Trusted Child Health Care Since 1958 Thank You for Voting Us As One of Des Moines’ Favorite!

DES MOINES PARENTMAGAZINE www.DesMoinesParent.com august 2017 Back to

SCHOOL!Healthy habit ideas you can use for the new school year

The results are in!

DES MOINES PARENTMAGAZINE Readers Choice AWARDS CONTEST PAGES 16-22

Soccer progams Kids eat free! Make homework fun PAGE 4 PAGE 6 PAGE 24 2 DES MOINES PARENT MAGAZINE AUGUST 2017 WWW.DESMOINESPARENT.COM Back to school

By Erin Huiatt

This summer has flown by. If your children are not back in school President & Publisher Shane Goodman yet, they will be any day now. School starting means homework, Editor Erin Huiatt Vice President Jolene Goodman extracurricular activities, making sure everyone is making good food Advertising Sales Director Dan Juffer choices, and less time to do it all. Advertising Executives Ashlee Walton This month’s issue is full of some great ideas on how to handle Nicole Berger Shelby Bobbett homework, meal planning, and packing snacks and lunches. There are Reagan Maher also some great lists of places to look to sign your children up for an Jay Mathes Danielle Stoppelmoor extracurricular activity. If you are looking for more options, make sure Dawn Morgan you check out our website at www.desmoinesparent.com. Allyson Martens Congratulations to all the winners of the Des Moines Parent Readers Katie Hawley Design Manager Celeste Tilton Choice Awards! n Graphic Designers Karen Ericson Jordan Aust Advertising Assistant Kathy Summy Digital/Distribution Brent Antisdel Distribution Manager Bart Chelesvig Erin Huiatt, editor Phone: 515.953.4822 [email protected] Fax: 515.953.1394 Website: www.desmoinesparent.com Twitter - @desmoinesparent Address: 5619 N.W. 86th St., Suite 600 Facebook - @desmoinesparent Johnston, Iowa 50131 Instagram - @midwestmomandwife Des Moines Parent magazine is a monthly Twitter - @midwestmomandwife publication of Big Green Umbrella Media Inc., an Iowa corporation. Nothing may be reprinted in whole or in part without Before heading to any event or permission of the publisher. To request activity, please double check delivery of Des Moines Parent magazine to your business, or times and locations. We try hard to inquire about our distribution services, call 515-953-4822. to keep everything accurate, but Subscribe for $24 per year at www.desmoinesparent.com. things do change without notice. St. Pius X Catholic School OPEN ENROLLMENT Providing spiritual growth and academic excellence since 1956

St. Pius X offers... • Small class sizes focused on the individual • A long history of academic excellence • Incorporating STEM concepts within the classroom • Weekly student planned liturgies and daily prayer • State-of-the-art technology lab • Dedicated teachers and classrooms for art, band, guidance, media, music and technology Register today!!! Please contact the Enrollment Director, Michelle Fournier at: 515-276-1061 or at [email protected]

St. Pius X Catholic School 3601 66th Street, Urbandale (515) 276-1061 www.stpiusxschool.org

WWW.DESMOINESPARENT.COM AUGUST 2017 DES MOINES PARENT MAGAZINE 3 Soccer programs for toddlers and beyond

Soccer programs are offered all year-round for your little ones. Here is a guide of options for toddlers and older. Happy Feet Des Moines Happy Feet offers spring and fall leagues. Programs are held in different locations around Des Moines and are for kids ages 18 months to 5 years old. The Legends program is available for older children. Happy Feet offers a very laid-back atmosphere and focuses on getting children up and active. They also offer birthday parties and indoor leagues. For more information, visit www.happyfeetdesmoines.com/program/happyfeet. i-9 Sports: soccer This program offers soccer to children ages 3 to 14 years. i-9 believes that soccer is a great starting point to introduce team sports to your child, the group prides itself on player safety. For more information visit www.i9sports.com/Soccer. C.H.A.M.P. C.H.A.M.P. stands for Children’s Healthy Active Mobile Program. This program offers different sports and physical activities. From ages 18 months to 5 years, they use songs and imaginations to improve your child’s coordination, balance and core strength. Birthday parties are also offered. For more details visit www.champ4u.com.

Junior Menace Local communities The Des Moines Menace is a popular soccer team in central Iowa and Your local parks and recreation program may be a great place to start when offers programs for all ages starting at 3 years old. A variety of camps are looking for youth sports. Many communities offer short-term programs at also offered. Get your child started now and maybe they will play for the a low cost. This may be the perfect way for you to see if your child is truly Des Moines Menace someday. For more details or to sign up, visit http:// interested in soccer. juniormenace.com. • Altoona Parks & Recreation • Ames Parks & Recreation • Ankeny Parks & Recreation • Clive Parks & Recreation • Des Moines Parks & Recreation • Grimes Parks & Recreation • Johnston Parks & Recreation • Urbandale Parks & Recreation • Waukee Parks & Recreation • West Des Moines Parks & Recreation Soccer South Soccer Club Soccer South Soccer Club offers a program for children starting at 5 years old. This is another great local program to introduce the basic soccer skills and join a community that has been around for more than 40 years. For more details visit www.soccersouthdsm.org/services.html. Urbandale Soccer Club Urbandale Soccer Club offers programs for all ages. The Kix Program is offered for children 4 years and younger. This is a great way to introduce soccer and social skills to your child. To sign up visit www. urbandalesoccer.org/Default.aspx?tabid=239342.

4 DES MOINES PARENT MAGAZINE AUGUST 2017 WWW.DESMOINESPARENT.COM Vision Soccer Academy — Waukee Vision Soccer Academy offers programs for children ages 3 to 19 years old. This program is a perfect way to learn skills and have fun. To learn more, visit www.visionsocceracademy.com/Default. aspx?tabid=229541. West Des Moines Soccer Club The West Des Moines Soccer Club offers soccer programs for all ages. The Mini Kickers program is offered for those ages 3 to 4 years old. This is a great program to introduce your child to soccer. This program takes place at the Raccoon River Soccer Fields. For more details, visit www.wdmsoccerclub.org/Default. aspx?tabid=494424. YMCA The YMCA is always a great place to check for youth sports programs. These programs can be a great way to introduce your child to a new sport or activity. Membership is not needed to sign up. To sign up and learn more, visit www.dmymca.org/y-programs/ swim-sports-and-play/youth-sports/. n

Link to original article: http://desmoinesparent.com/ soccer-programs-toddlers-beyond

WHAT WE OFFER: Scholarships, Instructions, Awards, Parties & Tournaments YOUTH LEAGUES FOR AGES 4-19 & YOUTH/ADULT LEAGUES FOR FAMILIES VISIT US ONLINE OR CALL TODAY TO REGISTER 190 SE Laurel Street • Waukee 515.987.4840 • www.warriorlanes.com

Expect The Best For Your Child! “This is more than a preschool, it's a community! If you’re looking for a nurturing environment for your Classes range from 2 years to adults! children, look no further!” –Gan Shalom Parent BALLET | POINTE | TAP | HIP-HOP | LYRICAL | POM | TUMBLING GROWING LIFELONG CLASSES LEARNERS! BEGIN SEPTEMBER 5TH! Gan Shaom 7501 DOUGLAS AVE. URBANDALE | 515-971-0432 A complete list of classes and pricing can be found online at: The Jewish33158 CenterUTE Ave, Waukeefor Early Childhood Development WWW.MADISON-COMPANY.COM 515.987.0899 x233 | [email protected]

