February 2025
FEBRUARY 2025
THE MAGAZINE THAT BATON ROUGE FAMILIES LIVE BY
Rain or Shine: Indoor Fun with Grandparents
11 Books for Early Learners
Early Education Guide: Discover, Learn, Grow!
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@brparents.com
MEET OUR TEAM AMY L. FOREMAN Publisher EDITORIAL AMANDA MILLER Managing Editor SANONNA AL TAWEEL AMANDA CIANI JULIANNA STEEN MADISON VOORHIES Associate Editors ART/PRODUCTION ALEX HERRING Senior Graphic Designer TOM GONZALES MADELINE MILETELLO MCKINNA SPROLES Graphic Designers ADVERTISING/MARKETING CRYSTAL BARRETT KAYLA FRICKS GOMEZ MARTINE MELANCON RYN WHITESIDE Senior Account Executives CAMILLE CAVIN JADE GRAY JENNIFER HOFFMANN KAYLEIGH MONTANA JILLIAN WRAY Account Executives ELISABETH BARRETT Marketing Coordinator 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
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WHAT’S ON THE WEB
Free Downloadable Valentine’s Day Cards for Kids Want to DIY your kiddo’s Valentine’s Day cards this year? Download one of these templates to get started. The 2025 Mardi Gras Guide Find family-friendly parades and events to experience this festival season with this guide.
5 Valentine’s Day Traditions to Start with the Family Share the love this month and beyond with these fun activities to enjoy with the family.
Valentine’s Day Gift Ideas Not sure what to give your special someone this month? You’ll love this gift guide!
MAKAYLEE SECREST Administrative Assistant SARAH MILLER Client Success Manager EMMY LOGAN Accounting Coordinator AMY PLAISANCE Founder
freebies
Visit brparents.com and click “Promotions.” | Deadline to enter is February 17, 2025.
The KEEP>GOING First Aid Kit includes essential first aid supplies from burn relief to bandages, so you will be ready for any activity. keepgoingfirstaid.com
Adorned with gold hardware and vegan leather, the Keote Bag can clip onto your keychain or expand into a roomy tote bag. shopkeote.com
CONTACT US EDITORIAL@FRG.INC OFFICE (225) 292-0032 3636 S. SHERWOOD FOREST BLVD., STE. 540 BATON ROUGE, LA 70816-6055 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 2025. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission prohibited.
LAST MONTH’S WINNERS Look who won January’s Freebies: Emily Johnson won the Beat the Parents: Disney Edition Board Game and Michael Smith won the Furlings Cleo.
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inside
FEBRUARY 2025 • ISSUE 415
DEPARTMENTS
IN EVERY ISSUE 4 @BRPARENTS.COM 8 A NOTE FROM MOM 50 THINGS TO DO 58 THINGS WE LOVE 60 THE LAST WORD 62 SNAPSHOTS CONNECT 14 BOOK CORNER 16 CRAFT CORNER LIVE 20 DAD NEXT DOOR 22 THRIVE 24 FAITH 10 COMMUNITY 12 EDUCATION
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Photo by Kleinpeter Photography
ON THE COVER 2024-25 Cover Kid A’mar S. is a sweet, creative three year old with an adventurous spirit. He enjoys eating good food, and his favorite food right now is hamburgers. His favorite movies are those that feature the Minions. He also loves to dance, sing, play basketball, and attend children’s ministry.
FEATURES 28 THE POWER OF SIBLING BONDS Discover how teen sibling relationships help shape growth and provide support. By Amanda Miller 32 HOW MONTESSORI SCHOOLS ARE ACCREDITED Learn about
34 RAIN OR SHINE 15+ indoor activities kiddos can experience with their grandparents. By Julianna Steen AN EARLY LEARNING CENTER? Find out what defines an Early Learning Center in Baton Rouge. By Madison Voorhies 36 WHAT IS
38 EARLY
EDUCATION GUIDE Find the perfect Early Learning Center for your little ones through this simple and informative guide. By BRPM 40 5 CREATIVE WAYS TO SPREAD VALENTINE’S DAY CHEER Spread love and cheer in these simple ways this month. By Sarah Lyons
48 MARDI GRAS PARADES YOU WON’T WANT TO MISS Enjoy carnival season at these local festivities. By BRPM
the Montessori method and the
accreditation process. By Sanonna Al Taweel
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a note from mom IN EVERY ISSUE
The ABCs, 123s, and Everything in Between!
A s a mom, it often feels like I’m juggling a million things, and there’s always that sneaky little voice in my head whispering, “You’re dropping the ball somewhere!” Whether it’s carving out enough quality time for each kiddo, helping with homework, or just being there to listen, I’m constantly second-guessing myself. But one area where I definitely think I could’ve done better is in the early education of my twins. I thought I was doing right by enrolling them in Moms Day Out to get them socializing, then PreK3 and PreK4 to get the academic wheels turning. But when Kindergarten rolled around, they were still behind the curve. Then, I look at my sister with her little ones and think, “How does she do it?!” She started her kids at an awesome daycare, sure, but it’s the magic she works at home that blows my mind. I mean, my four-year-old nephew is over here spelling words with ABC-shaped chicken nuggets! Why didn’t I think of something that genius?! She’s constantly taking them to the library, and they absolutely love reading. Meanwhile, I’m just over here trying to
find a moment to breathe. Time? What’s that? But I’ll take those sweet FaceTime calls where they proudly show off what they’ve learned. The joy in their eyes is totally priceless. Being a mom is a pressure cooker of expectations. We want to raise the best, brightest, most compassionate, loving little humans. And that all starts with the basics. We’ve shifted our focus over the years because, honestly, the literacy rates are climbing like a roller coaster—and we can definitely help slow that ride down by starting early. If your little one knows their ABCs, basic sight words, and 123s, they’re going to start school already ahead of the game. And that head start is a big deal in helping them stay on track throughout their academic journey. Plus, it’s a win for everyone—helping literacy rates go *down* and confidence go up . As parents, we’ve got to do our part to support our kids at home, even if daycare or school does their thing. A little extra push goes a long way. So, let’s get back to the basics! Happy learning, everyone!
