Study: Puberty starting earlier for many girls

They may come to their physical exams a little self-conscious. Their mothers, though, can be more than a little concerned.

Some young girls, barely into grade school, are showing the first signs of puberty. A study published this week in the journal Pediatrics finds that these early maturers are far more common now than just a decade ago.

By age 7, about 10 percent of white and 23 percent of black girls had started developing breasts, the researchers found. That compared to just 5 and 15 percent respectively in a similar study published in 1997.

The new research confirms what many doctors have been seeing in their practices for years, said Lore Nelson, an adolescent medicine specialist at the University of Kansas Hospital.

“It’s one of those things everyone thought was happening, now it looks like it really is happening,” she said. “We’re just seeing girls maturing earlier.”

The researchers suggest the epidemic of childhood obesity — one in five U.S. children ages 6 to 11 — may be a cause of girls’ precocious development.

Obesity has been associated with early puberty because fat cells can trigger the production of the female hormone estrogen. The researchers did find that breast development at age 7 was more common among heavier girls.

But more than obesity may be at play. Certain chemicals in the environment also need to be studied, many say.

These chemicals, such as bisphenol A, act like estrogen. Bisphenol A is used in many plastics, food packaging and even dental sealants.

Whatever the cause, Nelson said, “it would behoove everyone to diet and exercise. Obesity is such a problem now for kids.”

But early maturation itself can cause serious health and social problem for young girls.

Girls who enter puberty early run higher risks of breast cancer and endometrial cancer.

They are more likely to have lower self-esteem and a poor body image. Their rates of eating disorders, depression and suicide attempts are higher. They’re more likely to become sexually active at an early age.

“If you’re 8 and look like you’re 12, people have different expectations about you,” Nelson said. “I think it gets them into situations they’re not ready to handle, such as dating.”

The federally funded study recruited 1,239 girls ages 6 to 8 from East Harlem in New York, the Cincinnati metropolitan area and the San Francisco Bay area. The researchers examined the girls at ages 7 and 8 for early signs of puberty.

The study did not look at when girls first menstruate, which usually begins at about age 12 or 13.

“Theoretically, it’s possible the age when puberty starts could keep dropping,” said Jill Jacobson, a pediatric endocrinologist at Children’s Mercy Hospital. She checks children to rule out medical issues that can trigger early puberty.

“Girls tend to be more self-conscious than boys about early puberty,” she said. “It can be alarming to mothers.”

Jacobson is concerned that findings such as those in this new study may lead doctors to consider an earlier age of puberty as a “new normal.” That may leave many children with serious undiagnosed medical problems, she said.

Conditions such as adrenal gland disorders and brain tumors can all trigger early puberty.

“If we accept these lower ages as normal that could mask children with serious hormonal disorders,” Jacobson said.

– McClatchey-Tribune News Service

REPLAY: Live chat on traveling with kids

Family road trips and vacations can create some enduring memories for both parents and children, but the experience can be full of challenges as well. Boredom can set in early for kids accustomed to electronic entertainment, and hours of close proximity in a car can lead to squabbles that threaten the fun factor of any journey.

How can you travel with kids, help them enjoy the experience and keep the peace? Jennifer Cira, director of the Parent Education Consortium at the Grant Wood Area Education Agency; Beula Dvorak, director of early childhood and parenting programs for the Young Parents Network; and Amy Bruner, child care programs manager for HACAP, hosted a live chat on the topic today, generating lots of good ideas.

Replay the live chat below!

New tool offers ‘one-stop shopping’ for college aid programs

The Iowa College Student Aid Commission (Iowa College Aid) has announced the addition of its state-administered loan forgiveness programs to the online Iowa Financial Aid Application. The new simplified process makes it easier for applicants to determine eligibility and to apply for the programs. The application, which can be accessed from Iowa College Aid’s website, www.IowaCollegeAid.gov, as well as through the statewide community web portal, www.IHaveaPlanIowa.gov, allows applicants to apply for multiple state-administered financial aid programs with one application.

“We are excited about the addition of the state loan forgiveness programs to the Iowa Financial Aid Application,” said Karen Misjak, executive director of the Iowa College Student Aid Commission. “Students already use the application when applying for state grants and scholarships for college so the addition of the loan forgiveness programs makes sense,” Misjak explained. “The intuitive nature of the online application helps determine an applicant’s eligibility for the state-administered loan forgiveness programs and provides them with the flexibility to save, return, and view an application at any time.”

In addition to the Iowa Teacher Loan Forgiveness Program and the Iowa Registered Nurse and Nurse Educator Loan Forgiveness Program, the Iowa Financial Aid Application enables applicants to apply for the following state-administered financial aid programs:

• Robert C. Byrd Honors Scholarship
• All Iowa Opportunity Scholarship
• All Iowa Opportunity Foster Care Grant
• Terry E. Branstad Iowa State Fair Scholarship
• Education and Training Voucher Program, and
• Iowa National Guard Education Assistance Program (NGEAP)

Iowa teachers, registered nurses and nurse educators interested in the loan forgiveness programs should access the application to determine if they are eligible. Funding for both programs is limited. Applications received in July, August and September will be given priority consideration.