WWW.DESMOINESPARENT.COM AUGUST 2017 DES MOINES PARENT MAGAZINE 5 PRESCHOOL FOR CHILDREN AGES 2-5

HANDS-ON LEARNING AND EXPLORATION

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Growing Life Long Learners

Gan Shalom has been a wonderful experience for our two children. They wake up eager to go to school...The teachers are amazing, kind, and deliberate with their teaching interactions. The small environment allows the children to participate in so many wonderful learning experiences and relationships. The teachers that work with our children truly care about kids and it shows in their daily interactions. – Gan Shalom Parent

This is more than a preschool, it's a community with kind educators who care about my daughter's wellbeing as much as I do. Every activity is designed to strengthen her skills and self-confidence. I've seen tremendous growth in her and I am beyond grateful to Gan Shalom for this. If you're looking for a nurturing environment for your children, look no further! – Gan Shalom Parent

33158 UTE AVENUE WAUKEE, IA 50263 515.987.0899 x 233 LIKE US ON FACEBOOK [email protected] www.ganshalompreschool.com Kids eat free in central Iowa

School has begun, and extracurricular activities are in full swing. We have updated our Kids Eat Free list. Don’t forget to download our free app — available for Apple products and Android devices — for you to easily access while on the go. Are we missing a location? Email [email protected] to add new deals.

MONDAY TUESDAY Fighting Burrito: Kids 10 and younger eat free with the purchase of an Chick-Fil-A: Grab a free breakfast adult meal. Located in Ames and Des Moines. item of the week from 7-10 a.m. Located in Ankeny, Des Moines and West Des Moines. Los Charros: Receive one free kids meal with every adult meal purchased. Located in Ankeny. Chili’s: Children receive a free entree off the kids menu with each adult meal. Located in Ankeny and Clive. Spaghetti Works: Kids 11 and younger eat free all day Monday. Located in downtown Des Moines. Claxon’s Smokehouse and Grill: Kids get a free meal with the purchase of one adult meal. Located in Altoona. Village Inn: Kids eat free with the purchase of an adult meal. Located in Altoona, Ames, Ankeny, Des Moines, Johnston and West Des Moines. Denny’s: Buy one adult meal, and two kids can eat free. Located in Clive.

Fazoli’s: Purchase one adult meal and receive two kids meals for 99 cents each from 5-8 p.m. Located in Ames, Ankeny and Des Moines.

Fuddruckers: Kids eat free with one adult meal. Located in West Des Moines.

Gateway Market: Kids eat free after 4 p.m. Buy one adult meal and receive two free kids meals. Located in Des Moines.

Famous Dave’s: Children can receive a free Lil’ Wilbur kids meal with an adult entree. Located in Des Moines and West Des Moines.

Godfather’s: Kids eat free at the buffet with adult buffet purchase. This deal is available from 5-7:30 p.m. and applies to children 10 years and younger. Located in Ankeny.

Perkins: Kids can eat free all day, with the purchase of an adult meal. Located in Altoona, Ankeny, Des Moines, and West Des Moines.

Pizza Ranch: Children 10 years and younger eat free with the purchase of an adult buffet at regular price. Located in Altoona, Ankeny, Indianola, Urbandale and Waukee.

Sports Page Grill: Kids eat free with the purchase of an adult meal. Located in Ankeny and Indianola.

Village Inn: Kids eat free with the purchase of an adult meal. Located in Altoona, Ames, Ankeny, Des Moines, Johnston and West Des Moines.

Wobbly Boots: Kids eat free all day on Tuesday. Located in Clive.

6 DES MOINES PARENT MAGAZINE AUGUST 2017 WWW.DESMOINESPARENT.COM WEDNESDAY SUNDAY Bakers Square: Free pie The Chicken Coop: Kids eat free with the purchase of an adult meal. Wednesday. Enjoy a free slice of Located in West Des Moines. pie with every meal purchased. Located in Clive. Fireside Grille: Kids eat free with one adult meal. Located in Altoona.

Buffalo Wild Wings: Kids meals Guadalajara’s: Kids eat free with an adult meal. Located in Ankeny. are half off with the purchase of an adult meal. Located in Ames, Gusto Pizza: Children can enjoy a free kids 7-inch single topping pizza Ankeny, Des Moines and West and a fountain drink with the purchase of a 10-inch or 14-inch pizza. Des Moines. Located in Johnston, Des Moines and West Des Moines.

Cozy Cafe: More free pie. Free slice of pie with the purchase of a meal. Legends American Grille: Kids eat for half off with adult meal. Located Located in Des Moines, Johnston, Urbandale, Waukee and West Des in Johnston, Des Moines and West Des Moines. Moines. Longest Yard: Kids eat free with an adult meal. Located in Valley Dairy Queen: Waukee only, children can receive a free kids meal with Junction. the purchase of an adult meal from 6-8 p.m. Malo: Kids eat free from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. with the purchase of an adult Pepperjax Grill: Kids Meals are 99 cents all day. Limited to two with brunch buffet. Located in Des Moines. the purchase of an adult entree. Deal available for kids 12 and younger. Located in Ankeny and Clive. Mickey’s Irish Pub: Free kids meal with an adult meal. Located in Waukee. Wig and Pen: Kids 12 and younger eat free. Beverages are not included. Located in Ankeny. Planet Sub: Kids can eat free all day with the purchase of an adult meal. THURSDAY Located in Des Moines and Johnston. 5 De Mayo: Receive a free kids meal for each adult meal. Located in Des Sam & Louie’s Pizza: Free kids meal for children 12 years and younger Moines and West Des Moines. with every $12 spent. Located in Urbandale.

Cozy Cafe: Receive a free kids meal for lunch or dinner with an adult SEVEN DAYS A WEEK meal. Located in Des Moines, Johnston, Urbandale, Waukee and West Cici’s Pizza: Kids ages 3 and younger eat free every day of the week. Des Moines. Located in Des Moines.

Hy-Vee Market Grille: Kids aged 10 and younger eat free with the Sonic: Enjoy half-price slushes and soft drinks from 2-4 p.m. daily. purchase of an adult meal. These are located all over. In most cases, Located in Ankeny and Johnston. n wherever there is a Hy-Vee, you will find a Hy-Vee Market Grille.

Mama Lacona’s: After 5 p.m., kids eat free with an adult meal. Located Link to original story: http://desmoinesparent.com/ kids-eat-free-central-iowa/ in Urbandale.

