November 2024
Respect, Remember, and Honor Veterans
Find Out Who Won! 2024 Family Favorites
Holiday Magic Gift Guide
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HOW TO DEAL WITH RUSHING THE HOLIDAYS The holidays fly by. How can you navigate the stress of the holiday season with your family?
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contents
Health Benefits of Volunteering
2024
2023
2023
BY VICTORIA MIKOTA
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6 COLORADO PARENT NOVEMBER 2024 The mental health benefits of volunteering are substantial. Volunteering helps people to distract themselves in a positive way from stress, grief, and worry. In fact, being thus lowering their risk of stroke, heart disease, and other health problems. Volunteering Improves Mental Health Whether you’re serving up soup at a soup kitchen, providing extra TLC to dogs and cats at the animal shelter, or helping your kiddos’ teacher wrangle five- and six-year olds, volunteering is a great way to make the world a better place. Did you know that volunteering not only helps others, but is also good for you too? Studies have shown that volunteering makes people feel good and leads to better physical and mental well-being. Millions of Americans volunteer every year in animal shelters, food banks, schools, clubs, community gardens, museums, and other organizations. Here’s how volunteering benefits not only the community around us, but also our well-being and health. Being a part of something bigger is one of the best parts about volunteering. While volunteering largely affects our communities around us, it also helps us connect with our community, broaden our support network, and expose us to people with common interests. Volunteers working on a community project are all focused on achieving a common goal together—which creates an environment of closeness and satisfaction—regardless of age, sex, religion, or other demographic factors. According to Jeffrey Buff, a professor of gerontology at UMass Boston, “Compared to non-volunteers, volunteers have less depression, less anxiety, higher self-esteem, higher life satisfaction, greater happiness, and a greater sense of meaning of life.” In addition, a separate study was conducted at Carnegie Mellon University. In this study, older adult volunteers who volunteered for at least 200 hours annually decreased their risk of high blood pressure by 40 percent, Volunteering Connects Us to Each Other Volunteering Improves Heart Health
a volunteer can help enhance one’s sense of purpose and relieve chronic stress– which could be especially important for older people. Carnegie Mellon researcher Rodlescia S. Sneed writes, “As people get older, social transitions like retirement, bereavement, and the departure of children from the home often leave older adults with fewer natural opportunities for social interaction.” Participating in volunteer opportunities can help provide older people with social connections that they may not have otherwise. In addition, volunteering can alleviate loneliness, reduce depression, and increase positive thinking. Volunteering Makes Us Happier Human beings are hard-wired to give to others. In fact, researchers have discovered that being helpful to others delivers immense pleasure. Those who volunteer regularly are found to be happier, more empathetic, and feel a sense of self and pride. Get Out and Volunteer While volunteering is a great opportunity to give back to your community, it’s also a great way to reconnect with yourself! Volunteering has a plethora of benefits from enhanced mental health to overall well-being. Making time to serve others is a great way to give back to your community and yourself. So get out there and volunteer—your heart, mind, and community will thank you.
10 Local Places to Get Thanksgiving Dinner in Denver 12 Solutions Nine Meaningful Ways to Honor Veterans 14 Things We Love Fall Finds We’re Thankful For 16 RoundUp 2024 Holiday Gift Guide good to know features 18 Open Arms, Open Hearts 20 One Facing the Challenge 22 7 Fun Things To Do After Thanksgiving Dinner 24 Investing in Yourself, Investing in Your Family 27 2024 Family Favorites
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Pets Are for Life, Not Just for the Holidays
BY MADISON VOORHIES
As the holiday season approaches, many families consider adding a furry friend to their homes. While surprising your children with a puppy or kitten can be delightful, it’s vital to remember that pets are lifelong commitments, not just gifts. Adopting a pet brings joy, but it also comes with responsibilities that last well beyond the holiday season. Instead of purchasing pets from breeders or pet stores, consider adopting from a shelter. Shelters are filled with animals seeking loving homes, and adoption not only saves lives but according to Family Friends Veterinary Hospital in Grand Rapids, MI, it also reduces the demand for puppy mills and unethical breeding practices. Before deciding to adopt, think carefully about the long-term responsibilities involved in pet ownership.