The Iowa Financial Aid Application is the newest enhancement to the statewide community web portal, www.IHaveaPlanIowa.gov. The online program is a free resource for individuals to investigate career opportunities, explore education options, learn how to use education to meet career goals, and find employment opportunities in Iowa. As early as middle school, students can explore their interests and develop a six-year education course plan that connects high school course work with education and career goals. High school and college students, as well as adults looking to return to college, can research colleges and majors, prepare for standardized tests, search for scholarships, and apply for state financial aid. Iowans looking for a career change or are in need of additional skills to reenter the workforce can match their interests and abilities to career options, as well as search for employment opportunities in Iowa.

To learn more about loan forgiveness programs available in Iowa or about the free resources available through the statewide community web portal, contact Iowa College Aid’s Information Service Center at 877-272-4456. More information about financial aid and products and services that help Iowa families plan, prepare and pay for college is available on Iowa College Aid’s website at www.IowaCollegeAid.gov

Camps celebrating past, changing for future

Campfires will burn around the country this month as two national camping organizations celebrate milestones.

Earlier this week, YMCA Camp Wapsie joined camps across the country to celebrate the 125th year of YMCA camping.

Later this month, Camp Fire USA will mark its 100th anniversary by lighting Centennial Campfires at campgrounds across America, including at Camp Hitaga, 5551 Hitaga Rd., Walker, which is owned by the Iowana Council of Camp Fire. Registration begins at 1 p.m. Saturday, July 31, at the camp’s Wohelo building. Tours, swimming, dinner and the campfire lighting will be held that day.

Both camps have seen their fair share of change over the years as the kids they cater to have redefined how they spend their summers off from school off from school.

“Today’s kids are in structured activities,” says Karen Dunlap, 56, of Central City, who participated in the Camp Fire program while growing up in Cedar Rapids. “They don’t play outside much.”

Iowana Council CEO Marian Zupke, 71, has been involved with Camp Hitaga most of her life.

“I’ve been with Hitaga since I was 10 years old,” she says. “In 1949, I swam in the pool when it was brand spanking new. It was beautiful.”

While camping was popular when she was growing up, Zupke says Hitaga’s enrollment has steadily declined since the 1980s. She attributes the decrease in interest to technology such as computers, video games and cell phones that compete for youths’ attention.

She, too, has noticed a change in the way youth spend their time.

“Today’s kids are in structured activities,” she says. “They don’t play outside much.“Camp gives an alternative to slow down and get back to nature,” says Dunlap, who volunteers at Camp Hitaga and serves on the Iowana Council board of directors.

Camp Hitaga, which has struggled to maintain the number of campers it once had, is open to everybody, not just Camp Fire campers.

“We have diversified it and been able to keep it open,” Zupke says. “We rely on volunteers.”

Camp also builds social and team building skills.

“Kids now are so competitive,” says Zupke. “At camp you make friendships that last a lifetime. Families are smaller now. This gives kids another family.”

While activities such as horseback riding, swimming, canoeing and archery are still popular at camp, programming has changed to meet the needs of today’s youth. For example, at Camp Hitaga a GPS system is used to navigate through the woods rather than a compass.

“We have different things to appeal to different people,” Dunlap says. “I think the trend will switch back again to nature.”

Camp Hitaga, which has struggled to maintain the number of campers it once had, is open to everybody, not just Camp Fire campers.

“We have diversified it and been able to keep it open,” Zupke says. “We rely on volunteers.”

Zupke agrees that camp builds social and team building skills.

“Kids now are so competitive,” she says. “At camp you make friendships that last a lifetime. Families are smaller now. This gives kids another family.”

The experiences, friendships gained and lessons learned at camp. transcend Camp Hitaga’s financial and enrollment struggles, Dunlap says.

“Camp is still here and still doing well,” she says. “I think the trend will switch back again to nature.”YMCA Camp Wapsi

Those same distractions, though, are quickly forgotten once kids arrive at camp, where cell phones and video gaming devices aren’t allowed, says Camp Wapsie’s summer programs are nearly full, says Camp Wapsie Director Paul Denowski, 38.

“It’s something a lot of kids look forward to every summer,” he says.

It doesn’t take long for campers to forget about their gadgets, Denowski says.

“Once they get into it, they never even miss them,” he says. “We are doing so many things during the week,” he says. Camp Wapsi too celebrates an anniversary this month. It is the 125th anniversary of YMCA camping.Without cell phones and computers, youth have more time to interact with their peers, Denowski says. “There’s a lot of personal interaction. It’s a great way to start friendships and build social skills.”

Greetings from camp! Plenty of summer options for kids

Need a way to keep your child active this summer? Whether your children love sports, art, nature, music, theater or science, here are just some of the dozens of opportunities in the Corridor area ready to quench their thirst for exploring, learning and playing all summer long.

4-H Camps

• 

  Rocio Stejskal, 7, left, and Claire Green, 6, choose beads to string on lanyards during the Iowa City Parks and Recreation Department's summer art camp in July 2008 as Niki Brashers-Krug, 11, watches. (Meredith Hines-Dochterman/The Gazette)

  What: Do science experiments, art activities, play games, and have nutritious snacks.

