Baton Rouge Parents Magazine—November 2024

November 2024

NOVEMBER 2024

THE MAGAZINE THAT BATON ROUGE FAMILIES LIVE BY

Eating Disorders During Thanksgiving A Story of Adoption

What’s on Santa’s List?

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MEET OUR TEAM AMY L. FOREMAN Publisher EDITORIAL AMANDA MILLER Managing Editor SANONNA AL TAWEEL AMANDA CIANI

2024

VICTORIA MIKOTA JULIANNA STEEN MADISON VOORHIES Associate Editors ART/PRODUCTION ALEX HERRING Senior Graphic Designer TOM GONZALES MADISON GRAHAM MCKINNA SPROLES Graphic Designers ADVERTISING CRYSTAL BARRETT

2023

WHAT’S ON THE WEB

2022

To Kid Table or Not Kid Table? That Is the Question Should children be separated from adults during Thanksgiving? Here are our thoughts.

KAYLA FRICKS GOMEZ MARTINE MELANCON RYN WHITESIDE Senior Account Executives CAMILLE CAVIN JADE GRAY JENNIFER HOFFMANN Account Executives COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT TERI HODGES Director of Community Partnerships ROXANE VOORHIES Community Outreach ADMINISTRATION BRANDON FOREMAN Chief Executive Officer LAURIE ACOSTA Director of Operations ALEXIS ALEXANDER Senior Executive Administrator

How to Figure Out Thanksgiving Family Splits During the Holidays Splitting fam time during holidays can be stressful, here’s how to navigate the “family split.”

Black Friday: Beat the Crowds and Shop Online This Year Black Friday lines are over. It’s time to cozy up on the couch and surf the web for the best deals.

How to Deal with Rushing the Holidays The holidays fly by. How can you navigate the stress of the holiday season with your family? Experts weigh in.

MAKAYLEE SECREST Administrative Assistant SARAH MILLER Client Success Manager ELISABETH BARRETT KAYLEIGH MONTANA Client Success Specialists EMMY LOGAN Accounting Coordinator AMY PLAISANCE Founder

freebies

Visit brparents.com and click “Promotions.” | Deadline to enter is November 15, 2024.

The Empowering Journaling Craft Kit has everything you need to write poems, stories, and prose like an award-winning author! kidscrafts.org

The Power Lightning Connected Controller lets you be in control of

OFFICE (225) 292-0032 11831 WENTLING AVENUE BATON ROUGE, LA 70816-6055

your gaming. amazon.com

BATON ROUGE PARENTS MAGAZINE is published monthly by FAMILY RESOURCE GROUP INC. (FRG) and distributed free of charge. Subscriptions accepted. Only authorized distributors may deliver and pick up the magazine. Paid advertisements appear in FAMILY RESOURCE GROUP INC. (FRG) publications, including print and other digital formats. FRG does not endorse or evaluate the product, service, or company, nor any claims made by the advertisement. We reserve the right to edit, reject, or comment editorially on all materials contributed. We cannot be held responsible for the return of any unsolicited material. BATON ROUGE PARENTS MAGAZINE Copyright 2024. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission prohibited.

LAST MONTH’S WINNERS Look who won October's Freebies: Melissa Sanders won the Trick or Treat on Scary Street book and Jeremy Bhriar won The Lord of the Rings Adventure to Mount Doom Game.

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inside

NOVEMBER 2024 • ISSUE 412

DEPARTMENTS

IN EVERY ISSUE 4 @BRPARENTS.COM 8 A NOTE FROM MOM 74 THINGS TO DO 82 THINGS WE LOVE 84 THE LAST WORD 86 SNAPSHOTS CONNECT 14 BOOK CORNER 16 CRAFT CORNER LIVE 20 MOM NEXT DOOR 22 THRIVE 24 FAITH 10 COMMUNITY 12 EDUCATION

Photo by Kleinpeter Photography ON THE COVER

2024-25 Cover Kid Demi B. is very independent and loving. She enjoys reading, coloring, and dancing. When she gets older, she hopes to become a doctor.

FEATURES 26 OPEN ARMS, OPEN HEARTS: THE REALITY AND REWARDS OF ADOPTION

33 2024 HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE These gifts will be on Santa’s list this year! By Amanda Miller

Here’s a personal story of how adoption has shaped the lives around one family. By Madison Voorhies 30 ONE FACING THE CHALLENGE How to support your child through an eating disorder. By Madison Voorhies

43 2024 FAMILY FAVORITES The long-awaited

Photo by Laura Retzloff Photography

2024 Family Favorites winners are revealed! By BRPM

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a note from mom IN EVERY ISSUE

Gratitude

N ovember is here, friends! Time for a mom of three busy, healthy children, I know I have plenty to be thankful for: my family, supportive friends, and the occasional quiet time that lasts longer than 30 seconds. But while I’m counting my blessings, I can’t help but notice a few things that make me question the manners of the younger generation. Is it too much to ask for a little courtesy? I’m not asking for handwritten thank-you notes for every snack I serve—though that would be nice—but how about holding the door open for the person following you into the building, even pumpkin spice everything, cozy sweaters, and of course, the forever gratitude. As if they are a few steps further back, instead of letting the door slam in their face? I think my kids have seen too many superhero movies equipped with a force field and think they’re supposed to let the door do all the heavy lifting. And let’s talk about the “please” and “thank you” phenomenon. Growing up, I was taught that

these phrases are the golden tickets to a polite society. Now, I’m just trying to get my kids to say “yes” instead of rolling their eyes at me like I just randomly suggested we get an iguana or something. Is it really that difficult to add a little respect into your responses? At what point did parents stop teaching to respect your elders? I mean it's in the 10 commandments, number 5: Honor your father and your mother. America needs to get back on track with manners and gratitude as we move forward in this next era we call life. So, as we prepare to gobble up turkey and pumpkin pie, let’s all take a moment to reflect on what we are truly thankful for. For me, it’s my family, friends, and the hope that my kids will someday learn the fine art of door-holding and polite conversion. Maybe I’ll even set up a little manners boot camp over break—who’s in? Happy Thanksgiving!

