 for every B. Nothing for Cs or less. He accepted my terms, but I wasn’t happy with that arrangement, as I think our son earned too much for less than stellar report cards. This year, we haven’t made an agreement and I’m tempted not to. What do you think?

Posted by Liz Atwood at 6:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (2)
Categories: Teens
        

Your infant has been crying -- a lot. That's what babies do. But how do you know if your baby actually has colic? I asked Dr. Charles Shubin, director of pediatrics at Mercy FamilyCare, a division of Family Health Centers of Baltimore, to provide today's Consult.

Colic, Shubin explained, is not a defined medical disease but a diagnosis that's made when doctors and parents have ruled out other reasons for a baby's discomfort. But here are some of the signs he said might lead you to talk to your pediatrician about colic: Your baby is 1 to 4 months of age; she cries for long periods at a time, after you've tried feeding her, burping her and changing her to help; and the extended crying has something of a daytime pattern that often occurs in the late afternoon and early evening. "They cry continuously or a lot, or they're not well consolable," Shubin said.

What can you do if the doctor can't find a physical cause of discomfort and says your child does have colic? Shubin says some parents have had success swaddling the baby -- wrapping her tightly in a blanket like a burrito, which you might have done when she was first born. Vibrating baby chairs and swings might also calm the baby, but Shubin cautions that you shouldn't prop the infant on top of a clothes dryer -- the vibrations might be soothing, but the baby could fall off.

The good news is that time is on a parent's side. Most babies stop extended crying at about the time they learn to sleep through the night, around 4 months, Shubin said. If yours is still crying for hours every day much beyond that, it's time to talk to your doctor again.

Posted by Kate Shatzkin at 6:17 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Categories: Babies and Toddlers, Expecting, The Monday Consult
        

Multimedia editor Steve Sullivan is our Guest Dad today, with a rumination on how his daughter got her name.

Here's his post:

It was about this time last year when our middle child came home from school one day and asked me, "Why did you have to name me Flannery?"

It seems that her Latin teacher had asked the kids to look up the meanings of their names. Flannery discovered that Flannery translates to either "red hair" or "flat piece of metal", neither of which accurately describes her.

I explained that our choice of name for her had nothing to do with what she looks like. But there is a story behind how she became Flannery Bliss Sullivan.

It's been tradition for my wife, Marcy, and me to honor family members by using at least their initials as the basis of our children's names. Our son, Courtland Scott Sullivan, was named for my dad, Courtlan, and Marcy's grandmother, Sadie. Before Flannery was born, we decided to work with the F (for my mother, Frances) and B (for Marcy's grandpa, Ben). If the child had been born a boy, we had said the name would be Benjamin Franklin - although I don't know if we'd have actually gone through with it. The girl's name, however, was proving much more difficult to come up with.

Since we had already given Courtland my dad's name, I felt it would be too weird to name the girl after my mom. We tried many different variations, wanting to find something that was unique, but that didn't sound too bizarre. And we didn't want something with a hidden meaning attached to it, like "red hair" or "flat piece of metal".

As we approached the due date, I went alone to church one Sunday. As often happens when I'm in church, my mind wanders and I found myself playing with different combinations of F and B names. Suddenly, as if it had been thrown at me from the pulpit, the name Flannery jumped out of the context of the sermon. The lector was talking about a Flannery O'Connor short story called "Revelation." Flannery. Flannery? Hmmm?

Right on the heels of that revelation (sorry), another word shot out of the sermon - bliss. The lector was suddenly talking about bliss, which she defined as "the joy of Heaven." Bliss. Flannery Bliss?

Okay, sometimes I struggle with faith. Then there are moments like this, where I'm sitting there pondering something less than one of life's great mysteries, but which has me confounded nonetheless. And an answer - I think - is handed to me on a platter.

I returned home and prefaced what I was about to suggest to Marcy with, "I hope you won't think I'm crazy, but..." She accepted it with an open mind. It's hard to completely discount a name that very well may have been delivered from God himself.