• Lone Tree: Mondays: June 14 to July 26. Iowa City, Lucas Elementary, Mondays: June 14 to July 26. Iowa City, Lemme Elementary, Thursdays: June 17 to July 29. Iowa City, Willow Creek Park, Mondays: June 14 to July 26. Solon, Tuesdays: June 15 to July 27. North Liberty, Wednesdays: June 16 to July 28. Swisher, Wednesdays: June 16 to July 28. Tiffin, Thursdays: June 17 to July 29. Oxford, Fridays: June 18 to July 30. Coralville, Fridays: June 18 to July 30.
• Ages: First through fifth grade
• Cost: $10 per child. Register by May 21.
• Contact: (319) 337-2145

AREA CAMPS

Camp Hitaga, TROY MILLS

• What: An overnight camp located north of Cedar Rapids for boys and girls in kindergarten through 11th grade. Sponsored by Camp Fire USA Iowana Council.
• When: Weekly sessions begin June 20 and conclude July 31.
• Open houses: May 23 and 30, 2 to 4 p.m.
• Cost: $295 to $380 per week
• Contact: Call the Council office at (319) 294-2411 or the director, Suz Welch, at (515) 230-5869.
• www.camphitaga.org

ARTS

Arts Camp; Iowa City Dist 51_56

• What: Create art projects using a variety of materials and go on field trips around the community. Registration through June 13.
• When: June 14 to Aug. 13, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday to Friday.
• Supervised play is available from 7:30 to 9 a.m. and 4 to 5:30 p.m. at no added fee.
• Ages: Second through sixth grade
• Cost: $135 per week; Contact: Iowa City Parks and Recreation, (319) 356-5100
• www. icgov.org

Ceramic Center Camps

• What: A variety of art classes for kids from first to eighth grade. Camps are broken down into age groups, first to second grade; third to fifth grade and sixth to eighth grade. Camps are weekly and cover a variety of topics.
• For a full list, visit the website.
• Cost: $75 for members, $80 for non-members
• Contact: The Ceramics Center, 329 10th Ave. SE, Suite 117, Cedar Rapids, (319) 365-9644
• www. theceramicscenter.org

DAY CAMPS

Cedar Rapids Recreation Department Day Camp

• 

  Camp Io-Dis-E-Ca counselor Amanda Runey of Rochester, Mich., sprays mud and soap off camper, Holly Regan, 11, of Ely after the campers played on a homemade slip and slide in June 2007. (Laura Segall/The Gazette)

  What: Spend your days playing games, making crafts, swimming, participating in special events and going on occasional field trips.

• Where: Noelridge Park or Cherry Hill Park
• When: June 14 through Aug. 13, 7 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Monday to Friday; Ages: 6 to 12
• Cost: $28 per day or $118 per week for Cedar Rapids residents, $34 or $111 for non-residents Contact: Cedar Rapids Recreation Department, (319) 286-5731
• www.crrec.org

Jane Boyd Community House Summer Day Camp

• What: A summer day camp for children who have completed kindergarten to age 12.
• When: Monday through Friday, June 14 through Aug. 20, 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
• Contact: Kimberly Abram-Bryant, Jane Boyd Community House, 943 14th Ave. SE, Cedar Rapids, (319) 366-0431
• kabram-bryant@janeboyd.org

Coralville Day Camps  (CORALVILLE, NORTH LIBERTY)

• What: Experience arts and crafts, field trips, library time, sports and active games, swimming, and more.
• When: June 9 to Aug. 6
• Where: S.T. Morrison Park and the Coralville Recreation Center, Van Allen Elementary, Wickham Elementary
• Ages: Kindergarten through sixth grade
• Contact: Coralville Recreation Department, (319) 248-1750
• www.coralville.org/index.aspx?NID=418

Coralville Trail Trekkers (CORALVILLE)

• What: Students are required to have a working bike and helmet in order to participate in field trips, community service projects, swimming, and exploring.
• When: June 14 through July 29, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Thursday Ages: Sixth through ninth grade
• Contact: Coralville Recreation Department, (319) 248-1750
• www.coralville.org

COMPUTER CAMPS

Youth Tech Inc. (CEDAR RAPIDS)

• What: An interactive computer camp that encourages creativity, fun and academic excellence.
• Where: Ambroz Recreation Center, 2000 Mount Vernon Rd. SE.
• Video Game Design, June 28 to July 1, 1 to 4 p.m. $160 to $167
• Web Design, July 6 to 9, 9 a.m. to noon, $150 to $157
• Movie Makers , June 28 to July 1, 9 a.m. to noon, $150 to $157
• 3D Game Design , July 6 to 9, 1 to 4 p.m., $160 to $167
• Ages: 10 to 17
• Contact: Cedar Rapids Recreation Department, (319) 286-5731
• www.crrec.org, www.youthtechinc.com

DRAMA

Theatre Cedar Rapids Camps (CEDAR RAPIDS)

• Kindergarten: June 14 to 25 and June 28 to July 9, $100 to $120
• First and second grades: June 14 to 25, July 12 to 23, and Aug. 2 to 13, $150 to $180 Third through fifth grades: June 14 to 25, July 12 to 23, and Aug. 2 to 13, $150 $180 Middle School: Alice in Wonderland. June 28 to July 23, $300 to $360
• Sixth to 12th grade Try It Camps:
• Aug. 2 to 6, Aug. 9 to 13
• Ninth through 12th grade Try It Camp: Shakespeare. Aug. 9 to 13 Scholarships are available.
• Contact: Theatre Cedar Rapids, 102 Third St. SE, Cedar Rapids, (319) 366-8591
• www.theatrecr.org

Brucemore Summer Camps (CEDAR RAPIDS)