Mixed: Children receive a free kid’s meal with every adult meal FOR INFANTS purchased. Located in West Des Moines. FREE VISION SCREENING UNDER 1 YOUR FAMILY’S EYES ARE CRITICALLY IMPORTANT SATURDAY FOR LEARNING AND SAFETY Gusto Pizza: Children can enjoy a free kids 7-inch single topping pizza We offer comprehensive vision care including and a fountain drink with the purchase of a 10-inch or 14-inch pizza. • Exams Located in Johnston and West Des Moines. • Vision therapy • Eyewear and sunglasses Z’Mariks: You can receive one free kids bowl when you purchase an • Contact lens adult bowl. Located in Ankeny and Clive. exams MOST INSURANCE ACCEPTED Erik M. Romsdahl, O.D. Residency trained in Pediatrics and Vision Therapy/Rehabilitation 2525 N. ANKENY BLVD., #109 IN ANKENY www.childandfamilyvisioncenter.com 964-7541

WWW.DESMOINESPARENT.COM AUGUST 2017 DES MOINES PARENT MAGAZINE 7 Football for children in central Iowa

Fall is just around the corner, and soon football season will be in full swing. Several football programs are offered in central Iowa depending on location and preference of tackle or flag football. Take a look at all the options below. i-9 SPORTS i-9 Sports offers many programs all year-round, including football. Some locations include Waukee, Clive, Urbandale and West Des Moines. Flag football is offered for children ages 4 to 12 years. For more details visit www.i9sports.com/Programs/State/Iowa. Local Communities Your local parks and recreation program is a great place to check for youth football. Many areas offer short-term programs at a low cost. This is a good way to see if your child is truly interested in football. • Altoona Parks & Recreation • Ames Parks & Recreation Mid Iowa • Ankeny Parks & Recreation • Clive Parks & Recreation Youth Football League • Des Moines Parks & Recreation Mid Iowa Youth Football League is further broken down into leagues for • Grimes Parks & Recreation each community or district including Johnston, South East Polk, Waukee, • Johnston Parks & Recreation West Des Moines,Receive Ankeny, anRoosevelt, assortment Dowling and Lincoln. These * programs are tackle football and are for children in fourth through seventh • Urbandale Parks & Recreation of popular trial-sized treats! • Waukee ParksOUR & Recreation GIFT TO YOU grades, depending on location. To sign up and learn more, visit http:// • West Des Moines Parks & Recreation midiowayouthfootball.com/. Dual Action Concealer YOUR HOMETOWN Medium Light Neutral Receive a trial-sized BOOKSTORE A.M./P.M. skin care Anti-Aging ComplexNEW Eye & USED Cream BOOKS FOR ALL AGES routine plus an exclusive Fat Lash Mascara terry headband. Black BRILLIANT-C MOISTURIZER Lip Polish Ladylike FINE LINE MINIMIZER NIGHTTIME 10AM TO 6PM MONDAY – FRIDAY: RECOVERY CREME SAT: 10AM TO 5PM | SUN: CLOSED Studio Name LOCALLY OWNED AND OPERATED ENERGIZING (515) 961-0391 CONCENTRATE 101 E SALEM, INDIANOLA Address merlenorman.com

*Free with the purchase of two or more Phone Number Merle Norman cosmetic products. Cosmetic accessories not included. Offer valid while Receive a trial-sized A.M./P.M. Protect your family. supplies last at participating Merle Norman skin care routine plus an Business Hours Cosmetic Studios beginning August 1, 2017. exclusive terry headband! Limit one per customer. We reserve the right *FREE withPrepare the purchase of two orfor more Merle Norman cosmetic BRILLIANT-C MOISTURIZER to substitute individual components of gift. FINE LINE MINIMIZER © 2017 Merle Norman Cosmetics, Inc. products. Cosmetic accessories not included. Offer valid while *Free with the purchase of two or more Merle Norman cosmetic products. their future. NIGHTTIME RECOVERY CREME Cosmetic accessories not included. Offer valid while supplies last at participating Merle Norman Cosmetic Studios beginning August 1, 2017. Limit one per supplies last at participating Merle Norman Cosmetic Studios ENERGIZING CONCENTRATE customer. We reserve the right to substitute individual components of gift. beginning November 1, 2016. Limit one per customer. We Studio Name Phone Number Ben Buenzow, reserveAgent the rightI c aton substitutehelp with b individualoth. Stop bcomponentsy for your f rofee gift. State Farm Insurance and Financial Review. Address Business Hours 3273 100th Street ® Like a good neighbor, State Farm is there. Urbandale, IA © 50322 2016 Merle Norman Cosmetics, Inc. MERLENORMAN.COM

Bus: 515-270-8870 CALL ME TODAY FOR MORE INFORMATION. CLOCKTOWERMerle Norman SQUARE Cosmetic Studios haveShelley been independently Scott, Owner owned Slick 69-1611 Ad GWP 2016 Winter x 3-1/2") x 3.5" (4-1/4" 2 columns system: andS.A.U. operated since 1931.

Independently owned for 28 years Ad Slick 70-265 Fall 2017 GWP S.A.U. system: 2 columns x 3.5" (4-1/4" 3-1/2") [email protected] 2900 University Avenue, West Des Moines 515-226-8737 Merle Norman Cosmetic Studios have been 1001386.2 State Farm, Home Oﬃce, Bloomington, IL merlenorman.com independently owned and operated since 1931.

8 DES MOINES PARENT MAGAZINE AUGUST 2017 WWW.DESMOINESPARENT.COM

RESIZING AND CUSTOMIZING INSTRUCTIONS A clear zone of 1/2 the height of the logo must be maintained as shown below. No text or graphic elements can appear in this clear zone. Logo and tagline may not be stretched or manipulated in any way. Team J-Hawk Football Team J-Hawk Football is a program offered through Urbandale. Coaches encourage physical fitness and teach players rules and fundamentals of football. This program is for children going into first grade through sixth grade. To learn more visit www.urbandalecommunityed.com/youth_ sports/2017-18/Team_J-Hawk_Football.

Iowa “Little Pro” Youth Football League The Iowa “Little Pro” Youth Football League is a non-profit organization. The program strives to teach the fundamentals of football including education, sportsmanship and physical fitness. There are several community programs that make up this league including Ankeny, Ames, Dallas Center- Grimes, West Des Moines, Norwalk and more. Programs are offered for children in fifth and sixth grades. To sign up and learn more visit www. eteamz.com/wdmlpyfl. YMCA Several of the local YMCA’s offer flag football for children in kindergarten through sixth grade. Programs are offered in fall and spring. Practices are once per week. To sign up and learn more, visit www.dmymca.org/y-programs/. n

Link to original post: http://desmoinesparent.com/ football-for-children-in-central-iowa/

Life Insurance You Can Count On Get good guidance. Make good decisions. Be good at life.