Amy L. Foreman Publisher
Email amy@frg.inc to tell me about topics you’d like to see in future issues.
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CONNECT
community
MID CITY MICRO-CON
Calling all comic fans! Mid City Micro-Con returns to the Main Library at Goodwood on Saturday, February 8, 10 a.m.—4 p.m. Mid City Micro-Con is a celebration of diverse and inclusive comics, creators, and fans, with a goal of connecting the EBR community to local and regional creators and to amplify voices in comics and fandoms to highlight authentic, positive representation in storytelling. Discover local art and artists in the Artist’s Alley, participate in workshops with content creators throughout the day, and sign up for the Cosplay Show and Tell. ■ ebrpl.co/mcmc2025
BREC’S BATON ROUGE ZOO CELEBRATES FIRST JAGUAR BIRTH IN DECADES BREC’s Baton Rouge Zoo recently announced the birth of a jaguar cub, the first at the zoo in over 20 years, marking a significant milestone for the zoo and global jaguar conservation efforts. Named Lacumba III, the cub’s arrival is the first recorded under the Jaguar Species Survival Plan since April 2023. Over the past five years, only six jaguar cubs have survived nationwide, highlighting the rarity and importance of this birth. The female cub’s mother, Jenny, had previously experienced stillborn litters. However, both mother and cub are now healthy and bonding off- exhibit. The cub will remain behind the scenes with Jenny for the next two months and is expected to make her public debut in spring 2025. ■ brzoo.org
1TO1 PLANS OPENS IN BATON ROUGE
1to1 Plans recently opened its first Louisiana location in Baton Rouge. The Dallas-based franchise business offers high-tech virtual walk-throughs for homeowners, real estate developers, design professionals, and residential builders, enabling them to visualize floor plans on a walkable 30-by-30 foot LED computer screen. By providing floor plans, customers can see a detailed display to get an idea of a residential or commercial building’s layout before beginning construction. The business even provides furniture on wheels to experience how everything will function as a living space. After each session, clients receive a recording of the studio visit, along with notes for any necessary alterations. ■ 1to1plans.com
KEEP JAGUAR NATION BEAUTIFUL OFFICIALLY LAUNCHES
A new initiative, Keep Jaguar Nation Beautiful, has officially launched in North Baton Rouge. Drawing inspiration from South Baton Rouge’s Keep Tiger Town Beautiful, Keep Jaguar Nation Beautiful seeks to expand the organization’s reach by organizing weekly cleanups in neglected areas of North Baton Rouge. The initiative aims to build on existing efforts to combat litter and restore pride in the community. The first cleanup was held in January, with more scheduled in the coming months. ■ keeptigertownbeautiful.com
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GRANT AIMS TO INCREASE MONTESSORI TEACHER RANKS
East Baton Rouge, Rapides, and Tangipahoa Parishes have united to establish a new center dedicated to training educators in Montessori teaching methods. Backed by a $15 million federal grant, this initiative aims to expand the pool of certified Montessori teachers in Louisiana. Among the seven participating schools are Belfair Montessori Magnet School and The Dufrocq School. The first group of teachers is scheduled to begin their comprehensive training program this summer. ■ ed.gov
LOCAL CLINIC OFFERS AVICLEAR LASER FOR TEENS
When it comes to acne struggles, teens often bear the brunt of it. However, the Aesthetic Medicine and Anti-Aging Clinics in Baton Rouge offer AviClear, an FDA-approved laser treatment, to help teens combat breakouts. According to AviClear’s website, AviClear is the first FDA-cleared energy device designed to treat mild, moderate, and severe acne. The treatment typically involves three 30-minute sessions. AviClear uses laser light to selectively target and suppress sebaceous glands, addressing acne at its source without the need for prescription medications. To find out if AviClear is right for you, visit their website or consult a doctor. ■ aviclear.com
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education CONNECT THE DUNHAM SCHOOL’S FOURTH GRADERS GET INNOVATIVE
HIP HOP DOC VISITS EBR SCHOOLS
The “Hip Hop Doc” made rounds to four East Baton Rouge Parish Schools to promote reading. Dr. Rani Whitfield, a Baton Rouge native, renowned physician, and musician visited Audubon Elementary School, Broadmoor Elementary School, and LaSalle Elementary School to read his new book RJ Did It as part of an initiative in partnership with East Baton Rouge Schools aimed at highlighting the importance of literacy.
The Dunham School’s fourth grade students recently spent time in the Innovation Lab, constructing chairs out of newspaper and tape. The challenge was to make a chair that could hold the weight of the school’s Middle and Upper School STEM expert, Mr. Van. The winning chair was selected based on strength, style, construction, and comfort.