39 Our Picks for November 42 To Do Today happenings fresh mindset 46 Meet Emily Teiffel
Additionally, adopting helps combat unethical breeding practices, such as those in puppy mills, where animals are often bred under inhumane conditions for profit. Adopting from shelters supports a humane approach to pet ownership while making a positive impact on the lives of animals. Teaching Responsibility Adopting a pet offers a great opportunity to teach children about responsibility and empathy. Pets require daily attention, including feeding, grooming, exercise, and playtime. Involving children in these tasks helps them understand the commitment needed for pet care. Establishing a routine where kids assist with feeding or walking can deepen their connection to the pet and instill valuable lessons about caring for another living being. However, while children can help, the primary responsibility for the pet’s well- being rests with the adults in the household. If you’re not ready for a lifelong commitment, fostering is another wonderful way to make a difference during the holidays. Whether you adopt or foster, you will provide an animal with the gift of love and security—a gift that lasts long after the holiday season ends.
8 COLORADO PARENT NOVEMBER 2024 Adopt, Don’t Shop Adopting from a shelter is an ethical choice that provides animals with a second chance. Many shelter pets have been abandoned or surrendered and are waiting for a loving home. By adopting, you help reduce overcrowding in shelters and give these animals the care they deserve. Lifelong Pals The holidays may seem like a magical time to welcome a pet, but adopting is a decision that impacts your family for years to come. Families often get swept up in the holiday spirit and make impulsive choices, only to discover they are unprepared for the commitment. This can lead to pets being returned to shelters once the novelty fades, causing stress for both the animals and the shelter staff. Dogs and cats require time, attention, training, and love. This responsibility doesn’t disappear when the holidays end. Families must be ready to care for their pets throughout their lives, which can span from 10 to 20 years. Such a long- term commitment deserves thoughtful consideration before adopting during the holiday season.
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good to know
Noisette has to offer this holiday season. noisettedenver.com
10 COLORADO PARENT NOVEMBER 2024 Kachina Cantina 1890 Wazee St., Denver For $35, you can “stuff” your tummy with Sleep in (or do your turkey trot!) and then make it over to brunch between 9 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. hilton.com J Street Food Truck & Catering If you’re hosting 10–12, try the full meal bundle. The half bundle easily feeds 4–6. jstreetfoodtruck.com N ot cooking Thanksgiving dinner this year? It can be exhausting to even figure out what restaurants are serving holiday feasts in the Denver area. That’s where we come in! Use this Thanksgiving dinner guide to help you figure out where you can pick up or dine in on Thanksgiving Day this year. Edible Beats El Five: 2930 Umatilla 5th Floor, Denver Linger: 2030 W 30th Ave., Denver Root Down: 1600 W 33rd Ave., Denver Pick up organic, from-scratch Thanksgiving classics, whether you want everything but the turkey or just a holiday pie. ediblebeats.com FIRE Restaurant and Lounge 1201 Broadway, Denver Thanksgiving is featured all day, with an assortment of tasty buffet-style offerings from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m and the regular dinner menu served after 5 p.m. thearthotel.com FlyteCo Tower 3120 Uinta St., Denver It’s a good day to be a vegetarian or gluten- free. They offer free delivery November 26-27, if you live within 5 miles! The menu includes appetizers, sides, and desserts. flytecotower.com The Inverness Denver 200 Inverness Dr. W, Englewood Places to Get Thanksgiving Dinner in Denver BY JULIANNA STEEN
Osteria Marco 1453 Larimer St., Denver
Four courses featuring an herb crusted pork loin, baked rigatoni, and pumpkin cannoli. You can pick up November 27. bonannoconcepts.com
Perry’s Steakhouse & Grille Denver