Whether you’re starting out in life or preparing toJoshua make MacLean the most of retirement, New York Life has insuranceFinancial and Services Professional investment options designed to help you meet Phone:your 515goals—-802-2140 Email: [email protected] Life Insurance, Investments, Long Term Care Ins., College Funding, for today and for all days to come. It starts withFixed andcreating Variable Annuities*,a and Retirement Planning Agent, New York Life Insurance Company. financial strategy that helps you get where youRegistered Representativewant to of NYLIFE go. Securities LLC Member FINRA/SIPC, a Licensed Insurance Agency. * Issued by New York Life Insurance Company and New York Life Insurance and Annuity Corporation. New York Life - 212 W Van Dorn St. Suite D1 Polk City, IA 50226 Joshua MacLean Financial Services Professional Phone: 515-802-2140 | Email: [email protected] Life Insurance, Investments, Long Term Care Ins., College Funding, Fixed and Variable Annuities*, and Retirement Planning Agent, New York Life Insurance Company. Registered Representative of NYLIFE Securities LLC Member FINRA/SIPC, a Licensed Insurance Agency. * Issued by New York Life Insurance Company and New York Life Insurance and Annuity Corporation. Joshua MacLean New York Life - 212 W Van Dorn St. Suite D1 Polk City, IA 50226 Financial Services Professional Phone: 515-802-2140 Email: [email protected] Life Insurance, Investments, Long Term Carenew Ins., york College life Funding, 2x2 spec - July 26, 2017 11:32 AM Fixed and Variable Annuities*, and RetirementWWW.DESMOINESPARENT.COM Planning AUGUST 2017 DES MOINES PARENT MAGAZINE 9 Agent, New York Life Insurance Company. Registered Representative of NYLIFE Securities LLC Member FINRA/SIPC, a Licensed Insurance Agency. * Issued by New York Life Insurance Company and New York Life Insurance and Annuity Corporation. New York Life - 212 W Van Dorn St. Suite D1 Polk City, IA 50226 Back to school, back to health

By Melanie Schmidt

With August already here, many of us are out shopping for school supplies, figuring out school schedules and planning how we will manage the changes. Change can be very stressful for adults and even more stressful for young children and teens as they are still developing and trying to work through how to manage all the demands of school, different personalities or a new teacher. Amazingly, food can have a huge impact on all of this. Food is a huge component in how we feel, learn, adapt and manage our emotions. While we cannot schedule, control and figure out everything, there are a few simple steps that we can take in order to support our kids and ourselves with overall health, increased focus and learning and a reduction in stress. There is a strong link between food and mood even if we don’t realize it.

Healthy fats provide key nutrients for brain development in our babies, children and teenagers. Additionally, they provide anti- inflammatory properties, focus and energy, Healthy proteins provide the building blocks children are a part of the food planning and along with the ability to absorb other vitamins of muscle and tissue growth. Protein is found preparation process they are more likely to eat and nutrients. This makes us feel fuller and in every cell of our body and helps stabilize it. There really are no hidden secrets or weird stabilizes our blood sugar levels — which create blood sugar levels, a key component of brain concoctions, just an intention to go back to our cravings, reduction in focus and can lead to communication and much more. some of the basics. So what are those simple internal damage overtime. steps and foods that bring on so many benefits? Fruits and vegetables are full of micronutrients Here are some suggestions: that prevent disease, reduce inflammation — our brain is very susceptible to inflammation Reserve 30 minutes at the end of the week to — cleanse our cells and our liver, create healthy assess groceries in your home. Create a meal skin and help us to feel fuller longer. They plan full of whole foods for the upcoming week support stable blood sugar levels, support and identify what whole foods you need for learning and focus, improve our digestion and breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks. maintain a healthy immune system. Incorporating healthier options into our Saturday or Sunday afternoon reserve an hour lives that fit into the above categories will to prep snacks, meals, cut up veggies and place support our and our children’s cognitive, fruit and vegetables in baggies for grab and go. physical and emotional wellbeing. This does not need to be challenging, it just takes a Consume healthy fats and proteins for breakfast little bit of preparation and planning on a daily — reduce or eliminate breakfast cereals weekly basis. Get your kids involved not as they can cause a spike in blood sugar and only to delegate the responsibility but also increase carb and sugar cravings. Reserve those as an opportunity to connect with your for weekends if you feel you or your kids must children more and teach them healthy habits have them. Some simple on the go options that can last a lifetime. Many times when include:

10 DES MOINES PARENT MAGAZINE AUGUST 2017 WWW.DESMOINESPARENT.COM 1. Pack lunches full of healthy 2. Prep after-school snacks. fats, proteins, fruits and Designate a drawer or shelf in vegetables daily. the refrigerator or cupboard with • Tortilla rollups with almond healthy snacks to choose from. butter and banana or nitrate free Ideas include: meat with spinach • Grapes • Hummus with carrots, raw • Carrots peppers, cucumbers, jicama or snap • Snap peas peas • Celery with almond or peanut • Nitrate free turkey or beef butter 3. Quick, easy and healthy 4. Simple ways to load up on sticks • Grape tomatoes dinners fruits and vegetables • Homemade soup or stew • Small bottles of water • Prep meals and place • Snacks • Avocado and chickpea spread • Nitrate free turkey or beef ingredients in freezer bags to be • At every meal on a tortilla or healthy bread sticks pulled out and cooked any night. • In smoothies • Homemade protein bites • Greek yogurt • Wildtree freezer meals are a • Place in soups and stews • Organic greek yogurt • Raspberries great and healthy option to make • Veggie wraps • Organic yogurt in tubes • Organic cheese sticks and have on hand • Add veggies to eggs and • Apples with almond or peanut • Hummus (small single serve • Make friends with your quiche n butter packs are great) crockpot • Handful of raw almonds with • Guacamole (small single serve • Consider purchasing and raisins or cranberries packs are great) using an instant pot • Grapes • Homemade protein bites

Link to original post: http://desmoinesparent.com/back-school-back-health/

MAKE THIS SCHOOL YEAR GREATER THAN LAST YEAR! A new school year brings a fresh start—and Mathnasium is here to help set the stage for success! Together, we can make this school year greater than last year!

3 Locations in Des Moines! Now enrolling for fall.

Math Help and Enrichment Test Prep Homework Help

West Des Moines • 515-440-MATH (6284) Ankeny • 515-446-8910 Johnston-Grimes • 515-253-8090 www.mathnasium.com

WWW.DESMOINESPARENT.COM AUGUST 2017 DES MOINES PARENT MAGAZINE 11 Can’t-miss events around Des Moines

Free Family Carnival Fun Day Community Youth Concepts’ 8th Annual Aug. 26, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Sidewalk Chalk Flood Homemakers Furniture Aug. 26, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. in Walker Johnston Park There will be food, beverages, fun games, prizes, Enjoy making homemade inflatable rides, balloon artist, a mini train ride and chalk, music, popcorn, more. All free while quantities last. For more details art-based activities and visit www.homemakers.com/events. more. Learn more at www.cyconcepts.org.

20th Annual Harvest Celebration Sept. 2,9,16, 23 and 30, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Summerset Winery in Indianola This would be a fun day-date idea or fun activity to do with your older Renaissance Fair children. It will Three weekends in September at be a morning full Sleepy Hollow of grape picking and stomping. It Dates include Sept. 2-4, Sept. 9-10, and Sept. 16 -17. is $29 per person Each day they are open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. rain or shine. and includes The fair is loaded with entertainment, food, activities breakfast, lunch, and more for the entire family. For more details visit T-shirt, wine http://sleepyhollowrenfaire.com. drink tickets and more. It does sell out! To learn more and purchase tickets visit www.summersetwine.com/harvest.

2017 Des Moines Mini Maker Faire Sept. 4, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Science Center of Iowa $12 for adults; $8 for children (2-12). A family-friendly festival of innovation and creativity, featuring inventors, creators, artists and scientists from across the state. There will be food trucks, live music, workshops and demonstrations. For more details visit http://desmoinesmakerfaire.com.