Amy L. Foreman Publisher

Email amylynn@frg.inc to tell me about topics you’d like to see in future issues.

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CONNECT

community

BATON ROUGE GENERAL LAUNCHES “CARE ON THE GO” MOBILE UNIT TO OFFER PRIMARY AND URGENT CARE SERVICES Baton Rouge General (BRG) is helping bring on-the-go primary and urgent care services to North Baton Rouge neighborhoods. BRG’s “Care On The Go” mobile unit is set to be unveiled soon. The mobile unit will make weekly stops at select community partner locations including the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Community Center, True Light Baptist Church, Eden Park Library, Turner Plaza Housing Authority, and Sacred Heart Catholic Church & School. Members in the Baton Rouge community can visit BRG “Care On The Go” for primary and urgent care services, as well as wellness exams, diabetes care, and on-site testing. ■ brgeneral.org

LOUISIANA BOOK FESTIVAL RETURNS TO CELEBRATE 20TH ANNIVERSARY The Louisiana Center for the Book in the State Library of Louisiana is excited to announce the return of the Louisiana Book Festival on Saturday, November 2. This festival will celebrate the 20th anniversary of celebrating readers, writers, and their books. The Louisiana Book Festival will take place in downtown Baton Rouge at the Louisiana State

BREC AND BUILD BR PARTNER TO REVITALIZE PARK COMMUNITY BREC is proud to announce a new partnership with Build BR to develop the Erie Street Eco Park. This park initiative aims to revitalize the Plank Road corridor through community-based design, increased green space, and improvements to health outcomes while mitigating flooding. Build Baton Rouge, BREC, Co- City Baton Rouge, Rebuilding Together Baton Rouge, Republic Services, and other local community partners celebrated the launch of the Eco Park with a ribbon- cutting ceremony. This collaborative project is part of the JPM AdvancingCities initiative, led locally by Build Baton Rouge with Co-City Baton Rouge. ■ brec.oeg

Capitol, the State Library of Louisiana, the Capitol Park Museum, and the surrounding Capitol Park area. The Louisiana Writer Award will also celebrate its 25th year. This year’s recipient is Baton Rouge-area native David Kirby, a prolific poet and long-time professor at Florida State University. Ashley Elston also returns with her adult debut novel First Lie Wins , a New York Times bestseller. The festival will also host the premiere of Books Across America , a documentary from filmmaker Mason Engel in which he travels to 50 states, reads 50 books, and interviews 50 authors in 50 days. The American Daughters will also be featured. ■ louisianabookfestival.org

Widely-known blues guitarist and singer-songwriter Joanne Shaw Taylor is set to bring her electrifying “Heavy Soul Tour” to Manship Theatre on Sunday, November 24 at 7 p.m. This tour promises an unforgettable night of soulful music and masterful guitar playing. Taylor is known as one of the most dynamic and gifted guitarists of her generation, with powerful vocals and blistering guitar solos. For more than a decade, she has built a loyal following and critical acclaim for her performances and exceptional musicianship. ■ manshiptheatre.org BLUES SENSATION JOANNE SHAW TAYLOR TO PERFORM AT MANSHIP THEATRE FOR “HEAVY SOUL TOUR”

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NEW PICKLEBALL VENUE “COURT TO TABLE” UNDER CONSTRUCTION

Popular Baton Rouge lawyer, Gordon McKernan’s pickleball court, “Court to Table” is taking the place of former barbecue restaurant The Shed BBQ. The pickleball venue is set to open in June or July of 2025 off of Burbank Drive. Once complete, the venue will have 10 pickleball courts and an outdoor area with games, a music stage, a restaurant, a golf simulator, and more. ■ getgordon.com

HIGHWAY SIGNS BRINGING AWARENESS TO THE 988 SUICIDE HOTLINE GO UP ACROSS BATON ROUGE As mental health awareness becomes more of a priority in Baton Rouge, news signs promoting the 988 suicide prevention line have been placed alongside motorways in Baton Rouge. According to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, suicide has been the third-leading cause of death for Louisianans ages 10 to 24 since 2020. The signs, which remind motorists to call or text the 988 suicide crisis lifeline, which is operated 24 hours, have been placed along major roadways in the city. Decals with the 988 number will also be applied to the windows of parish emergency vehicles. ■ 988lifeline.org

BRPARENTS.COM | NOVEMBER2024

education CONNECT CONGRATULATIONS TO THE CLASS OF 2025 NATIONAL MERIT SEMIFINALISTS AND COMMENDED SCHOLAR!