8433 Park Meadows Center Dr., Lone Tree Secure a vast array of sliced smoked turkey with mashed potatoes, homemade bread, honeycrisp apple salad, and butternut squash soup. perryssteakhouse.com Seasons 52 8325 Park Meadows Center Dr., Lone Tree From the roasted turkey to the fixin’s, Seasons 52’s Thanksgiving box has you covered with a quick and easy pickup for a delightful at-home dining experience. seasons52.com Steuben’s 523 E 17th Ave., Denver Serve six people with five pounds of applewood smoked turkey breast, creamy mashed potatoes and chicken gravy, stuffing, green bean casserole, and zesty cranberry sauce. Of course it wouldn’t be complete without the chai-spiced pumpkin pie. steubens.com Toro Latin Kitchen & Lounge 150 Clayton Ln. Ste. B, Denver This year, Toro’s putting a spin on the classics: a pear salad, clam and corn chowder, achiote turkey, and carrot cheesecake. torodenver.com The Kitchen American Bistro 1560 Wazee St., Denver Build your own Thanksgiving dinner with a la carte items like turkey, vegetarian autumn pot pie, and pumpkin pie. Orders are available for pickup on November 22. thekitchen.com Start with a refreshing green bean salad featuring mixed greens, Green Goddess dressing, and house-made flatbread. Enjoy the main course of roasted spiced turkey breast, complemented by roasted Brussels sprouts, crème fraiche mashed potatoes, rosemary gravy, and classic herb stuffing. Top it off with a rich bourbon apple pie and vanilla whipped cream. woodiefisher.com Woodie Fisher 1999 Chestnut Pl. #100, Denver
stuffing, sweet potatoes, green beans, gravy, cranberry sauce, and a French roll—or just pay $7 more for the full three-course meal that includes a salad, turkey, and dessert. kachinadenver.com
Local Jones 249 Columbine St., Denver
Think white and dark meat, glazed sweet potatoes, mashed potatoes, green bean casserole, classic stuffing, ginger and vanilla cranberry sauce, and black pepper gravy. If you’re not wishing it was already Thanksgiving yet, just imagine the creamy, rich flavor of the Butterscotch Pumpkin and Salted Pecan pies and you will be soon. halcyonhotelcherrycreek.com
Maggiano’s Little Italy Pavilions Mall, 500 16th St. Mall Ste. 150, Denver
Have the traditional classics with an Italian twist. Enjoy a set family-style menu with dine-in and carry-out options. maggianos.com
Mizuna 225 E 7th Ave., Denver
Crafted by Star Chef Michael Dunning, this meal includes tender, juicy sliced turkey breast with garlic thyme gravy, hand-tossed stuffing, and truffle whipped potatoes. Pick up the day before, and follow the reheat instructions to enjoy. bonannoconcepts.com
Nest Cafe at Nurture 2949 Federal Blvd., Denver
If you are gluten- or dairy-free, there’s no reason you have to miss out on all of the Thanksgiving foods. Order one of their scrumptious side dishes or bundle them together. visitnurture.com
Noisette 3254 Navajo St. #100, Denver
Want a little sweet & savory? Check out the fabulous pies and hearty selections
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good to know
Nine Meaningful Ways to Honor Veterans BY PAM MOLNAR PHOTO BY FREEPIK.COM
12 COLORADO PARENT NOVEMBER 2024 4. Participate in a fundraising event that supports Veterans. While every community is different, you will find events like 5K runs, golf outings and clinics, bake sales, or concerts. Reach out to your local American Legion, VFW, or 3. Support a Veteran-owned business. Look for storefronts and online stores that proudly display a Veteran Owned decal. A simple search at veteranownedbusiness.com will give you a list of all stores and restaurants in your state and county. If you are a small business owner yourself, consider a discount for customers who are veterans. V eterans Day is observed on November 11th, and this year, it falls on a Monday. Make it a meaningful three- day weekend by honoring our Veterans in a way that shows how much you appreciate their service. 1. Host a care package drive to send to Operation Gratitude. This is a great project for scouts, churches, businesses, and schools. Their website (OperationGratitude.com) offers easy step-by-step instructions as well as a wish list for the troops. If your group is crafty, you can make decorated pillowcases or paracord lanyards sent in the care packages. Handwritten letters and pictures are also appreciated. 2. Attend a Veterans Day service at a church, American Legion post, or community parade. Your presence is valued by those who served. To find something near you, simply Google “Veteran’s Day event near me.” If you don’t find any, consider creating your own by inviting local veterans to speak at your place of business or school.