Episcopal School of Baton Rouge students had a great showing at Youth Legislature. Senior Miniya Malone served on the state board for the second consecutive year as the House Speaker Pro Tempore. Junior Adam Chittom and sophomore Kate Lyons’ bill passed the House and Senate and was signed by the Governor. Sophomores Nate McLean and Daniel Lindsey’s bill made it out of committee but was ultimately declared unconstitutional by the Supreme Court. EPISCOPAL STUDENTS SUCCEED AT YOUTH LEGISLATURE
Parkview Baptist School’s Head Girls Soccer Coach, Raphael Nunes, has been recognized as the 2024 Girls Winter Region Independent School High School Coach of the Year by the prestigious United Soccer Coaches organization. This incredible honor is a testament to Coach Nunes’s dedication, leadership, and passion for the sport and Parkview’s student-athletes. Since joining Parkview Baptist School in 2018, Coach Nunes has transformed the Girls Soccer Program into a powerhouse of excellence. His commitment to cultivating both talent and character in his players has earned him and the program recognition far beyond the campus. PARKVIEW COACH NAMED COACH OF THE YEAR
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BRMHS STUDENT NAMED A TOP 300 SCHOLAR
Congratulations to Emily Chen of Baton Rouge Magnet High School for her remarkable achievement in being named one of the top 300 scholars in the 84th Regeneron Science Talent Search research competition. Presented by the Society for Science, the nation’s oldest and most prestigious science research competition provides a stage for the country’s best and brightest young scientists to present original research to nationally-recognized professional scientists. Chen’s project is titled “Studying the Effects of Distortion on the Hydrodynamics in the Lower Mississippi River Physical Model.” Chen was one of 2,471 entrants, the largest entrant pool since 1967. Each scholar will receive $2,000, and their high schools will also receive $2,000 per scholar for STEM- related activities.
Kohen Folse, an Ascension Catholic Diocesan Regional School eighth grader, earned a championship ring after playing and winning in the Junior Gridiron Football All-American Bowl at Memorial Stadium in Baton Rouge. Kohen is the son of Stephen and Jessica Folse. The 2024 Gridiron Football All-American Bowl included three junior high games and a senior game finale. ASCENSION CATHOLIC EIGHTH GRADER SHINES IN GRIDIRON FOOTBALL ALL- AMERICAN BOWL
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CONNECT book corner
T he Library loves to help little ones learn! Get your preschoolers Kindergarten-ready as they explore letters, numbers, colors, shapes, and more in these featured books! Consider attending storytime at any EBRPL location or enrolling your young scholar in our Press Start! Ready, Set, Read! program, designed for children ages 2–4. For more information about these and other exciting opportunities for kids at the Library, visit ebrpl.com or call (225) 231-3760.
BOARD BOOKS
This 3-in-1 book covers fun animals the child can explore while also learning their shapes and colors. PICTURE BOOKS Eek!: A Noisy Journey from A to Z by Julie Hofstrand Larios Follow a small mouse as he encounters a variety of sounds on his A to Z journey. The Alphabet’s Alphabet by Chris Harris Readers will enjoy this unique take on the alphabet as each letter compares itself to
other letters, discovering their differences and their similarities. Every Little Letter by Deborah Underwood Letters live in separate little communities in this alphabet book. But when little h and small i become friends, the letters begin to come together to form words and new friendships. 10 Things I Love About Dinosaurs by Samantha Sweeney Simple counting from 1 to 10 combined with fun facts about dinosaurs makes this
Shapes by Sasha Morton Learn about shapes in this touch-and-feel textured book. Count the number of sides as you trace each shape. Where else can you find these shapes? Stop! Go!: A Book of Opposites by Brian Biggs Using different types of vehicles, children will explore the concept of opposites. Orange Triangle Fox by Sarah Jones
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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book the perfect early counting book for dinosaur lovers. Counting to Bananas: A Mostly Rhyming Fruit Book by Carrie Tillotson This hilarious rhyming book about different types of fruit will have you counting and laughing. Banana wants so badly to be the star of the book, but other fruits and non-fruits keep making their appearance. Practice your colors as the crayons go on another crayon adventure as they head back to school! Layla, the Last Black Unicorn by Tiffany Haddish When Layla starts school and realizes that all the other unicorns are pastel colors, she tries to make friends but feels like she is too different. But when the unicorns in her class get into some trouble on the school field trip, it’s Layla to the rescue! Shape Up, Construction Trucks! by Victoria Allenby Readers can explore multiple shapes found on different types of construction vehicles making this book “truckloads” of fun to read! The Crayons Go Back to School by Drew Daywalt
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CONNECT
craft corner
10 Fun Ideas for a Valen-Tween Party! BY PAM MOLNAR PHOTO BY FREEPIK.COM
A s anyone can tell you, tween years are hard, especially on Valentine’s Day. You are too old to exchange boxed paper valentines and too young for romantic love. The good news is, the tween years are the perfect age to have a party at home with their friends. Here are a few ideas to get you started.