Spanish exchange students from Colegio Bristol in Madrid got to experience much of what Louisiana is about during the first Spanish exchange visit since the pandemic. Students and their Episcopal hosts toured Tiger Stadium, New Orleans, the Louisiana swamps, and more. The students even got a chance to experience Bayou State weather when Hurricane Francine came ashore. Episcopal Global Travel Coordinator Amy Rome believes in the transformative power of travel. “When students travel, they learn about the places, people, and things they encounter, but they also learn about themselves. They grow and develop with every new experience,” she says. For the completion of the exchange, Episcopal students will get to visit the Spanish students in Madrid. Ziplining and Spanish dancing will also be on the itinerary. EPISCOPAL STUDENTS BUILD COMMUNITY AND SHARE CULTURE THROUGH THE SPANISH EXCHANGE PROGRAM The U.S. The Department of Education recognized 356 schools as the 2024 cohort of the National Blue Ribbon Schools, including two schools in Baton Rouge. This prestigious recognition highlights those who excel in academic performance or make significant strides in closing achievement gaps among different student groups. The Baton Rouge schools named as National Blue Ribbon Schools were: Mayfair Laboratory School and Saint Aloysius School. “The National Blue Ribbon Schools Award is a testament to the exceptional achievements of students and educators at each of these schools,” says U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona. “The 2024 National Blue Ribbon Schools are raising the bar for our nation’s students, serving as models for effective teaching and intentional collaboration in their schools and communities. As we celebrate their achievements, let us look to these schools for inspiration as we champion education as the foundation of a brighter future for every child.” TWO BATON ROUGE SCHOOLS NAMED 2024 NATIONAL BLUE RIBBON SCHOOLS

Episcopal School of Baton Rouge is pleased to recognize six National Merit Semifinalists and one Commended Scholar! The students represent

approximately ~8% of the senior class. Semifinalists include: Benjamin Barney, Beau Legnon, Miniya Malone, Claire Moore, Addison Reynolds, and Luke Stelly. Commended Scholars include: Robert “Aiden” Farmer. This is the 70th year of the National Merit Scholarship Program. According to organizers, more than 16,000 semifinalists from schools across the country earned recognition. Semifinalists are top scorers on the National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test/PSAT in their state. These students now have the opportunity to continue in the competition for approximately 6,870 National Merit Scholarships worth nearly $26 million.

DUNHAM LOWER SCHOOL FAMILIES EXPLORE STEM

Dunham students and their families had a fun time exploring, creating, and collaborating at Lower School Innovation Night. This interactive event included multiple stations featuring STEM-focused activities that allowed parents to participate in the same type of design thinking and problem-solving lessons their children enjoy during the school day. Since 2011, Dunham has been recognized as an Apple Distinguished School, and infuses its curriculum with innovation and technology to enhance learning outcomes in all grades.

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In a recent mock election at Glen Oaks High School, George Washington got the most “votes” for president, and the Constitutional Convention passed unanimously. The election was part of the voter registration campaign to give seniors hands-on experience with the voting process. Students experienced a full mock election, including voter registration, signing in, and casting votes using an actual voting machine. This election not only helped educate students on the voting process, but also helped to encourage the importance of civic engagement. Thirty students cast votes. George Washington garnered 16 votes, followed by Thomas Jefferson (9), John Adams (3), and James Madison (2). EBR SCHOOLS HOST MOCK ELECTION TO PREPARE STUDENTS FOR THE VOTING PROCESS

CEDARCREST- SOUTHMOOR

In its continuing celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, Cedarcrest-Southmoor Elementary School held Hispanic Heritage Book Day. The event featured guests reading to the students in both English and Spanish. National Hispanic American Heritage Month is observed from Sept. 15 to Oct. 15. This special month highlights and honors the invaluable contributions made by the Hispanic community. ELEMENTARY SCHOOL CELEBRATES HISPANIC HERITAGE BOOK DAY

BRPARENTS.COM | NOVEMBER2024

CONNECT book corner

I n this season of giving thanks, instill in your child a spirit of gratitude and generosity. Books are a great way to do that! Follow these characters as they learn to appreciate the gifts of family, friends, community, pets, and nature, and how giving to others brings happiness to the giver as well as the receiver.

YOUTH Little ones love to help! Encourage their kindness with these sweet picture books. Thank You, Neighbor! by Ruth Chan Follow little Ruth as she walks around her neighborhood and greets her neighbors. From firemen rescuing a kitty stuck in a tree to helping elderly neighbors, she watches neighbors thanking each other and realizes that her neighborhood is a big family that makes her feel at home. Our Little Kitchen by Jillian Tamaki A group comes together to prepare a meal for their neighborhood. From gathering vegetables in the garden to sharing tasks in the kitchen, this book shows that community is built around a shared table. Clifford ’ s Good Deeds by Norman Bridwell Clifford loves helping others. But every

time he tries to help someone, it backfires! Will Clifford be able to show he has a big heart, or will his big paws keep getting in the way? Experienced readers will enjoy these chapter books about being grateful. Thanks to Lucy by Ilene Cooper It’s the week of Thanksgiving! Bobby has a lot to be grateful for: his grandmother is coming to visit, and he's going to be a big brother soon! But his dog Lucy hasn't been her normal frisky self. Suddenly, Bobby isn't feeling so thankful. Will Bobby and his family be able to figure out what's wrong with Lucy in time for Thanksgiving Day? Trouble At Table Five: Countdown to Disaster by Tom Watson When Molly accidentally overhears her parents planning a big move (in just a few days!), she recruits her friends to help send

her parents on a crazy scavenger hunt to remind them of all the wonderful things and people that she (and they) love and are grateful for! Will they change their minds and let Molly stay at her school and with her friends? Discover the rich blessings of the Cherokee people in this unique non-fiction title. We Are Grateful by Traci Sorell Join the Cherokee people as they celebrate all the things that they are grateful for throughout each season. This book was written by a citizen of the Cherokee Nation and contains a glossary of terms and a syllabary. TWEENS AND TEENS Inspire teens to give back and make a positive difference in the world!