your state veterans services department for events near you. 5. Participate in a military cemetery cleanup or flag decoration. These events usually take place on Memorial Day, Veterans Day, and near the winter holidays. Contact your local military cemeteries, American Legion, or scout troops for dates and times in your area. 6. Buy a coffee or lunch for a Veteran when you see them. Many Veterans are easy to spot by the proud display of their status on hats, shirts, and car decals. When you see one in line at coffee shops or restaurants, be sure to thank them for their service by offering to buy their meal. 7. Donate to a Veterans Home or Hospital. Find a local Veterans hospital by searching the Veterans Affairs website (va.
gov). While a monetary donation is easy and can go a long way, each office has a list of items they accept donations for including clothing, magazines, coffee, and cookies. 8. Lend a hand to a local Veteran who lives alone. Offer meals, yard work, or a ride to the store or his doctor’s appointment. It’s also important to make them feel like they are a valued part of the community. Invite them to dinner and get to know them. You may be surprised to hear their stories and find their talents to be a great contribution. 9. Use your talent to brighten the day for a Veteran’s Home. Just like assisted living homes, veteran homes are always looking for volunteers to entertain their residents. If you are a singer, musician, art or dance therapist, yoga instructor, or pet therapy volunteer, contact your local VA Home and ask how you can help.
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Things We Love Fall Finds We’re Thankful For Get ready to celebrate the season with a mix of practical and playful finds that capture the essence of autumn in the Rockies.
good to know
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Whether you’re taking a family camping trip or want to make s’mores at home, the Portable Tabletop Fire Pit is a perfect way to bring
the family together. $29.99. amazon.com
These fun and festive Pumpkin Mini Cocottes are perfect for sharing individually sized cobblers, gratins, pot pies, candies, and other fall treats. $50, lecreuset.com 3
Perfect for keeping drinks hot during outdoor adventures or chilly game days, the Denver Broncos Stainless Steel Tumbler is ideal for any tailgate this football season. $42.99, rallyhouse.com 1
4 As temperatures drop, the versatile, eco-friendly Retro Pile Fleece Jacket is perfect for layering on chilly autumn hikes or cozying up on a crisp Colorado evening. $149, patagonia.com
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Get creative this Thanksgiving with these Thanksgiving Activity Placemats that include games and puzzles to keep the kids entertained while waiting for the turkey and taters. $12.99, worldmarket.com
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2024 Holiday Gift Guide Shopping for the perfect gift can be time consuming and stressful. With this holiday gift guide, we have BABY AND TODDLER
hand-picked items for all ages to help take the guesswork out of gift giving this holiday season.
Sort & Discover Activity Wagon™ Have a wheel-y great time with this wagon that’s full of activities on the outside, and tons of space on the inside to fill with favorite toys, snacks, and more. Ages 12-36 months. walmart.com
VTech® Infant & Preschool Animal Rhymes Storytime™ Wander through forest and farm lands with animal guides serenading little ones with modern takes on classic songs. Flip the pages to find the animals, and press the sun or music notes to hear animal names and their sounds. Ages 9-36 months. amazon.com
Touch & Learn Dinosaur Book™
Touch the colorful pictures on 14 interactive pages to explore what dinosaurs are, where they lived, what they ate, and more. Dig deeper to hear fun facts and learn how to pronounce popular dinosaur names. Switch to Find-It mode and answer questions by finding the correct pictures throughout the book. Ages two and up. walmart.com
My Little Artist Playset This whimsical five-piece playset will inspire future artists through tactile play with different sounds and textures. It includes an orange paint tube squeaker toy, a red crayon sound toy, a crinkling paintbrush, and a mini bear dressed as a painter. Ages zero and up. amazon.com
Swisheez Have a throwback party with the Swisheez. These retro plushies are made with bright neon colors that pop and parachute fabric that swish with every touch. Ages three and up. amazon.com
YOUTH
Furlings Furlings are curiously cute interactive plushies that are sure to be this year’s must-have toy! These furry friends aren’t just adorable; they bring a whole lot of cheer with magically animated eyes, over 80 unique sounds–from giggles to growls–and a long whimsical slap-band tail for upside-down fun. Ages three and up. amazon.com
Petit Paradise Kids Personalized Santa Sack