and a place for the guests to share their photos like Google Photos. PLAY SOME GAMES 1. Broken Hearts You will need a deck of cards. Deal one card facedown to each person. The object is to get the highest card. You may choose to keep the card you have or switch it with the person to your left. However, if the person to your left (or you) has a Heart card, you may not switch. The dealer may take the top card of the deck if they choose to switch. The person with the lowest card is out and you play again until only one is standing. 2. Love Birds You will need multi-colored rubber ducks
16 FEBRUARY2025 | BRPARENTS.COM good news is, fruit is naturally sweet and many of them are conveniently pink and red. Healthier sugar and snacks include smoothies, sorbet, red beet hummus for dipping, tomato and mozzarella kabobs, white chocolate-covered strawberries, shrimp cocktail, and ham roll-ups. WHAT TO WEAR Pink and red of course, but parties are always more fun with a theme. Guests can dress to fit any theme you choose— Pajamas, Fantasy Floral, Groovy Gals, Pride and Joy, Swifty Love, Glitz and Glam, Beach Babes, Harry Potter, Disney characters, Dress Like Your Crush, Barbie, Hawaiian, or I Love (fill in the blank) Night. SUGAR AND SNACKS Let’s face it, that’s what they eat. The
GET COOKING If you have a smaller group, they might enjoy cooking or baking. They can create heart-shaped foods like pizza, ravioli, or hand pies filled with berries. If you have a super foodie group, they might enjoy making a more traditional Valentine’s Day meal like Beef Wellington or roasted chicken with fingerling potatoes. SOCIAL MEDIA CENTER Purchase a frame for Instagram and photo booth props (Etsy is a great source for this) and dedicate a spot for your guests to snap a cute photo of themselves and their friends. Other helpful items for your Social Media Center include a backdrop, selfie stick, tripod, and a light ring. Come up with a hashtag like #valentinevibes2025
for this game. Place one of each color randomly at the end of a counter or long table. Players slide rubber ducks across the counter trying to touch a duck of the same color. The game can also be played with paper hearts taped to the counter. Players slide their ducks to land on a heart. You can give them a point for every duck they land on for their turn and the player with the most points wins a small prize. 3. Heart Hop You will need red and pink paper hearts taped to the floor in a straight line perpendicular to each other with room for the players in between. One person is the caller, yelling “red” or “pink” to get the players to hop from one side to the other. If a player makes a mistake and jumps to the wrong side, they are out. Play until there is This is a fun way to play a popular dice game, LCR. Players will be given three candy hearts to start. Every player will roll three dice and determine if they will send their candy to the left, center, or right depending on which letter comes up on the dice. Play until all candy is in the center except the one in front of the last person who is the winner. CRAFT CORNER Wax Melts— Wax melts are a much safer only one player left. 4. Candy Heart LCR option than candle burning in tween bedrooms. Gather white candles from Dollar Tree, essential oils, food coloring, and Valentine’s-themed silicone molds. Melt candles and pour them into a measuring cup. Add your favorite scents and colors and pour them into molds. These only take an hour or so to set. To use, place wax melts in a glass jar on top of a candle warmer and enjoy the fragrance as it melts. Polymer Clay Earrings— Purchase different colors of oven bake polymer clay, small cookie cutters, small rolling pins, jump rings, earring backs or hooks, sandpaper, and pliers. Use your creativity to mix and roll out the clay. Cut out shapes and poke a hole for the jump ring. Bake in the oven per directions on the package. When cooled, sand off any rough edges and add jump rings and earring attachments.
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dad next door LIVE
Landon André BY AMANDA MILLER
Occupation: Estimator for CIS Industries Wife: Tiffany Child: Roy, 1 month Hobbies: Hunting, being outdoors, golfing, and spending time with family and friends
A s the clock struck midnight and fireworks illuminated the sky, Landon André and his wife, Tiffany, welcomed their baby boy on one of the most celebrated days of the year—New Year’s Day. Baby Roy made his debut as one of the first babies of 2025. Landon reflects on the joyous and unforgettable moment, sharing the emotions of the experience while also offering a glimpse into what his first few weeks of fatherhood have been like. WHAT WAS THE FIRST
WHAT HOPES OR DREAMS DO YOU HAVE FOR BABY ROY AS HE GROWS UP? LANDON: I hope he likes sports and all the hobbies I like, but I’ll just be happy if he’s happy. Whatever he likes to do, I’ll get behind. WHAT’S ONE LESSON FROM YOUR OWN FATHER THAT YOU’RE LOOKING FORWARD TO TEACHING ROY? LANDON: Always treat people with respect. Things in life are going to come naturally, you just have to let them come. WHAT’S BEEN YOUR
just had a loss for words. Honestly, it was pretty crazy. I think that’s what I said. I was like, this is pretty wild. HOW DID IT FEEL TO RING IN THE NEW YEAR BY BECOMING A DAD? WHAT EMOTIONS WERE RUNNING THROUGH YOUR MIND? LANDON: I had a wide range of emotions. I was happy, excited, and scared, but it was a special moment.
WHAT’S A QUALITY IN TIFFANY OR YOURSELF
THING YOU SAID OR THOUGHT YOU HAD WHEN YOU REALIZED ROY WAS OFFICIALLY THE FIRST BABY OF 2025?
THAT YOU HOPE ROY INHERITS?
LANDON: Probably a good sense of calmness from my wife. No matter the situation, she seems to always be the one I could turn to, to make sure everything’s fine and all that good stuff.
FAVORITE MOMENT OF FATHERHOOD SO FAR?
20 FEBRUARY2025 | BRPARENTS.COM LANDON: It was pretty crazy. As he was being delivered, all the fireworks were going off outside the hospital window. I
LANDON: He smiled a couple times. He’s only a few days old, so not many things are
ABOUT NAVIGATING THIS NEW STAGE OF LIFE? LANDON: Find sleep whenever you can. I think that has been the hardest part, finding time to sleep, to be your best self and be able to help your significant other.
really going on, but seeing him smile for that first time was pretty special. HOW HAS BECOMING A DAD CHANGED YOUR PERSPECTIVE ON LIFE SO FAR? LANDON: All the things that I thought were big in life are not as big as I thought they were, to be honest. You know, definitely other things are more important now. LANDON: Just making memories honestly, seeing him smile and laugh and enjoy life as much as me and my wife have enjoyed life so far, and enjoying it even more now that he’s here with us. WHAT IS A TRADITION OR ACTIVITY YOU HAD GROWING UP THAT YOU’RE EXCITED TO PASS ON TO YOUR SON? LANDON: Going to the hunting camp with my dad, and he’ll be coming with me now, and doing stuff like that. Visiting family and watching LSU sports. That’s a pretty WHAT ARE YOU MOST LOOKING FORWARD TO IN THIS NEW CHAPTER AS A FAMILY OF THREE?
