Pick a Perfect Summer Camp!

   It won't be too long before the kids are out of school-- and that constant "Mom I'm bored" moan drones on. Win that war before the first battle even begins! There are some super "Summer Camps" in Central Florida that offer everything from arts and crafts to fun and games and all kinds of sports -- even figure skating. Or how about Space Camp at the Kennedy Space Center? Aside from all the sun and fun, your kids learn socializing skills, and there's even a camp to help our four legged furry friends become more adoptable. Many at affordable prices. For a look at some of what's offered in our area check out these links:

http://www.orangecountyfl.net/CultureParks/YouthRecreationPrograms.aspx#.VQCk92Ma44k
http://www.newspaper-marketplace.com/orlando-sentinel/special-section/summer-camp-guide
https://www.kennedyspacecenter.com/education/camp-ksc.aspx
http://camps.fit.edu/
http://www.rollins.edu/summer-camp/index.html
http://www.universityofdoglando.com/camp-doglando/

For a list of top rated Summer Camps across the country go to: http://www.campratingz.com/ShowMost.jsp

 

Stranger Danger!

    While it's important to allow our young children to discover the beauty, magic and wonder of this world, it's also crucial to teach them that dangers do exist-- especially when it comes to strangers.

     Super important-- define "stranger" for them. Obviously, strangers are people your children don't know but be sure to explain there are "good" and "bad" strangers. Tell them "good strangers" like police officers, firefighters, security guards, and teachers at school can always help if they get lost or find themselves in trouble. "Bad strangers" may talk nice but may try to trick them or take them away.

    To keep your kids safe make sure you know where they are at all times, that they know their name, address and your phone number, and that they have safe areas to play, safe streets to use, and safe places to run to if in trouble.

    Most of all teach your children to be assertive and trust their instincts. Let them know it's okay to disobey and run away from adults they don't know when they feel uncomfortable-- especially if approached by a stranger in a vehicle.

    For more information on how to protect your kids from Stranger Dangers go to : http://www.ncpc.org/topics/violent-crime-and-personal-safety/strangers

Fetal Alcohol Syndrome!

     It's a global public health issue that's been getting more and more attention ever since it was given a name more than 40 years ago: Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS) is the most severe of a variety of conditions that belong to a larger group of conditions known as Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD). All of the disorders can occur in people whose mothers drank alcohol when they were pregnant. That's because the alcohol in the mother's blood passes to the baby through the umbilical  cord. Physical, mental, behavioral and learning problems can develop from the exchange.

   While fetal death can occur from drinking during pregnancy, most babies born with FAS experience some form of defect or disadvantage. Many may have smaller heads and brains. They may have abnormal facial features, have lower body weight and be short in stature when fully grown. Nervous system abnormalities can also occur with FAS. Other symptoms from the spectrum of disorders can include hyperactive behavior, poor memory, poor speech, hearing and vision problems, various learning disabilities, problems socializing and controlling emotions.  Physical conditions effecting the heart, kidneys or bones may also occur.

    There is no known cure for FASD but treatments including medicine and therapy can often be of benefit. In this country, alcohol related defects affect more babies every year than Down Syndrome, Cystic Fibrosis, Spina Bifida, and Sudden Infant Death Syndrome combined. As many as 12,000 babies are born with FAS each year in the United States and another nearly 40,000 are born with other alcohol related disorders.

    Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders including Fetal Alcohol Syndrome are the only causes of birth defects that you can prevent. You know the answer- and it's a simple one: Don't drink alcohol during pregnancy. If you're pregnant and having issues with alcohol you can get help. Go to http://www.nofas.org/expectant-mother/





   

 

Imaginary Friends!

    Has this ever happened to you? You’re going through your daily routine, your toddler playing nicely near-by-- when all of a sudden you catch a conversation taking place: your little Janie chatting non-stop with Sarah. Who is Sarah? More to the point- Where is Sarah?