• Adventures with Leo, June 14 or June 21, 1 p.m., 4 to 8 years old, $5 for members, $7 for non-members.
• ExploreMore – Can you dig it? June 14 to 18, 9 a.m. to noon, $140 for members, $150 for non-members
• Melodrama in the Making, July 5 to 9, 9 a.m. to noon, sixth to 12th grade, $85 Blast from the Past, July 26 to 30, fifth to 12th grade, $85
• Contact: Brucemore, 2160 Linden Dr. SE, Cedar Rapids. (319) 362-7375
• www.brucemore.org

Englert School for Performing Arts (IOWA CITY)

• Wizards, Witches, and Warlocks! Oh My! June 21 to 25, 9 to 10:15 a.m., entering kindergarten through third grade, $90
• Whodunit? A Kid Caper! June 21 to 25, 10:30 to noon, entering fourth through sixth grade, $100
• Gleeful Summer! Show Choir1 , July 21 to 25, 9 to 10:25 a.m., entering third through sixth grade, $100
• Laugh Out Loud! Comedy Workshop! June 28 to July 2, 10 a.m. to noon, entering sixth through eighth grade, $100
• Gleeful Summer! Show Choir 2, July 21 to 25, 10:30 a.m. to noon, entering sixth through eighth grade, $100
• Musical Comedy , July 26 to 30, 10 a.m. to noon, entering ninth through 12th grade, $175
• Contact: The Englert, 221 E. Washington St., Iowa City. (319) 688-2653
• www.englert.org

Riverside Theatre Camp Shakespeare (IOWA CITY)

• What: Riverside Theatre’s Shakespeare Festival will hold several classes for area youth.
• Acting , June 14 to 18, 1:30 to 3:30 p.m., 8 to 12 years old, $100
• Fast Thoughts and Fist Fights! June 21 to 25, 10 a.m. to noon, 10 to 14 years old, $100
• Dramatic Quest, July 6 to 9, 9 to 11 a.m., 5 to 7 years old, $80
• Contact: Riverside Theatre, 213 N. Gilbert St., (319) 338-7672
• www. riversidetheatre.org/education/classes.htm
• Camp Creamery Little Red Riding Hood Camp (MIDDLE AMANA)
• What: Explore the theatre working with professional actors from the Old Creamery Theatre. Perform for family and friends on July 9 at 7:30 p.m. Other camps will be held in Independence, Oelwein, Pella, Elkader, and Eldora/New Providence.
• When: July 5 to 9, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
• Ages: 7 to 15
• Cost: $100
• Contact: Old Creamery Theatre, (319) 622-6034
• www.oldcreamery.com

Camp Creamery Day Camps (MAIN AMANA)

• What: Sing, dance, play theatre games and create costumes, perform for family and friends at 5 p.m.
• Just Clowning Around, June 22, July 16, or Aug. 3, 12:30 to 5:30 p.m.
• Am I Bugging You? June 25, July 20, Aug. 6, 12:30 to 5:30 p.m.
• Ages: 7 to 12
• Cost: $35 or $65 for both
• Contact: Old Creamery Theatre, (319) 622-6034
• www.oldcreamery.com

Bell Tower Theater (DUBUQUE)

• What: Youth theatre classes for aspiring actors and actresses and kids who want to have fun.
• Ages: Kindergarten and first grade: June 21 to 25. Second and third grades: June 14 to 18. Fourth, fifth and sixth grades: June 14 to 18.
• Deadline: June 7
• Cost: $55
• Contact: Bell Tower Theater, (563) 588-3377. 2728 Asbury Rd., Dubuque.

Eulenspiegel Puppet Camp (WEST LIBERTY)

• What: Build several puppets and learn how they work. Present a show.
• When: July 26 to 30, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
• Ages: 6 to 12
• Cost: $120 plus a $25 material fee
• Contact: Owl Glass Puppetry Center, (319) 627-2487, 319 N. Calhoun, West Liberty.
• www.PuppetsPuppets.com, owlglass@avalon.net

GENERAL

Kirkwood Interactive Camps for Kids (CEDAR RAPIDS, IOWA CITY)

• What: More than 60 camps that offer a variety of activities ranging from photography, technology, robotics, design and literature to science, theatre, cooking, music, sports and art.
• When: One-week camps from June 14 through Aug. 9
• Where: Cedar Rapids and Iowa City
• Cost: From $49 to $249, some scholarships are available.
• Contact: (319) 398-1022, 1-(800) 332-8833
• www.kirkwood.edu/kick

Science Station (CEDAR RAPIDS OR IOWA CITY)

• What: Children will explore various aspects of science, nature, animals and weather.
• When: One-week camps from June 14 through Aug. 6
• Where: Lindale Mall, 4444 First Ave. NE, Cedar Rapids, or The University of Iowa’s Van Allen Hall, Iowa City.
• Ages: Prekindergarten through sixth grade
• Cost: $70 for Science Station members, $80 for non-members
• Contact: The Science Station, (319) 363-4629.
• To check class availability, go to www.sciencestation.org Middle and high school students are needed as volunteers.