good family tradition we’ve got going, supporting the Tigers. WHAT’S ONE SKILL OR LESSON FROM YOUR CAREER THAT YOU THINK WILL MAKE YOU A BETTER FATHER? LANDON: Probably managing time and tasks throughout the day, and being able to maneuver around that. WHAT DO YOU ENJOY MOST ABOUT YOUR JOB? LANDON: I work with some of my best friends, so being able to go to work and see them every day is pretty cool. And getting to work with them. I find that that’s probably the most rewarding thing about work. WHAT’S THE BEST PIECE OF PARENTING ADVICE YOU’VE RECEIVED SO FAR, AND WHO GAVE IT TO YOU? LANDON: My dad.Things will happen naturally, you just have to let it happen. Everything’s going to be fine. WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO OTHER WORKING DADS
RAPID-FIRE QUESTIONS Q: Favorite local spot for date night… A: We like going to the local Mexican restaurant and having some margaritas and chips and salsa. Q: One word that best describes your family… A: Happy. Q: Favorite tv shows and movies to watch… A: Yellowstone . Q: Favorite food… A: Pizza. Q: Hidden talent… A: I can swaddle pretty well!
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LIVE thrive
Empowering Heroes & Saving More Lives
BY AMANDA MILLER
22 FEBRUARY2025 | BRPARENTS.COM As a part of bringing training to the state, the Foundation hosted the first Louisiana Instructors Firefighters Training (LIFT) Conference in 2018, and the conference continues to be held annually. The departments are volunteer-run, making consistent access to training difficult. While FETA at LSU focuses on collegiate- style certifications and recruit training, there are limited training opportunities. However, Kling shares that in states such as South Carolina, there are comprehensive systems in place to provide the necessary training. These systems have served as a model for the Foundation, aiming to provide training locally and make it more accessible. THE LIFT CONFERENCE T he Louisiana Firefighters and safety education to firefighters, first responders, and citizen responders. These citizen responders are especially crucial because they are typically the people who are there in the first few minutes of an emergency. Meg Kling, the media director of the Louisiana Firefighters Foundation, explains, “When you look at the people who are calling 911, administering aid or care in the first five minutes of an emergency, it’s the citizens. So our mission is to essentially prepare everyone for everything.” ROOTS IN TRAINING The Foundation was initially built to address training challenges within the Louisiana fire service. Many fire Foundation supports those who answer the call by providing fire
LIFT Conference is the “cornerstone of firefighter training in the region, bringing together over 400 dedicated firefighters from across Louisiana and beyond.” During the conference, firefighters experience hands-on training, learn from industry leaders, network with fellow firefighters, and witness or compete in the Louisiana Firefighters Competition. However, it’s more than training—it’s an opportunity to build relationships and build a strong community of dedicated firefighters. IN THE COMMUNITY Along with providing resources to firefighters, the Foundation is also “empowering the community to understand what actions they should take to save lives prior to the arrival of public safety agencies.” The Foundation offers a variety of free programs, for tweens and up. Some of these programs include Safe & in Charge: Sitter Superstars, Ready Teacher, Citizen Responder, Prepared Coach, and First on the Scene. Many of these programs cover CPR, bleeding control, addressing emergency situations, and basic first aid. The Foundation has plans to expand its reach even further, providing education to college students on campus who witness an emergency and need a plan. SHOW SUPPORT Helping organizations like Louisiana Firefighters Foundation thrive and showing support for those who serve is important. Kling says that showing support is as simple as liking their social
media pages and attending their local events.
“The biggest thing is to support anything that the fire departments are doing across the state. It’s as simple as liking their social media pages. The more support we get on there, the more our messages get out. Then, more people will see these safety messages, and if one person goes and puts a smoke alarm in their home because of something they saw on Facebook, that’s one less person that’s probably going to be injured in a fire. It comes full circle back to you liking our page, but really, you’re doing that for yourself, because you might save your life,” says Kling. Firefighters are showing up for everything—many things we don’t even realize they would show up for—and they deserve our support. Kling shares, “The calls are not just fires and car accidents. I mean, they’re showing up for everything. Cats in trees are real, dogs stuck in a mattress are real. The water won’t shut off in my apartment and maintenance won’t answer the phone, or my oven’s stuck in locking mode. The amount of times somebody has passed on, and we are the ones that have to tell them because we’re the first ones there…anything and everything, and people don’t always realize that we do all of that as firefighters. So that’s kind of part of the mission here as well—to just get awareness, get support. Support comes in all shades, all colors, all sizes, and it’s just anything anyone can do, it’s all appreciated.” For more information, visit louisianafirefighters.com.