As a sweet alternative to stockings, kiddos will enjoy putting out these customizable Santa sacks before Santa’s arrival. These sacks help keep gifts organized on Christmas morning. All ages. petitparadiskids.com
Kidi Star™ Drum Pad Try out 20 different drum styles, create and record your own custom sounds, have a blast with three games, and play along with over 30 built-in songs or connect to your own music using Bluetooth wireless technology or line-in audio. Ages five and up. amazon.com
L.U.V. Fashion Doll The L.U.V. Fashion Doll Collection
Magic Adventures™ Binoculars Explore the wonders in your own backyard and the world around you using these real binoculars with a 2.4” video screen for easy viewing. Young naturalists can use the 10x eyepiece magnification to focus on plants and animals during the day or use night vision for nocturnal creatures. Ages four and up. amazon.com
features four unique characters–Harper, Londynn, Brooke, and Autumn–who inspire kids to embrace individuality through fashion. Ages six and up. walmart.com
Friendship Heights The Friendship Heights collection showcases dolls and animals who are friends and support their community together by using unique skills for tasks like recycling, baking, and flower delivery. Ages six and up. walmart.com
Sandy Snacks-a-Lot™ Hold a snack under Sandy’s nose to feed her when she sticks out her tongue. Listen as she describes her favorite foods as she eats, or press her back buttons to jam along to tunes about colors,
Tech Deck Sk8 Crew Learn to fingerboard with collectible figures that are perfect for beginners! Snap the Sk8 Crew figure onto the included Tech Deck board to practice, or snap them off and fingerboard like a pro. Ages five and up. amazon.com
flavors, and interesting axolotl facts. Ages two to five. amazon.com
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Snack-O-Saurus Rex Help hungry Cavepeople find grub. Roll the die to see how many spaces your Caveperson moves on the Gameboard, and collect a snack if it’s on the space you landed. Then, team up with Snack-O-Saurus Rex to score extra snacks! Be the first to collect two pairs of snacks. Ages four and up. amazon.com
WonderEars Thoughtfully designed to engage young minds and enhance classroom connections, this headset is tailored for children. Featuring a smaller-sized design in child-friendly color schemes, the headset ensures a comfortable fit. Ages four to nine. avidproducts.com
Rubik’s 3x3 Speed Cube This 3x3 Rubik’s Cube uses magnets to add stability and act as a positioning system, better aligning the Cube for the next twists
Rubik’s Squish Cube Add a soft twist to your solving with this special design of the classic 3x3 Cube that squishes as you turn. Includes a sticker-less design made from soft foam that adds a new level of satisfying fun to solving. Ages eight and up. walmart.com
The Cookie Cups Making Kits From Dinosaur Chocolate Making Kits to Pizza and Lollipop Making Kits, The Cookie Cups products offer fun and educational experiences that introduce essential math, motor skills, and confidence-building, all while creating lasting memories. Ages three and up. thecookiecups.com
& turns. Ages eight and up. amazon.com
Klee Naturals Makeup Kits Klee Naturals has created a range of non-toxic makeup formulated with safe, natural ingredients, ensuring peace of mind for parents and joy for kids. kleenaturals.com
TWEEN AND TEEN
AirCandy Inflatable Illuminated Color Changing LED Chair This amazing chair is not just a regular inflatable chair. It is also a remote- controlled LED light show that can create 120 different color combinations with the touch of a button. poolcandy.net
Mind the Gap: Deluxe Edition Hum, dance, act, and answer through the generations with this trivia game. This deluxe edition comes with new challenge cards and player pieces to determine which generation is truly the greatest. Ages 10 and up. amazon.com
Pinwheel Pinwheel has all the
functions of a cell phone, plus no social media or web browser access, built-in parental controls, GPS locator, safe contact list, and can be used with any cellular carrier. pinwheel.com
Alpha Five The Alpha is made to take on paved path adventures and mellow dirt paths. It’s a light, all-purpose bike. Ages 9-13. prevelo.com
Poppy & Pout This line of flower-powered lip care products hydrate and rejuvenate with consciously crafted, all- natural formulas in mouthwatering flavors. poppyandpout.com
PATH Water Bottle These sustainable water
bottles are reusable and made out of recyclable aluminum. They’re BPA-free and come in a variety of options, including till, sparkly, alkaline, and flavored water. amazon.com
PatPat Family Pajamas With over 150 styles, the Holiday Pajama Collection celebrates the warmth, joy, and togetherness of the most wonderful time of the year. patpat.com
ADULT
Heat Hot Sauce Shop
TableTopics Prompted Journals Journals are designed to help practice self- awareness and gain insight into the things that matter most. With thought-provoking questions, inspiring quotes, and engaging activities, these journals make the journey of self- exploration enjoyable