Iowa Children’s Museum IOWA CITY

• What: A variety of camps offered at the museum that cover topics in art, music and science.
• When: Music: June 14 to 18.
• Art: June 28 to July 2.
• Do it Yourself: July 5 to 9.
• Science: July 12 to 16.
• Sculpting: July 19 to 23.
• Planes: July 26 to 30.
• Drama: Aug. 2 to 6.
• Adventure camp for 4- and 5year-olds: June 21 to 25.
• Ages: Six to 12
• Cost before June 1: Full-day camp $180 per week, half-day camp $90 per week Cost after June 1: Full-day camp $210 per week, half-day camp $105 per week Contact: (319) 363-4629.
• Iowa Children’s Museum, 1451 Coral Ridge Ave., Coralville
• www.theicm.org

HISTORY CAMPS

Ushers Ferry Day Camp (CEDAR RAPIDS)

• What: A variety of themes, ranging from science, technology, music, craft and entertainment.
• When: Sign up for a day or for the week of Aug. 2 to 6, 9 a.m. to noon
• Ages: Eight to 12 years old
• Cost for a day: $18 for Cedar Rapids residents, $21 for non residents
• Cost for the week: $90 to $97
• Contact: Cedar Rapids Recreation Department, (319) 286-5731
• www.crrec.org

Ushers Ferry Finishing School For Young Ladies (CEDAR RAPIDS)

• What: Girls will learn the art and skill of being a young lady in 1910. Wear period clothing, cook, make crafts and play games.
• When: July 26 to 30, 9 a.m. to noon
• Ages: 8 to 12 years
• Cost: $90 for Cedar Rapids residents, $97 for non-residents.
• Contact: Cedar Rapids Recreation Department, (319) 286-5731
• www.crrec.org

Little House on the Prairie Camp (IOWA CITY)

• What: Learn what life was like for pioneers making their way west.
• When: June 14 to 18, or June 21 to 25, 1 to 5 p.m.
• Where: Upper City Park, Iowa City
• Ages: Entering first through third grade
• Cost: $100
• Contact: Johnson County Historical Society, (319) 351-5738
• www.johnsoncountyhistory.org

Little School on the Prairie Camp (CORALVILLE)

• What: Learn what life was like for the students at a one-room school through period activities, crafts and games.
• When: June 28 to July 2 or July 19 to 23, 1 to 5 p.m.
• Where: 1876 Coralville Schoolhouse, 310 Fifth St., Coralville
• Ages: Entering third and fourth grade
• Cost: $100
• Contact: Johnson County Historical Society, (319) 351-5738
• www.johnsoncountyhistory.org

Hands-On History Camp (CORALVILLE)

• What: Experience an archaeological dig and care for artifacts.
• When: July 12 to 16 or July 26 to 30, 1 to 5 p.m.
• Where: Johnson County Historical Society Museum, 860 Quarry Rd., Coralville Ages: Entering fourth through sixth grade
• Cost: $100
• Contact: Johnson County Historical Society, (319) 351-5738
• www.johnsoncountyhistory.org

MUSIC

Eastern Iowa Arts Academy: Dance Camp (PALO)

• What: Crazy Art Camp, July 5 to 12 Rockin’ Guitar Camp, July 12 to 16 Beginning Guitar and Intermediate Guitar sessions, July 19 to 23.
• Cost: Free to any Eastern Iowa student.
• Contact: (319) 350-1805, 116 Vinton St., Palo.

Summer Sing West Show Choir Camp (CEDAR RAPIDS)

• What: Eastern Iowa Academy is offering three opportunities for show choir and dance opportunities with a choral music instructor and choreographer.
• When: July 26 to 30
• Cost: $85.
• Contact: (319) 350-1805.

‘Broadway Debut’ Musical Theatre Summer Camp (IOWA CITY)

• What: This camp, cosponsored by City High and West High, will have classes in stage combat, audition workshop and improvisation, as well as musical theatre dance and choreography. A final performance for friends and family.
• When: July 12 to 24, 9 a.m. to noon
• Where: West High School, Iowa City
• Contact: Troy Peters at (563) 889-0280
• mailto://broadwaydebut@gmail.com

OUTDOORS

Indian Creek Nature Center’s Summer Nature Camps (CEDAR RAPIDS)

• What: The Nature Center offers a variety of summer outdoor experiences for children.
• Polliwogs and Parents for Little Ones, June 14 or 15, June 28 or 29, July 12 or 13, July 19 or 20, Aug. 2 or 3, Aug. 16 or 17, 9 a.m.
• Ages: Three to 6 years old
• Cost: $4 for members; $5 for non-members. $20 for the series for members, $25 for non members.
• Evening Minicamps, June 28, July 12, Aug. 2
• Ages: Entering first to fourth grades
• Cost: Members: $5 per child, $3 per parent. Non-members: $8 per child, $4 per parent.
• Young Naturalists – One-Day Nature Experiences, different dates in June, July and Aug.
• Ages: Different classes for those entering first to second grade, first to third grade, third to sixth grade, and fourth grade and up.
• Cost: Member $20 to $35; Non-members $25 to $45
• Nature Camps – Four Day Camp Experiences, June 15 to 18, July 6 to 9, July 13 to 16, July 27 to 30 Ages: Different camps for those entering first to third grade and third to sixth grade Cost: $80 for members, $100 for non-members.
• Contact: Indian Creek Nature Center, 6665 Otis Rd. SE, Cedar Rapids, (319) 362-0664
• www.indiancreeknaturecenter.org
• Scholarships are available.