Book Corner is provided by librarians at the East Baton Rouge Parish Library. To learn more about the libraries in East Baton Rouge Parish, visit ebrpl.com.

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Nowhere Better Than Here by Sarah Guillory

For 13-year-old Jillian Robichaux, three things are sacred: bayou sunsets, her grandmother Nonnie's stories, and the coastal Louisiana town of Boutin that she calls home. But as her town is slowly being destroyed by rising tides, one girl must fight to find a way to keep her community’s spirit from drowning. Positive: Surviving My Bullies, Finding Hope, and Changing the World by Paige Rawl and Ali Benjamin Paige Rawl was a typical teenager until she disclosed that she was HIV positive. In this memoir, she shares how she survived the bullying and found the strength to become a force for positive change in this world. Haven Jacobs Saves the Planet by Barbara Dee Twelve-year-old Haven channels her anxiety about the climate crisis into a fight against the factory suspected of polluting the river that runs through her town.

BRPARENTS.COM | NOVEMBER2024

CONNECT

craft corner

It’s pumpkin season! Decorate your home and more with these simple and perfect pumpkin crafts.

Eight Pumpkin Crafts You Will Love for Fall

BY PAM MOLNAR PHOTO BY FREEPIK.COM

book sales. Purchase a plastic or foam pumpkin and a bottle of Mod Podge. Decoupage the words on the pumpkin with Mod Podge until it is completely covered with positive words. Place it in an area, like your desk or kitchen, where

Add embellishments like ribbons and greenery around the stem. 4. Fabric- Wrapped Pumpkins For this project, you will need a foam pumpkin from a craft store, a glue gun, and several strips of fabric. Cut fabric pieces to 4” wide and the circumference of the pumpkin plus two inches. You will need to remove the stem and make a hole where you will tuck in the fabric. Fold the fabric in quarters to create a 1” wide strip. For the first piece, glue one end inside the hole and wrap it around the pumpkin, adding a few spots of glue to hold. Place the other end of the fabric in the hole on the other side and glue it in place. Continue around the pumpkin with other strips until completely

1. Pumpkin Succulent Centerpieces For this project, you will need a flat- topped pumpkin, moss, scissors, hot glue, and a variety of succulents. Apply hot glue to the top of the pumpkin and add moss in batches. Continue until the whole top is covered. Next, trim stems off succulents, leaving only about a 1/4”. Hot glue them down to the moss, going around the top of the pumpkin. Once a week, mist with water and it will last two to three months. 2. Positivity Pumpkins Cut positive words and phrases from old magazines. Ask neighbors and friends if you don’t have any of your own, or gather them from library used

you can see it every day. 3. Wood Block Crackle Pumpkins

This is a great project for scrap wood. Cut into different sized rectangles. Paint all sides with black paint and let dry completely. When dry, paint on a layer of Elmer’s glue to one side and then, before it dries, paint a layer of orange (or white) paint. As it dries, it will add a crackled effect. Repeat on other sides, if desired. For a stem, you can use a dowel rod or a stick of hot glue on the top.

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covered. Add a small branch in the middle for a stem. 5. Pumpkin Coffee Mugs Grab a white coffee mug and colorful Sharpie markers. Decorate the outside of the mug with pumpkins of all shapes and sizes. Personalize with a name or add a pumpkin saying like “Pumpkin spice and everything nice” or “Oh my gourdness!” Place in the oven directly on the grates while the oven is off. Then set the oven to 350 degrees. When the oven reaches that temperature, bake the cups for 30 minutes, and then shut the oven off. When it is done, let the cups completely cool in the oven before removing them. 6. Marbled Pumpkins For this project, you will need a clear storage box or a bucket filled with water, nail polish of various colors, and white craft pumpkins. I suggest wearing gloves for this project. Pour several drops of each color onto the surface of the water. Then draw lines through the nail polish to create some swirls. Hold the stem of the pumpkin and dip the pumpkin through the nail polish swirls, pushing it straight down and pulling it straight up. Let dry and display. 7. Jute Pumpkins This craft is simple and cute. Wrap jute twine around an empty toilet paper roll– 30-40 times. When done, gently pull off the roll, careful not to unravel it. Next, slide another piece of jute through the rolled up jute and tie it tightly. Place on a flat surface and fan the jute out to make a round pumpkin shape. Add a twig for a stem. To hold the stiff shape, spray with a clear varnish and let dry. ornaments from a craft store. Paint one side orange or white and let dry. If you choose to make jack-o’-lanterns, add the face with black paint. If you want a more farmhouse look, add gray paint with a dry brush to look more weathered. Add a coat of spray varnish on top to make it water-resistant. Use floral wire to weave through the pre-punched hole and wrap to make a stem. 8. Pumpkin Coasters Purchase pre-punched wood slice

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mom next door LIVE

Occupation: Visionary and Owner of Young Scholars Academy Husband: Brandon Garretson Children: Sophia Grace, 6, and Gavin, 4 Hobbies: Spending time with family and friends and anything outdoors Megan Garretson BY VICTORIA MIKOTA PHOTO BY LAURA RETZLOFF PHOTOGRAPHY

M egan Garretson has always been passionate about helping others. As the visionary and owner of Young Scholars Academy, Megan divides her time between being a community advocate and a mother of two. Typically, Megan can be found at the State Capitol testifying and advocating for the children of Louisiana—she prides herself in being a strong advocate and voice for others. With more than 13 years in early childhood education, Megan collaborates with organizations like the EBR Ready Start Network and the Childcare Association of Louisiana. In 2024, Megan also became a finalist for the 2024 Early Childhood Leader of the Year and won an award from For Provider by Providers (4PXP) for Provider of the Year. In addition, Young Scholars Academy also won Family Favorite 2024 for Family Favorite Childcare.

WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE PART OF THE DAY? MEGAN: Whenever I pick up my children and they see me at school. The excitement of my kids seeing me again during the day. I love their joy. WHAT DOES A NORMAL DAY LOOK LIKE FOR YOU? MEGAN: While every day is different, I have the same morning routine. I wake up at 6 a.m., spend time with the Lord in Scripture, and have a hot cup of coffee. I visually plan out my day, and mark out areas where I want to be intentional with my time. Then I practice gratitude and list things I am thankful for before I get my kids up for school. We eat breakfast as a family, and then it’s time for me to tackle my to-do list. My husband picks our kids

up from school, and we set aside time to discuss our individual days. We are very intentional about spending time as a family, so we have a traditional at-the-table dinner setup, and we make sure to ask questions and connect as a family. Then, it’s time for dinner, bath, prayers, and reading books before bed. We read our children a book every night and then pray together as a family before bed. WHAT’S A COMMON CHARACTERISTIC IN YOUR WORK ETHIC AND PARENTING? MEGAN: The two words that come to mind are tenacious and intentional. I guess I am always up for a challenge, and I see everything as an opportunity to grow and learn.

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WHAT ARE SOME OF THE JOYS AND CHALLENGES OF BEING A MOM?

location doesn’t even matter, just as long as everything is provided. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE DATE NIGHT WITH YOUR HUSBAND? MEGAN: Honestly, we love to be intentional and comfy at the house together and reconnect uninterrupted and in the comfort of our own home—enjoying what we built. We want to soak up every moment. WHAT DO YOU THINK IS ONE OF THE KEYS TO SUCCESSFUL PARENTING? MEGAN: The first thing that comes to mind is to give grace and let kids be kids. Allow kids grace and the ability to explore and learn on their own. Also, be more intentional with your time together. Put the phone down, turn off the TV, and be fully present with your kids in the moment. Show them how to be intentional, and love them and give them grace. DO YOU HAVE ANY ADVICE FOR OTHER PARENTS? MEGAN: Have fun exploring with your children and see life through their eyes. Explore with them and have fun allowing them to be kids. Spend more time with them and be intentional and present.

MEGAN: I think every child is different. I aim to be intentional about parenting our kids. Some of the joys are that I get to see my kids experience life, and it is so rewarding to witness that as a mom. I think this is a great reminder to slow down and be intentional. HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR PARENTING STYLE? MEGAN: My parenting style is like a tool belt. Every moment is different and I want my kids to feel confident that I have all of the tools and resources to help them succeed in life. Of course, I meet them where they are at, and assist and try to provide as much help as possible. MEGAN: We are an adventurous family. We love hiking, visiting museums and creeks, and going fishing. HOW ARE YOU AND YOUR CHILDREN ALIKE AND DIFFERENT? MEGAN: Me and my daughter are alike because everybody calls her my “mini-me.” She is very into art and music, and I am very much not someone who can draw. It’s so fun to get to see her learn and grow in this area, and I feel like I learn a lot myself just by watching her. For my son, I feel like we both like the outdoors, so it’s easy to connect in that way. However, he loves monster trucks, and I am not as knowledgeable as he is. It’s still fun to listen to him talk about things he’s passionate about. WHAT DO YOU LIKE TO DO AS A FAMILY? WHAT’S SOMETHING YOUR CHILDREN HAVE TAUGHT YOU ABOUT YOURSELF? MEGAN: I would say resilience. It’s important that we as moms give ourselves grace. It’s important to me that my kids are resilient and are always up for a challenge. I always encourage my kids to never give up and try their hardest. WHAT’S ONE OF YOUR FAVORITE VACATION SPOTS? MEGAN: Any all-inclusive suites. The

Q&A My favorite TV show is… The Parenting Test . I can't stop watching... documentaries. I love singing along to... Rock City Worship. My favorite dessert is... all of the above. My favorite food is... depends on my mood. My favorite holiday is.. Christmas. My guilty pleasure is... coffee. My favorite book is... the Bible.

BRPARENTS.COM | NOVEMBER2024

LIVE thrive

Delivering Hope with the United States Postal Service BY VICTORIA MIKOTA

T he United States Postal Service is responsible for delivering Santa’s letters each year during the holidays. Every year, thousands of families send letters to Santa at the North Pole, in hopes of receiving just one item from their Christmas lists. While most letters ask for toys and games, some ask for basic necessities such as clothes or shoes. USPS Operation Santa makes it possible for people to adopt these letters and send responses and thoughtful gifts in Santa’s place—fulfilling the holiday wishes of children and families across the country. The Origins of USPS Operation Santa One holiday season, more than a hundred years ago, the United States Postal Service began receiving letters addressed to Santa. These letters were sorted and put aside. In 1912, Postmaster General Frank Hitchcock created Santa’s first mailroom— authorizing local postmasters to open up these letters for employees to read and respond. In the 1940s, letters poured in, and the program was opened to the general public. Charitable organizations, corporations, and regular folks across the country all participated. The USPS set out to digitize the experience so more people could get involved and adopt more letters. In 2017, the online program started in New York. In 2019, due to the overwhelming success of the online program, the USPS Operation Santa digital program was expanded nationwide. Now, anyone in the U.S. can fulfill someone’s holiday wish. How Families Can Send Santa a Letter This Holiday Season The USPS Operation Santa program invites everyone in the continental U.S., Hawaii,

Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands to write letters to Santa. To submit a letter for USPS Operation Santa, participants should include the following: first and last name, return address, and your holiday wishes. Each letter should be placed into an envelope with a Forever stamp, and mailed to 123 Elf Road, North Pole, 88888. Remember to mail your letter on time, before December 9. “There is no age limit––you’re never too young or old to believe in the magic of the season!” says Jonathan Castillo, USPS Sr. Public Relations Representative. While there is no age limit to letters to Santa, it is recommended that a parent, guardian, teacher, or caregiver assist little ones with writing a letter. In addition, here are tips to make your letter to Santa even better. Write legibly Always include legible handwriting and make sure your full name and address are in the letter. Be Specific Make sure you’re specific and go into detail about the gifts you are asking for. Ask Thoughtfully Don’t ask for gifts that might be too expensive. Try to make thoughtful gift requests. Are Letters Selected Fairly? When people partake in Operation Santa, they may feel a little concern about how fair the letter selection process is. “Rest assured, all letters that children and families send to Santa are carefully reviewed, scanned, and posted on USPSOperationSanta.com,” says Castillo. Generous people from all over the United

States adopt the letters and find just the right gifts to help Santa fulfill their wishes. The gifts are then dropped off at the local Post Office, shipped, and delivered to letter writers on behalf of the North Pole.

How Can I Get Involved With Operation Santa?

Helping children and families get the gifts they want or need for Christmas is such a rewarding and magical experience. If you’re interested in helping Santa fulfill gift requests this year, you can be a part of something special at USPSOperationSanta. com. Here are the steps to adopt a letter: Create an account and get verified, then read the letters and adopt one you love Find the perfect gift and ship it easily from the new “Santa Shop” online catalog or a participating Post Office location. Your package will arrive straight from Santa himself and wow its recipient. Mail packages before December 16 so they’re delivered by Christmas Operation Santa Relies on Magic and Children’s Wishes While every letter sent in is special, there is no guarantee that every letter will make it to the website, be selected, or that your letter to Santa will receive a response. USPS works diligently to ensure that as many letters can be selected as possible. The program depends on the generosity of others and the magic of the season. “It’s simple and fun to be a part of the magic this holiday season!” says Castillo. “Thanks to the generosity of people all over the United States, USPS Operation Santa and the Postal Service deliver joy to more doorsteps every year, making holiday wishes come true.”

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LIVE faith

Creating a Spiritual Atmosphere at Home

BY DARIN TRAVIS, ASSOCIATE PASTOR OF FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH PHOTO BY FREEPIK.COM

W hen asked to give my thoughts about creating a spiritual environment at home, my mind quickly went to the older years of a child’s life, right before they leave the nest, that I’m particularly passionate about. Prior to becoming a pastor in 2017, I worked for 20 years as a college campus minister. As we invited freshmen to get involved in our ministry, I looked for those who truly loved and walked with God. Though we have some incredible Christian schools in Baton Rouge, I became convinced that what happens at home regarding faith is the primary determiner of what a student’s spiritual receptivity will be as they enter campus. Here, I’ll share a little of what we've done to create a spiritual atmosphere in our home.

My wife and I focused on two key things: First, we intentionally participated as a family in our local church. Second, we strived to have regular devotional time with our kids, which just means several times a week, we’d discuss the Bible and pray. Big Truths for Young Hearts by Bruce Ware was a favorite when they were younger, and these days we read together New Morning Mercies for Teens by Paul David Tripp. Spiritually shepherding our older kids, especially those now in college, has also been so beautiful and rewarding. We wanted to give each of our kids the space to nurture their own spiritual lives in age- appropriate ways. When they were young, the guardrails of truth meant we took the initiative in most spiritual endeavors. As our kids matured, we tried to create an atmosphere of grace by encouraging

them to have personal devotional times. We bought them their own Bibles and devotional materials (such as a recent favorite Be Thou My Vision: A Liturgy for Daily Worship by Jonathan Gibson). My wife and I often talk openly in our home about what we are learning from God’s word, but we also strive not to coerce them to share. We would say things like, “My desire is for you to draw near to Jesus and to know and experience his love and goodness. I am praying that God will move so that you genuinely want to draw near, apart from us.” I’d say that open conversations over the Bible, discussions about spiritual things, being honest and vulnerable about one’s own walk with the Lord, and praying for one’s kids are the tools needed to create a spiritual atmosphere!