12 DES MOINES PARENT MAGAZINE AUGUST 2017 WWW.DESMOINESPARENT.COM Beaverdale Fall Festival Sept. 15-16 Beaverdale is 100 years old! It will be the biggest festival ever, including a BFF dog parade. For more details visit www.facebook.com/ BeaverdaleFallFestival.

Starlight Cinema Outdoor Movies Sept. 8, 7:30-9:30 p.m. at Memorial Park in Indianola Watch the new “Beauty and the Beast” in Memorial Park in Indianola. Bring your lawn chairs and blankets and enjoy a free movie under the stars. For more details visit www.indianolaiowa.gov/225/Parks-Recreation.

Day Out with Thomas Sept. 16-17 and 22-24 at Boone & Scenic Valley Railroad Thomas the train will be Music in the Junction/ visiting the Boone & Scenic Farmers Market Valley Railroad. This is a chance for families to take a Thursday evenings through ride with Thomas the Tank September in Valley Junction Engine™. For more details and Farmers’ Market 4-8 p.m. Music in the to purchase tickets visit www. Junction 6-8:30 p.m. Grab some produce, bsvrr.com/thomas2016.html. gifts and dinner. Hang out in Historic Valley Junction and listen to live music. This weekly event only has a few more weeks left!

Nature Club Sept. 8, 9:30 a.m. at Brenton Arboretum Nature Club takes place on the second Friday of each month at The Brenton Arboretum from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. A great opportunity to learn, explore and connect with the natural world. Cost is $5 and pre-registration is requested at [email protected].

For more events around Des Moines, go to www.desmoinesparent.com/ event-calendar

WWW.DESMOINESPARENT.COM AUGUST 2017 DES MOINES PARENT MAGAZINE 13 BEAVERDALE FALL FEST SEPT 16, SATURDAY 9:00 AM FIRST ANNUAL DOG PARADE

• Begins at Sheridan Avenue and ends at intersection of Beaver and Urbandale avenue SEPTEMBER 15 & 16 • Contests for “Dog with the Most Beaverdale Spirit” and “Owner and Dog Look-Alike” • Winners receive a $50 gift certificate and will be announced after Dog Parade ends At the intersection of Beaver and Urbandale avenues REGISTER your pooch on fallfestival.org by September 10. No entry fee to join! 10:00 AM PARADE - new float contest this year! Food, business, arts and crafts, vendors galore! • Route starts at First Federated Church and ends at Iowa Realty south of Douglas Visit fallfestival.org for information on how to register your parade entry. Live music both Friday and Saturday night at local establishments! Additional events, schedule changes and more information may be found at fallfestival.org 10 AM - 11 PM CARNIVAL

• Located behind Christopher’s Free Photobooth ALL DAY Saturday in front 1:30 PM - 5 PM HORSE RIDES of Medicap! SEPT 15, FRIDAY • Corner of Sheridan and Beaver avenues PARADE ROUTE • Must be 5 years old to ride 5 PM - 12 AM CARNIVAL DOUGLAS AVE BEAVER AVE CLINTON AVE 2 PM - 5 PM GAMES AMICK AVE • Located behind Christopher’s URBANDALE AVE OVID AVE • In front of Beaverdale Books • Princess and superheroes party AT BEAVERDALE INDEPENDENT, ASSISTED LIVING, ADAMS AVE • Plus performances, candy and prizes CLOSER CARE & MEMORY CARE 6 PM - 11 PM CAR NIGHT OPENING IN HOLCOMB AVE BEAVERDALE • Along Beaver Avenue 7:30PM - ON OPEN MIC HICKMAN ROAD Participants should enter NOVEMBER 2017! • Corner of Beaver and Urbandale avenues 3410 Beaver Avenue, Des Moines south barricades from Hickman ST FRANKLIN AVE 48TH • All talents welcome to the center stage www.edencrestliving.com and Beaver avenues 515.777.5105 or • Hosted by local comedian Toll McGrane [email protected]

LIVE AN ENERGETIC, Jan Stehl VIBRANT Intergenerational REALTOR ACTIVE LIFE! HANISCHIN PAIN? CAN HELP! Care Iowa Realty • Beaverdale Office 20% OFF for new guests! PHYSICAL THERAPY WE SPECIALIZE IN The Life Center 515-229-2156 FOR WOMEN TREATING HEADACHES, [email protected] 4116 University Ave. + The Boulevard Buying or selling, 515.274.9981 It’s Our People Who MIGRAINES Children’s Center I can help you 6209 SE 14th St. Make The Difference! OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK AND TMJD-TMD every step 515.287.4220 6am to 10pm of the way! 3770 8th St. SW, Altoona (515) 255-0731 Mon - Thur: 7:30 am - 6pm & Friday 7:30am - 1pm 515-255-1145 515.967.0279 Please call to set up an appointment! 1819 Beaver Avenue blvdchildrenscenter.com 2624 Beaver Ave, Des Moines 255-3151 954.7606 276.2263 trixiessalon.com 2614 Beaver Avenue, DM 4539 DOUGLAS AVENUE • DM 900 Polk Blvd aimkitchenbath.com 515-255-5433 www.JanStehl.IowaRealty.com mypricechopper.com breathedsm.com www.hanischchiro.com www.seniorlifecenter.org Des Moines 14 DES MOINES PARENT MAGAZINE AUGUST 2017 WWW.DESMOINESPARENT.COM BEAVERDALE FALL FEST SEPT 16, SATURDAY 9:00 AM FIRST ANNUAL DOG PARADE

LIVE AN ENERGETIC, Jan Stehl VIBRANT Intergenerational REALTOR ACTIVE LIFE! HANISCHIN PAIN? CAN HELP! Care Iowa Realty • Beaverdale Office 20% OFF for new guests! PHYSICAL THERAPY WE SPECIALIZE IN The Life Center 515-229-2156 FOR WOMEN TREATING HEADACHES, [email protected] 4116 University Ave. + The Boulevard Buying or selling, 515.274.9981 It’s Our People Who MIGRAINES Children’s Center I can help you 6209 SE 14th St. Make The Difference! OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK AND TMJD-TMD every step 515.287.4220 6am to 10pm of the way! 3770 8th St. SW, Altoona (515) 255-0731 Mon - Thur: 7:30 am - 6pm & Friday 7:30am - 1pm 515-255-1145 515.967.0279 Please call to set up an appointment! 1819 Beaver Avenue blvdchildrenscenter.com 2624 Beaver Ave, Des Moines 255-3151 954.7606 276.2263 trixiessalon.com 2614 Beaver Avenue, DM 4539 DOUGLAS AVENUE • DM 900 Polk Blvd aimkitchenbath.com 515-255-5433 www.JanStehl.IowaRealty.com mypricechopper.com breathedsm.com www.hanischchiro.com www.seniorlifecenter.org Des Moines WWW.DESMOINESPARENT.COM AUGUST 2017 DES MOINES PARENT MAGAZINE 15 DES MOINES PARENTMAGAZINE Readers Choice AWARDS CONTEST

Thank you to our readers who voted!

The votes are in. The tallies have been taken. Our readers have spoken about the organizations, businesses and people they take delight in. What follows are the results of our Readers Choice Awards. These fine favorites are who people look to when it’s time to smile.