Wickiup Hill Summer Camps (TODDVILLE)

• What: The Linn County Conservation Department offers a variety of camps including Peepers & Creepers, Fish are Fun, American Indian Life Skills, Amazing Arthropods, Nature’s Yucky, Creature Feature, Nature Passport Series, Live Like a Pioneer, Survive the Wild and Fish Iowa.
• Contact: Call the Linn County Conservation Department, (319) 892-6485
• www.linncountyparks.com

Camp Wildthingz (IOWA CITY)

• What: Learn and experience nature by exploring parks throughout Johnson County.
• Registration open until June 13.
• When: June 14 to Aug. 13, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday to Friday. Supervised play available from 7:30 to 9 a.m. and 4 to 5:30 p.m. at no added fee.
• Ages: Kindergarten through sixth grade
• Cost: $135 per week
• Contact: Iowa City Parks and Recreation, (319) 356-5100
• www.icgov.org

Sports Camp (IOWA CITY)

• What: Build self-esteem and confidence playing tennis, basketball, swimming, baseball and ultimate Frisbee.
• Registration through June 13.
• When: June 14 to Aug. 13, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday to Friday. Supervised play available from 7:30 to 9 a.m. and 4 to 5:30 p.m. at no added fee.
• Ages: Second through sixth grade
• Cost: $135 per week
• Contact: Iowa City Parks and Recreation, (319) 356-5100
• www.icgov.org

Bullying: What can you do?

The recent news of Phoebe Prince’s death rocked parents, students, and educators around the world. Her unnecessary death has sparked a new urgency for many to revisit the age-old problem of school bullying. Parents devote themselves to keeping their children safe when they are young, but once their kids head off to school, there is a chance of becoming vulnerable to others. By learning about bullying and finding ways to educate and protect their children, parents can do their part to keep their children safe and help stop bullying. The following list of resources and information is a great place to start if you are a parent wanting to learn what you can do to help.

The Basics

Learn the basics about bullying with this information.

• What is bullying? Bullying is not just one occurrence, but a repeated event that is intentional and includes an unequal distribution of power between two children. For example, two boys of same age and size who get in a fist fight is not bullying, but a child who physically or emotionally hurts another child in a situation where one has power and the other does not is a bullying situation.
• Who may be at risk for being bullied? Some children may unintentionally exhibit certain behaviors that make them more likely to become the target of bullies. Children who do not make good eye contact, who don’t understand teasing and may react strongly to it, or children who may misinterpret some actions as aggressive and act fearfully may be at risk of being a target. When these children are taught appropriate social skills, they greatly reduce their chances of being bullied. A small group of children known as “provocative victims” may unintentionally arouse negative reactions from others by their actions. Many of these children may have an underlying issue that lends itself to promoting this unfortunate situation such as ADHD or a learning disability.
• Gender differences. Boys and girls bully differently. Boys tend to use physical aggression, and bullying is also more socially acceptable among boys. Boys are more likely to bully and be bullied than girls. Girls tend to bully other girls through indirect routes, such as gossiping about the targeted child. Girls are also more likely to be the target of sexual bullying, which may include rumors about her sexual activities.
• Prevalence. Estimates on bullying vary widely from country to country. It is estimated that one in seven children in the US has either been a victim of bullying or has instigated bullying.
• Power. Bullying is about power. Children who bully do so as a way to exert power and control. These children share a lack of empathy for others and may have positive attitudes about violence.
• Risks for bullies. Children may become bullies for a number of reasons. Some risks include parents who are overly permissive, lack warmth, or do not supervise their children; older siblings who victimize; parents who act as bullies; friends who bully; and an acceptance of violence among peers.

Types of Bullying

Generally, there are considered to be four types of bullying: physical, verbal, social, and cyber. Below are descriptions of each type.

• Physical bullying. Physical bullying may include hitting, kicking, pushing, or spitting on another child. It can also include damage to property or theft of property. When most people think of bullying, this type of bullying is what they imagine.
• Verbal bullying. Verbal bullying, which may be used along with other forms of bullying, include name calling, teasing, threats, and misuse of authority. Any type of racial, sexual, or homophobic threats are also considered verbal bullying.
• Social bullying. Social bullying relies on groups and relationships within those groups. Forms of social bullying include spreading rumors, exclusion from a group, and positioning someone to take the blame for something they did not do.
• Cyber bullying. The newest form of bullying is done via the Internet and is known as cyber or electronic bullying. This type of bullying can occur through any number of electronic forms such as texting, email, online games, instant messages, videos or photographs, and chat rooms. Cyber bullying can include sending threatening or vulgar messages or images, posting private information about someone, posing as someone in an attempt to make them look bad, and spreading rumors about someone.

Warning Signs

Bruises, torn clothing, and missing or destroyed property are all overt signs of bullying. Other signs are not so obvious. While any one of these signs may not be enough to suggest bullying, if you see a combination of these signs, you should take steps to protect your child.