Heat Hot Sauce Shop is home to over 700 varieties of small-batch hot sauces worldwide, including its own blends and exclusive collaborations. Its gift sets are a holiday must-have for any hot
momAgenda Designed specifically for busy moms, the momAgenda Desktop Spiral Planner helps you effortlessly manage your hectic schedule, keeping you on task and on time every day. momagenda.com
sauce enthusiast. heathotsauce.com
Kalorik Vivid Touch Air Fryer The new Kalorik VIVID Touch Air Fryer is a perfect fit for those seeking a healthier lifestyle. It allows you to enjoy your favorite fried foods with no oil required. amazon.com
and stress-free. tabletopics.com
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good to know
Open Arms, Open Hearts The Reality and Rewards of Adoption BY MADISON VOORHIES PHOTO BY QUEENFRIDAY PHOTOGRAPHY
18 COLORADO PARENT NOVEMBER 2024 Fate (and God) had a different plan. In May 2012, Tara received life-changing text mes- sages while serving in her church’s children’s ministry. A young woman she befriended A doption is a journey filled with unex- pected 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.
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.
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] cou- ple 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?” 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 miscon- Addressing Adoption Misconceptions ception 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 remem- ber 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 under- stand 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 Chloe’s birth
A Living Testament Tara and George’s story is a testament to the power of love and faith. Despite the challeng- es 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 chal- lenges, 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 cele- brate the beauty of adoption, let’s continue to support one another in creating bright futures for children through this incredible process.
NOVEMBER 2024 COLORADOPARENT.COM 19
One Facing the Challenge: How to Support Your Child Through an Eating Disorder
BY MADISON VOORHIES PHOTO BY FREEPIK.COM
20 COLORADO PARENT NOVEMBER 2024 -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 over- -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. 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 eat- ing disorders, each affecting their health in serious ways, according to The Journal of Pediatrics .
eating, 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 over- eating 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, noticea- ble weight gain. In some cases, a child may not lose weight but still exhibit signs of dis- ordered eating behaviors. 3. Excessive concern about body image: Expressing dissatisfaction with their appear- ance, talking about feeling “fat” even when they are underweight, or frequently checking
themselves in mirrors. 4. Compulsive exercise: Exercising exces- sively, 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 dizzi- ness, fatigue, stomach pain, or cold sensitivi- ty can be signs of malnutrition. Eating disor- ders 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 piec- es, 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 empa- thy, care, and a non-confrontational attitude. Dr. Hernandez suggests that parents cre- ate 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 sit-
uations may also help children feel more comfortable. Rather than jumping to conclu- sions, 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 advis- es starting with a pediatrician. A physical checkup can rule out or identify any growth or health concerns, and from there, a coun- selor specializing in eating disorders can pro- vide support for mental health. Eating disor- ders 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 help- ing 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 pres- ent moment,” she explains. It can help chil- dren 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 emo- tionally, 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 embar- rassment. To address this, Dr. Hernandez also recommends cognitive behavioral ther- apy (CBT), which helps children understand the connection between their thoughts, feel- ings, and behaviors. CBT teaches children
to challenge negative thoughts and replace them with healthier, more realistic perspectives. Another way to foster a healthy relation- ship 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 recogni- tion and intervention are crucial for their recovery and long-term health. As parents, understanding the signs and symptoms of eating disorders and approaching conversa- tions with care can make all the difference. Remember, you don’t have to face this jour- ney 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 health- care professional. Early action can pave the way to healing and a brighter future for your child.