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LIVE faith
Creating a Prayerful Parenting Partnership - Part 2
BY SHERI WOHLFERT PHOTO BY FREEPIK.COM
24 FEBRUARY2025 | BRPARENTS.COM Conflict leads to inconsistency, and being a united, consistent front for our kids is so very important. When our kids see I n the previous column, we considered ideas for spouses to parent together so they form a prayerful, loving partnership. We discussed the importance of prayer, patience, and working through different scenarios together. Parents bring different ideas and opinions to the parenting equation, but they might not realize how different their approaches are until they are knee-deep in a parenting conflict. My husband and I learned quickly that parenting has deep roots in our personalities and our life experiences. With all of this in mind, let’s consider a few more ideas for a healthy parenting partnership. STAY UNITED
us working together and supporting each other, we send a strong signal. Save parenting disagreements for a time when the kids aren’t around. Pray together for wisdom during tough parenting times. WATCH THE MASTERS Be on the lookout for great parenting. If there is a family who raised or is raising great kids, ask questions, have a conversation with them, and soak up their wisdom. Pray about how you can apply it to your own parenting. REMEMBER THE GOAL Remember we are in the business of raising saints, and pleasing everyone is not a part of that mission. We don’t have to please our own parents or impress other people. When people tell you how to parent, simply
listen to their input, take it to prayer, talk with your spouse, and do what’s best for the saints you’re raising. GO BACK TO THE BEGINNING Parenting can be difficult and all- consuming, so return often to the one with whom you fell in love first. Marriages need to be nurtured to keep the love strong because parenting takes love, teamwork, and sacrifice. Spend time together and divide your date time into two sections. Part one: Have a conversation about your relationship as parents; take time to discuss anything that needs to be shared about the kids. Part two: Hard jobs are better accomplished with someone you enjoy, so talk, laugh, plan, and dream about anything but the kids. Make sure to enjoy one another.
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The Power of Sibling Bonds: How Teen Relationships Shape Growth and Support BY AMANDA MILLER PHOTO BY PROSTOOLEH AT FREEPIK.COM G rowing up with a sibling means forever having a built-in best friend who helps make navigating causing many to miss out on the many benefits of having a sibling during the teen years in the first place.
that a child may be more likely to confide in a sibling than a parent and may seek a sibling’s support in time of need. Dr. Sidhu says, “This piece is critical, because we know that one of the biggest risk factors for developing youth is suffering in isolation. The ability for young people to express their feelings to anyone— sibling, parent, or friend—can be highly therapeutic and can prevent a worsening of depressed mood or anxiety.”
28 FEBRUARY2025 | BRPARENTS.COM relationship proves to be especially essential during the teen years, when experiencing breakups, bullies, friendship struggles, and life transitions are common. However, nurturing the sibling relationship doesn’t always happen, the younger years, the teen years, and even the adult years a little easier. This
WHY IT’S IMPORTANT A sibling relationship can be one of the longest relationships a teen experiences, and they’re one of the most important. Dr. Shawn Sidhu, a psychiatrist with a specialty in behavioral health, shares
Encourage cooperation, not competition.
Establishing this relationship is crucial in helping provide an outlet to these growing teens, and they also provide an assortment of other benefits in terms of emotional support, shared experiences, and more practical support, such as— remember when you had to take Geometry?
divorce, family financial struggles, or caring for aging parents, having a sibling to share the experience with can help make these situations easier and strengthen the sibling bond. For instance, a study titled Quality of Sibling Relationship and Age Spacing in Single-Parent Families discusses how divorce can affect sibling relationships, noting that siblings may experience either increased conflict or greater closeness during and after such transitions. Offering practical assistance. For younger siblings, having an older sibling to turn to for guidance can be invaluable in many situations. Whether it’s getting help with homework, navigating the job search process, or practicing a presentation before the big day, siblings often offer the support and reassurance needed to tackle these challenges with confidence. FOSTERING STRONGER SIBLING BONDS While the benefits of sibling relationships are clear, nurturing these relationships requires action and care, especially during the teen years where busy schedules and commitments can keep them apart. Here are a few ways parents can help foster stronger sibling relationships.
Sibling rivalry can often occur, but encouraging them to work together on tasks or projects can help promote unity. Dr. Sidhu shares that this will also “promote self-esteem and prevent wedges from being formed between siblings.” Create family traditions. Time together is essential. By spending time together, they’re able to create memories and experience new things. Make them consistent so the bond can continue to be nurtured and be something they look forward to. Model good communication. Show them how to communicate with each other. Demonstrate how to express feelings and resolve conflicts, should they arise. There’s a reason siblings are honored on National Sibling Day. They’re amazing friends, empathetic listeners, and unwavering supporters through the ups and downs of the teen years and beyond. To truly experience the full benefits of this unique bond, it’s important to nurture it from the start.
THE VALUE OF SIBLING BONDS Providing emotional support.
Whether navigating through breakups, broken friendships, grief, or even stress or anxiety, having a sibling through it all can be beneficial. They are there to offer a listening ear, provide insight and wisdom, and help introduce healthy coping mechanisms—and a sibling can see the full picture unlike anyone else. Clinical psychologist Laurie Kramer, PhD, says, “Siblings often have a better sense of what you’re experiencing with peers or with parts of your world that parents don’t have access to or don’t see in the same way. That shared perspective is one of the facets that makes sibling relationships so valuable for child development.” Sharing experiences. When a teen is navigating through his or her parents’
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How Montessori Schools are Accredited BY SANONNA AL TAWEEL PHOTO BY FREEPIK.COM M ontessori education has gained widespread recognition for its unique approach to early childhood learning. As more parents look to the Montessori philosophy for their young children, understanding the importance of accreditation becomes essential. Accreditation ensures that Montessori schools uphold the highest standards and can offer a true representation of the Montessori method. WHAT’S A MONTESSORI SCHOOL? For those unfamiliar with the Montessori philosophy, it is an educational approach that fosters independence, curiosity, and a love for learning in young children. Developed by Dr. Maria Montessori in the early 1900s, the method is based on the belief that children learn best when free to explore their environment at their own pace, guided by their natural interests. Unlike traditional schools, where teachers direct the learning process, Montessori classrooms encourage self-directed exploration with hands-on materials. BENEFITS OF MONTESSORI SCHOOLS With an emphasis on respect, responsibility, and individualized learning, the Montessori approach to education aims to nurture intellectual curiosity, emotional understanding, and strong social skills. The encouragement of self-guided learning in the classroom empowers children to take an active role in their education. Research has shown that Montessori students often demonstrate higher levels of creativity, critical thinking, and academic achievement than traditional school students.