Soon after, Flannery Bliss Sullivan was born. The name fit perfectly. As does the nickname which rolled off my tongue soon after seeing her - Peach. She's delightfully sweet.

As I explained to Flannery, in response to her question, don't worry too much about what some book says your name means. It's the person who defines the name, not the other way around.

Posted by Kate Shatzkin at 10:10 AM | Permalink | Comments (3)
Categories: Father's Day Tuesday
        

Barack Obama has been president-elect only a couple of days, but already babies are being named after him and his family.

Locally, Greater Baltimore Medical Center sends word that a mother who delivered a daughter on election night has named the girl Sasha Malia, after Obama's young daughters.

What do you think about marking the moment in this way?

 (EMMANUEL DUNAND/AFP)

Posted by Kate Shatzkin at 5:52 AM | Permalink | Comments (2)
Categories: Babies and Toddlers
        

Is the sagging economy putting the squeeze on your family -- and causing some tense times? The Family Tree, a Baltimore nonprofit dedicated to the prevention of child abuse, has some tips for keeping things at home on a more even keel as you navigate a financial crisis:

"--Talk to your children and answer their questions honestly. Have age appropriate discussions with your children about how the current economic downturn affects your family and ways you are dealing with any problems.

"--Limit your news intake. Stay informed, but do not let children get caught up in the round the clock coverage of the negative state of the economy.

"--Take care of yourself. Exercise, watch what you eat, get plenty of rest, and take time for yourself.

"--Be realistic. Look over your current financial situation and develop a plan to manage expenses. Don’t obsess over past mistakes or possible future problems.

"--Have a support network. Talk to family, friends, spiritual leaders, ask for assistance.

"--Take a break. Engage in a family activity; visit the park, walk around the neighborhood or simply enjoy a meal together and avoid discussing the economy.

"--Seek support when needed. If the level of stress or anxiety is overwhelming call The Family Tree’s Stressline – 800-243-7337.

Posted by Kate Shatzkin at 10:48 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Tip Sheet Thursdays
        

You mean after all the Halloween activities and election fever, you don't just want to veg this weekend? (That would be my plan, if it could be.)

Well, if not, there are still some fun things going on to tell you about, thanks to interns Lindsey Citron and Raven Smith:

Thursday, Nov. 6:

Thanks to Our Heroes: Card making for all types of heroes, including firefighters, soldiers, teachers, etc., at 3:30 p.m. at the Anne Arundel County Public Library  Linthicum Branch, 3:30 p.m., All ages. Free. 410-222-6265, http://www.aacpl.net.

Baltimore School for the Arts concert: High school orchestra recital, Baltimore School for the Arts, Schaefer Ballroom, 712 Cathedral St., Baltimore, 4:30-6 p.m. Free. 443-642-5171, bsfa.org.

Friday, Nov. 7:

Rocknoceros Concert: The Rocknoceros group teaches kids about teeth brushing, the 50 states, and other fun facts through songs at 10 a.m. at The Other Barn, 5851 Robert Oliver Pl., Columbia. Ages 2-5 with adult. $4.75. 410-730-4610, columbiavillages.org.

Madeline and the Bad Hat: Musical based on the novel performed by the ArtsPower National Touring Company at the Amoss Center, Thomas Run Rd., Bel Air, 7-8 p.m. Ages K-2 recommended. Adults-$9, Kids-$7, premier seating-$11 (all ages). 410-836-4211, harford.edu/cultural.

And...

Irish Festival: The Maryland Irish Festival offers fun for all ages in the Cow Palace at the Maryland State Fairgrounds in Timonium. There will be Irish food, dancing, music and family activities. The festival runs 6 p.m.-11 p.m. tomorrow11/7, noon-11 p.m. Saturday and 10:30 a.m.-7 p.m. Sunday. Tickets are $5-$10; for those older than 12; free for children younger than 12. Call 410-905-7969 or go to irishfestival.com.
 