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BRPARENTS.COM | NOVEMBER2024

Open Arms, Open Hearts: The Reality and Rewards of Adoption BY MADISON VOORHIES PHOTO BY QUEENFRIDAY PHOTOGRAPHY

A doption is a journey filled with unexpected twists and turns, emotional highs and lows, and ultimately, profound love. For Tara and George, their journey began in heartbreak and ended in a family beyond what they could have imagined. Life After Loss In 2008, Tara and George’s hopes of starting a family came crashing down when Tara experienced a uterine rupture at 17 weeks, requiring an emergency hysterectomy and c-section. Devastated but determined to become parents, the couple explored other avenues to grow their family. Initially, they tried working with a surrogate, going through in vitro fertilization (IVF) and intrauterine insemination (IUI) treatments. However, after years of trying, they began to reconsider. Fate (and God) had a different plan. In May 2012, Tara received life-changing text messages while serving in her church’s

children’s ministry. A young woman she befriended confided in her that she had a three-month-old daughter she felt unable to care for, and she believed that Tara and George were meant to be her parents. “That was the shock of a lifetime,” Tara recalls. “We knew no circumstances; we knew not if this was permanent or temporary; we didn't know anything, but it was just an absolute yes, we will take this baby for a minute, a day, or a lifetime.” On May 21, 2012, Chloe entered Tara and George’s lives. The young girl was living with her aunt, as her birth mother had been planning to place her for adoption but had not found the right family. “She was just shy of three months old, but she had a head full of hair that looked like a toupee,” Tara says, recalling her first time meeting Chloe. “She had long legs, the longest feet and toes that I had ever seen, and she was the cutest little thing I had ever seen.” From First Meeting to Forever Family

From the beginning, Tara and George took a compassionate and respectful approach to their new role as Chloe’s parents. “We were not interested in ripping a child away from people. We wanted everybody to be included in the conversation,” Tara says, reflecting on her efforts to ensure Chloe’s birth family was comfortable with the adoption. That first week was a whirlwind as Tara and George navigated legal channels, starting the process of private adoption. “The three of us lived out of our master bedroom and bathroom for about three and a half weeks after [Chloe] came to live with us. I say all the time: God has a sense of humor.” Though Chloe immediately felt like part of the family, the legal process was not swift. After a 10-day revocable period during which Chloe’s birth mother could change her mind, Tara and George began the long road to formalize the adoption. It took two years to finalize everything–a process that involved extensive paperwork, home studies, background checks, and psychological evaluations.

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Chloe’s birth family. “[We] never had any kind of formal agreement. Everything's always just been very organic.” Tara says. “We don't do daily life together [with her birth family], but we do have a very open relationship, keep tabs on one another, and see each other [a] couple times a year. It’s not hard to get together when we can, but we've always let birth mom guide that.” This openness has fostered a strong sense of love and belonging for Chloe. “She’s got more people that love her, and how can you not like that?” Addressing Adoption Misconceptions Throughout their journey, Tara and George have encountered many misconceptions about adoption. “I think a big one is that ‘birth parents give up babies because they just don't want them,’” Tara says. “People give up babies for lots of reasons or choose to have other people raise their children for lots of reasons.” Another common misconception is that adoption is prohibitively expensive. Tara and George spent around $5,000–mainly on legal fees. “It doesn't have to be expensive,” Tara explains. “Private adoption is a thing that can be binding, but definitely go through legal channels because you don't want it to come back and bite you one day.”

Being Honest and Open From the start, Tara and George decided to be fully open with Chloe about her adoption. “We're an open book about it,” Tara explains. “She has known as long as she can remember that she is adopted. We've not had any secrets with her about it.” One of the things Tara and George learned through surrogacy research was that children who aren’t told about their adoption can experience a sense of betrayal or distrust for their birth parents later in life, which was something they did not want for Chloe. Their conversations with Chloe about her adoption have always been centered around love and the belief that their family was meant to be. They explained simply that, “God chose us to be a family.” And to put it into perspective for young Chloe, Tara explained to her, “This is your norm. Everybody has their own normal; this is your normal, and it's nothing to be ashamed of. It's nothing to be embarrassed by. This is part of your testimony, and one day you'll understand how to speak about your testimony from your perspective.” Tara emphasizes the importance of letting Chloe guide the conversations. One of the most beautiful aspects of Tara and George’s adoption journey has been their ongoing relationship with

A Living Testament Tara and George’s story is a testament to the power of love and faith. Despite the challenges they faced, their family came together in a way they never could have planned. “She’s an amazing kid,” Tara beams. “She’s 12 now, [and] she does all the things in school; she loves sports, art, she does well in school, and it's just really been an organic process for us.” Through their openness and unwavering commitment, Tara and George have created a family built on love, trust, and the belief that every child deserves a home. “Losing my son in 2008 was the worst and best thing that has ever happened to me,” says Tara. “Because I would have never gotten to meet [Chloe] if it wasn't for his sacrifice.” While the process may come with challenges, the rewards are immeasurable. Remember, adoption is not just about giving a child a home—it’s about giving them the opportunity to be part of a family rooted in love, acceptance, and belonging. As we celebrate the beauty of adoption, let’s continue to support one another in creating bright futures for children through this incredible process.