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7 Fun Things To Do After Thanksgiving
Dinner BY JENNIFER GREGORY PHOTO BY FREEPIK.COM
22 COLORADO PARENT NOVEMBER 2024 appropriate for all ages, including teenagers and preschoolers. After dinner, pull out the games and help everyone find something to Thanksgiving dinner for your family to sing Christmas carols at a nursing home. Or, help an elderly neighbor with a special project, such as shopping, painting, or raking leaves. You can also use the holiday to organize your own food drive by having each of your guests bring canned food items that they have collected from their friends and neighbors before Thanksgiving. After dinner, take a field trip to the food pantry to deliver the food. Make it a game night. When you invite guests to your home for Thanksgiving this year, ask them to bring their favorite board game. Mom Katie Roger always played games with her family after the dinner and says, “Some of my favorite memories growing up are from these times.” Be sure to have games on hand that are E ach year after Thanksgiving dinner, many families head to the living room to relax and watch what seems to be an endless array of football games. Since quality time with friends and family can be hard to come by these days, consider using that after-dinner time to create a new family tradition. Here are a few suggestions: Focus on others. Consider volunteering at a soup kitchen or food shelter together to help serve meals to the less fortunate. Local mom Mary Ford is planning to start volunteering on Thanksgiving with her children. “I want my kids to see the blessing they have while at the same time serving others that are not as fortunate,” says Ford. Another option is to use the time after
play. Group games, such as Trivial Pursuit, Charades, or Pictionary, are especially popu-
Decorate for the holidays. Some families choose their Christmas tree together on Thanksgiving to decorate later in the weekend. Consider decorating for the holidays on Thanksgiving evening and include your guests in the festivities. “For several years, we have gone to a cut- your-own Christmas tree farm to cut down our own tree. We also take our picture for our Christmas cards then too,” says Jim Thompson, father of two. Another idea is to make holiday decora- tions together. Some simple ideas include paper chains, salt dough ornaments, and bead ornaments. When deciding on a pro- ject, be sure to consider young children who might want to participate. Provide alternate crafts if you have guests who celebrate holi- When Carrie Schlegel was growing up, her family had a talent contest each year on Thanksgiving night. The adults and children took turns performing acts, such as quoting Shakespeare or singing and playing a musi- cal instrument. Each year, someone was awarded a trophy for the best performance. She looked forward to this tradition through- out the years and is planning to host her own family talent show this year. Be sure to let your guests know ahead of time about the talent show. Encourage everyone, including children, to participate. Remind them to bring any necessary props or costumes. Whatever you do with your down time this Thanksgiving, be sure to spend it creating memories and expressing gratitude. In addi- tion to enjoying your time together, you may find yourself starting traditions that others will look forward to throughout the year. days other than Christmas. Have a talent show.
lar and provide hours of fun. If weather permits...
Head outdoors! Mother of two, Kathy Smith remembers, “Growing up we played touch football in the front yard after Thanksgiving dinner.” You could also play a group game of Hide and Seek or Kick-the-Can. If you have a large area, Capture the Flag can also be a lot of fun. If you are feeling adventurous, head to a nearby park for a friendly game of tag foot- ball or explore local hiking trails together. Check out trails.com for those in your area. Go for a family walk or bike ride in your neighborhood. Be sure to mention walking shoes or bicycles when inviting guests to dinner. Create a family scrapbook. Have each adult and child bring a few of their favorite family pictures. Provide some cardstock, patterned paper, glue sticks, stick- ers, pens, and scissors. Have each person create a page using their photos and record memories about the picture in the scrap- book. Be sure to include the date and artist on each page. Each year, create more pages to add to the album. Write letters of gratitude. Have each guest think of one person that they are especially thankful for this year. Have pens and paper ready and encourage your guests to write the person a note or let- ter telling them why they are special. You can include preschoolers in this activ- ity by having them dictate the letter to an adult or an older child. When each person is done, give them a stamped envelope, ready to be addressed and mailed.