16 DES MOINES PARENT MAGAZINE AUGUST 2017 WWW.DESMOINESPARENT.COM Favorite Family Restaurant Favorite Apple Orchard WINNER: Chick-Fil-A WINNER: Center Grove Apple Orchard Runners-up: Noah’s Ark and El Rodeo Runners-up: Iowa Orchard and Berry Patch Farms

Favorite Place for Ice Cream Favorite Dentist WINNER: Snookies Malt Shop WINNER: Dr. Nick Waage, Walnut Hills Pediatric Dentist Runners-up: Waukee Ice Cream Shop and Van Dee’s Ice Cream Runners-up: Dr. Joseph Barsetti, Pediatric Dentistry of Central Shoppe Iowa and Dr. Molly Bremen, Children’s Dental Center of Central Iowa, PLC Favorite Library Favorite Place for a Family Vacation In Iowa WINNER: Urbandale Public Library WINNER: Okoboji Runners-up: Franklin Avenue Library and Grimes Public Library Runners-up: Clear Lake and Adventure Land Favorite Pumpkin Patch Favorite Place for a Family Vacation WINNER: Howell’s Pumpkin Patch Outside Iowa Runners-up: Center Grove Orchard and Geisler Farms WINNER: Omaha Zoo Runners-up: Florida and Colorado Favorite Kid/Baby Photographer WINNER: Lauren Campbell Photography Favorite Daycare Runners-up: Stephanie Smid Photography and Mindy Myers WINNER: Generation Next Child Development Center Photography Runners-up: Apple Tree Children’s Center and 2 for U Childcare and Preschool

DES MOINES

PARENTMAGAZINE THANK YOU Readers Choice for voting us as your AWARDS FAVORITE PEDIATRICIAN!

COME VISIT US AND FIND OUT WHY Loved By Kids... Approved by Parents! PUTTING FAMILIES FIRST FOR OVER 25 YEARS!

MONDAY–FRIDAY 8am–5pm SATURDAY 9am–noon

2555 Berkshire Pkwy, Suite A in Clive WaggonerPediatrics.org 515-987-0051

WWW.DESMOINESPARENT.COM AUGUST 2017 DES MOINES PARENT MAGAZINE 17 Favorite Bank Favorite Dance Studio WINNER: Lincoln Savings Bank WINNER: Grace Ballet and Acrobatics Studio Runners-up: U.S. Bank and Wells Fargo Bank Runners-up: Betty Hill Dance Studios and Currie Dance and Tumbling Studio Favorite Pediatrician WINNER: Dr. Brian Waggoner, Waggoner Pediatrics of Favorite Gymnastics Studio Central Iowa WINNER: Sapphire Gymnastics Academy Runners-up: Dr. Robert Fornoff, Des Moines Pediatric and Runners-up: Grace Ballet and Acrobatics Studio and Chow’s Adolescent Clinic and Dr. Amy Petersen, Des Moines Pediatric Gymnastics and Adolescent Clinic Favorite Place for a Kid’s Birthday Party Favorite Summer Camp WINNER: Sky Zone WINNER: Catholic Youth Camp Runners-up: Pump It Up and Chuck E. Cheese’s Runners-up: Girl Scout Camp Sacajawea and Living History Farms Favorite Place to Get a Costume Favorite Children’s Consignment Store WINNER: The Theatrical Shop WINNER: Once Upon a Child Runners-up: Nobbies and Target Runners-up: Just Between Friends and Kidding Around Favorite Church Favorite Children’s Boutique WINNER: Lutheran Church of Hope WINNER: Lincoln & Lexi Runners-up: Holy Trinity Catholic Church and Central Runners-up: Swell Shop for Baby and Just Between Friends Presbyterian Church

Thank you for sharing the joy of learning at WEE!

And voting us At Once Upon A Child, you will find wonderful things for your child... Des Moines’ favorite preschool! for less! + runner up for Favorite school! Westside Early Education (WEE) is a 5-star, play-based program with classes for children ages 1-4 515.490.3441Carolyn Hinchliff, Program Director THANK YOU for voting us Westside Early Education FAVORITE CHILDREN’S CONSIGNMENT STORE 4300 Beaver Avenue inside Zion Lutheran Church, DM Email: [email protected] 10465 Hickman Road in Urbandale • 222.0774 friendsofwee.com MON–FRI 9:30a–8p • SAT 9:30a–6p • SUN 12p–5p

18 DES MOINES PARENT MAGAZINE AUGUST 2017 WWW.DESMOINESPARENT.COM Favorite Youth Pastor Favorite Place to take Swim Lessons WINNER: Greg Halterman, Central Presbyterian Church WINNER: Walnut Creek YMCA Runners-up: Father Michael Amadeo, Holy Trinity Catholic Runners-up: Clive Aquatic Center and Urbandale Church and Doug Applegate, The Ridge Favorite Place for Children’s Manicures/ Favorite Bible School Pedicures WINNER: Lutheran Church of Hope WINNER: Andy’s Nails Runners-up: Central Presbyterian Church and Holy Trinity Runners-up: Shear Madness Haircuts for Kids and Signature Nails Catholic Church Favorite Bakery Favorite Place to Buy Children’s Furniture WINNER: La Mie WINNER: Suite Dreams Runners-up: Scratch and Bake Shoppe Runners-up: Homemaker’s and Just Between Friends Favorite Place for Children’s Outdoor Favorite Children’s Shoe Store Entertainment WINNER: Fit to be Tied WINNER: Blank Park Zoo Runners-up: Shoe Carnival and Scheels Runners-up: Living History Farms and Jester Park

Favorite Eye Doctor Favorite Place for Children’s Indoor WINNER: Dr. Jennifer DenHartog, Downtown Eye Care Entertainment Runners-up: Dr. Jean Spencer, Children’s Eye Clinic, PC and Dr. WINNER: Science Center of Iowa Valierie Kounkel, Physicians Eye Clinic Runners-up: Playground for Kids and Sky Zone

Favorite Children’s Book Store Favorite Children’s Hair Salon WINNER: Barnes and Noble WINNER: Shear Madness Haircuts for Kids Runners-up: Beaverdale Books and Half Price Bookstore Runners-up: Great Clips and Tutus & Tennis Shoes Children’s Salon Favorite Place to Buy Playground Equipment Favorite Children’s Birthday Entertainment WINNER: Backyard Adventures WINNER: Sky Zone Runners-up: Rainbow Play Systems and Bee Kay Outdoors Runners-up: Pump It Up and Chuck E. Cheese’s

Favorite Place to Get a Family Car Favorite Place for a Field Trip WINNER: Stew Hansen Dodge Ram Chrysler Jeep WINNER: Blank Park Zoo Runners-up: Toyota of Des Moines and Stivers Ford Lincoln Runners-up: Science Center of Iowa and Living History Farms

Favorite Movie Theater Favorite Pet Store WINNER: Flix Brewhouse WINNER: Petco Runners-up: Altoona Cinemark and Jordan Creek Cinemark Runners-up: PetSmart and Iowa Pet Foods & Seascapes

Favorite Children’s Theater Favorite Mall WINNER: Des Moines Playhouse WINNER: Valley West Mall Runner-up: Civic Center of Greater Des Moines Runners-up: Jordan Creek Town Center and Merle Hay Mall