certified by accrediting organizations to ensure they meet established standards. The entirety of a school is considered in the accreditation process. The school’s programs, teaching practices, curriculum, facilities, and administration are all taken into account to ensure that the institution meets guidelines. HOW ARE MONTESSORI SCHOOLS ACCREDITED? Accreditation is a voluntary process. Though many Montessori schools strive to adhere to the methods of the Montessori philosophy, not all pursue accreditation due to high costs, time commitments, or administrative hurdles. However, it’s important to note that an accredited Montessori school typically offers a higher level of assurance that the school meets established guidelines for program quality, teacher certification, and educational practices. If a Montessori school decides to pursue accreditation, the institution undergoes a formal evaluation process by a recognized accrediting organization, such as the Association Montessori Internationale (AMI) or the American Montessori Society (AMS) to ensure that it meets specific standards of quality and adherence to the Montessori method. Accreditation serves as a mark of distinction, signaling that the school has met rigorous criteria related to overall educational quality. Here’s an overview of how the accreditation process typically works: ■ Application and Self-Study The school begins by submitting an application to the accrediting body, often accompanied by a self-study report. This report includes a detailed overview of the school’s educational philosophy, teaching practices, curriculum, facilities, and staff qualifications. ■ Site Visit and Evaluation
After reviewing the self-study, the accrediting organization arranges for a team of evaluators to visit the school. The evaluation team typically includes experienced Montessori educators and administrators who observe classrooms, interview staff, and assess whether the school faithfully implements Montessori principles. They also review the school’s policies, teacher training, student assessments, and overall operational practices. ■ Compliance with Standards The school must demonstrate that it meets the accrediting organization’s standards, which may include criteria related to: - Teacher certification (Montessori- specific training) - Curriculum implementation (fidelity to Montessori methods) - Classroom environment (prepared environment with age-appropriate Montessori materials) - School governance and leadership - Student assessment and progress tracking ■ Reports and Recommendations After the site visit, the evaluation team provides a detailed report with their findings, including recommendations for improvement. The school is expected to address any areas of concern raised in the report. ■ Approval and Certification If the school meets the accrediting body’s standards, it is granted accreditation. The school may receive a certification for a specific period, typically 5-7 years, during which it must continue to adhere to the standards and undergo periodic reviews. ■ Ongoing Reaccreditation Accredited Montessori schools must undergo regular reaccreditation processes to ensure they continue to meet the
WHAT IS ACCREDITATION & WHY DOES IT MATTER?
32 FEBRUARY2025 | BRPARENTS.COM Accreditation is a formal process by which educational institutions are evaluated and
standards. This typically involves submitting updated self-assessments and undergoing site visits to confirm that the school’s practices remain aligned with Montessori principles. HOW TO FIND ACCREDITED MONTESSORI SCHOOLS If you decide to enroll your child in a Montessori school, finding an accredited institution is an important step to ensuring your child receives an authentic and high- quality Montessori education. Here are some steps to help you locate accredited Montessori schools in your area: ■ Check Accrediting Organizations’ Directories The best place to start is by checking the websites of major accrediting organizations like the Association Montessori Internationale (AMI) or the American Montessori Society (AMS). Both organizations offer online directories that allow you to search for accredited Montessori schools by location. These directories include detailed information about the school’s accreditation status and the programs they offer. ■ Visit the School’s Website Once you have a list of potential Montessori schools, visit their websites to see if they mention their accreditation status. An accredited Montessori school will proudly display its certification and provide details about the accrediting body. If the website doesn’t provide clear information, you can contact the school directly to inquire about their accreditation status. ■ Research Reviews and Parent Feedback Look for reviews and feedback from other parents about their experiences at the school. Parents who have had children enrolled in accredited Montessori programs can provide valuable insights into the school’s adherence to Montessori principles and the quality of the educational experience. Accreditation plays a vital role in ensuring that Montessori schools uphold the integrity of the educational philosophy. Whether you’re considering a Montessori school for your child, or already navigating options, understanding the accreditation process helps you make an informed decision. While not all Montessori schools are accredited, verifying accreditation status can provide peace of mind, ensuring that your child receives an authentic, high- quality education that will nurture their love of learning for years to come.