    Well, she’s Janie’s new imaginary friend. Now, before you freak out there are a few things to realize. Number one, this is very common. About 65 percent of youngsters between the ages of 3 and 5 create invisible friends, and some even maintain these friendships through age 7. Secondly, it’s normal. Your child has the perfect playmate who does what they want, when they want them to, maybe even taking the blame when little Janie does something she’s not supposed to.

    And while it’s natural for parents to question the reason for the new friend: “Is Janie lonely?” “Does Janie have trouble playing with real kids?” -- In most cases there’s no need for alarm. Imaginary friends help children develop their own identities as they skirt the line between what’s real and what’s pretend, allowing them to imagine how another human might react to a given situation. They also help kids cope with fears, and can even teach responsibility as your child looks out for the well-being of their invisible friend. “Mommy be careful, you almost sat on Sarah.”

    However, if you notice the imaginary friend becomes too much a part of your little one’s life-- to the exclusion of real life playmates, or if the invisible friend stays around once your child has entered elementary school, you may want to consult a professional to see if there are any real issues.

    It’s even cool for you to interact with Janie’s friend, just don’t overdo it and let her always know Sarah is pretend. She’s also an amazing manifestation of your child’s imagination and creativity. So every once in a while, set an extra plate at the table and you may be surprised what you’ll learn from your little one and his/her new friend.

Adoption Credits At Tax Time!

    It's that time of year when the IRS comes calling. If you're a parent with an adopted child or children I just want to remind you of the Federal Adoption Tax Credit for 2014.

    If you finalized your adoption in 2014, the credit allowed for an adopted child with special needs is $13,190; the maximum credit allowed for other adoptions is the amount of qualified adoption expenses up to $13,190. Phaseouts do apply depending on your income so check with your accountant or tax preparer.

    This credit is paid one time for each adopted child, and should be claimed when you file your taxes for 2014. (Usually early 2015).

    To be eligible for the credit you must have adopted a child other than a stepchild. The child must be under 18 or unable to physically or mentally take care of him or herself. And again, your earnings must be within the income limits.

    Now, if you finalize an adoption this year, in 2015-- which you'll file for next year, the credit allowed for an adoption of a child with special needs goes up a bit to $13,400, and the maximum credit allowed for other adoptions is the amount of qualified adoption expenses up to $13,400. Again, phaseouts do apply so it's always best to check with a professional who specializes in income taxes.

   For answers to questions you may have go to http://www.adoptionhelp.org/adoption-tax-credit
or http://www.irs.gov/taxtopics/tc607.html

Human Trafficking Awareness Day- January 24, 2015

Slavery and oppression are not things of the past. Please come out to Lake Eola from 11AM to 4PM this Saturday the 24th-- to take part in an awareness program aimed at putting an end to human trafficking in Central Florida. For more information go to GOHTTF.org

MANAGING YOUR MONEY!

   It's an issue I deal with nearly everyday: women telling me they have no idea where their money goes. Delving into this issue I discovered that's it not negligence or a lack of concern that's keeping these women in the dark, but a lack of confidence when it comes to money matters and a hesitancy to make important financial decisions because of it.  

    In fact, studies show that while women want a role in making major financial decisions, I'm talking the big items not the grocery bill-- less than two thirds of women actually have a say in household financial decision making. Many women turn over the household finances to their husbands or significant others or they allow the family financial adviser to take charge-- and that means women are giving away the power to control their money. If this is your story--  without the financial know-how, divorce or death can push you right into poverty.

    If you're part of the 42% of all women who readily admit that they don't have financial security, it's time to take back the power.  With women outliving men by an average of five years, it's a good idea to keep your money managing skills sharp. So how do you do that?

    Here are some simple steps:
-Get educated to share in financial decision making and build self-confidence when it comes to your money.
-Talk over all family money matters with your spouse or significant other.
-Spend less than you make.
-Set goals to save more.
-Don't reward yourself for accomplishments by spending money (i.e.): "I just did 'such-and-such' so I deserve a shopping spree."
-Don't let fear of failure keep you from investing, (Remember you're getting educated to make informed     decisions).

For statistics and more on women and managing money check out: http://womenmoneyandsuccessmag.com/resources/statistics