• Academic performance. Take note if your child’s academic performance has changed remarkably. This change often indicates something is troubling your child.
• Feeling isolated. Pay attention to remarks from your child indicating she doesn’t feel accepted or is feeling isolated from friends.
• Depression. Depression can have many causes in children and warrants your attention any time it occurs.
• Changes in patterns. If you notice changes in your child’s eating or sleeping patterns, this may be a sign something is upsetting them.
• Avoiding situations. Some children who are being bullied will begin to avoid situations where they know they will encounter the bully, such as riding the bus or walking to school. They may also take longer routes to get places for no apparent reason.
• Stops participating in activities. If your child stops participating in after-school clubs or other activities he used to enjoy, you might want to dig a little deeper to discover why.
• No friends. Not having any friends to play with or to visit after school may be a sign that your child is having difficulties.
• Requests money. While just about every child will request money from their parents, take notice if your child is asking for an unusual amount of money, doesn’t explain why she needs it, or begins stealing money from you. Your child may be paying off a bully in an effort of self-protection.

Ways for Parents to Stop or Prevent Bullying

Take note of these actions you can take to help prevent your child from becoming a victim of bullying or how to help your child if bullying is already occurring.

• Talk to your children. Discuss bullying and brainstorm ways they could deal with specific situations.
• Be involved. Play an active role in your children’s lives. Talk to them every day, know their friends, and offer support by listening to them.
• Be supportive, but teach independence. It is important for parents to support their children, but try not to rescue your child from difficult situations. Instead, teach her how to manage problems on her own. Not only will this provide her with an important skill-set if faced with a bully, but she will also develop confidence.
• Help develop friendships. Look for ways to facilitate developing friendships. Having a strong set of friends can be strong medicine against bullies.
• Don’t make them feel at fault. If your child is being bullied, do not indicate in any way that it is their fault. Bullying is a direct result of the bully’s behavior and is never the victim’s fault.
• Talk to teachers. If bullying occurs, alert teachers to what is happening and work together with teachers and the principal to create a plan to address the problem.
• Keep records. Write down any and every occurrence of bullying with complete details that include the day, time, place, people involved, and what happened.
• Teach your child how to react to a bully. Parents can help their children learn ways to react to bullies that will likely diffuse the situation. Don’t encourage your child to be aggressive or fight back. Instead, encourage your child not to appear sad or fearful. Tears, fright, and passive acceptance of the bully’s demands are exactly what the bully is trying to achieve. Teach your child to react in some way that the bully won’t expect, as with humor or standing up for himself.

Online Resources

The online resources offer important information for parents, children, educators, and community organizations to help stop school bullying.

• Bullying Information Center. This site from Education.com provides a wealth of information about bullying and how you can stop it.
• Stop Bullying Now! Find research-based information on ways to stop school bullying on this site.
• Stop Bullying Now! Sharing the same name as the prior site, this one offers a page just for parents and a page just for kids. The parent page includes news, state laws, tips, books, and more to educate parents about bullying.
• About Bullying. From the US Department of Health and Human Services, this site provides links to resources for parents, educators, children, community organizations, and mental health professionals.
• Helping Kids Deal with Bullies. KidsHealth offers to the public this site that is full of information about bullying and how you can help your child.
• Explore the Nature and Prevention of Bullying. The US Department of Education created this event to help educators implement effective school bullying prevention programs. Parents will find tons of facts and information for themselves and can share the link with educators at their child’s school.
• No Bully. No Bully works to help schools prepare and implement effective anti-bullying policies. Their site has plenty of resources helpful for parents and educators alike.
• Bullies to Buddies. This method empowers children to become resistant to bullies by teaching them a way to respond rather than react to bullies.
• Tackling school bullying. This resource from the UK offers lots of great information and links to additional resources. While most of it is specific to the UK, most of it is still applicable to families in the US.

– Article from OnlineUniversities.com

I’m mad. Or maybe I’m annoyed. Either way, I’m not a happy camper.

My daughter, Taryn, has been running track for years. She loves it and is an awesome runner. She also has asthma—which sometimes gets in the way. But, she’s committed, shows up for practice every day, runs for an hour and a half, and has fun.

At her track meet the other day, I could see her excitement as she lined up to run the 400. But, by the time she rounded the corner where we were sitting and I saw her face, my mom-stinct kicked into overdrive, and I could tell something wasn’t right. This is her race. She has won it every time with what looks like little effort. This time she came in 3^rd. I headed over to talk to her and see how she was, and found her doubled over and crying. Her chest hurt. Bad. The inhaler wasn’t helping. She felt sick. This has never happened before on this level. Taryn had three more races to go, but she couldn’t do it. She hurt, and she wanted to go home. That was okay with me. I’m not one of those helicopter moms consumed by my kids’ activities. I let them choose what they want to do—and when they want to stop doing it—and support them quietly from the sidelines.

We went to find her coach to let him know that she was leaving. His response to me left me floored.

“Why do you think you’re leaving? Do you know what this does to all the other girls here? What is your problem?” he says with a look of disgust on his face.

I was shocked and kind of scared of him. Then my sassy momma-ness kicked in.

 “Quite frankly, SIR, I don’t care what this does to the other girls. My daughter’s health is the only thing that is important to me right now,” I say with indignity. It wasn’t like he couldn’t find replacements. Seriously.  

He gave me the “talk to the hand,” waved us off dismissively, shouted BYE and turned his back to us. We left.

Now, if this was the Olympics, it may have been a different story. I may have convinced her she was okay to stay and push through for the sake of our country. But it wasn’t. This is middle school track. There are no letters or state championships. This is something she does because she enjoys it, and now you have ruined it for her, dear “coach.”

So she was afraid to go to track yesterday for fear of repercussions from the coach. Today, she has another meet. To “punish” her, he has put her in a long race. She’s a short distance runner, and again, hello, she has asthma and can’t do the long distance running. 