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Investing in Yourself, Investing in Your Family BY AMANDA CIANI PHOTO BY FREEPIK.COM
24 COLORADO PARENT NOVEMBER 2024 Having a family is a busy business! There are people to feed, bathe, teach, play with, transport, etc. Having children is life’s great- est gift; every moment can be a memory made. But! In all honesty and transparency, it can be tiring. And stressful! So, when does normal parenting worry and exhaustion cross over to something slightly more concerning? W e have all heard versions of, “It is hard to fill someone else’s cup if yours is empty!” Sometimes par- enting feels like it entirely revolves around refilling everyone else’s cups all day long, literally and figuratively. Then at the end of the night, when a parent has time to sit down, they realize their cup is looking pretty dry. The good news is there are many ways for parents to fill their cups. The experts all agree–being fulfilled will not only put parents in a place to be the best versions of themselves, it will also make them great role models to their kiddos too. Being one’s best self truly benefits the whole family! Mental Health Matters
Mental Health Care Author and Therapist Alexandria Fields, MSW LISW-S of Inclusive Therapy, notes that “interrupted sleep, increased irritability, avoiding or canceling social plans, and feeling in a constant state of threat” are all red flags that may signify it may be beneficial to reach out for help and take the first steps toward healing. She also extends understanding by noting, “Please remember that any step toward self-care is going to be helpful, but the first step is often the hardest.” Fields suggests starting with individual therapy and then trusting the advice and rec- ommendations of the therapists. Tools such as journaling and meditation can help par- ents boost their spirits, but one of the most effective tools is the utilization of commu- nity. She goes on to recognize that “not all people who need therapy will require med- ication,” yet “if a therapist is suggesting a medication evaluation, hear them out! There is nothing to be ashamed of, just as there is no need to be ashamed of needing glasses, a cane, or medication for a heart condition!” Seeking counsel can leave a parent
feeling more optimistic, better rested, and approaching life with more calm. Therapy can help a parent feel more equipped to be a parent. For those who feel like the entire family itself is out of sync, do not fret! Family therapy is available at many mental health practices. “If more family members attend to their mental health, the ripple effect will be profound and can lead to faster and longer-lasting results for the entire family unit!” Get Moving With benefits like reducing cardiovascular disease, strengthening bones and muscles, and living longer, a little bit of exercise each day goes a long way. Of course, all of this will benefit both the parent and the family in the long term. But did you know? The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that physical activity helps you immediately feel better, function better, and sleep better. Take tiny steps each day towards making more movement. Every able body is capable of adding a little bit of extra physical exertion each day; however, it may look different for each individual. Do some simple stretches
while sitting. Take the stairs instead of the elevator. Park a little further away from the door. Go for a walk, then walk a little fur- ther the next time. Register for a marathon! Knowing limits and ability are important, but so is pushing oneself too! Owner of Swift Movement Studio, Seth Rujiraviriyapinyo, sees the benefits of physi- cal activity. “At Swift, we believe in achieving your impossible, and we see so many kids and parents learning to challenge each other both in and out of the studio,” and that “[with] each class, our goal is to have you be able to have done something you didn’t think you were capable of when you walked in. That confidence in yourself and having the support of others around you is some- thing that can truly be life changing.” Whether a parent gets moving all on their own or enjoys being active with their kids, parents are taking the lead and show- ing the way when it comes to self-care. Rujiraviriyapinyo sums it up well, “Being a healthy, active parent has so many bene- fits for the family. You lead as a strong role model and you have improved mental and physical energy for yourself to support your family.” As a parent, it is easy to dedicate oneself to family and lose our actual self. Plus, loved ones seem to be leading equally busy lives. However, if a parent has individuals in their life that are truly important to them and make them feel good during time spent together, steps can be taken to make sure those lives intersect. Perhaps one of the simplest solutions Find Your People and Lean on Them would be for parents to keep in touch more regularly with loved ones. It takes under a minute to forward something along with a simple message. Using time spent on the phone connecting with a real person instead of doom scrolling is a great way to get a mental boost. Being around individuals who are uplifting, laugh-inducing, problem solv- ing, and fun will vastly improve one’s sense of belonging. Being a parent with stable mental health, an active body, and a community to lean on may seem like an ambitious feat in the mod- ern world. However, making small steps will equate to being the best parent possible. Every parent who strives to be a better ver- sion of themselves is going to be an amazing role model for their kids. You are already invested in your family, now make the time and invest in YOU. Fill your cup; make it overflow!
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