Talking Bones: Learn to identify and classify different types of bones in an interactive workshop atEden Mill Nature Center, 1617 Eden Mill Rd., Pylesville, 9 a.m.-12 p.m. Ages 14+. Must pre-register. Free. 410-836-3050, edenmill.org. 

Saturday, Nov. 8:

Sweets and Treats: A summer camp themed drop-in features s'mores, ice cream, and games at the Rosenbloom Owings Mills Jewish Community Center, 3506 Gwynnbrook Ave., from 7:30-10:30 p.m. Grades K-5. $30 for members, $50 for non-members. Call 410-356-5200 or email lwellerstein@jcc.org.

Sunday, Nov. 9:

Posted by Kate Shatzkin at 6:05 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Things to Do
        

At this point, faithful readers know that any shrimp dish is pretty much cheating. As long as the shrimp isn't tricked out too much, I'm guaranteed a favorable response from at least 50 percent of my young dinner constitutents.

Then again, this dish was originally designed for kids...

(Photo by me)

It was developed by Melissa Clark for a feature on meals for picky discriminating young eaters that ran in Food and Wine. The magazine reprinted the recipe in its annual cookbook for 2008.

The shrimp soaks in a simple marinade before grilling; it can be dipped in a honey-orange-garlic aioli, or not. My son chose not. My daughter chose not to try it.

This is billed as a summer dish, but good-quality frozen shrimp and a grill pan make it just fine year round.

Grilled Shrimp with Orange Aioli

Serves 6

Shrimp:

2 pounds large shrimp, shelled and deveined

1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil

1 tablespoon fresh orange juice

2 garlic cloves, very finely chopped

Freshly ground black pepper

Aioli:

1 1/2 cups mayonnaise

3 tablespoons fresh orange juice

2 teaspoons finely grated orange zest

2 teaspoons honey

1 garlic clove, very finely chopped

Kosher salt

Marinate the shrimp: In a medium bowl, toss the shelled shrimp with the olive oil, fresh orange juice, chopped garlic and a generous pinch of black pepper. Cover and refrigerate the shrimp and its marinade for 1 hour or overnight.

Make the aioli: Meanwhile, in a medium bowl, whisk the mayonnaise with the fresh orange juice, grated orange zest, honey and chopped garlic; season the aioli with salt.

Light a grill or preheat a ridged grill pan. Thread the shrimp onto 6 pairs of bamboo skewers and season the shrimp with salt. Grill the skewers over high heat, turning occasionally, until the shrimp are lightly charred and cooked through, 5 to 6 minutes. Transfer the shrimp skewers to plates and serve with the orange aioli.

--From "Food & Wine Annual 2008"

Per serving (including 2 tablespoons aioli): 407 calories, 31 grams protein, 29 grams fat, 4 grams saturated fat, 3 grams carbohydrate, 0 grams fiber, 240 milligrams cholesterol, 374 milligrams sodium. Analysis by registered dietitian Jodie Shield.

Posted by Kate Shatzkin at 5:57 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)
        

I know there's a lot going on today, but what better time than the day of an historic election to ponder all aspects of your family's future -- including the parenting questions you'd like to have an expert answer here on this blog?

Post your questions in the comments below. The sooner you ask, the sooner I can get to work on an answer.

Posted by Kate Shatzkin at 4:40 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: The Monday Consult
        

As Liz said earlier, it's been interesting to watch kids' reactions to this election -- even the young ones. You find out a little bit about what your children are made of.

For example, my son told me that he had voted for Barack Obama in his kindergarten class election. I asked him why. He said, "Well, he was going to be the winner."

Another 5-year-old I know was stricken that his slightly older sister was supporting a different candidate than the rest of the family.

And lots of kids are interested in going to the polls with parents today. If you're thinking about it, here's the Maryland election page that spells out the rules. And here's a Seattle Times piece on the subject.

If you already got back from taking your kid to vote with you, how did that go? 