Favorite Cultural Center Favorite School WINNER: Science Center of Iowa WINNER: Holy Trinity Catholic School Runners-up: Des Moines Art Center and State Historical Museum Runners-up: Walnut Hills Elementary and Westside Early of Iowa Education

WWW.DESMOINESPARENT.COM AUGUST 2017 DES MOINES PARENT MAGAZINE 19 Favorite Kid Runs/Events WINNER: ChildServe Fun Run Runners-up: Des Moines Color Run and Living History Farms Mud Run

Favorite Bike Store WINNER: Bike World Runners-up: Kyle’s Bikes and Rasmussen Bike

Favorite Music Store WINNER: Rieman Music Runners-up: UpTempo Music and ZZZ Records

Favorite Place for Supplemental Education WINNER: Mathnasium Runners-up: The Learning Post and Huntington Learning Center

Favorite Park WINNER: Ashby Park Runners-up: Union Park and Walker Johnston Park

Favorite Gym WINNER: YMCA of Greater Des Moines Runners-up: Lifetime Fitness and Aspen Athletic Club

Favorite MOPS Group WINNER: Ankeny MOPS Runners-up: Valley Church MOPS and Altoona MOPS

Terrific service shouldn’t Favorite Pool cost you extra. WINNER: Clive Aquatic Center Runners-up: Cascade Falls Aquatic Center and Adventure Land – Michele, Branch Manager Adventure Bay

“ Favorite Toy Store As a not-for-profit owned by members like you, we specialize in great rates and low fees. We’re WINNER: Toys R Us also committed to the best service, and” we’re Runners-up: The Learning Post and Target eager to prove it to you. Visit any of our eight branches in the metro area. Favorite Place to Take Your Family WINNER: Science Center of Iowa Discover the Veridian difference today. Runners-up: Blank Park Zoo and Adventureland

Favorite Chiropractor WINNER: Dr. Jennifer Thompson, Balance Chiropractic & Wellness Runners-up: Dr. Tyler Molstre, True Life Wellness and Dr. Wes Nyberg, Waukee Wellness & Chiropractic Accounts · Loans · Investments · Insurance · Guidance

20 DES MOINES PARENT MAGAZINE AUGUST 2017 WWW.DESMOINESPARENT.COM Favorite After School Program WINNER: Metro Kids Runners-up: Kids West and Boys and Girls Club FAVORITE YOUTH PASTOR - GREG HALTERMAN Favorite Principal WINNER: Anne Franklin, Holy Trinity Catholic Church & School Runners-up: Suzie Pearson, Wallace Elementary in Johnston and FAVORITE Terrie Price, Pleasant Hill Elementary in Des Moines BIBLE SCHOOL

Favorite Preschool WINNER: Westside Early Education Thank you for voting Runners-up: Science Center of Iowa and Holy Trinity Catholic FAVORITE us one of the best! CHURCH Church and School

Favorite Santa WINNER: Valley West Mall Runners-up: Bass Pro Shop and Jordan Creek Town Center

Favorite Easter Egg Hunt WINNER: Living History Farms 3829 Grand Avenue | Des Moines, Iowa Runners-up: Beaverdale Easter Egg Hunt and Union Park Easter www.dmcpc.org | [email protected] Egg Hunt 515-279-3658 | CentralPresDM

Favorite Fair WINNER: Iowa State Fair Runner-up: Dallas County Fair

Favorite Community Festival SapphireGYMNASTICS ACADEMY WINNER: Beaverdale Fall Festival Runners-up: Des Moines Arts Festival and Urbandale 4th of July Your Children Are Our Precious Gems

Favorite Place to Camp WINNER: Jester Park Runners-up: Saylorville and Ledges State Park

THANK YOU for voting us Favorite Gymnastics Studio! REGISTER YOUR CHILD TODAY! TWO CONVENIENT LOCATIONS 515.276.2027 11401 Meredith Dr, Urbandale 515.288.9607 1536 E Army Post Rd, Des Moines SAPPHIREGYMNASTICSACADEMY.COM

WWW.DESMOINESPARENT.COM AUGUST 2017 DES MOINES PARENT MAGAZINE 21 Favorite Youth League Favorite Place for Dessert WINNER: Beaverdale Little League WINNER: Scratch Cupcakery Runners-up: i9 Sports and Urbandale Soccer Club Runners-up: Snookies Ice Cream and Dairy Queen

Favorite Local Sports Team Favorite Splash Park WINNER: Iowa Cubs WINNER: Ashby Park Runners-up: Iowa State Cyclones and Iowa Wild Runners-up: Legion Park and Greenwood Park

Favorite Place to Skate Favorite Place For Party Decorations WINNER: Skate North WINNER: Party City Runners-up: Skate West and Brenton Skating Plaza Runners-up: Nobbies and Hobby Lobby Favorite Place to Bowl Favorite Place For Labor/Delivery Staff/ WINNER: Warrior Lanes Doula Runners-up: Plaza Lanes and Val Lanes WINNER: Des Moines Methodist Center Favorite Kids/Family Yoga Runners-up: Mercy Medical Center Des Moines and Iowa Doula WINNER: Power Life Yoga Agency Runners-up: Pop Up Yoga DSM and Empowered Pregnancy & Favorite Credit Union Birth WINNER: Veridian Credit Union Favorite Place to Bounce Runners-up: Community Choice Credit Union and University of WINNER: Get Air Iowa Credit Union n Runners-up: Sky Zone and Pump it Up THANK YOU MORE THAN BOOKS Your Grimes Public Library has movies and FOR VOTING! videogames, portable DVD players, Wi-Fi and portable Wi-Fi hotspots, Notary, Therapy dogs, Passes to local attractions and so much more. We also have even more resources available anytime online!

For ways to support the Grimes Public Library, check out friendsofthegrimeslibrary.org

22 DES MOINES PARENT MAGAZINE AUGUST 2017 WWW.DESMOINESPARENT.COM Glow Wild 2017 at Jester Park

The Great Outdoors Foundation and Polk County Night Activities 6:30–8:30 p.m. Conservation are teaming up for another year of • Astronomy Glow Wild. Glow Wild will take place on Sunday, • Bats Sept. 3 from 3-10 p.m. at Jester Park. Enjoy a • Night senses family day full of fun including environmental • Insects education programming, drinks and live music. Of • Live owl course, there will also be an illuminated bonfire. Night Activities 6:30–9:30 p.m. Those who attended Glow Wild last year can • Star gazing expect even more food trucks, bands, activities, a Throughout the Event: larger venue and extended hours. • Glow-in-the-dark rock climbing wall • Face painting Prices: Schedule: • Raffle Children 2 and younger are free Live music, featuring: • Food trucks and beverages Advanced price: Child $9, adult $12, family • Parranderos Latin Combo 3-6 p.m. • S’mores pack $35 — includes two adult tickets and three • Water Rocks! 6-7 p.m. • Crafts and more child tickets • Swing Crew 7-10 p.m. Raffle: At the door price: Child $12, adult $15 Day activities 3–6 p.m. Enter to win some amazing prizes including: Glow Wild is presented by Charles Gabus • Bird watching • Glow Wild 2018 Family Package: One Ford. All proceeds from Glow Wild 2017 will • Monarch tagging and insects cabin at Jester Park and Glow Wild family benefit Polk County Conservation and the Great • Geology and rocks tickets for two adults, three children Outdoors Foundation. n • Willow raft craft • Decorative fireball • Live birds of prey • Behind the Scenes Tour at Blank Park Zoo Link to original post: Day activities 3–7 p.m. — six passes http://desmoinesparent. • Petting zoo • Light ‘n Glow: Light the 2017 Glow Wild com/glow-wild-2017-at- • Interactive equestrian activities Bonfire jester-park/