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Rain or Shine Fun Indoor Activities to Enjoy with Grandparents in Baton Rouge BY JULIANNA STEEN PHOTO BY FREEPIK.COM
34 FEBRUARY2025 | BRPARENTS.COM Monday: 10 a.m.–3 p.m., Tues–Thurs: 9:30 a.m.–3:30 p.m., Fri: 9:30 a.m.–3 p.m., Sat– Sun: 9:30 a.m.–11:30 a.m. (Until 2:30 p.m. if no parties are scheduled) Prices vary bunniebouncegrove.com Located inside the Mall of Louisiana, Blue Zoo is an interactive aquarium that educates and inspires children in a hands- on learning environment! BREC’s Bluebonnet Swamp Nature Center 6201 Florida Blvd., Baton Rouge Mon–Fri: 8 a.m.–5 p.m. $2–3/person brec.org Just because the weather is not cooperating doesn’t mean you cannot learn and explore nature. Visit the exhibit building that uses illuminating effects to create an open-air feeling with live animal displays. Bunnie Bounce Grove 4467 Arnold Ln., Baton Rouge I t can be so fun to take your grandchildren out to play, but the chilly (and often rainy) weather can leave you scrambling to come up with ways to keep the kids occupied. Help your grandkids exert their seemingly endless energy by taking them on an indoor adventure. Whether you are looking to expose them to books, science, art, or simply a new place to play indoors and use their imagination, you will find it in one of these perfect local Baton Rouge spots! Blue Zoo Baton Rouge 6401 Bluebonnet Blvd., Baton Rouge Sun: Noon–6 p.m., Mon-Thurs: 11 a.m.–7 p.m., Fri and Sat: 11 a.m.–8 p.m. $13.95–19.95 batonrouge.bluezoo.us
Take littles as small as six months and as old as eight years to open play at this whimsical wonderland for kids, featuring a giant palace playhouse, ride-on toys, bounce toys, and more, all designed to spark imagination and endless fun. Celebration Station 10111 Gwenadele Ave., Baton Rouge Sun–Thurs: Noon–9 p.m., Fri: Noon–10 p.m., Sat: 11 a.m.–10 p.m. Prices vary celebrationstation.com The wide selection of arcade games are perfect for your gamer grandkids. Plus, if the sun comes out, you can also test out the go-karts, miniature golf, batting cage, and playland. Chee Chee’s Playroom 11111 Park Place Dr., Ste. A, Baton Rouge Sun–Mon: Closed, Tues–Wed: 9:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m., Thurs: 9:30 a.m.–Noon, Fri: 9:30a.m.–5p.m., Sat: 9:30 a.m.–Noon. Prices vary cheecheesplay.com Their motto? “Our playground is built for parenthood.” Snag some free coffee while you watch your grandkids run around this jungle gym and burn off their energy. East Baton Rouge Parish Libraries Locations and hours vary Free ebrpl.com These 14 libraries have all kinds of kid- friendly indoor events for tots to teens. Whether you’re looking for a cozy read to take home or attending a Kids’ Orchestra event, your grandkids will be enthralled with the adventures to be had! Gotham Archery Baton Rouge 14455 Greenwell Springs Rd., Central
Mon–Tues: Closed, Wed–Fri: 2–7 p.m., Sat: Noon–7 p.m. $29.99+tax/person gothamarcherybr.com You’ll hit the bullseye when you bring your grandkids ages 10 and up to try a beginners
archery class! LA Threaux 39359 Airline Plaza Pl., Gonzales
Sun: 3–8 p.m., Mon–Tues: Closed, Wed– Thurs: 4–9 p.m., Fri: 4 p.m.–Midnight, Sat: Noon–Midnight $25/person lathreaux.com Bring your older grandchildren (ages eight and up) to throw axes, where they are bound to “axe”cel! They can even use a rubber ax and score whenever they hit the target. Main Event Baton Rouge 6401 Bluebonnet Blvd., Ste. #660, Baton Rouge Mon: 11–1 a.m., Tues-Thurs and Sun: 11 a.m.–Midnight, Fri: 11–2 a.m., Sat: 9–2 a.m. Varies mainevent.com Enjoy family-friendly fun, great burgers, and watching sports. Operation Imagination 4606 Jones Creek Rd., Ste. 100, Baton Rouge Sun–Mon: Closed, Tues, Thurs: 9:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m., Wed: 9:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m., 1–4:30 p.m., Sat: 1:30–4 p.m. $12 per child operationimagination.com Enter into the imaginative pretend play experience in a “Town Within a Town” with your grandbabies under seven.
Sky Zone Trampoline Park 10111 The Grove Ave., Baton Rouge
Sun–Thurs: 9 a.m.–9 p.m., Fri–Sat: 9 a.m.–10 p.m. $23.99–35.99 skyzone.com This trampoline park will certainly help your grandkids get their wiggles out, from playing dodgeball to climbing the walls to soaring across the ninja court and more! Skate Galaxy 12828 Jefferson Hwy., Baton Rouge Thurs–Fri: 7–10 p.m., Sat: 1–4 p.m., 5–8 p.m., Sun: 1–4 p.m. Prices vary skategalaxy.com Skating, laser tag, and a rock wall? What’s not to love? Surge Entertainment By Drew Brees 5555 Burbank Dr., Baton Rouge Sun–Thurs: 11 a.m.–10 p.m., Fri: 11 a.m.– Midnight, Sat: 9 a.m.–Midnight Prices vary surgefun.com You can spend the whole day at this entertainment center with bowling, laser tag, a sports simulator, arcade, mini golf, and more. Tumbles South Baton Rouge 9828 Bluebonnet Blvd., Ste. A-10, Baton Rouge Sun: Closed and Mon–Sat: 9 a.m.–6 p.m. Prices vary southbatonrouge.tumbles.net Get your grandkids moving at this indoor playground, where your little ones can burn off energy while having fun, rain or shine. Urban Air Trampoline and Adventure Park 170 Bass Pro Blvd., Denham Springs Sun: Noon–7 p.m., Mon–Thurs: 4–8 p.m., Fri: 1–9 p.m., Sat: 10 a.m.–9 p.m. $19.99+ urbanair.com This adventure zone has so much more than trampolines: a ropes course, climbing walls, an Adventure Hub, a drop zone, and more acrobatic attractions. Uptown Climbing 10505 Coursey Blvd., Baton Rouge Sun: 9 a.m.–4 p.m., Mon: Closed, Tues–Fri: 2:30–9p.m., Sat: 9 a.m.–9 p.m. Louisiana’s first and largest climbing gym, it boasts kid-friendly climbing, including bouldering wall, climbing on auto-belays, top rope climbing, and top rope belaying for kids over three. There’s also an “uptown climbing club” for ages 8–13. Adult: $23, Child: $19 uptownclimbing.com
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