Posted by Kate Shatzkin at 11:58 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Categories: School's Out
        

Here's the latest Tween Tuesday post from Liz Atwood:

The schools are closed today for Election Day, and the long presidential campaign is nearly over. In our house we’ve been debating the merits of the candidates for months, and the kids have gotten into it, asking me to explain the differences between Obama’s and McCain’s tax policies, talking about the vice presidential candidates, and discussing who we think would be the best president.

In some schools, tweens and teens have been studying the issues and holding mock elections. My 7-year-old's class is having a mock election, but interestingly, the kids have been instructed to keep their choices secret.

Have you and your tween been talking politics? What do you feel comfortable saying and not saying to your child about this election?

Baltimore Sun Staff photo/Doug Kapustin

Posted by Liz Atwood at 6:09 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Categories: Teens
        

A new study from the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health has found that children in the care of their grandparents are less likely to be injured than those in the care of someone outside their family, another relative, or even -- gulp -- their own mothers. This despite the perception by some that grandparents might not be the best caregivers, because they might not be up on modern safety practices.

We're looking for parents who are leaving their children with grandparents for a story on the study -- and for grandparents who are taking care of grandchildren. If you'd be willing to talk with a reporter, please e-mail Kelly Brewington.

Meanwhile, any thoughts on these findings?

Posted by Kate Shatzkin at 12:05 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Categories: Health
        

More troubling statistics are out today on the number of children taking prescription medications for chronic diseases that once were mostly confined to adults. Our story, by Stephanie Desmon, says there's been a surge in the numbers of children being treated for diabetes and asthma, according to a study that appears today in the journal Pediatrics. The rise is seen by doctors as caused in large part by the childhood obesity crisis.

Add this to last week's New York Times report on kidney stones showing up in kids as young as 5, and a parent has to wonder if there's any way to keep a child healthy in 2008, and what the future holds.

Posted by Kate Shatzkin at 10:06 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Health
        

CKisMom wanted advice on nighttime potty training for her 3 1/2 year old, who uses the bathroom by himself during the day but still needs a pull-up at night. He doesn't drink much before bed and uses the bathroom before lights out, but isn't staying dry.

Dr. Katherine Hopkins, a pediatrician with Box Hill Pediatrics in Abingdon, says it's actually common for kids to wet the bed until they're as old as 7. "If there is a family history of bedwetting, then a later age for night-time control is common," she wrote to me. "The first step in the pursuit of over-night dryness is to evaluate the child’s evening routine. Late dinners, after-school activities with a large drink bottle and bed-time snacks will contribute to the volume of fluid heading to the bladder overnight. Encourage plain water rather than sugary drinks or milk in the evening. Use a smaller glass." (But don't over-restrict water from a child who has reason to be thirsty from physical activity.) "Be sure your child empties his/her bladder just before going to sleep."

If those steps don't work, your child is likely just a heavy sleeper whose need to get to the bathroom isn't waking him up. When he's 7 to 9 years old, you can try intervening with an alarm that attaches to the child's underwear and sounds at the first sign of urine. Because the child may not hear that, Hopkins recommends a parent sleep in the room with the child at first.

"Once the alarm sounds, the parent jumps up, wakes the child (trying to stop the urine flow) gets the child to the bathroom, change the towel on the sheets (which was placed there at the beginning of the night to make clean-up quick) and all go back to sleep till the next alarm," she wrote. "This process usually takes a good 3 to 4 weeks, so you have to be patient and committed!" Eventually, the child should either get up to use the bathroom during the night on his own, or stay dry.

Hopkins recommends consulting your own pediatrician about which alarm is right for you, particularly if your child has other health issues. And if the alarm strategy fails, you might want to talk to the doctor about medication, especially if the child is avoiding camp or sleep-overs because of embarrassment.

By the way, she says daytime wetting or stooling accidents and constipation can be a sign of a more serious medical condition and need to be addressed by a pediatrician sooner rather than later.

Posted by Kate Shatzkin at 5:43 AM | Permalink | Comments (3)
Categories: The Monday Consult