I’m proud of her for going and giving it another try, but so incredibly disappointed that you, coach, have turned her off something she was passionate about. And it’s not just her. I’ve heard that you scream at these girls, I know you told one girl she was too fat and lazy to run. What is wrong with you? I see your beer belly, coach. Do you put forth as much effort to stay as fit as these kids? It certainly doesn’t look like it.

This should be a time to encourage kids to try new things, to be physically fit, to put down the fricking cell phone already and just do something.

Maybe try that approach, coach.

To Preschool, or not to preschool

While it might seem like a no-brainer in this day and age, determining whether or not to send my school-age child to school (3-yr old preschool) gave me pause.  Sure, I want to send him.  But how the heck am I going to do THAT!

Two days a week, mornings only.  That does not really work within my schedule.  At least when he is old enough to go to school-school, it will be 5 full days…and require fewer special manuvers in scheduling.

However, looking at where my 3-yr-old is developmentally, not sending him is NOT an option.  The structured situations I have put him into the last 3 or so months, he has LOVED!  I cannot possibly let my schedule (or my selfishness regarding my sanity) prevent me from making this come true for my son.

So, we will make it work.  Leaning on friends/family, and a hopefully-flexible and understanding manager, will result in my son going to 3-yr old preschool!  Hurray! 

What do they say?  It takes a village?  Seems like I might require a little more help than even a village can provide, but I will take all of the help I can get!

Dear MTV (specifically, the producers of My Super Sweet Sixteen):

Thank you for giving my children an unrealistic view of what a birthday party should be.

Gone are the days of “pin the tail on the donkey,” “musical chairs,” (and for the older crowd, “spin the bottle”), chips and dip, and presents like a nice necklace, outfit, or CD.

Instead, the expectations you’ve set are live HORSES (or the occasional tiger), musical GROUPS (I’m not talking the local band, think Rihanna or Kanye), caviar and Evian, Beemers and tricked out SUVs.

Seriously.

My daughter Taryn turns 14 this week. You’ve given her delusions of grandeur.

Now she JUST HAS TO have a big party. Specifically, a prom-like party, with limousines, a live deejay, and the entire 8^th grade class dressed to the nines in taffeta and tuxes. And, of course, now that she’s old enough to drive, she needs a 2010 Escalade. In pearl. With rims. Never mind that I’m driving an absolutely ANCIENT 2006 Alero with dents in the door from certain people (Taryn) banging it into the garage door, she couldn’t possibly be seen in that or our van. Reality check time, sister.

Reality check time, MTV.

How about you show a realistic view of how the rest of the world celebrates a birthday party? Think dark basement, some tunes, a few snacks, some pop, and a Wii. Or perhaps a barbeque with some friends, a boom box (does anyone still call it that?) some hot dogs, marshmallows and a volleyball net. I’ll even give you the dance party thing at a local venue with a deejay—just not the Ritz. Now I’m not cheap, but I have to imagine I’m not the only mom who thinks trapezes and elephants are a bit extravagant.

So she’s weighed her options (meaning, she’s realized that I am the world’s worst mom who won’t give her a prom party, a live deejay, or a shiny new Escalade) and decided she would rather get braces.

That’s right. She wants braces.

So…maybe I was better off with her prom party idea.

Honesty battle is worth fighting

Every parent has heard the following exchange between their children:

“He hit me!”

“Did not. He’s lying”

“Am not. He’s a liar.”

“Am not!”

“Are too!”

And the cycle goes on forever. But even though you may never find out who started the fight, you can at least take comfort knowing both kids are correct. Each is a liar.

A recent research study reports that parents rate honesty as the trait they most want in their children. Kids seem to get this, as 98 percent of them rank honesty as essential to a relationship. Interestingly, however, 98 percent of kids also admit to lying. Additionally, lying tends not to be a phase. As kids get good at lying early on, they later rely on the skill to fit in when talking or bragging among peers, to avoid discipline from authority and out of convenience when detailing plans to parents, thus avoiding an argument.

Indisputably, lying is not admirable, but it is natural. Kids mimic behaviors, and are taught to lie directly from us parents. Who isn’t guilty of advising their three year old to tell Aunt Eugina that he loves the scratchy wool sweater she knitted for him when he actually hates it? Therefore, parents must watch their own little white lies. Insincerity breeds insincerity, after all. Additionally, stop encouraging children to stretch the truth or to omit pertinent details, as these are both forms of lies. Do not respond with pride when your child successfully lies to Aunt Eugina by covering up his true thoughts.

Stop setting your kids up. Avoid asking questions which are prompts for lies. For example, do not ask, “are you a liar?” Your child will want to please you by answering ‘no,’ which we all know is a lie. Instead, ask the question in a way he can answer honestly, such as: “what situations make you more prone to lie?” You are more likely receive an honest answer.

Truth be told, honesty is hard work. Most of us teach that lying is wrong, but don’t spend the same energy on teaching the worth of honesty. Reinforce how virtuous telling the truth is. Talk about noble personality traits of reliability and credibility. Discuss how one makes a better friend or companion when they are honest and true. Be sure to model sincerity so your child is exposed to honesty.

Ann-Marie Berg is a Cedar Rapids mom and a pediatric nurse practitioner. Write to her at features@gazcomm.com

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