BRPARENTS.COM | NOVEMBER2024

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BRPARENTS.COM | NOVEMBER2024

One Facing the Challenge: How to Support Your Child Through an Eating Disorder BY MADISON VOORHIES PHOTO BY FREEPIK.COM A s parents, you’re always concerned about your child’s overall well- being. Part of that includes ensuring your child is eating and getting enough nutrients to grow strong and healthy. But that’s easier said than done, right? Eating disorders are actually more common in children than you may think. Understanding the signs and stressors of eating disorders in children is crucial. Early detection can lead to early intervention, which can significantly improve recovery outcomes. Children may not always be able to express their struggles, so recognizing warning signs like changes in eating habits, body image issues, or emotional distress can help you step in before the disorder becomes more severe. EDs Are Not Simple The first thing parents need to know is that children can develop different types of eating disorders, each affecting their health in serious ways, according to The Journal of Pediatrics . -Anorexia nervosa involves extreme dieting and exercise to lose weight, even when the child is already very thin. This is often caused by a distorted view of their own body and a strong fear of gaining weight, which can lead to severe malnutrition. -Atypical anorexia nervosa is similar, but the child's weight may still be in the normal or above-average range. -Bulimia nervosa includes episodes

of overeating, followed by actions like vomiting or excessive exercise to avoid weight gain, often paired with harsh self- judgment about body shape and size. -A binge-eating disorder also involves overeating but without purging, leaving the child feeling guilty or upset afterward. -Avoidant restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID) involves avoiding certain foods, either because of sensory issues or fear of negative effects, which can cause weight loss, poor nutrition, and make it hard for the child to socialize. What Are The Signs? The signs and symptoms of eating disorders in children and teens can vary depending on the type of disorder, but the American Academy of Pediatrics notes some common warning signs parents and caregivers can watch for. 1. Changes in eating habits: Skipping meals, eating very little, or avoiding certain food groups. Some children may start obsessing over food ingredients, calories, or portion sizes. 2. Rapid weight change: Significant weight loss or, in the case of binge eating, noticeable weight gain. In some cases, a child may not lose weight but still exhibit signs of disordered eating behaviors 3. Excessive concern about body image: Expressing dissatisfaction with their appearance, talking about feeling “fat” even when they are underweight, or frequently checking themselves in mirrors. 4. Compulsive exercise: Exercising excessively, even when tired, injured, or

sick, or becoming upset if they can’t exercise. 5. Avoiding meals or eating in secret: Children or teens might make excuses to skip meals, eat in secret, or claim they’ve already eaten when they haven’t. 6. Physical symptoms: Complaints of dizziness, fatigue, stomach pain, or cold sensitivity can be signs of malnutrition. Eating disorders can also cause dry skin, brittle hair, hair loss, or changes in menstrual cycles for girls. 7. Mood changes: Depression, irritability, anxiety, and social withdrawal may occur, especially around situations involving food. 8. Unusual food behaviors: These can include cutting food into very small pieces, hiding food, or developing new rituals around eating. Help Starts Here Conversations about food, body image, or weight can be difficult, especially when a parent suspects their child might be struggling with an eating disorder. Dr. Laura Hernandez, a Licensed Professional Counselor, emphasizes the importance of approaching these discussions with Dr. Hernandez suggests that parents create a safe, relaxed environment to address concerns. “A great space to talk is in the car or if you’re taking a walk,” she says. “It just feels more natural. You're not really engaged in a confrontational situation.” These situations may also help empathy, care, and a non- confrontational attitude.

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children feel more comfortable. Rather than jumping to conclusions, parents should focus on observable behaviors. The key is not to overwhelm the child with adult anxieties. “Our adult brain jumps three steps ahead when we get those worried thoughts,” she explains. Instead, ask simple questions and reflect on what you notice, giving the child room to share their thoughts without feeling judged. This approach fosters an open dialogue where children can express their feelings without fear of punishment or misunderstanding. The Role of Professional Support If parents are concerned about their child’s relationship with food, Dr. Hernandez advises starting with a pediatrician. A physical checkup can rule out or identify any growth or health concerns, and from there, a counselor specializing in eating disorders can provide support for mental health. Eating disorders often require a team-based approach, involving not just doctors and counselors but possibly occupational therapists, dietitians, or nutritionists. For children with sensory issues around food textures or smells, an occupational therapist might offer specific food therapy. A nutritionist can help reframe the purpose of eating, teaching children how

food supports their bodies. “It’s definitely a team effort,” Dr. Hernandez says. The Mind-Body Connection Mindfulness plays a significant role in helping children build a healthier relationship with food, and Dr. Hernandez sees it as a valuable tool in eating disorder treatment. “Mindfulness is paying attention in the present moment,” she explains. It can help children recognize patterns, like whether they’re eating because they’re hungry or because they’re bored, anxious, or overwhelmed. Mindfulness practices, like mindful eating or breathing exercises, can also support the mental health tools children learn in therapy. For example, by reflecting on how certain foods make them feel physically and emotionally, children can gain insights into their eating habits. Dr. Hernandez also encourages parents to model these mindful behaviors, such as narrating their own experiences with trying new foods. Children struggling with body image or eating habits often carry shame or embarrassment. To address this, Dr. Hernandez also recommends cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), which helps children understand the connection between their thoughts, feelings, and

behaviors. CBT teaches children to challenge negative thoughts and replace them with healthier, more realistic perspectives. Another way to foster a healthy relationship with food is to make mealtimes positive family experiences. Dr. Hernandez suggests involving children in meal preparation, putting on music, and creating space for meaningful conversation at the table. “Use mealtime to connect— talk about the best parts of your day or the not-so-good parts,” she advises. Navigating your child’s eating disorder can be challenging, but early recognition and intervention are crucial for their recovery and long-term health. As parents, understanding the signs and symptoms of eating disorders and approaching conversations with care can make all the difference. Remember, you don't have to face this journey alone–seeking professional help from pediatricians, counselors, or nutritionists can provide the support your child needs to develop a healthier relationship with food. If you notice changes in your child’s eating habits or body image, reach out to a healthcare professional. Early action can pave the way to healing and a brighter future for your child.

BRPARENTS.COM | NOVEMBER2024

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