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“building confidence that lasts a lifetime” www.bettyhilldance.com  [email protected] Windsor Studio West Des Moines Studio 1233 - 73rd Street 2600 Vine Street Windsor Heights, IA 50324 West Des Moines, IA 50265 515-277-8333 515-223-7333

WWW.DESMOINESPARENT.COM AUGUST 2017 DES MOINES PARENT MAGAZINE 23 8 tips to make homework fun

By Nancy Pim

Going back to school can be hard enough, not to mention the dreaded influx of homework assignments. Instead of battling against the daily worksheets, essays and reading, students can breeze through assignments and even enjoy the process. Make homework fun! Instead of just helping students finish their homework as quickly as possible, parents can find ways to help make the experience more enjoyable. Parents can really help foster a love of learning in their children. Here are some tips to help children develop their cognitive skills — the mental tools that help them think, reason and pay attention.

4. Remember to reward. Create a reward system that works for your family and budget. Try fun tickets as a motivator — each time a child earns a reward, give a ticket toward a set goal such as going to the movies, extra television time or a special trip to the playground. Praise is another important award. Be generous, yet sincere. Telling a child “good job” and “way to go” go a long way to motivate.

5. Turn studying into a game. Math problems can become a fast-paced game. This builds cognitive skills and turn children into faster thinkers. Games can also be used to teach. For example, playing a form of charades can help children act out what a word or concept means. This builds comprehension and visual processing.

6. Let your child play teacher. 1. Create a plan. Letting children teach you a skill or concept that they’re working on will Start by writing down a homework plan that includes timelines improve their understanding of the concept and build logic and reasoning and goals. Use whatever tools are the most appealing to children — skills. computer, notebook, giant calendar page, blackboard, sticky notes on the refrigerator door, even dry-erase markers on a window.

2. Get ready to work. Make sure your child has eaten before studying. Start with an after- school snack and drink. Once the child is ready to work, create a specific space to do homework.

3. Break it down. If an assignment seems overwhelming, break it down into smaller parts. Also if the time required to do homework seems too long, add time for a break. Create a work schedule for the night if it helps and factor in a 15-minute break every hour.

24 DES MOINES PARENT MAGAZINE AUGUST 2017 WWW.DESMOINESPARENT.COM 8. Consider cognitive skills testing. If problems persist, or you are noticing that it’s taking a long time for your child to learn a new concept, consider having their cognitive skills tested. Cognitive testing will pinpoint the source of a child’s learning problems. That low skill can then be strengthened, leading to more efficient and quicker thinking. Weak cognitive skills can really affect a child’s ability to learn. These skills can be built up through proven training methods and those learning issues can be remedied. Strong mental skills will not only help children do schoolwork faster and better, it can actually help them become smarter. Remember, the most important thing to do is adopt a fun attitude. Your kids take their cues from you. n

7. Get help if you need it. Teach children that it is OK to ask for help. Sometimes reaching out to a Link to original post: http://desmoinesparent.com/8- teacher can provide the necessary guidance so children can feel confident tips-make-homework-fun/ about their work.

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WWW.DESMOINESPARENT.COM AUGUST 2017 DES MOINES PARENT MAGAZINE 25 Hy-Vee Aisles Online

Now that the kids are back in school, meal planning and grocery experience. Here are the benefits shopping are important to stay organized and to save money during the of online shopping: week. Hy-Vee Aisles Online is a great resource to help you do just that. 1. No dragging kids into the Just imagine sitting at home in your pajamas, watching a movie with store and having to keep your family and grocery shopping online. That is the perfect grocery shopping eyes on them. 2. No buying extra items that you may want or your kids may want. 3. If you are planning recipes for the week, you can bring them up on your computer and search on Hy-Vee’s database to see if they have those items available and see the price. 4. Shopping from your home makes it easy to check in cupboards to see what you may need. 5. There is no time limit when shopping. Feel free to start, leave and come back to finish later in the day. 6. See what items are on Fuel Saver and how much Fuel Saver you have while you shop. 7. Ads are available online, too. Shop the deals for the week. 8. Bonus — rumor has it, if there is a Starbucks in your Hy-Vee, SCORE A GREAT DEAL! $49 52 weeks of The Des Moines Sunday Register home delivery and 24/7 digital access

Get Started today at: DesMoinesRegister.com/parent OR call 1-877-424-0225 and mention promo code H%

Offer expires 9/30/17. One time setup fee of $4.99 applies. Valid for New subscribers only! Price based on Sunday home delivery of the print edition. Certain restrictions apply. Call or visit for complete details.

26 DES MOINES PARENT MAGAZINE AUGUST 2017 WWW.DESMOINESPARENT.COM shoppers can put a Starbucks order in the comment section, and it will be delivered to you with your groceries. The process is simple. • Log in or create a username and password if you have not done it before. • Choose your store location. • Choose whether you want delivery (more than $100 is free delivery or $4.95 if less than) or pick-up (more than $100 is free pick-up or $2.95 fee if less than). • Choose your time slot. • Use the search item to search for products or look at the special advertisements for the week. Shoppers can search for multiple items at once. • Click on the shopping cart and review all chosen items. • Leave any special comments regarding what you want and let them know whether substitutions are acceptable. • Click checkout and enter your payment information. • Confirm and done. You will receive a confirmation email after you submit. It’s also important to know that your card will not be billed until the shopper actually shops for your items. When you check out, the amount is an estimate. Things may not be available, and produce weights may be slightly off. Once it’s all been shopped for and bagged, you will receive Link to original post: http://desmoinesparent.com/ another confirmation letting you know your items are bagged and ready hy-vee-aisles-online-50-gift-card-giveaway/ for pick-up or delivery. Make sure to tip. n

WWW.DESMOINESPARENT.COM AUGUST 2017 DES MOINES PARENT MAGAZINE 27 Des Moines Pediatric and Adolescent Clinic

Trusted Child Health Care since 1958 Thank you for voting us as one of Des Moines’ Favorite!

DES MOINES

PARENTMAGAZINE Readers Choice AWARDS

Meet Doctor Rob Fornoff Our patients and parents praise his ability to connect with children and make the visit to the doctor a fun experience. Dr. Fornoff attended one of the Top Ten medical schools in the country, and has been a pediatrician for 15 years. He has privileges at all area hospitals, and has a particular interest in newborns, asthma, depression, and sports medicine for children. He lives in Ankeny with his wife Mary and their two children.

WE THINK HE’S THE BEST, TOO!

CITYVIEW CITYVIEW

2017 2017

BEST LOCAL BEST LOCAL Excellent care, for every patient, every time. DOCTOR PEDIATRICIAN 28 DES2785 MOINES N. PARENT Ankeny MAGAZINE Blvd. • Ankeny AUGUST • 515-964-2159 2017 WWW.DESMOINESPARENT.COM• dsmpeds.com